On the Verge

On the Verge...

The Qin Rebels had stirred up a tempest of chaos within the Royal Capital, and to add to the frenzy, the first Prince had declared his intention to compete for the Emperor's throne. The magnitude of the ensuing commotion was beyond imagination.

Such chaos reigned that people within the Royal Capital, who had carefully planned their escape routes, were now on the brink of departure at any given moment.

Among the nobility, differing opinions began to emerge. They found themselves caught between the two brothers, a decision that had to be made. The first Prince had long been in the shadows, but the elite noble clans, sitting at the pinnacle of power, were well aware of Chu Wuwei's tremendous influence. If he truly intended to vie for the throne, it was clear who had the upper hand. However, despite Chu Wuwei's sharp intellect, Chu Tianjiao held the rightful claim, and he naturally had his share of supporters.

Yet an unexpected variable had entered the equation. The presence of the Qin Rebels had thrown Chu into a whirlwind of internal strife and external threats. Did anyone in Chu still have confidence in Chu Tianjiao?

Thus, some noble clans chose to remain neutral, unwilling to wade into the mire of the power struggle over the Emperor's authority. They feared backing the wrong side, which might lead to the complete obliteration of their clans.

Soon after, a 'Proclamation of Crimes' took the form of a letter and was distributed throughout Chu, sending shockwaves through the hearts of its citizens.

This 'Proclamation of Crimes' had been authored by the first Prince, Chu Wuwei, and it detailed the various wrongdoings committed by the Royal Clan.

Crime no. 1: The Wu King, an ancestor of the Qin Clan, had earned countless merits through wartime achievements for the country. However, the previous Emperor, driven by jealousy of a capable subordinate and fearing his authority, had plotted his demise.

Crime no. 2: The Qin Clan had sacrificed their lives for the country, yet they were met with unfairness and injustice. They were suppressed, their military authority stolen, forced to relocate, and ultimately faded into obscurity.

Crime no. 3: In the pursuit of power, the Royal Clan had disregarded the lives of soldiers, using them as sacrificial pawns, tearing apart countless families.

Crime no. 4: To maintain their grip on power, the Royal Clan had abetted dark practitioners in their insatiable need for young virgins, catering to their wicked desires. They had butchered innocent masses, employing the most unscrupulous methods and committing the most atrocious crimes imaginable.

Each of the crimes listed pointed an accusatory finger at the abhorrent behavior of the Royal Clan, sparing not even the previous Emperor of Chu. Such audacity had never been witnessed in the annals of Chu's history.

What made these accusations particularly damning was their shared indictment: the Royal Clan's utter disregard for their loyal subjects and citizens, portraying the empire as heartless.

The fourth crime, in particular, triggered a tsunami of outrage, as the revelation that the Royal Clan was willing to sacrifice young females to aid dark practitioners sent shockwaves through the populace. The imperial power was known for its tyranny, but the depths of its depravity had been unimaginable. Without the revelations from the first Prince, Chu Wuwei, the citizens of Chu would have never suspected that their trusted Royal Clan was behind the abductions.

This event laid bare the chilling and ruthless nature of power and authority. Even those from powerful noble clans were aware, but none dared to voice their concerns.

Throughout Chu, voices of extreme anger and loathing erupted. Chu Tianjiao became the target of their scathing criticism. The intensity of their fury reached unprecedented levels, and many decided to throw their support behind the Qin Rebels, aiming to depose the current Emperor and eliminate Chu Tianjiao.

Chu Wuwei's audacious move had caught everyone off guard. He had not only pushed Chu Tianjiao to the brink but also placed the Royal Clan in an incredibly precarious position.

Undoubtedly, this bold move greatly favored the Qin Rebels.

In response, Chu Tianjiao released another piece of news, claiming that he was innately crippled and unable to cultivate since birth. He pledged to dedicate his remaining lifespan to serving his country and citizens, erecting a statue of Qin Wu (Wu King) outside the Royal Palace. Simultaneously, he declared the Qin Troops not as rebels but as champions of justice, arriving to overthrow the tyrant Emperor.

Furthermore, he promised to provide a satisfactory explanation to the citizens of Chu regarding the disappearances of young females.

This news garnered approval for Chu Wuwei's character from many, although some considered him a madman. His actions implied his support for the Qin troops and his desire for them to enter the capital, uniting against Chu Tianjiao. However, questions lingered: Would the Qin Clan agree? Even if they did, once Chu Tianjiao was overthrown, would they permit Chu Wuwei to ascend the throne and continue Chu's legacy?

