Great Zhou Dynasty, Upper Capital!
Within the resplendent royal palace, a host of civil and military ministers stood with their heads bowed.
Suddenly.
An indifferent voice came from the dragon throne atop the high platform.
"Do any of you have objections?"
A supremely imposing beautiful woman, clad in a Nine Heavens Phoenix Robe and wearing a Five-Colored Phoenix Crown, sat upon the dragon throne. Looking down at the court officials below, she spoke with an impassive expression.
Just then.
An old man clad in a purple-red ceremonial robe stepped forth. Glaring angrily at the female emperor upon the high platform, he said:
"Since ancient times, no woman has ever ascended to the supreme throne! I ask that the Empress Dowager return power to the Crown Prince, while we ministers assist in governing."
At these words.
The beautiful woman seated upon the dragon throne remained unchanged in expression. Her phoenix eyes narrowed slightly as she swept her gaze across the many civil and military officials in the hall, then gave a soft laugh.
"Do my ministers have any objections to Zhou Fuchen's proposal?"
Though the voice was calm, it struck the civil and military officials like a thunderclap, startling them all at once.
A court official immediately stepped forward and pointed angrily at Zhou Fuchen.
"Ever since Her Majesty took charge of approving memorials and assisted the late emperor in handling state affairs, how many common people has she saved?"
"How many mountain bandits has she exterminated? How many corrupt officials has she punished?"
"She has even expanded our territory!"
"The Great Zhou Dynasty enjoys peace and prosperity today, with clear and orderly governance, all because of Her Majesty's tireless efforts, day and night!"
"If Zhou Fuchen insists on forcing Her Majesty to abdicate, then even if it costs this old