Chapter 166: The Shadow of Betrayal
The days leading up to Lin Yuer's campaign against General Shen are filled with preparations. The atmosphere in the capital is tense. News of Shen's defection has spread, and the streets are alive with rumors. Some say the general is already marching toward the capital, while others believe he's still gathering support in the south. No matter the truth, the people are nervous.
Lin Yuer stands in her war room, the map of the empire spread out before her. Her advisors, Li Mei and Zhu Liang, stand by her side, their faces grim. They have gathered the best intelligence on General Shen's movements, but the uncertainty of his intentions remains a lingering shadow over their plans.
"We know he's rallying the southern provinces," Zhu Liang says, his finger tracing a line on the map. "But he could have already moved. We must act quickly."
Lin Yuer nods, her thoughts already racing. General Shen has always been a man of strategy, and his defection is not something she takes lightly. His knowledge of military tactics and his deep connections in the army make him a formidable opponent. She cannot afford to underestimate him.
"Send scouts ahead," Lin Yuer orders, her voice sharp and resolute. "We need to know where Shen is and how fast he's moving. Prepare the army for a swift departure. We march before dawn."
Li Mei steps forward, a thoughtful expression on her face. "Your Majesty, there is something else we need to consider. Shen's betrayal isn't just about power; it's personal. He believes you've forsaken him. He may try to turn the people against you, rallying them with promises of justice."
Lin Yuer's eyes harden, the weight of her past decisions pressing down on her. "I've done what I had to do for the good of the empire. If he believes I've betrayed him, that is his mistake. But I won't let his vendetta destroy what we've fought so hard for."