Your Majesty, I believe this rumor is being maliciously spread, likely by rebels in the Capital, with the sole purpose of tarnishing the court's and my reputation, thereby driving a wedge between the ruler and subjects. I hope Your Majesty will discern right from wrong and restore my name!"
Rebels?
The officials heard this word and slightly smirked, thinking, Duke Cao, you have truly been out of touch with the current state of the Capital for too long.
All the so-called rebels in the Capital have already been dealt with by the Zhao family. Even a three-year-old knows not to blame rebels if they need someone to take the fall.
Imperial Censor Chen was even more agitated, exclaiming loudly:
"Your Majesty! There's never smoke without fire in this world! Now across the whole Capital, both in the streets and the court, everyone discusses Cao Mao's scandal. Public opinion is overwhelming and can't be ignored!"
