The room fell silent for a moment, her words hanging heavily in the air. Junior Edina’s expression didn’t falter, but the weight of the challenges before her was clear.
“You’re right, Chuang Chi,” Junior Edina said, her tone steady, though inwardly, she admitted that the intricacies of Senior Edina’s plans remained a mystery to her. What she did know, however, was that she believed in Senior Edina and in her own ability to navigate through this storm. No matter how formidable the obstacles seemed, she resolved to rise above them.
Though she had no rehearsed lines or premeditated strategy to lean on, Junior Edina exuded a newfound confidence that seemed to strengthen with each passing moment. It felt as though invisible chains binding her had begun to loosen. With a calm assurance, she replied to Chuang Chi, “Yes, we currently have support only from the Leon Empire—a foreign power—but that also means Aunt Li Mei’s Gold Faction loses any claim to that same support.” Her emerald eyes locked firmly with Chuang Chi’s, a spark of determination flickering within them. “Furthermore, we will have the backing of Princess Huangshu from the imperial palace.”
Chuang Chi leaned back, crossing her legs, her expression unimpressed but thoughtful. “Ah, yes. Her Highness Huangshu. While her gesture is commendable, it’s no secret she’s young and largely uninterested in court politics. Even with her sudden involvement, her influence in the Imperial Court is minimal.” She paused, her gaze narrowing as she continued, “And let’s not forget that Second Prince Zhou Liang is a staunch ally of your Aunt Li Mei. It will take extraordinary effort to match even half the influence wielded by either the Gold Faction or your Uncle Lu Mingfei’s Jade Faction within just two years.”
Richard, standing to the side, frowned. “Miss Chuang Chi, must you always be so bleak? Yes, the road ahead is difficult, but does that mean we should simply surrender?”
Chuang Chi sighed, her frustration evident. “I’m not suggesting we give up, Sir Richard. I’m merely expressing the gravity of our position. It’s in my best interest for our faction to win, after all. However,” she added, her tone growing sharp, “our current state is undeniably bleak. We don’t even have a significant portion of the disciples supporting us.”
Junior Edina turned to her maid, Lian Hua, with a calm smile. “Then let’s begin by taking stock of what we do have, shall we?” At her mistress’s cue, Lian Hua placed a scroll and a leather-bound ledger onto the table. Junior Edina unfurled the scroll, her hands steady despite the weight of expectation.
“As you’ve noted, our faction possesses the largest budget. Even with the Second Prince’s backing, neither Aunt Li Mei nor Uncle Mingfei can rival us in terms of financial resources. And,” she added, glancing at Richard with a sly grin, “we have a mage on our side.” Richard bowed slightly, a faint smile tugging at his lips in acknowledgment.
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Junior Edina’s voice carried an air of resolute optimism as she continued, “Let’s use our financial strength to recruit disciples. With careful planning, we can grow our influence and credibility.” She pushed the scroll forward, revealing its contents: a detailed map of the sect and its affiliated branches, along with notes on potential allies and strategies for outreach.
Meanwhile, at Ningxiang Palace in the Central City of the Central Plains,
The morning snowfall blanketed the Ningxiang Palace in pristine white, enhancing the grandeur of the imperial residence. The palace's towering gates, flanked by imposing stone lions, opened into an expansive courtyard. Here, meticulously maintained gardens, koi ponds, and rows of cherry blossom trees stood transformed by winter’s icy touch. Snow-covered lanterns and polished stone pathways added a serene, ethereal beauty to the scene.
Within the palace walls, the lavishly decorated halls exuded imperial splendor. Silk tapestries depicted great historical battles and mythological scenes, their intricate designs illuminated by the warm light of hanging lanterns. The polished marble floors reflected the soft glow, lending an aura of warmth to the otherwise chilly day.
As the imperial court assembled, murmurs filled the chamber, their intensity heightened by an unusual sight: Princess Huangshu sat alongside her two brothers. Zhou Wan, the First Prince, stood to her right, his expression one of mild curiosity. Behind him sat Right Minister Qin Gang, a staunch advocate of Zhou Wan’s claim to the throne. To her left was Second Prince Zhou Liang, accompanied by Left Minister Han Choi.
Zhou Wan was the first to address the peculiar situation, his tone teasing. “Little sister, what brings you here today? Father only drags you into court when something important is brewing.”
Second Prince Zhou Liang chuckled, adding, “Brother, no need to rub salt in the wound. We all know how much she despises politics. Still,” he turned to Huangshu, “I must admit, I’m curious. What’s the special occasion, dear sister?”
Princess Huangshu smiled, her demeanor poised and unbothered. “There is indeed a special reason for my presence, Brother Wan, though it might not be what you’re expecting. And as for Brother Liang’s concern,” she added with a light laugh, “I’m quite fine, thank you.”
Before they could press further, an announcer nnounced the arrival of Emperor Zhou Yongil and Empress Zhou Ming. The court rose as the imperial couple entered, their regal presence commanding respect. Both paused briefly, their gazes lingering on Princess Huangshu, a flicker of surprise crossing their features. Neither had summoned her to court today, yet here she was, sitting amidst the other royals.
The emperor leaned toward his wife. “Did you summon Huangshu?” he asked quietly.
The empress shook her head. “I thought it was your doing.”
Though puzzled, Emperor Yongil took his seat and called the session to order. The prime minister stepped forward, announcing the first agenda item: a proclamation from the Blazing Dawn Sect.
A messenger clad in the sect’s martial uniform strode into the chamber and bowed deeply. “This humble servant greets His Majesty, Emperor Zhou Yongil, and the esteemed Imperial Court. Today, I bring an important announcement from the Blazing Dawn Sect. On the occasion of the esteemed Young Mistress Lin Cha Mu’s birthday, Sect Leader Liang Feng Cha Ling has officially declared his retirement. The race for ascension to the position of sect leader has begun!”
The court erupted in murmurs of shock. What began as an ordinary morning had now been transformed into a pivotal moment in the empire's political landscape. The implications of this announcement would undoubtedly ripple through the imperial court, the Blazing Dawn Sect, and beyond.