Killing Before His Majesty

"Who rang the Emperor's Shock Bell?" His Majesty asked in a deep voice.

Outside the hall, Duan Xingtian raised his gaze toward the ripples spreading across the distant Palace City. Before he could speak, a voice carried over from afar. "Lin Su has rung the Emperor's Shock Bell and requests an audience with His Majesty!"

Lin Su?

His Majesty and the Prime Minister exchanged glances, both rather surprised...

The morning breeze rose, gently stirring an ancient painting on the wall behind His Majesty...

"Summon him!" His Majesty replied...

Outside, the Chief Eunuch's ducklike voice carried far and wide. "Summon Lin Su to an audience!"

Lin Su was granted an audience!

Lin Su was granted an audience!

The long line outside relayed the call from voice to voice, carrying it beyond the Palace City...

Lin Su straightened his Scholar's Robe, strode through the gates of the Palace City, climbed the white jade steps, and entered Zhengde Hall.

Outside Zhengde Hall, Duan Xingtian stood with his head held high.

Within Zhengde Hall, His Majesty sat high upon the Dragon Throne. Below to his left sat an old man, Lu Tiancong, while an elderly eunuch stood respectfully bent at the doorway on the right.

The vast hall was exceedingly empty at this moment, yet its atmosphere was stern and imposing.

Lin Su crossed the doors of the hall and proceeded step by step along the central path. He lightly cupped his hands. "Your Majesty!"

His Majesty's face abruptly darkened.

Prime Minister Lu Tiancong's eyelids twitched slightly.

The eunuch commander behind him flew into a rage. "Insolent Lin Su! Why do you not kneel?"

This was Zhengde Hall. Anyone within Great Cang who entered this hall had to kneel in worship. That was court etiquette!

Yet Lin Su had merely cupped his hands in