100 第20章 仙娘的成全（1）

第20章 仙娘的成全（1）

The Imperial Palace was quiet. High in the sky, the sun cast long shadows across the throne room. Sitting on his throne, the Emperor was silent, lost in thought. He had heard more disturbing reports of Böri Khan and his Shadow Warriors wreaking havoc all along the Silk Road. It was only a matter of time before panic and fear spread through the kingdom. And with panic and fear came instability and danger. This could not happen. He needed to protect his people and keep his kingdom safe. 
Hearing the throne room doors opening, the Emperor looked up. His chancellor was coming toward him, urgency in his steps. When he reached the throne, he bowed low. Then, straightening, he spoke. “Your Majesty,” he began. “A word in private?” 
The Emperor nodded, trying to keep his face neutral as the other off icials and attendants in the room moved away. He had known the Chancellor for a long time. For him to look this worried, something must be truly wrong. 
Unfortunately, he was right. “Scouts have informed me that Böri Khan has inf iltrated the city,” the Chancellor said, his voice urgent. “He assembles at the New Palace with a small group of highly skilled assassins.” 
The Emperor bowed his head in thought for a moment, his mind racing at the news. Böri Khan was bold to go after the New Palace. The building, aptly named, was new and not yet f inished. Built in honor of his father, it was important to the Emperor. It was also less guarded, which made it an easier target. If Böri Khan were to take it, it would also make for a good statement of his strength. 
When the Emperor looked up, the kind expression he normally wore was gone. In its place was the expression of a f ierce—and deadly—warrior. “Prepare my guards,” he said. “We ride to the site immediately.” 
“Your Majesty,” the Chancellor protested. “It is far too dangerous.” 
“Your loyalty and concern for my safety are greatly valued,” the Emperor said. But it was clear he had no intention of listening to his advisor’s protest. Motioning to the generals and other off icials who had moved into the shadows to step forward, he prepared to give them orders. 
But the Chancellor interrupted him before he could start. “If I may be so bold, Your Imperial Highness ...” he began, earning him a stern look from the Emperor. But despite the look, the leader nodded for him to go on. “Put me in charge of your Imperial Army. At least allow me to have them follow you and surround the New Palace.” The Emperor was silent as he weighed the Chancellor’s words. Taking the silence as an opportunity, the Chancellor pressed on. “Please consider your citizens. Your safety must be ensured.” 
The words struck the Emperor. While it was not what he would choose, the Chancellor was right. He was the Emperor. Throwing himself right into the enemy’s waiting arms without backup was a foolish maneuver that could leave the Empire without a ruler. No, the Chancellor was right. 
Turning, he gave his orders. “I am placing my chancellor in charge of the Imperial Guard. His command is my command.” As the generals and off icers bowed in assent, the Emperor went on, his voice loud. “This brute who attacks our trade routes! This murderer who threatens our way of life! I will kill this Böri Khan as I killed his own father. With my own hands.” 
Without another word, the Emperor strode out of the throne room. Behind him, the Chancellor watched. For several minutes, he stood there, his eyes narrowed and his hands clasped in front of him as all around the room, off icials and generals f luttered about. After a few moments, he moved to one of the windows. A f licker of approval f lashed in his eyes when he saw the Emperor riding away from the palace, f lanked by his guard.