The Great Wu Dynasty was founded on the principle of martial virtue. The founding Emperor waged a relentless war against the surrounding states for over a decade, annihilating countless forces before finally establishing the nation. Thus, the emblem of Dawu was not the dragon or phoenix, but a single character: "Wu," symbolizing the martial prowess that breaks and kills everything in its path.
Chu Yuan's imperial robe was black, as dark as blood, adorned with intricate embroidery resembling swords and blades, signifying the color of slaughter. On the robe was a sharp and dominating symbol of "Wu," a constant reminder of the martial will that had once shaped the empire.
"Your Majesty."
Behind Chu Yuan, an old eunuch, white-haired yet with a complexion as smooth as a baby's, approached. This was Eunuch Wei, who had served two generations of emperors since the founding of the nation, proving himself an unwavering loyal official.
At this moment, Eunuch Wei noticed that Chu Yuan had changed. He exuded an unparalleled majesty, his eyes electrifying as though they could pierce through any hidden conspiracy. He seemed far more regal than his predecessor, projecting an aura so powerful that none dared meet his gaze directly.
"Let us depart," Chu Yuan nodded slightly.
"Set off for the Divine Martial Hall!" Eunuch Wei commanded sharply. Chu Yuan took his seat on a carriage drawn by nine flood dragons, powerful creatures of the Original Spirit Realm.
The Divine Martial Hall, built by the founding Emperor, was shaped like the character "Wu" from a distance. It towered like a blade, embodying the martial spirit of the former Emperor. It was within this hall that the emperors of the Great Wu Dynasty ascended to the throne.
Inside, the hall was vast and adorned with pearls of light that sparkled like stars. Hundreds of ministers were already waiting.
On the left stood Shangguan Qingyun, the Supreme General of the Great Wu Dynasty. His slightly graying hair was a testament to his age, but his aura was as fierce as ever, his eyes sharp like a hawk's. He had reached the pinnacle of Divine Abilities.
On the right was Li Yun, an elderly man with white hair, dressed in grand attire that emitted a somewhat gloomy aura. He was the head of the six ministries and the Prime Minister of the Great Wu Dynasty, also having reached the final level of Divine Abilities. Together, Shangguan Qingyun and Li Yun represented the foundation of the Great Wu Dynasty.
"Our Great Wu Dynasty was once the dominant power among the Five States," a minister commented. "Under the rule of the founding Emperor, we were on the verge of uniting the Five States."
"But after his sudden death, with the cause remaining unknown, and the loss of 300,000 elite Divine Martial Troops, our strength has been halved," another lamented.
"Even worse, rumors abound that the Emperor's death was a divine punishment," another voice murmured. "Some fear the gods intend to extinguish Great Wu. Could this be the beginning of the end?"
"The other four nations are eyeing our territory," someone else added. "We are surrounded on all sides, and the ambitious Emperor of Dian is eager to expand his power. Our situation is perilous."
"Now, with the ascension of the second Emperor, Chu Yuan, we are uncertain if he will be able to stabilize the empire," another minister remarked. "If we can survive this crisis, perhaps we can rebuild, but the future remains uncertain."
"Despite his imperial demeanor, the new Emperor is only fifteen," another voice raised in concern. "The sudden death of the founding Emperor has left chaos in its wake. I fear it may be too late to salvage the empire."
The murmurs continued among the officials, filled with doubt and unease. Their whispers indicated the instability of the regime and foreshadowed the possible collapse of the dynasty. Even the common people were beginning to question their future.
However, both Shangguan Qingyun and Li Yun remained composed, exchanging knowing glances.
"The Emperor has arrived!" Eunuch Wei's sharp voice rang through the hall.
The royal carriage, drawn by nine flood dragons, rumbled into the hall. Each flood dragon, a formidable beast of the Original Spirit Realm, exhaled thunderous roars. Chu Yuan stepped down, the Sword of the Human Emperor gleaming at his waist. His presence was commanding, his eyes flashing with electricity from the Great Thunder Technique, creating an aura that resembled thunder itself.
Flanked by two teams of golden-armored divine soldiers, Chu Yuan ascended to the golden throne, exuding an undeniable air of sovereignty.
[System Notification: The host has made a decisive entrance, earning 100 Destiny Points.]
"This aura... His Majesty's might is overwhelming!" one official whispered.
"Such regal power... It feels as if we are in the presence of a sacred Emperor!" another murmured.
"The Emperor among men!"
"Today marks His Majesty's first official court meeting!"
As the title of "Sovereign" echoed throughout the hall, Chu Yuan's prestige soared. Even the seasoned Shangguan Qingyun and Li Yun felt the weight of his presence.
[System Notification: The host has gained the respect of his ministers, earning 100 Destiny Points.]
"My lords," Chu Yuan began, his voice commanding yet calm. "You have all labored tirelessly for our empire. It is time for us to address the matters at hand."
His gaze swept across the court. The ministers, though highly skilled practitioners, were now visibly subdued by his powerful aura. The coexistence of cultivation and imperial rule had made them formidable, but they could not help but be awed by the Emperor's overwhelming presence.
"Long live the Emperor!" the ministers called in unison, kneeling in respect.
"Rise," Chu Yuan ordered. "You may speak freely of any matters concerning the empire."
"Your Majesty, the passing of the former Emperor was a grievous loss," Liu Yong, Chief of Staff for the Ministry of Industry, said. "During his reign, our nation was powerful, with the elite 300,000 Divine Martial soldiers ensuring our dominance."
"Indeed," Chu Yuan said, his eyes narrowing. "But do you believe that because of the former Emperor's death, our nation is doomed?"
[System Alert: The host has triggered a choice.]
Liu Yong hesitated. "Your Majesty, I only meant that with the death of the previous Emperor, our strength has diminished. While you are valiant, Your Majesty, your youth and the current crisis pose a threat."
[System Notification: Choice One: Confront Liu Yong directly. Earn 100 Destiny Points.]
[System Notification: Choice Two: Dismiss the court and leave a cool, unyielding image. Earn 100 Destiny Points.]
Chu Yuan's gaze grew even more intense, his words sharp. "So, you suggest that the death of the former Emperor means the end of our nation? You believe that our empire is on the brink of collapse?"
Liu Yong, realizing his mistake, stammered, "No, Your Majesty! I did not mean that!"
[System Alert: The host has pressed Liu Yong into submission, gaining 100 Destiny Points.]
"You speak of loyalty, yet your actions speak otherwise," Chu Yuan's voice echoed through the hall.
Liu Yong, trembling, hurriedly knelt. "I swear, Your Majesty, I am absolutely loyal to the Dawu Dynasty and to you!"
Li Yun, noticing the tension, stepped forward. "Liu Yong is loyal to the Emperor, as am I. Our intentions are pure, Your Majesty."
Chu Yuan's eyes flickered with cold calculation. He had already assessed the loyalty of those around him.
[System Notification: The host has successfully navigated a political confrontation, earning 100 Destiny Points.]
"My lord, your words carry weight," Chu Yuan said. "But let me make one thing clear—this empire will not fall on my watch."
[System Notification: The host has made a decisive statement of authority, gaining 100 Destiny Points.]