Previously on A Cunning Pervert in the Cultivation World...
The Emperor lies near death from a mysterious plague, identified as demonic arts. Prime Minister Mu rails against the physicians, but Grand Tutor Wei also confirms the severity and demonic origin of the illness. Censor-in-Chief Zhao suspects foul play, possibly involving the Azure Moon Sect, but Wei advises caution. As the Emperor's condition worsens, Mu impulsively locks down the court and demands answers, leading to pandemonium until a new voice intervenes.
Without a whisper, the immense golden gates parted, revealing a figure of such stunning beauty that the entire hall seemed to hold its breath as she graced them with her presence. Her aura commanded an immediate reverence, as though she were a celestial being observing mortals. It was the Empress. Clad in opulent crimson and gold imperial robes, her form was both elegant and voluptuous, contours perfectly accentuated by the luxurious fabric. A daringly low neckline showcased her pale, unblemished skin and the alluring curve of her bosom, adorned with delicate chains of gold and shimmering phoenix jeweled accessories that pulsed with faint spiritual energy. A magnificent golden headdress, intricately designed to resemble the wings of a phoenix in full flight, crowned her dark tresses. Her movements were deliberate and stately, each step resonating with an undeniable imperial power. Ministers, guards, and even the incensed Prime Minister Mu found themselves compelled to yield, forming an unobstructed path toward the Dragon Throne. The Empress uttered no further words, her progression toward the throne marked by a simple, unwavering advance. A cold, exquisite smile graced her crimson lips, sending shivers down the spines of all present. Prime Minister Mu’s complexion visibly paled as the Empress’s gaze met his. Confronted by such silent, potent authority, the sword in his grasp suddenly felt like an unbearable weight. Instantly, he dropped to a single knee, clasping his fists in a gesture of profound respect. "This servant bows to Her Majesty the Empress!" he proclaimed. Following his lead, the entire court spontaneously knelt, the clamor of previous accusations dissolving into an atmosphere thick with hushed, fearful breaths. The Empress observed this scene without comment. With refined grace, she ascended the dais and settled onto the Dragon Throne. At that very moment, two resplendent dragon spirits, one of ethereal blue and the other of shimmering silver, materialized around her. One coiled protectively over her shoulder, while the other swirled behind her like a tempestuous guardian. Their crimson eyes blazed with ancient power, fixing their intense gaze upon the kneeling figures. These were no mere phantasms or adornments; they were formidable spiritual entities, manifestations of her own profound cultivation and her imperial bloodline. The Empress was not a native of the Fen Dynasty; she hailed from the illustrious Long Dynasty, a member of its imperial family. Renowned as the most prodigious talent of her generation, her early potential was whispered to rival even that of the Azure Moon Sect Leader. Yet, for reasons unknown, her path diverged from exclusive devotion to cultivation. Instead, she had chosen to fulfill a familial obligation, entering an arranged political marriage to solidify the crucial alliance between the Long and Fen Dynasties. Though she had maintained a low profile as Empress for many years, her cultivation remained dauntingly potent, her achievements so profound that no one within the court could ascertain the true extent of her progress. For a considerable duration, silence reigned. Her piercing crimson gaze swept across each face in attendance, the stillness becoming almost palpable. "Prime Minister Mu," she finally spoke, her voice soft yet imbued with absolute authority. "Your loyalty has always been fierce, yet today it has bordered on recklessness. To unsheathe your sword against your own court while the Emperor lies on the brink of death... do you truly believe this is the path to saving our dynasty?" Prime Minister Mu lowered his head until his brow touched the cold floor. "Your Majesty... this servant was merely attempting to—" "Silence." The single word, spoken gently, severed his speech as cleanly as a blade. The Empress redirected her penetrating gaze towards Grand Tutor Wei, who offered a deep bow, the golden cranes adorning his robes rustling subtly with his movement. "Grand Tutor... you still advocate for patience even now?" Grand Tutor Wei responded with measured calm. "This old servant believes that hasty actions will only hasten our demise, Your Majesty." A faint, inscrutable smile touched the Empress's lips at his words. She leaned forward slightly, one delicate hand resting upon the armrest of the throne. Speaking again, her voice was clear and commanding, resonating with the combined might of the Long and Fen imperial bloodlines. "From this moment forth, I, Empress Fen Ling of the Fen Dynasty, shall assume absolute authority." A collective intake of breath swept through the Grand Vermillion Hall. "I was dispatched here through an arranged marriage to forge a vital alliance between our two great dynasties," she continued, her crimson eyes glowing softly. "For many years, I have observed silently, honoring my husband’s reign and the traditions of the Fen Dynasty. But now, with His Majesty critically ill and the palace infiltrated by demonic arts, I shall not stand idly by." She rose slowly from the Dragon Throne. The phoenix motifs on her robes seemed to ignite with golden flames as the spectral dragons let out silent roars, amplifying her overwhelming presence. "Effective immediately, I declare myself Regent Empress. All military, political, and state matters will henceforth be directed through me until His Majesty recovers... or until the throne is passed to a rightful successor."
Prime Minister Mu’s head jerked upwards, his expression a mix of disbelief and reluctance. "Your Majesty... this is..."
"Do you have an objection, Prime Minister?" The Empress's gaze intensified. "You, who moments ago were prepared to apprehend half the court?"
Prime Minister Mu gritted his teeth but bowed his head once more.
"...This servant does not object."
Grand Tutor Wei gently ran his hand along his long white beard, his serene face holding a complex emotion.
"The Long Dynasty’s lineage is celebrated for its purity and inherent strength. Therefore, if Your Majesty is willing to embrace this responsibility, this old official will support you wholeheartedly."
Censor-in-Chief Zhao remained in his kneeling position, a cold, inscrutable smile gracing his lips as he offered no words.
Observing that no further objections were forthcoming, the Empress proceeded, her voice growing progressively colder and more resolute.
"Prime Minister Mu, you shall assume command of the Imperial Guards and conduct a thorough examination of the eastern and northern palace walls for any indications of unauthorized entry over the past few weeks. Grand Tutor Wei, you will accompany me to the Emperor’s chambers, and Censor Zhao, you will follow as well. I require your keen observation and sharp wit to meticulously document everything we discover."
She cast her gaze over the remaining ministers.
"The rest of you shall remain confined here under strict guard. No individual is permitted to depart the palace premises. Any endeavor to transmit secret correspondence without my explicit authorization will be deemed an act of treason."
With her pronouncement, the twin spectral dragons emitted a deep, resonant growl that reverberated through the very bones of everyone present.
"Yes, Your Highness!"
The Empress descended from the throne platform, her phoenix crown shimmering magnificently as she advanced towards the entrance of the inner palace.
"Tonight, the Fen Dynasty shall not succumb to demonic schemes or internal discord," she proclaimed.
"I bear the dragon bloodline of the Long Dynasty and the phoenix fire of Fen. If a traitor lurks within the shadows..."
Her crimson lips curled into a frigid smile.
"...I shall personally reduce them to ashes."
Uttering these words, the Empress exited the Grand Vermillion Hall, with Grand Tutor Wei and Censor Zhao following in close proximity.
The oppressive aura of draconic might still permeated the atmosphere long after her departure.
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[Don't forget to check out Empress Fen in the popularity poll XD]
