Chapter 183: The Quiet Before the Storm
As the sun sets over the capital, Lin Yuer walks through the palace gardens, her mind heavy with the decisions she has made. The tensions in the empire are palpable, but she cannot afford to show any weakness. The rebels, the dissenters, and even her allies—all are watching her, waiting for her to falter.
Jiang Feng joins her, his face as unreadable as ever. "Your Majesty, you have made a difficult decision today," he says softly, his voice almost lost in the whisper of the wind.
"I did what had to be done," Lin Yuer replies, her tone firm. "The empire cannot afford to wait any longer. We must take action before it is too late."
Jiang Feng nods, but there is something in his eyes—a flicker of doubt, perhaps. "And if they do not accept your terms? What then?"
Lin Yuer stops, turning to face him. "Then we will have no choice but to take more drastic measures. The empire will not be held back by its own people. Not anymore."
For the first time, she sees a shadow of concern cross Jiang Feng's face. "Are you sure, Your Majesty? Once the path is chosen, there is no turning back."
Lin Yuer looks out over the gardens, the sprawling landscape that represents all that she has fought for. "I am sure. This is the way forward. And I will not let anything stand in my way."