POV : CELESTIAL EMPIRE
While Mrs. Harrington dealt with cowboys and lawmen, Victoria Langston navigated a much more delicate situation in the Celestial Empire. The city was a striking contrast to America United, filled with towering pagodas, flowing rivers, and bridges crafted with intricate designs. The grand palace loomed in the distance, its presence commanding respect from all who dared approach it.
Victoria had set her sights on a much different kind of power structure. Here, it wasn’t about brute force or raw power—it was about maneuvering through the courts, playing the politics of status and face. She would have to win over key members of the Empire’s aristocracy if they were to make this arena a success.
Her meeting was set with Minister Wei, a man known for his influence in the court and his ruthless pragmatism. He controlled much of the trade within the Celestial Empire and was rumoured to have the ear of the Emperor himself. His mansion, tucked away behind high walls and guarded by stone-faced soldiers, was a testament to his power.
Victoria entered the estate’s grand hall, her expression calm and composed. Minister Wei awaited her at the head of a long, polished table, his jade robe flowing elegantly over his shoulders. His eyes were sharp, his posture straight, as if he were constantly judging the worth of those who approached him.
“Miss Langston,” he greeted her, his voice smooth but laced with suspicion. “You come with promises of wealth. But this arena of yours… it is foreign to our traditions.”
Victoria smiled serenely, bowing lightly. “Minister Wei, I understand your concerns. The Celestial Empire prides itself on its culture, and I would never dream of tarnishing that. My arena will not disrupt your way of life; rather, it will complement it.”
The minister arched an eyebrow. “And how do you propose to do that?”
Victoria’s fingers traced the edge of the table as she spoke. “Your empire thrives on balance, harmony, and spectacle. The arena will bring all of that, with honorable combat, displays of skill, and the finest warriors from across the wasteland. Imagine the prestige of having the world’s best fighters competing under your banner, the Emperor’s banner.”
Wei’s eyes glinted with interest, though he remained cautious. “And the profit?”
“Substantial,” Victoria replied smoothly. “We will attract visitors from beyond the empire, all bringing their Mana coins. The economy will flourish, and you, Minister Wei, will be the one credited for such an innovation.”
Minister Wei leaned back in his chair, his fingers tapping lightly on the table as he scrutinized her. He was imagining the political credit this would possibly bring him. “You speak well, Miss Langston, but words are often empty. What guarantee can you offer me that this… arena… will not disrupt the delicate balance of power we maintain? That it will not draw attention from forces that should remain unseen?”
Victoria’s gaze never wavered. “Minister Wei, I understand the weight of your concerns. Your empire values harmony, and I would never introduce unstable elements. The arena will be a controlled spectacle, one that respects your customs. We will host honorable combat—not the savage brawls you may imagine—but displays of skill and precision. We’ll honor the Empire's most revered warriors, creating an event that reflects the discipline your people value so deeply.”
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Wei narrowed his eyes. “Disciplined warriors, you say? Yet, foreign warriors often lack such refinement. How will you ensure they are worthy to fight under the Emperor’s watch?”
Victoria’s lips curled into a knowing smile. “By ensuring only the finest warriors enter. This will not be an open brawl but an exclusive event. Invitations will be sent to the best fighters, and those who participate will do so because they are skilled enough to earn their place. Your people will view it as an honor—a privilege to witness.”
The minister paused, clearly intrigued, but still cautious. “And what of the audience? Foreigners do not always adhere to our ways.”
“Foreigners will bring their Mana coins,” Victoria replied, her voice smooth and confident. “But we will ensure the arena reflects your culture, not theirs. The structure, the rituals, the order of events—everything will be tailored to align with the values of the Celestial Empire. They will come to witness greatness, and they will leave in awe of your traditions.”
Minister Wei’s eyes flickered, the seeds of intrigue growing. Yet, he remained composed. “You paint a compelling picture, Miss Langston. But the Celestial Empire is ancient, deeply rooted in its customs. I cannot afford to gamble its reputation on foreign entertainment.”
The Celestial Empire, ever since its formation by unwilling settlers from Earth, had deeply embraced Chinese culture and was replicating it quite successfully. From the sprawling cities designed with traditional architecture to the meticulously maintained gardens and temples, every detail reflected their reverence for their heritage. Their governance followed Confucian principles, blending them with modern thoughts to maintain harmony and order. Even their military strategies, rooted in ancient texts like The Art of War, had been adapted to suit wasteland warfare. Festivals honoring old Earth traditions were celebrated with grandeur, uniting their people under a shared identity that bridged the ancient and the wasteland.
Without missing a beat, Victoria reached into her robe and produced a small, intricately carved jade statue, placing it carefully on the table between them. The statue was a masterpiece—a delicate depiction of a qilin, the mythical creature known to bring prosperity and good fortune.
“A small token of my respect, Minister Wei. A meeting gift,” she said with a charming smile.
Minister Wei studied the gift, his face impassive. But inside, a flicker of approval sparked. ‘This woman knows how to get things done‘, he thought. ‘It doesn’t matter if it’s on Earth or in the wasteland. Money keeps the wheels turning quickly.‘ He picked up the statue, feeling the smoothness of the jade, the craftsmanship apparent in every detail.
“You understand the value of our culture, Miss Langston. That is rare.” He placed the statue down gently, his tone softening, though his sharp gaze remained. “But understand this—if this venture fails, it will not be a simple financial loss. It will be a loss of face, and the consequences will be severe.”
Victoria dipped her head in acknowledgment, her voice as steady as ever. “I understand, Minister Wei. Failure is not an option I entertain. The arena will be a success, and you will be credited for your foresight in bringing this innovation to the Celestial Empire.”
The silence between them hung heavy, but Victoria knew better than to fill it. She had made her case, and now it was in the minister’s hands.
After what felt like an eternity, Minister Wei nodded. “Very well, Miss Langston. We will proceed. But know this—if you fail, the consequences will be severe.”
Victoria bowed again, the serene smile never leaving her face. “I won’t fail.”
With the minister’s blessing, Victoria left the palace, her heart light but her mind already racing. The political games in the Celestial Empire would be far more subtle than those in America United, but with Minister Wei’s influence, the arena would flourish. Now, she just had to ensure that everything ran smoothly, from the fighters they recruited to the audience they attracted.