But before he could continue, Grim's voice cut through the chamber with sharp accusation.
"You gave it to him, didn't you?"
The interruption sent shockwaves through the assembled council. All eyes turned to Grim, who had risen from his seat with obvious anger radiating from his posture.
"Lord Ambrose," Húwáng said carefully, "what are you suggesting?"
"I'm not suggesting anything," Grim replied, his gaze fixed on Elder Míngzhì with unwavering intensity.
"I'm stating fact. Elder Míngzhì didn't have his book stolen. He gave it to Xùyán willingly."
"That's a serious accusation," Elder Qīngfēng observed, though her tone suggested she found it believable.
"Is it?" Grim asked, his voice growing cold. "Elder Míngzhì has opposed me being here from the moment I arrived. He's questioned my character, my methods, and my worthiness at every opportunity."
