Chapter 186: The Web of Deceit
The next few days bring more unsettling news. The movement in the northern provinces is not just a collection of discontented citizens; it is led by someone Lin Yuer recognizes—a former ally, General Xian. He had been a trusted officer in her army, someone who had fought for the empire's stability. But now, he is turning against her, claiming that her reforms are undermining the traditions of the empire and that she has become too powerful, too detached from the people she swore to serve.
General Xian's army is small but growing, fueled by discontent and fear. Lin Yuer knows that if he is allowed to rally enough support, he could challenge her rule.
"You cannot trust him," Jiang Feng warns, his voice low and urgent as they sit in the war room. "He's a skilled tactician and knows how to play the hearts of the people. He has the loyalty of many who have been left behind in your reforms."
Lin Yuer's eyes narrow as she considers the threat. "I've always known that I would face opposition. But General Xian... he was once loyal. I didn't expect this."
"There are no guarantees in power, Your Majesty," Li Mei says. "People change, and so do their ambitions. But you cannot show weakness. If General Xian is gathering strength, we need to strike before he becomes a true threat."
Lin Yuer nods. "Prepare the army. We will move against him, but carefully. We cannot afford to lose support. If we do this right, we can break his movement without bloodshed."