The tension in the medical hall is palpable as I carefully grind herbs between my fingers. The recent assassination attempt on Brother Shang Jue has everyone on edge, especially me. My hands still shake slightly when I think about finding him bleeding in the corridor.

"Yuan Zhi." Brother Shang Jue's voice cuts through my thoughts. He stands in the doorway, his face still pale from blood loss but his posture as straight and commanding as ever. "The council wants to see us. They're questioning your handling of the poison analysis."

My jaw tightens. Of course they are. When things go wrong, everyone怀疑s the poison master. I set down my mortar and turn to face him fully, trying to mask the hurt in my voice. "I did everything correctly. The poison was rare—"

"I know." He steps closer, his expression softening slightly. "But they need someone to blame. And with Brother Zi Yu still adjusting to leadership..." He doesn't need to finish the sentence.

The sound of approaching footsteps echoes in the corridor outside. This meeting will determine not just my standing in the palace, but Brother Shang Jue's as well. I can see the weight of it in his eyes—the same weight he always carries alone.

"Whatever they say, remember your value isn't determined by their suspicions," he says quietly, placing a hand on my shoulder for a brief, rare moment of open affection.

The door slides open to reveal the council members waiting for us. This is my chance to prove I'm more than just the little brother who needs protection.