However, as the kingdom began to flourish once more, whispers of dissent began to circulate. While many celebrated the success of the Crimson Shadows, there were those who felt threatened by their growing influence and the close relationship they shared with the emperor.
A faction of nobles, disgruntled with the emperor's reliance on the Crimson Shadows, began to conspire against them. They spread rumors and manipulated public opinion, seeking to undermine the bond that had been built between the people and their protectors.
Xia, ever vigilant, sensed the tension brewing in the air. She gathered General Liang and Lin Feng to discuss the troubling developments and strategize on how to counter the growing dissent. They knew that the unity they had fostered could be fragile, and they needed to act swiftly to protect it.