Chapter 1292 - 732: Prime Minister Zebert (Part 3)
The Empire publicly announced that Suo He Kaim died of illness, but the real cause has remained shrouded in mystery. Amidst the myriad of speculations, this matter was initially surrounded by layers of enigma. Yet, after thirty years had passed, even without any confidential documents being disclosed, many high-ranking officials within the Empire slowly came to realize that this might have been a collective betrayal by Holy Terra, or even the entire Empire, against Suo He Kaim.
From this perspective, when the news of the Sun Lord’s death was sent back, it stands to reason that Prime Minister Qi Bodu, who had infinitely supported the Sun Expedition, would face some turbulent times, right?
But he did not.
On the contrary, his authority was unprecedentedly strengthened.
On the eve of the news of Suo He Kaim’s death, he was still supporting the Sun Expedition!
Yet he became the greatest beneficiary after Suo He Kaim’s death, now holding significant power.
The role Qi Bodu played in the event of the Sun Lord’s death more than thirty years ago is probably self-evident.
Todays, even though he cannot centralize all power like the former Sun Lord, he is undoubtedly one of the highest-ranking figures within the entire Empire.
Gu Hang and the Alliance’s political demands need his support or at least cannot face his full opposition before they can be achieved.
Even if the mastermind was found out and torn to shreds, it would be to no avail. Should Qi Bodu harbor resentment, the situation would be dire, and it would be unknown how much it would cost to remedy the aftermath.
Salihoovich had cold sweat breaking out on his forehead.
The live broadcast continued on the screen before him.
After the Prime Minister made an inviting gesture towards Gu Hang, Salihoovich saw Gu Hang initially decline modestly, but as the cheers from below grew more and more intense, he had no choice but to step forward.
Qi Bodu was about to step aside, but Gu Hang placed a hand on his lower back, not allowing him to leave.
Then, he affectionately leaned in and spoke into the microphone from the side: “Please calm down, calm down.”
As Gu Hang spoke, the people gradually quieted down, giving him face.
“The enthusiasm of the people of Holy Terra is truly overwhelming. However, this war’s victory not only belongs to me, not only to the many front-line troops fighting, but also to the people of Holy Terra, that is, you, who provided support. And leading you, leading the entire Empire, eradicating all traitors, and eliminating all enemies of humanity, is our great Prime Minister.”
After speaking to the crowd, Gu Hang turned his head, sincerely looking at Qi Bodu, and said: “I’ve said everything I need to say to the people. Now, I eagerly wish to hear your vision for the Empire’s future. Your words are the golden wisdom that guides the Empire, guides humanity towards a bright future.”
“Long live the Prime Minister!”
At the end, Gu Hang raised his arm and shouted: “Long live the Prime Minister!”
Only then did he let go of the microphone, release his hold on Qi Bodu, and respectfully bowed before retreating two steps behind Qi Bodu, positioning himself behind the Prime Minister.
From afar, watching the live broadcast, Salihoovich saw this scene and hurriedly grabbed the microphone, connecting to the earpieces of all the Foreign Affairs Bureau agents on-site: “Cheer for the Prime Minister! Quick!”
He reacted quickly, and so did the Foreign Affairs Bureau agents.
“Long live the Prime Minister!”
“Long live the Prime Minister!”
The voices rose in succession.
With Gu Hang leading, a few accomplices in the crowd stirring things up, and the esteemed Prime Minister Qi Bodu, the people followed along and shouted.
The atmosphere wasn’t as intense as it was previously for Gu Hang, but at least the awkwardness was alleviated.
Seeing Gu Hang completely yielding the stage to him, standing behind him and strongly supporting him, Qi Bodu’s brow slightly relaxed.
Listening to the countless crowd below shouting his name further comforted his heart considerably.
In the past, he rarely had such an opportunity to face such a vast crowd, finding the experience quite novel.