It was a simple sentence, yet it seemed to have drained all of Brunhild's strength and courage. A trace of weary stiffness showed on her face.
Perhaps she wanted to make herself seem more resolute, or perhaps she wanted to seize this rare moment while her courage was still burning. In a slightly urgent voice, she said, "Lianqing, you should know that before I left Earth, I had already put a complete set of policies in place. The officials who succeed me at the governor's office will continue to carry out my reforms. The nobles who were relocated from the Empire's heartland to the former territories of Earth will continue to set out as well. None of that will change just because the throne changes hands."
Yu Lian seemed to understand. "That's how the Tirillo are. They'd never give up prey they'd already caught."
"The Cherk Kingdom has fallen. It'll surely split into several pieces, and they'll all become satellite states of the Empire. The Community has functionally fallen, too. Setting aside their appalling military losses, they've gained a great deal from this war." Amida Berenkest's voice carried a trace of helplessness. "Strictly speaking, the Imperials lost to you, not to the people of Earth. At least, that's what many Imperials think now."
So Teacher Yang and the other comrades' achievements were just being ignored automatically, huh?
"Even if His Majesty were still alive, he couldn't make our fleets withdraw from the occupied star systems. Besides, I'm only a Privy Councilor now. The Galactic Empire has no concept of an heir apparent. But, Lianqing, if anyone can understand, it's you. This is the ruler's sorrow, but also the leader's honor. One's personal conscience must give way to the interests of one's own side." Brunhild's voice trembled, her feelings utterly sincere.