The capital was unusually quiet as Li Wei rode through its gates, the cheers of his soldiers subdued after the exhausting battle. The morning sun had barely risen, casting a warm glow over the city, but there was an air of unease in the emperor's heart. Something felt… unfinished.
In the council chamber later that day, General Cao Ren delivered his report. "The Crimson Spear Bandits have been scattered, Your Majesty. Most of their forces were eliminated, but a few stragglers escaped into the hills. They pose no immediate threat."
"No immediate threat," Li Wei repeated, leaning back in his chair. "But a wounded animal is often the most dangerous. We can't allow them to regroup."
Lin Mei, standing by the window, spoke without turning. "It's not just the bandits we should worry about. Someone funded them. Equipped them. Bandits don't raid royal outposts without help."
Li Wei straightened, her words striking a chord. "You're suggesting they had noble backing."
"I'm suggesting they didn't steal those weapons by chance," Lin Mei replied, her gaze sharp. "Someone wanted chaos. Someone wanted you distracted."
The council members exchanged uneasy glances. Minister Jiao cleared his throat. "Your Majesty, these are serious accusations. Do you have evidence to support this theory?"
Lin Mei smiled faintly. "Not yet. But I will."
Li Wei stood, his voice cutting through the room. "Then find it. General Cao Ren, increase patrols near the border. I want the remnants of the bandits wiped out. Lin Mei, investigate any unusual activities among the nobles. If someone within the court is involved, I want their head on a spike."
The council members nodded, but the unease lingered as they left the chamber. As the doors closed, Li Wei turned to Lin Mei, his voice lower but no less firm. "You're certain about this?"
Lin Mei met his gaze. "Certain enough to act. And if I'm wrong, you can call me paranoid."
Li Wei smiled grimly. "Paranoia has its uses. Let's see where this trail leads."