He paused, then leaned in closer. "But General Lin, there's something I need to tell you frankly. It's about the prime minister."
Lin Taichu's heart stirred. "Oh? What happened to the prime minister?"
"Regarding Secretary Wang, the prime minister has already guessed that you were behind it."
General Zhao lowered his voice even further. "Yesterday, when I went to the prime minister's residence to report on military affairs, I overheard him speaking with his confidants. He said your move was too reckless, that you had no regard for the court's rules, and that keeping you around would bring trouble sooner or later."
Lin Taichu's fingers paused. "He plans to make a move?"
"Hard to say." General Zhao shook his head. "That man never leaves any loose ends."
"He hasn't moved against you yet for two reasons. First, he has no solid evidence. Second, he's afraid you'll make a desperate move, since you still hold military power. But he's definitely laying plans in secret. He may already be looking for something to use against you."
Lin Taichu fell silent. He had long expected that the prime minister would not let the matter rest, but he had not expected him to act so quickly.
The prime minister was one of the Emperor's favored men. He controlled the civil officials, and his former students and subordinates filled both court and country. If he truly made a move, Lin Taichu's modest military achievements would be nothing in comparison.
"Thank you for the warning, General Zhao." Lin Taichu rose to his feet. "I'll remember this favor."
General Zhao hurriedly waved his hands. "Don't mention it, General Lin. I'm doing this to protect myself too. If you fall, I might be the next one they deal with."
He glanced at the sky outside. "I need to