As the rumors spread like wildfire, the suspicions surrounding the General Defending the Country grew ever more severe. Yet, with Emperor Yongguang gravely ill, the General could not even approach the throne to clear his name. Inside his residence, vases and ornaments lay shattered across the floor.
"My Lord, please, calm your temper!" his attendant cautioned, trembling. "These are merely rumors. This matter has nothing to do with you. Without evidence, what can the Court of Judicial Review possibly do to you?"
The General’s face was dark, his voice forced out through gritted teeth. "It is detestable that at such a critical juncture, I must keep my men in the shadows, unable to even counter this public outcry or reclaim my honor!"
Chapter 125