บท 5: Chapter 5: Secrets Beneath the Sun
The sun shone brightly, its golden rays piercing through the universe as if it harbored an unspoken secret. Its light swept across the imperial city like a blazing fire, casting sharp shadows over the towering spires of the Emperor's palace. Inside the grand imperial hall, an unsettling silence hung in the air.
"Good morning, everyone," echoed a commanding voice, breaking the stillness.
Silas, the newly promoted commander of the imperial contingent, stood at the center of the hall, his posture rigid and authoritative. The soldiers assembled before him snapped to attention, their voices rising in unison.
"Good morning, Commander!"
Though their response was uniform, a nervous energy rippled through the crowd. Many soldiers fidgeted in place, their eyes betraying a mix of curiosity and unease. What would this new commander announce? Would it mean another twist in the endless war?
Commander Silas surveyed the room, his gaze sharp and piercing. His voice boomed as he began, each word carrying weight. "By order of His Grace, Emperor Morris," he declared, "a new phase in the war has been authorized. The Emperor demands an end to this conflict, once and for all. Victory is not optional. It is imperative. At the same time, His Grace seeks to consolidate his power and bring stability to the empire as he prepares for a most joyous occasion—his daughter's wedding."
The ground beneath them seemed to tremble as Silas's words echoed through the hall. For a moment, the soldiers were silent, the weight of the Emperor's command settling heavily on their shoulders. Then, as if on cue, they saluted in unison and shouted, "Glory to the Emperor!"
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Meanwhile, in the palace gardens, the Emperor's daughter, Princess Asake, strolled through the blooming flowers. Her smile was radiant, almost as if it could outshine the sun itself. Her presence lit up the corridors as she walked toward the imperial hall. The soldiers stationed along her path greeted her with deep bows.
"Good morning, Your Highness," they said in reverence.
"Good morning," Asake replied, her voice warm and gentle. She returned their greetings with a dazzling smile before hurrying off. Her light steps quickened as she neared the hall, her heart set on a matter she could no longer ignore.
Inside the imperial council chamber, Emperor Morris sat at the head of a long table, his advisors gathered around him in deep discussion. Maps, data projections, and strategic plans cluttered the surface of the table. The Emperor was engrossed in conversation with his council when a familiar, melodic voice broke through the chatter.
"Good morning, Father."
The Emperor looked up, his piercing gaze softening as he saw his daughter. "Good morning, Asake. What brings you here?" he asked, his voice kinder than usual.
Asake hesitated for a moment, glancing at the gathered council. Their eyes were fixed on her, curiosity and confusion evident on their faces. She took a deep breath and stepped forward, her voice steady but firm.
"Father, I can't marry the man you've chosen for me. You must wait until I find the one I truly love."
The chamber fell into stunned silence. The council members exchanged nervous glances, some whispering among themselves. Such defiance was unheard of, especially from the Emperor's daughter. The tension in the room was palpable.
The Emperor's expression darkened as he rose from his seat, his towering frame casting a shadow over the council. "Asake," he said, his voice calm yet laced with authority, "you know that this marriage is vital to the future of the empire. It is not merely about love—it is about alliance, power, and stability."
"But, Father," Asake protested, her tone imploring, "what stability can come from a union without love? How can I bind myself to someone I don't even know? Please, Father, understand."
The council erupted into a hushed disarray, the advisors murmuring among themselves. Some seemed to side with the Emperor, while others sympathized with the princess's plea. The Emperor held up a hand, silencing the room.
"Asake," he said, his voice softer now, "this is not a matter to be decided here and now. Return to your chambers. We will speak of this later."
Asake opened her mouth to argue but stopped herself. With a respectful bow, she stepped back, her face a mixture of defiance and disappointment. "Yes, Father," she said quietly before turning and leaving the chamber.
As the doors closed behind her, the murmuring among the council resumed. The Emperor stood silently for a moment, his expression unreadable. He raised a hand once more, and the room fell silent.
"We will proceed with the plans for the wedding," he said firmly, "but I will consider my daughter's words."
The council members exchanged surprised looks but said nothing. The Emperor's tone left no room for argument. Yet, as the discussion returned to matters of war, a subtle tension lingered in the air—a sign that the Princess's words had struck a nerve, even in the heart of the Emperor himself.
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