Chapter 209: Unraveling the Web
The assassinations set off a wave of panic throughout the empire. Lin Yuer orders an immediate investigation into the murders, fearing that this is only the beginning. She doubles the security around her palace, ensuring that no one can get too close without her knowledge.
In the meantime, Li Mei reports back with troubling news. "We've uncovered a connection between the assassins and a powerful faction of noble families—families that were once loyal to the former emperor, and who resented your rise to power."
"Then it's as I feared," Lin Yuer mutters, her mind racing. "These families have been waiting for the right moment to strike back. They never truly accepted my rule."
Li Mei nods. "There's more. The leader of the shadow organization is believed to be a former general who was once loyal to your father."
Lin Yuer's eyes widen in shock. "A former general? Who is it?"
Li Mei hesitates before revealing the name. "General Xian."
Lin Yuer's heart skips a beat. General Xian was once a trusted advisor to her father, but he disappeared after her father's death. Lin Yuer had believed him dead, but it seems he has been orchestrating this uprising from the shadows, using his knowledge of the empire's inner workings to rally disgruntled factions against her.