"And now that Fa Xiaozhi has seen the accounts, how could we possibly leave him alive?"
"As for His Majesty investigating... we can simply put it down to an accident. Fires are common enough. Must a fire at the Post Station necessarily be the work of our Zhen Clan?"
"With the witnesses dead, there will be no way to challenge our story, and no flaw to exploit."
The Second Branch elder's idea was utterly mad, but if it succeeded, they could wipe clean all those accounts of the Zhen Clan and leave no leverage against them.
They would also gain ample time to gather enough supplies to make up the shortfall in the Disaster Relief Supplies.
"This is far too bold..."
Fear showed on the Fourth Branch elder's slightly pale face. "If His Majesty discovers that our Zhen Clan did it, the consequences will be unimaginable!"
"This is a matter of grave importance. We should consult the Clan Head and hear his opinion first."
Burn the Imperial Envoy alive was something he dared not even contemplate.
Let alone actually do!
The Second Branch elder sneered. "That boy is already planning to confess of his own accord. Do you think he would agree to this?"
"Either we do nothing, or we keep him in the dark. Once we've burned the Post Station to the ground, we can tell him. By then, even if he objects, it will be too late."
"Enough talk. Let's vote by a show of hands!"
The Second Branch elder raised his hand first.
Then he looked at the others.
The Third Branch elder hesitated, then finally made up his mind and raised his hand. "There's no better way. We might as well stake everything on this!"
"I agree with the Second Branch's plan!"
The Fifth Branch elder