Was I encountering these unknown characters because I’d altered the story so much?

Honestly, it felt unfair.

Sure, I’d made some changes behind the scenes, but I hadn’t twisted the plot so much that I’d replaced the protagonist, nor had I tried to court any of the heroines like in other transmigration stories.

Okay, fine. I could understand why the Emperor might show up. I’d proven myself capable, and it made sense he’d want to personally support his skilled daughter.

As for Lena, well, after the chaos I’d caused on the northern front, sending her to keep an eye on …