The commanders exchanged glances. The room was filled with contemplative silence. Arga's words carried a grand vision that, despite the risks, brought new hope.
Finally, Guan Yu smiled faintly, folding his arms across his chest. "You speak like a true leader, Your Majesty. I will lead the troops to build the military headquarters and fortress as you've planned."
Patimura, who had earlier been doubtful, now looked at Arga with renewed enthusiasm. "And I will handle the relocation of residents and the construction of their settlements. The people need to feel that this valley is their new home."
Arga nodded, a brief sense of relief crossing his face. "Good. We will work together. Remember, this is not just about building a region but also about building the trust and hope of our people. All of this will lay the foundation for future generations."
The valley's night air was cold, carrying the scent of leaves and damp earth. The starlight above seemed to witness the beginning of a new chapter in the Kashgar Empire's struggle. In his heart, despite moments of doubt, Arga knew that this endeavor was his path to bringing real change.
"This is just the beginning," he murmured softly, as if speaking to himself. "If I can get through this, perhaps… perhaps I am truly meant to lead."
When all the strategies had been laid out, Arga stood, looking at them with unwavering confidence. "I will return to Kashgar City. There are important matters I must address there. For the time being, command will be held by Patimura, assisted by Guan Yu as his deputy. I expect you to work hard. Great trust rests on your shoulders."
"Yes, Your Majesty!" they responded in unison, their voices filled with determination.
Arga observed his soldiers—most of whom hailed from District 1. He knew the extraordinary militancy, solidarity, and resilience of these troops. In his heart, he whispered, They are the backbone of our hope. Do not betray this trust.
After the meeting concluded, Arga stepped out of the tent, allowing the chill of the night air to brush against his skin. He tilted his head back, gazing at the stars shimmering above the valley. In the stillness of the night, his mind was filled with unshakable resolve.
"I hope I'm strong enough to make all this happen," he whispered softly, letting the wind carry his hopes across the valley.
As the sun began to rise, Arga was already mounted on his horse, accompanied by several imperial guards. They were heading back to the heart of Kashgar , carrying a new mission. Among the group was a woman—a renowned singer whose presence added a spotlight to their journey.
Arga had considered inviting Dery, the village leader who had shown extraordinary courage in defending the valley. However, Dery was still recovering from his injuries. Moreover, Arga knew that Dery's presence was crucial in the valley to assist with the construction of a new district alongside the military forces.
Before leaving the valley, Arga took a moment to look at the village that had become the centerpiece of his grand plan. He felt a heavy heart leaving it behind, but he knew what awaited him in Kashgar was a vital step for the future. With a single pull of the reins, Arga and his group began to move, leaving behind a valley slowly rising from its struggles. In his heart, he carried hope—hope he was determined to realize with all his might.
The city of Kashgar was relatively peaceful at the time. The citizens went about their daily lives, unaware of the events unfolding behind the empire's walls. But within the grand hall of the palace, the atmosphere was tense. Ayato, Arpi, and several other elders sat in a circle, their faces grave. In the center of the room stood ningning , her expression filled with regret.
"I couldn't stop him. He acted on his own," ningning said, her voice trembling slightly. "Arga was worried that some of our people in the mountain valley village of Kashgar were taken hostage by the Soltera bandits. Thankfully, he wasn't seriously injured."
The room was filled with silence. The district leaders, now holding the title of the imperial council, seemed lost in their thoughts. Ayato and arpin exchanged glances without uttering a word.
The stillness was broken when a palace guard entered, bowing respectfully. "The Emperor has arrived," he announced briefly.
ningning immediately hurried to the palace gates. Her steps were quick, almost a run. When she saw Arga approaching, a wave of relief washed over her. Yet, her awareness of Arga's position as emperor held her back. She stopped a few steps away and bowed deeply.
"Your Majesty, I'm glad you're safe. The council and elders are waiting inside," she said respectfully.
Arga looked at ningning for a moment, nodded, and then strode firmly toward the main hall. As he entered the room, everyone stood to greet him. The atmosphere in the hall shifted to one of mixed relief and concern.
"Thank you for your concern," Arga said, his voice deep and commanding. "I'm fine. I apologize if my decision caused you worry, but I will never back down when it comes to the people of Kashgar . I would sacrifice my own life if necessary."
His words echoed through the room, silencing everyone who heard them. The determination in Arga's voice left them speechless, absorbing every word he spoke.
After taking his seat, Arga continued, "Since the elders are all gathered here, there is something I wish to announce. I plan to build a fourth district in the mountain valley of Kashgar . This district will serve as a hub for agriculture, a military base, and a defensive fortress in three directions."
He paused, letting his words linger in the air. His eyes scanned the faces of the leaders, now looking at him with curiosity and questions.
"However, I realize this construction will require a significant amount of funding. Therefore…"
Before Arga could finish his sentence, arpin stood up, his expression serious. "Your Majesty, I must voice my objection. The people's current condition is not good. If we impose another tax, wouldn't that only bring them more hardship? Didn't you yourself vow to prevent that?"
Ayato followed suit, his voice calm yet full of caution. "That's right, Your Majesty. If the empire enforces another tax, your image in the eyes of the people will suffer. Their trust could erode."
Arga fell silent for a moment. His gaze became distant, as if weighing every word that had just been spoken. All eyes were on him, waiting for his decision.
"I understand your concerns," he finally said. "But our situation is critical. Siferi could attack at any time. Alderan—we don't even know if they are allies or enemies. And then there's Soltera; their bandits have destroyed nearly all our farms. We have no choice but to build the fourth district."
Arpi and Ayato stood again, this time in unison. "Forgive us, Your Majesty, but we still oppose funding this construction through taxation on the people," arpin said firmly.