The name Lin will rise again..

Shuiyun Inn - Capital

Inside the grand Shuiyun Inn, known for hosting nobles and high-ranking officials, Prince Dorian sat in deep thought.

Prince Dorian leaned back in his chair, the flickering candlelight casting a golden hue over his thoughtful expression. He swirled the wine in his cup but did not drink, his mind occupied with the shifting tides of power.

"The death of the Crown Prince is a tragedy," he mused, his voice low, measured. "But it is also a reset. The court will be in turmoil, factions will scramble to position themselves, and the emperor will be vulnerable."

General Kaede inclined his head. "A well-timed move could place us exactly where we need to be."

Prince Dorian smirked. "Precisely. The Grand Chancellor will try to steer the succession, the Empress Dowager will have her own candidates."

Kaede's expression darkened. "And if she succeeds?"