The allure of power often carried with it the weight of temptation, especially when it meant ascending to the throne as Emperor. Considering how the Chu Royal Clan had treated the Qin Clan in the past, if the Qin Clan were to seize control, they might not hesitate to eliminate the entire Chu bloodline. It raised the unsettling question: were Chu Wuwei's actions those of a strategic genius or the madness of a reckless man? Even Chu Tianjiao, his own brother, couldn't fathom his intentions.

Perched upon the Emperor's throne, Chu Tianjiao felt an unusual burden. As he prepared to deliver a crushing blow to the Qin Rebels, his own elder brother, Chu Wuwei, not only refused to support him but openly sided with the Qin Rebels. To make matters worse, he somehow unearthed and revealed Chu Tianjiao's secret trump card: Crime No. 4.

"Elder brother, oh elder brother, if you had chosen to remain neutral, so be it. But since you've opted to become my adversary, don't blame me for severing our fraternal ties," Chu Tianjiao muttered in a chilling tone. Then, he inquired quietly, "Have all the Shadow Dragon Guards infiltrated the Royal Capital?"

A shadowy figure materialized beside Chu Tianjiao, responding with a bow, "Your Majesty, they have dispersed and are currently stationed at strategic points within the Royal Capital, awaiting your command."

"Very well, do not activate the Shadow Dragon Guards just yet. Wait for my orders. Inform our other covert forces that they can proceed with the plan," Chu Tianjiao instructed calmly. The enigmatic figure vanished as quickly as it had appeared.

Once alone, Chu Tianjiao rose from his seat, his eyes emanating a piercing coldness as he strode towards the exit of the grand hall.

The storm that had been brewing in Chu had reached its crescendo.

Within the Royal Capital, subtle undercurrents were already in motion, hidden from plain view. Officials and ministers who wielded power had to make a critical choice regarding the throne dispute between Chu Wuwei and Chu Tianjiao. Even if they preferred not to get involved, Chu Tianjiao had forced their hands.

In the heart of the Chu Royal Capital stood a grand mansion, an embodiment of majesty and elegance.

Its outer grounds sprawled expansively, adorned with white-jade pillars supporting a pavilion. Nine majestic dragon sculptures spewed water around it. At this moment, a sumptuous feast graced the pavilion's balcony. Chu Wuwei sat there, his gaze fixed outward, as though awaiting someone's arrival.

From the distance, a solitary figure emerged, striding toward the pavilion.

Qin Wentian made his way to the pavilion, admiring its architectural beauty. Though the current atmosphere was serene, Qin Wentian was well aware that if any trouble arose, countless experts would swiftly appear, guarding Chu Wuwei's safety.

Despite his recent stay at the Bamboo Lodge, Qin Wentian was keenly attuned to the Royal Capital's current state. He understood that the simmering storm had reached its boiling point and was about to erupt.

The decisive showdown, determining the fate of Chu, loomed on the horizon.

"Brother Qin," Chu Wuwei greeted from the balcony with a warm smile. "Join me and partake in this feast."

Qin Wentian smiled as he ascended to the balcony. He couldn't help but wonder about Chu Wuwei's intentions, inviting him to a feast at such a critical juncture. Yet, Chu Wuwei's "Proclamation of Crimes" had left a deep impression on him, marveling at the man's intelligence.

On the balcony, they sat facing each other, a table filled with delectable dishes between them.

"Your Highness..." Qin Wentian began, but Chu Wuwei waved his hand to stop him. "If you don't mind, how about addressing me as Elder Brother Chu?"

Qin Wentian appreciated the warmth in Chu Wuwei's eyes, exuding an indescribable charisma that put people at ease. With a nod and a smile, Qin Wentian complied, "Elder Brother Chu, is there a specific reason for inviting me here today?"

"The skies over Chu are changing, and few can remain as composed as you," Chu Tianjiao remarked with a smile. "The fate of Chu, be it good or ill, will reach its conclusion in the days to come."

"Elder Brother Chu, you seem quite confident," Qin Wentian chuckled. In this dispute, Chu Wuwei, Chu Tianjiao, and the Qin Clan were the three major players. Chu Wuwei could be seen as the weakest among them. Even if he wanted to align with the Qin Clan to overthrow Chu Tianjiao, would the Qin Clan agree?

