The courtyard fell utterly silent. Everyone's mind raced as they tried to gauge the political winds behind this turn of events.
Ning Xiu took a deep breath. "There has never been a precedent in the Zhao Kingdom for dismissing a Second-Grade Human Immortal from office.
"The Iron Garment Division cannot even produce evidence for its accusation that I colluded with the enemy and betrayed the kingdom.
"And you intend to strip me of my ministerial post on the strength of a few words from Yang Ling?"
"That is precisely why Vice Minister Qi is only assuming the post temporarily."
Chief Eunuch Hong smiled. "If the investigation later establishes that this was merely a misunderstanding, you can still be reinstated, Minister Ning.
"In the meantime, please hand your official seal to Vice Minister Qi. Oh, no, I should say Minister Qi."
I've become a minister?
Qi Tairan's eyes grew brighter and brighter. Color rushed into his face, and his bearing gradually changed, gaining a measure of authority it had lacked before.
Yang Ling was rather curious. He felt that the Grand Councilor must have made his move.
After all, an opportunity like today's was rare.
The man had simply acted faster than he had expected.
After several breaths of silence, Ning Xiu looked at Yang Ling again and said indifferently:
"Can you let go now? I will hand the official seal to Qi Tairan."
Yang Ling remained unmoved, showing no intention of loosening his grip.
"No matter, no matter. I can come and collect it myself."
Qi Tairan strode up to Ning Xiu and cupped his hands.
"Brother Ning, please hand over the official seal."
Ning Xiu silently took out an official seal and handed it to Qi Tairan.
The moment Qi Tairan accepted it, his bearing underwent another striking change!