The Empror's Trap

Ch 21 - Southern Barbarian Poison

Siyue knew well what Pluvia used to be like.

She had inherited her old self's memories, though they were hazy, like scenes from a fleeting dream. In those memories, while Pluvia showed cunning beyond her years even as a child, she still retained some childish innocence and wildness. But now...

Her brother was truly accumulating sins. At this rate, he'd drive the emperor to develop psychological issues.@@@@

"What's your next move? Are you still investigating the case she assigned you?" Siyue asked.

The emperor had given Kenji authority to investigate the assassins who had threatened both him and her. While it appeared to be a sign of trust, it was really just an empty gesture.

"I have to investigate, and thoroughly. Even if I find nothing, I need to show I'm making an effort. Otherwise, she'll grow suspicious. Tch, young but more paranoid than any old geezer."

Kenji complained. Being responsible for military coordination while investigating internal matters meant they were trying to make him do the work of several people. This was the downside of centralization - everything had to go through the emperor and central ministers. While Kenji's high position meant he mostly dealt with broad strategy, the civil officials were working themselves to death.

"What did you expect? You're a threat to her. Be grateful she knows not to move against you. If you were in one of my games, looking at your stats and achievements, I'd immediately make you Earl of Glamorgan and let you retire in peace."

Siyue said gleefully.

"I know exactly what the Earl of Glamorgan means," Kenji tapped her head. "By the way, I can't paint with you tonight. Military matters need attention."

"Yeah, yeah, you talk like I can't function without you."

Siyue waved dismissively.

Kenji stared into her eyes with a knowing smile. "Isn't that the truth?"

Kenji removed the upper clothing and examined the torso. Nothing unusual except deep sword scars.

Unfortunately, without forensic training from his previous world, he couldn't determine what weapons had caused those scars or what battles they might have fought in.

"Here's the poison I found in his mouth."

Lina presented a paper-wrapped package.

"Fast-acting - death within seconds. From the traces, it was hidden in their mouths, to be bitten when necessary. Powerful stuff, seems to be from the Southern Barbarian regions."

"Southern Barbarians..."

Kenji studied the powder carefully. Surprisingly, it looked more like flour than poison - white and fine. He checked the corpse's mouth, finding powder residue that confirmed Lina's assessment.

Southern poison was interesting - the Empire usually used processed poisons from the Central Plains. These assassins had used natural Southern poisons instead.

Snake venom? Scorpion poison? Those were deadly but not this fast-acting.

Witchcraft poison - only magic-infused substances could work this quickly.

This suggested they had Southern witch doctors in their employ, explaining the rapid effect.

"Lina, when you can, investigate which court officials have had deep connections with the Southern regions. Our culprit might be among them."

"Understood, Young Master."