At this very moment, within the Imperial Capital.
A fierce argument was unfolding in the Cabinet.
Most of the ministers were clad in crimson official robes, many embroidered with the likeness of Immortal Cranes, golden pheasants, or peacocks. They were the highest officials of the Dynasty, yet every one of them argued until their faces were flushed and the veins on their necks bulged.
"How can we compromise with such traitors? If we grant them rewards today, they will demand more tomorrow! We might buy ourselves a single night of peace, but we'll wake to find the rebel army at our borders again! We absolutely cannot set this precedent!"
