The execution hall fell into an eerie silence.
Wei Xizhen entered against the light. He walked up to the long table and stopped naturally at the far end, then raised his eyes toward Wan Guiyue, seated at the head, and inclined his head slightly in greeting.
He was quite courteous to the Legalism School's senior members. "Why did you—" Wan Guiyue started, then changed tack. "If you've returned to take part in today's Judgment Meeting, why didn't you let us know in advance?"
Her tone was gentle, and she wore a smile.
"Before I came back, I didn't know there would be a Judgment Meeting today." Wei Xizhen discreetly glanced around at those present. His gaze paused for a moment as it passed Yu Sui, then settled on the circle of voting cards on the table. "Since I happen to be here, Dean Wan, could you please announce once more what the target of today's judgment is accused of?"
Wan Guiyue lightly tapped her fingers on the tabletop, seemingly deep in thought.
If Wei Xizhen joined the judgment, his vote would be crucial. It would directly decide the outcome.
Yet, given his character, there was no need for anyone to guess: he would surely vote for the Black Card.
Wei Xizhen wasn't quite at the point of "better to kill by mistake than let one escape," but he was still extremely strict, upholding Legalist doctrine: ruler and subject, high and low, noble and humble—all must submit to the law.
The others wore varied expressions. Some watched the drama unfold, while others tried hard to conceal what they truly thought.
Wu Huaiwei rolled her eyes, dismissing her own speculation. The incident involving Luo Fu's use of Lan Poison had happened suddenly, while she had summoned Wei Xizhen back two days ago.