At least he had a conscience and knew to come see me! (Please subscribe and vote with monthly tickets)

Even more astonishing, the Ministry of Works also presented the "Sky Throne," built exclusively for Li Chen-a colossal airborne warship combining the latest alchemical technology with ancient runes!

It was the first true airborne warship created since the end of the ancient era. Its appearance was lavish and imposing in the extreme, its hull covered in powerful defensive wards and offensive magic formations. Both a symbol of supreme authority and a mobile fortress of war, it would make Li Chen's future "travels" and "inspection tours" vastly more convenient.

It offered a glimpse of the nation's formidable strength and advanced technology.

Every day, the people of the Imperial Capital could look up and see this miracle-like sight. The people of Heavenly Strategy were immensely proud, while foreign envoys and merchants could only gaze up in wonder and envy.

Yet just as the court session was about to end, urgent intelligence from the Eternal Day Empire was presented to the throne. Its contents were earth-shattering: Emperor Charles of Everlasting Day had openly announced that he was appointing the "Cardinal Guard," who held an exceptionally high position in the Holy See, as State Preceptor!

The assembled civil and military officials froze at first. Then several who knew the truth cast subtle glances at Li Chen on the Dragon Throne.

These few knew that the mysterious "Cardinal Guard" was none other than another identity of their own emperor!

Of course, very few knew-only a handful of high-ranking ministers or those in charge of intelligence. They could deduce it from the route Li Chen had taken home and the clothes he had worn.

The move was nothing short of brilliant.

Using the lofty standing of Li Chen's alternate identity within the Holy See, Charles had employed a dazzling series of maneuvers and piled on honorific