"Silence-"
Emperor Chen abruptly hurled his jade cup into the Cold Pool. Blue-green light burst across the water, sending a flock of gulls and egrets scattering in alarm.
His face livid, Emperor Chen jabbed a finger at Cui Yizhong and thundered, "Insolence! Get... out of my sight!"
"Your Majesty, I meant no offense..."
At the sight of the emperor's fury, Cui Yizhong's knees buckled, and he dropped to the ground with a thud. He had barely begun speaking when he was cut off. Scrambling hastily to his feet, he slunk out in disgrace.
Emperor Chen gripped the han white jade railing, his chest heaving. His decision to trade a hundred thousand dou of black gold ore to Han Zongwang for several towns in the northwestern Hetao region, establishing a future reserve base for the Great Chen Empire's warhorses, had come only after deep deliberation and repeated consideration.
Little had he known that the old fox Han Zongwang would secretly acquire the Vertical Sword Sect's forging secrets and turn those hundred thousand dou of black gold ore into five thousand exceptionally powerful troops of the Black-Armor Army. The matter lodged deep in Emperor Chen's heart like a thorn.
"Your Majesty..." Reading his expression, Tong Huan rose and bowed respectfully. "If Your Majesty is feeling unwell... shall this old subject take his leave as well?"
"Remain seated, my dear minister..." Emperor Chen composed himself and spoke gently. "As for the black gold ore, I... have already sent the Dragon Hidden Guards to investigate... I was thinking of something else... Chancellor Cui has always lacked discretion in his words and deeds... I am merely frustrated that iron will not become steel..."
"Please quell your anger, Your Majesty. Nothing should be rushed..." Stroking his beard, Tong Huan smiled broadly. "Given time, the chancellor will