Li Chenxi's rule was gradually falling into place, but the political situation in the empire remained turbulent. Despite the apparent peace on the surface, countless forces were quietly stirring behind the scenes. She knew well that these hidden crises were the real challenges.
One day, Li Chenxi was handling state affairs in the palace when a trusted guard rushed in and whispered, "Your Majesty, urgent news from the northwest border."
Li Chenxi furrowed her brow and immediately stopped what she was doing. The northwest had always been a key defense line for the Wei Dynasty. If there was urgent news, it must be something critical.
"Bring it in," she commanded coldly.
Moments later, a messenger, breathless, entered the hall holding a blood-stained letter. Li Chenxi took the letter, her eyes quickly scanning it. The message read:
"The situation at the northwest front has escalated. The defense line has been breached, and enemy forces are approaching. Immediate reinforcements are required."
The letter was brief but filled with urgency. Li Chenxi's heart stirred. The enemies from the northwest had always posed a threat, often backed by southern forces, and if they attacked now, it would certainly spark a new war. She understood that if the northwest were lost, the entire empire's safety would be at risk.
"Immediately summon the generals. Prepare for war," Li Chenxi decided without hesitation. "I will personally head to the northwest."
The Conspiracy Behind the Scenes
Just as Li Chenxi prepared to head to the northwest, Du Anxiaoting brought another piece of troubling news.
"Your Majesty, there have been unusual movements in the court recently. Several of the older ministers have been speaking more aggressively and seem to be growing increasingly dissatisfied with you," Du Anxiaoting reported, her expression serious.
Li Chenxi put down the letter and listened quietly. She knew that many of the older ministers were discontent, but their reactions were growing more intense, indicating that there was some sort of conspiracy brewing behind their actions.
"Why are they so eager to show their hostility?" Li Chenxi asked softly.
"They may have realized that the situation in the northwest is critical, and they plan to use this opportunity to undermine your authority," Du Anxiaoting analyzed. "They are likely trying to create external pressure to force you into compromising."
Li Chenxi's heart sank. As expected, the threats from the enemy forces and the growing discontent among the ministers were converging, creating immense pressure on her. She knew that now, more than ever, she had to remain calm.
"Call the ministers," Li Chenxi ordered. "Tonight, we will hold an emergency meeting."
The Struggle for Power
As night fell, the tension in the palace grew thicker. Li Chenxi sat at the center of the hall, facing the many ministers. A few of the older officials exchanged wary glances, their eyes full of distrust and resentment.
"Your Majesty, given the severity of the situation in the northwest, isn't it too risky for you to personally lead the campaign?" One minister spoke up coldly, his tone full of skepticism.
"If you depart for battle, who will govern the state affairs? How will the stability of the court be maintained?" Another minister chimed in.
Li Chenxi looked at them coolly, her gaze deep and imposing.
"The northwest situation concerns the very fate of the Wei Dynasty. I am personally going to ensure the safety of the empire," she said, her voice as cold as the winter snow that blankets the earth.
"If you think I am incapable of managing the court on my own, feel free to assist in running the state affairs while I am away," she added, her tone unyielding. "But let me make it clear, anyone who dares to jeopardize the stability of this empire will be treated as a traitor."
Her words left the ministers in stunned silence. There was no room for argument in her voice. Li Chenxi was no longer the helpless woman who had just transmigrated into this era; she was a true ruler of the Wei Dynasty, holding the empire's destiny in her hands.
Just as the atmosphere grew increasingly tense, a voice suddenly broke the silence.
"Your Majesty, I am willing to accompany you to the northwest," said Crown Prince Li Yao, standing firmly in the hall, his gaze unwavering.
Li Chenxi was momentarily taken aback, then nodded. "Since the Crown Prince has such intentions, you may accompany me."
Preparing for Battle
In the following days, Li Chenxi busied herself with preparations for the campaign. She knew that this battle would determine the future of the Wei Dynasty, so she had to give it her all. Meanwhile, the intrigue within the court continued to simmer, and the ministers' conspiracies were quietly unfolding.
In particular, several of the older ministers, who had once been loyal, were beginning to sense the threat to their power. They had already begun to form secret alliances. Though they still publicly pledged their loyalty, Li Chenxi knew that these men were plotting something against her.
"Your Majesty, we have received news that several ministers have started to make contact with forces on the border," Du Anxiaoting reported again. "It seems they are conspiring to ally with external enemies and weaken your power."
"They may think that with me gone to the northwest, they will have their chance," Li Chenxi's eyes glinted with coldness. "But they are mistaken. I fear no betrayal."
She knew that this war was not just about securing the northwest; it was also a trial for her power. She needed to ensure the defense of the northwest and, at the same time, demonstrate to those who sought to betray her that any attempt to do so would come at a great cost.
"Prepare for the campaign," Li Chenxi ordered, signaling for her military forces to be mobilized and dispatched to the northwest.
But deep in her heart, she knew that the true power struggle was only just beginning.