Soon, bottles of fine wine were brought out and set beside the officers.
"Everyone, I know you were all officers of the Flowing Wind Clan before, and suddenly joining the Empire has left you anxious and unsettled. What I want to say here is that the Empire welcomes you. I won't hold your former allegiance against you. I'm very glad you chose the right path and became part of the Empire. In the future, I will lead you in creating a glorious age. I hope you can put aside your worries and wariness. Within the Empire, as long as you don't break its laws or commit crimes, I won't do anything to you. I regard all of you as citizens of the Empire and will treat you equally..."
Lin Junyu stood, raised his wine cup, and spoke candidly to the assembled Flowing Wind officers.
"To celebrate your joining the Empire and welcome your arrival, I offer you all a toast!"
Lin Junyu tipped his head back and drained his cup in one gulp.
Flowing Wind Shuang immediately stood and returned his toast.
The Flowing Wind officers rose as well, raising their cups with reverent trepidation and respectfully toasting Lin Junyu.
The Empire's future Emperor had actually offered them a toast today.
What an immense honor it was for them.
This moment would surely be the most glorious, most honorable moment of their lives.
They all knew they were basking in Her Highness Shuang's reflected glory.
The Emperor lavished affection on Her Highness Shuang, and even her subordinates had been granted a share of that favor and trust.
"Thank you for your trust, Your Majesty. We shall follow you forever, remaining loyal and serving the Empire unto death!"
Thoroughly won over by the Emperor's magnanimity and personal charm, the Flowing Wind