Northern Liang's Imperial City, the prison of the Court of Judicial Review.
Eunuch Gui sat cross-legged on the cold, damp floor, his eyes fixed on the cell door.
The Minister of Rites had acted so swiftly this time that before he could react, Duan Ziqian had already thrown him into prison.
Yet Eunuch Gui knew full well that Duan Ziqian had arrested and imprisoned him to afford him some protection.
Had Duan Hongzhuo's men seized him, far more people would likely have been implicated, and the net would have spread much wider.
"Your Majesty, this old servant knows that none of this was your intention. But Your Majesty, human hearts are treacherous. You must take the utmost care!"
Eunuch Gui's gaze fell on the dim patch of ground outside the cell door, and he sighed deeply inwardly.
He had not the slightest concern for his present circumstances, nor had he ever considered trying to clear his own name.
To Eunuch Gui, the only reason someone had found a fault with him so quickly was that they wanted him to shoulder the blame.
He only hoped that his emperor would understand the workings behind this and not think of rescuing him.
If he truly did so, the remonstrating officials would surely close ranks to assail him, which would do nothing to help him maintain control over the court.
But could Duan Ziqian restrain himself?
As Eunuch Gui's thoughts wandered, he heard footsteps outside.
He abruptly rose and saw two figures, one tall and one short, swiftly approaching his cell.
One was Eunuch Li, the palace's chief steward of internal affairs. The other was shrouded in a black robe, his true features hidden from view.
"This is a prisoner charged with a grave offense. You cannot linger inside too long, or we'll