The grand hall of the imperial palace was thick with tension, a battlefield of words where each faction fought not with swords, but with influence and power. Ministers, nobles, and military generals gathered, their expressions ranging from barely concealed triumph to deep-seated unease. The golden dragon throne sat at the far end of the hall, a symbol of absolute authority, but even its presence did little to ease the undercurrents of discord rippling through the room.
At the heart of it all sat the emperor. His robes of deep imperial gold shimmered under the flickering lanterns, his expression unreadable as he listened to the voices of his court.
"Your Majesty," one of the senior ministers spoke first, bowing deeply. "The matter of the crown prince's title must be settled today. The court has been patient, but further delay would only invite chaos."
Murmurs of agreement spread through the hall.
