Rumors and slander were among the most destructive things in the world.
Once they latched onto you, those rumors would spill from others' lips in their most vicious form, turning into thick, deadly venom that coated your entire body, sealing your senses, scorching your heart and lungs. They would watch disgusting sores spread across you, then look down on your corpse with hypocritical sympathy.
No matter when, this weapon hurt more deeply than blades and swords.
As the plants arranged by the Tsunayashiro Family spoke up, the civilians who had initially been uncertain now began to lean toward the people around them who shared their status.
They did not know the identities of those speaking, nor did they know the character of those validating the rumors. But as long as those people were like them—dressed in worn-out clothes, belonging to the same class—they were more willing to believe them.
As for the truth, we cannot worry about that much. If it really is a rumor, then we will apologize. Or, more often than not, we will choose to disappear. After all, we only said a few words. You cannot be too harsh on us...
As the Tsunayashiro Family's "plants" incited the crowd more fervently, before long, the situation began to swing toward the Grand Inquisitor.
The gazes some members of the crowd turned on Asano Kiyoshi no longer held their previous reverence and admiration. Instead, they carried a measure of suspicion and disgust.
Most of those whom Asano Kiyoshi had rescued with Kido could only remain silent now. They did not dare raise their heads to meet his eyes.
Only a very small number of people remained steadfast, such as the woman Asano Kiyoshi had just saved.
Her face was flushed red as she argued desperately with those around her.