They had already sensed something unusual. The Emperor was shut away with the Empress Dowager, most likely because he was gravely ill.
Meanwhile, many in the Imperial Court were beginning to stir. It would be manageable if only the civil officials made a fuss, but the real fear was that the Beiping Army might seize this chance to storm the palace and force the Emperor's hand.
By then, the outcome would be decided, and they wouldn't even have the strength to cry.
Jie Huanzhi, who had always been composed over the years, was now extremely anxious.
"No, I must enter the palace tomorrow, I have to see the Emperor no matter what."
"Father, you must not!" Jie Zhonglin objected: "There's a reason the Emperor is seeing no one right now; it's safest if he remains inaccessible. Once you request an audience, tomorrow, officials like Lord Lu and Lord Wang will also flock to see the Emperor. Setting this precedent would be most disadvantageous to him."
