The saying "A kind person is often bullied" is especially true in a world where strength reigns supreme. This principle has been thoroughly enforced.
After resolving the Qin Dynasty crisis, Lin Qian focused solely on internal affairs, dedicating himself to strengthening the Huaxia Empire.
Lin Qian had once vowed to protect the citizens of the Huaxia Empire, yet over three thousand people in Qingshui Province lost their lives.
After he left, the vast responsibilities of the empire fell entirely on Ye Xin's shoulders. When Yuheng Jiang Kingdom's aggression caught her off guard, the deaths of the Empire's soldiers and citizens left her unprepared and overwhelmed.
For the first time since taking her position, Ye Xin faced the loss of so many lives, all under her command.
She dared not act recklessly. With Lin Qian absent, her primary task was to ensure the stability of the entire Huaxia Empire.
When she saw Lin Qian appear, the immense pressure and pent-up frustration she had been enduring finally burst forth, causing her to break down in tears.
After all, both she and Lin Qian were only twenty-seven years old—mere children compared to the vastness of this world.
The pressure of managing such a large territory was unimaginable.
Wiping away her tears, Ye Xin straightened up and, after emerging from Lin Qian's embrace, sat beside him, continuing to review the scrolls and memorials on the desk, her expression resolute.
"If you're tired, you should rest," Lin Qian said, his voice full of concern as he watched Ye Xin prepare to continue her work.
Ye Xin gently shook her head, turning to Lin Qian with a determined look. "Xiao Qian, you've worked hard to resolve the crisis in the Southern Region and Southern Nine Provinces. I can't afford to fall behind."
"These are matters that needed attention after you left. Since you entrusted the Huaxia Empire to me, I can't let you down. I know how much you love this empire. Every time you speak of the Huaxia Empire, I see the pride and joy in your eyes."
As she spoke, Ye Xin looked at the scrolls and memorials on the desk before her, a gentle smile on her face. "I've also come to love this empire. In fact, everyone feels the same way. We're all working hard to make the Huaxia Empire better. It's amazing how much everyone loves this capital because it feels so warm."
"Xiao Qian!" Ye Xin's expression hardened as she looked at Lin Qian, her voice tinged with anger. "Don't let Yuheng Jiang Kingdom have its way. We can't lose the Huaxia Empire."
The Huaxia Empire was unlike any other power. In just over a year, the people living on this land had come to clearly feel the difference.
Whether it was the young emperor or the beautiful empress, both genuinely cared for them. Each provincial government upheld Lin Qian's will with sincerity.
In truth, the strong individuals helping to govern the Huaxia Empire's territory now found it both novel and touching to hear the citizens singing their praises.
They had never experienced the phenomenon of thousands of citizens frequently mentioning their policies in discussions, expressing genuine gratitude in their words.
Gradually, they began to notice their luck improving and their cultivation progressing faster.
Later, they learned from the Ministry of Engineering that the Huaxia Empire's increasing national fortune was a result of the people's loyalty.
As officials of the Huaxia Empire, their fortunes had become inseparably linked to the empire's national fortune. The more respect they garnered from the citizens they governed, the stronger their fortunes became.
Upon learning the truth, they fell silent.
For a long time, in their pursuit of personal strength, the people of the Soul Martial Continent had ignored the common folk, seeing them only as servants.
It wasn't until Lin Qian's foundational theories emerged that they realized just how important these ordinary human citizens were.
Now, they understood that when they genuinely cared for the people, they reaped unexpected rewards.
Some Soul Martial Artists, who had been stuck at a bottleneck for years, found themselves suddenly breaking through thanks to their enhanced fortune.
At this point, the Huaxia Empire had become entirely distinct from other forces on the Soul Martial Continent. There was no longer a divide between ordinary humans and Soul Martial Artists. They all shared a common identity:
Citizens of the Huaxia Empire: Huaxia People!
Seven days after Lin Qian's return, the Imperial Court convened in the grand hall of the Huaxia Palace.
In the hall, Lin Qian and Ye Xin sat high on the dragon throne and phoenix seat, while below, as in the Ancient Spirit Continent's court, rows of desks were neatly arranged. The heads of all sixty-one provinces of the Huaxia Empire had arrived.
Not only that, but the governors of the major cities within those provinces were also present.
The Soul Vision Machines across all sixty-one provinces of the Huaxia Empire were broadcasting the scene live. By now, the citizens of the empire knew that their benevolent Emperor Ren Wu called this "live broadcasting."
At this moment, nearly all the citizens of the Huaxia Empire had gathered beneath the Soul Vision Machines, closely watching the screens as the images switched back and forth.
The citizens of the surface world, long familiar with the Soul Vision Machines, were eagerly discussing how their Emperor Ren Wu was indeed handsome and extraordinary, and how the empress was graceful and beautiful—a perfect match.
Some citizens even exclaimed upon seeing their familiar provincial governor or city lord on the screen, sharing with those around them the latest policies or discussing how their governor seemed to have become even stronger, perhaps even surpassing the governor of another province.
Of course, what piqued their curiosity even more were the exotic people from the Ancient Spirit Continent.
For the citizens of the underground world, the Soul Vision Machines were a novelty, and they were amazed to see their young emperor and the powerful figures who ruled the surface world.
"It seems that our Huaxia Empire will only grow stronger in the future, truly embracing all," Leng Wuyi said with a smile as he approached Ling Jiu, who appeared a bit apprehensive. He bowed respectfully and said, "Welcome to the Huaxia Empire. His Majesty has already briefed us on the matters of the Ancient Spirit Continent."
Not just Leng Wuyi, but also Qin Wushuang and others warmly greeted the newcomers, helping them break the initial awkwardness and quickly become acquainted.
As the long chimes of the bell echoed, everyone in the grand hall took their seats, then rose to respectfully bow to Lin Qian. "Greetings to His Majesty Emperor Ren Wu and Her Majesty the Empress!"
Seated high above, Lin Qian maintained a solemn expression and said in a deep voice, "Blood of Yan and Huang."
In unison, those below responded, "Soul of Huaxia."
"Those who offend Huaxia!"
"Shall be punished, no matter how far away!"
The chorus of shouts from the empire's elites and strong fighters seemed to shake the very roof of the grand hall.
"Be seated!"
"Thank you, Your Majesty!"
As Lin Qian's words fell, everyone took their seats, their expressions serious.
"I recall instructing you all to search for promising talents—those with exceptional aptitude, strength, and governance skills—for training." Lin Qian extended his arms and addressed the assembly, "I believe this matter needs to be expedited. Report any capable individuals immediately."
A cold smile spread across Lin Qian's face. "Our Huaxia Empire is about to gain a hundred more provinces, and we'll need the manpower to govern them."
These last two updates have been a bit slow, and I apologize. This part of the story is important, not just a transition but a key moment in the growth of the protagonist and the empire.
I don't want to rush through it; it needs careful consideration. I hope you understand.