Venerable Demon King & The Doting Immortal (QT) novel Chapter 423

Chapter 423: For the Republic

The capital’s skyline was a shimmering array of domes and spires, each one dwarfed by the colossal floating screens that hovered above. On this historic day, every screen pulsated with the same live broadcast, a ceremony that was of great importance to the Republic.

The ceremony, hastily organized under the shadow of imminent threats, nonetheless held a gravitas that none in attendance would ever forget. Banners of deep crimson and gold draped the walls, and the air was thick with the mingled scents of incense and anticipation.

Han Xin stood at the centre, his posture a testament to the weight of the moment. His eyes, sharp and resolute, scanned the faces of those who had gathered. Councillors, nobles and the marshals. The elite Crimson Sentinels stood guard scanning for any threats.

As the High Chancellor stepped forward, a hush fell over the hall. His voice as firm as the mountains, amplified by unseen devices, echoed throughout the space and beyond, transmitting to every corner of the Republic. "Citizens of the Republic, today we bear witness to a momentous occasion. The true heir to the throne stands before us, ready to guide us into a new era."

He approached with the Imperial Crown in hand. "Han Xin," he began, his voice carrying through the hall, "In these dire times, the Republic turns to you. Will you, with unwavering loyalty and strength, lead us as our Imperial Lord just like those before you?"

Han Xin took a breath, the weight of the oath settling into his bones. "I swear to serve the Republic with honour and courage, to lead with wisdom and to protect our people until my last breath."

In his past life he had been conferred the very same title but it was years later and it was only after a bloody battle claiming the imperial capital. Yet in this life Xiang Yu had removed the crucial piece for him. How could he not love that man? In this life he owed everything to him.

"Then by the power vested in me, I confer upon you the title of Imperial Lord. May you lead with wisdom, courage, and compassion."

With those words, the Chancellor placed the robe of the Imperial Lord upon Han Xin’s shoulders. It was woven with threads of gold and red, each stitch a symbol of the people’s trust and hope. Then, the crown, a circlet of silver and jewels, was set upon his head, a heavy emblem of his new authority.

The hall erupted into a chorus of reverent bows. Councillors dipped their heads in solemn respect, the nobles lowered themselves in graceful submission, and even the crimson-clad Sentinels, the Republic’s fiercest protectors, bent their knees before their new leader.

The air in the grand hall was electric with anticipation, a palpable tension that seemed to hang over every head. Han Xin, now bearing the robe and crown of the Imperial Lord, stepped forward to address the gathered masses. The weight of his new title bore down on him, but so did the urgency of their situation. The Republic was under siege, and there was no time to dwell on formalities.

"Citizens of the Republic," Han Xin’s voice rang out, firm and resolute. "We stand at the precipice of a great trial. Our lands are threatened, our homes are at risk, and our very freedom is under attack. Yet, in this dark hour, we are united by a common cause, a cause greater than any single man."