It was time to begin the morning assembly, yet the Imperial Court of Wei Bing was already in turmoil before it had even formally convened. The usually solemn Hall of Supreme Harmony buzzed with restless whispers, rumors weaving from official to official like invisible threads.
"Have you heard what's happening in the inner court?"
"Lower your voice."
"Aiyo, why should I? The entire palace is already aware of this absurdity!"
A senior scholar adjusted his jade clasp, his lips thinning. "It is deeply unsettling—but what can we mere subjects do when His Majesty treasures that General Yan so highly…"
"General?" another official scoffed quietly. "He is nothing but a prisoner of war. Stripped of rank and honor. As far as this old man is concerned, his only identity is that of an enemy of our nation."
