The rumors had finally reached the capital, the last place left on the list. In a matter of minutes I expect them to be spread throughout the palace and the ministry. What a stir it will cause.

I sat in my study reading over my father’s letters. I read the line where he asked me not to be a fool like he was, but to use the knowledge given to him by his father to bring down the Grand Empress dowager once and for all.

“Not to worry father, I will be sure to finish what you ...