"You misunderstand me. I'm not confident at all. Everything I've done in these past few days represents the limits of my ability. But ultimately, my fate lies in your hands," Chu Wuwei explained calmly. "That's why I invited you here today."

"Me?" Qin Wentian looked puzzled.

"Yes, the one who will decide Chu's fate isn't Chu Tianjiao, me, Chu Wuwei, or even the Qin Clan. It's you, Qin Wentian. The choice belongs to you," Chu Wuwei said, raising his winecup with a smile.

Qin Wentian remained silent, urging Chu Wuwei to continue.

"I never desired to be entangled in this power struggle, but circumstances have left me with no choice. I must ascend to the throne as the Emperor of Chu," Chu Wuwei continued. "Now, why do I dare utter such words? It's because I believe in you, Qin Wentian. If I become the Emperor of Chu, I solemnly vow to never harm the Qin Clan again. The positions and ranks of those who led the Qin Clan forces in this expedition to capture the Royal Capital will remain unchanged, and no further penalties will be imposed. Moreover, I will grant the Qin Clan a piece of land, allowing your grandfather, Qin Wu, to reclaim the title of his father, the Wu King."

"Allow me to clarify further. If I become emperor, as a cultivation-crippled individual, I won't waste my time on cultivation or crave cultivation resources. My sole objective is to foster the prosperity of Chu. The Emperor Star Academy will be rebuilt, replacing the Royal Academy as Chu's emblematic institution. These are my aspirations for Chu."

"Now, consider the Qin Clan's perspective. If your adoptive grandfather, Qin Wu, seizes the throne, his first act will be the extermination of my entire clan. No one will be spared. The Royal Capital will soon be drenched in blood, with noble clan members' corpses strewn across the streets. Simultaneously, Qin Wu will begin a campaign to suppress other powers, eliminating the existing officials and installing his loyalists in key positions to consolidate his rule. He'll use force to secure his throne. Tell me, does this scenario differ from what's happening now?"

Qin Wentian's brows furrowed as he absorbed Chu Wuwei's words. Chu Wuwei chuckled and shook his head. "People who are too deeply involved often struggle to see the situation clearly. You must be aware of many things, but perhaps you've been subconsciously avoiding the truth. Or maybe you knew but chose to look away. Consider the facts: when Chu Tianjiao ordered the Ye Clan to deal with your Qin Clan, Qin Wu willingly fell into the trap, all to fulfill his decade-long plans. His actions put the rest of your Qin Clan in danger, turning them into unwitting pawns in his schemes. For instance, if it weren't for your involvement and the emergence of the Emperor Star Academy, the battle where your second uncle, Qin He, lost an arm could have had far worse consequences. In reality, all of this could have been avoided."

Chu Wuwei's voice remained composed as he looked at Qin Wentian, adding, "Qin Wu, your grandfather, isn't as straightforward as you may think."

Qin Wentian fell into momentary silence upon hearing Chu Wuwei's words. In truth, he was well aware of this. Just as Chu Wuwei had pointed out, those deeply embroiled in a situation often struggled to perceive it objectively. Perhaps at times, he deliberately chose not to delve too deeply into it.

"Perhaps my grandfather is seeking revenge for his father, the Wu King," Qin Wentian suggested.

Chu Wuwei smiled and shook his head. "Even though his father has passed away, he still has other family members. Do you think that he would jeopardize the lives of his remaining loved ones solely for the sake of avenging the dead? Do you believe that someone as astute as your grandfather would let emotions cloud his judgment?"

Qin Wentian was left speechless, gazing at Chu Wuwei with a blank expression.

Chu Wuwei remained silent for a moment before continuing, "Chu Tianjiao will soon dispatch forces to deal with me. I'm willing to bet that if you personally convey everything I've shared with you to your grandfather - my offer to allow the Qin Troops unhindered entry into the Royal Capital, the requirement for him to withdraw post-battle, and my commitment to assuming the role of Emperor - he will agree without hesitation."

"After defeating Chu Tianjiao, if your grandfather adheres to our original agreement and withdraws his forces, I will publicly issue a proclamation and extend a grand invitation for him to enter the Royal Capital. I will grant him land and a royal title."

Qin Wentian paused for a moment before asking, "But what if Grandpa Qin breaks his promises, and I choose to stand with the Qin Clan?"

"That's precisely why I said that my fate and the fate of Chu rest in your hands," Chu Wuwei replied with a smile. He then shifted his gaze towards the horizon, murmuring, "It's time..."