haytham_

Kenji had become the Emperor’s right hand man which he always wanted to be.  He thought that this position would help him to become one of the most popular and powerful figure in history, He did not know that the newly crowned Emperor considered him as a threat. Secrets were being prepared to deal with this ‘dangerous subject’ who had become too influential to be ignored.
“Oh, Dearest brother, I have to congratulate you on your well-deserved hire! How great must it feel to receive a court audience and the special joy of having a sword under your head before the imperial family!" The emperor said warmly.
'Oh dearest sister... Your congrats are out of place... you just made the situation worse...'

The Empror's Trap

"This time, we suffered a crushing defeat."

Ban looked at the arguing elders with resignation in his voice.

"Within a month, we must withdraw from Kalashige Plains - it will become Sorechin territory. The royal court's finances are severely depleted, and we still have to pay annual tribute to Camelot..."

He gave her a meaningful look: "Sister, this defeat is truly hard to accept."

Oh sure, go ahead and throw shade at me. As if you don't know exactly whose fault this whole mess is?

"I'm sorry, but I won't be able to leave diplomatic affairs in your hands anymore. You understand, Uheya - the entire nation has major grievances against you right now."

Uheya's expression remained calm. She had long anticipated this and had no objections to her brother's demands.

"Good..." Ban leaned in close to whisper in her ear, "Also, Father wants to see you."

Ch 52 - Preparing to Strike