After the Miscellaneous School announced preparations to inflict its harshest blow upon Jing Kingdom, the Empress Dowager had no choice but to convene another Grand Court Assembly.
Whenever some officials heard the words "Grand Court Assembly," their heads began to ache. It was simply happening too often—so often that it had started delaying the various government offices' handling of state affairs.
Yet no one did not wish to attend.
Except Fang Yun.
Fang Yun claimed illness and did not appear.
At this year's Grand Court Assembly, Fang Yun was absent for the first time.
Once the court rituals had concluded, Heaven-Serving Hall sank into a long silence.
No one spoke. No one offered strategies. No one was even filled with righteous indignation.
For everyone could feel the oppression that was everywhere, everyone was shrouded in profound despair, and everyone felt as though they could barely breathe.
At last, someone could not hold back any longer.
"As a Miscellaneous School scholar, I have failed to earn merit for the state, failed to soothe the people, and failed to protect a region. I am unworthy of serving as an official in Jing Kingdom! From this day onward, I resign my office, travel and study throughout the world, and shall never again enter government service for the rest of my life."
After he finished speaking, his figure vanished from Heaven-Serving Hall.
He was an official from another region, present here through the Temple of Sages' projection. Once he removed his Official Seal, he would immediately disappear from Heaven-Serving Hall.
"This subject also begs leave to retire!"
"This subject is advanced in years and incapable of bearing great responsibility. Today, I retire to my hometown in old age. May the Empress Dowager show mercy."
Aside from a small number who remained after seeking the