Senti defeated the Calamity Hound.
A mighty strike from the descending Inch Heart Fist Technique left an enormous palm imprint on the earth, crushing the xenobeast into dust.
Following the conclusion of the great battle, Rita and the four pillars of the nation wasted no time, swiftly arranging various post-war tasks.
The intricate details and various transformations within the nation aside, several days later, Durandal knelt before Zeke.
It was late at night. The resplendent warrior maiden kneeled on one knee amidst the grand hall. Through her loose robes, one could discern the bandages wrapped around her body, with the empty left sleeve being most conspicuous—a sight that undoubtedly stirred deep emotions.
"I'll help regrow your hand as compensation for these past few days. However, if you're here to plead for me to continue ruling as Emperor, you can return now."
"Your Majesty, our Empire has just endured the xenobeast calamity, and the new political order cannot function without Your Imperial Majesty's leadership... Please have mercy upon the people of the Huang Kingdom!"
Zeke's indifferent attitude only met with Durandal's unwavering determination.
Rita, Zhuge Kongming, and even Kiana, despite appearing naive, were astute individuals. They understood that Zeke hailed from beyond this world. After all their efforts proved fruitless, they refrained from further pressuring him openly on this matter.
Durandal, however, was different. She firmly believed that having Zeke govern everything would be the best course for the country. Consequently, she persisted in persuading him relentlessly until he agreed to stay.
Zeke reviewed today's procedural reports before finally looking up, casting a slightly exasperated gaze at Durandal.
"I'm beginning to understand Otto's feelings somewhat..." he muttered to himself.
Although the Durandals from both worlds had vastly differing strengths, their seriousness and determination were identical.
This Durandal undoubtedly recognized the wrongness of coercion, but when weighed against her nation's fate, she would overlook it without hesitation. As long as she didn't achieve her desired outcome, she would persistently return—today, tomorrow, the day after, indefinitely.
"Your Majesty, the world and its people need you! Durandal is willing to give all she has, beseeching Your Majesty to continue governing the realm and protecting its citizens!"
"Tsk—" Zeke closed his eyes, pondering briefly. To ensure some peace for the days ahead, he made a decision.
With a wave of his hand, a decree styled like those from the old imperial dynasty materialized, which he tossed towards Durandal below.
She caught it with one hand, and under Zeke's prompting gaze, unfolded the decree.
Skipping over the standard ceremonial language, the essence of the decree could be summarized in one sentence: Emperor Zeke abdicates, and Durandal ascends to the throne.
"!"
Durandal shuddered, hastily looking up with excitement as she exclaimed,
"Your Majesty, Durandal is not—"
Before she could pledge her loyalty, Zeke snapped his fingers, and a gentle force propelled her out of the hall, closing the doors behind her.
"In two days' time, the abdication proclamation will be broadcast nationwide via the Central System. You may now consult with them about your coronation."
His calm tone left no room for negotiation.
As Durandal attempted to re-enter the hall, she found herself unable to approach the door any further.
Holding the imperial edict, she stood outside for a long while, her expression shifting between various emotions. Eventually, resigned, she departed.
Inside the hall, Zeke let out a relieved sigh, feeling as if he had narrowly escaped disaster.
Fu Hua, holding an ancient tome, peeked from behind the screen near the throne.
"You made such a hasty decision? Choosing a ruler carries immense significance, especially in these times."
"The administrative system has undergone comprehensive reforms from top to bottom. The impact of having someone on the throne is far less significant than you might imagine. If it weren't me, anyone else would have made little difference. Compared to the laid-back Kiana, shrewd Rita, and youthful Zhuge Kongming, Durandal is actually the most suitable choice. With her ample prestige, unwavering integrity, love for country and people, everyone across the realm recognizes these qualities. She won't favor personal interests, nor does she know how to persecute political rivals; under her rule, at least we can rest assured. In today's political climate, a leader who inspires trust and confidence is far superior to other options."
"Really not just passing off your troubles?"
"Fu Hua, lately, you seem to be questioning me quite often."
"Just joking. I naturally trust your judgment and sense of responsibility."
"I hope so. The downfall of the previous era was partly due to disunity among the populace, as well as power struggles between administrative and military institutions hindering each other. I don't wish to see such phenomena repeat in our time. Fu Hua, your strength is crucial, which makes obedience all the more important." Zeke spoke expressionlessly, his tone somber.
Fu Hua promptly stepped forward, standing beside Zeke with a serious demeanor as she expressed her stance:
"I understand, and I'll definitely be more mindful from now on! Centralizing authority is necessary; you have my full support!"
Zeke reached out and gently pinched Fu Hua's cheek, while she obediently knelt down further to emphasize her commitment.
The corners of Zeke's mouth curved slightly upward, saying,
"Hmm, yes, I trust your judgment."
Suddenly, a gust of wind swept by.
"Snap!"
Without warning, Senti appeared nearby, munching on candied haws. With a swift wave of her hand, like cracking a whip, she smacked away Zeke's fingers.
"Just talk already, don't grope at ancient relics willy-nilly!" Senti scolded firmly, holding candied haws in one hand and placing the other on her hip.
Expressionless, Zeke glanced at Fu Hua, who clasped her hands together with a placating smile.
Please, don't stoop to her level.
Realizing he couldn't rely on this doting immortal to discipline Senti, Zeke acknowledged the situation.
Senti possessed formidable abilities and a spirited personality; it was unrealistic to expect her to remain hidden within Fu Hua's consciousness domain indefinitely.
In other words, the Herrscher Persona would frequently manifest before others.
Privately disregarding formalities wasn't an issue for Zeke; after all, she wasn't his own unruly child. As long as her behavior didn't directly challenge him, he could remain tolerant. However, consistently defying authority and being uncooperative in public would undermine the dictator's prestige.
Perhaps emphasizing discipline in this aspect should be prioritized sooner rather than later.
Zeke stroked his chin and said, "Actually, I can create a world bubble right now to grant your wish for a fair battle."
"Oh? Really?"
"But I don't engage in pointless fights; there must be stakes involved."
"Huh?" Senti tilted her head, cheeks puffed as she chewed on candied haws, blinking—wasn't it agreed that she'd focus on missions during this time and have their fight upon departure?
Zeke wore a warm, amiable smile, like a gentle spring breeze.
"How about betting on a favor?"
"Uh... Sure, whatever! I'm definitely going to win anyway!" After barely a moment of consideration, Senti confidently thumped her chest and agreed.
Regardless of what Zeke had in mind, when it came to fighting, Senti never backed down!
Zeke's smile grew even warmer. "Then it's settled. Surely the esteemed Red Kite Immortal wouldn't renege on a deal?"
"Hmph! When have I ever gone back on my word?"
A swirling black vortex opened up within the grand hall.
Zeke rose and stepped into it first.
Senti quickly finished the candied haws. Seeing Fu Hua's hesitant expression, she playfully patted her shoulder and declared:
"Old fossil, I'm going to teach this arrogant kid a lesson. Wait here, afterward, we'll grab some late-night snacks together!"
As Senti spoke, a concealed blade emerged from its sheath behind him. With determined strides and hands clenched, he confidently stepped through the spatial portal.