Another traveler had stopped to wipe sweat from his face.
The Emperor watched everything.
His hands curled into fists.
He had ordered that the refugees be treated with dignity. He had ordered adequate provisions and reasonable arrangements for their journey.
He had not ordered the officials to march people past water when they were thirsty.
He turned toward Prince Liang.
"Stay with the group."
Prince Liang looked at him.
"Where are you going?"
"To speak with the inspector."
The Emperor stepped away from the cart and walked toward the front of the procession.
His pace was steady.
He did not shout.
He did not reveal his identity.
But the coldness in his expression made General Guo Han exchange a glance with General Yao Qing.
The Emperor was angry.
And when he was angry, the people around him usually discovered that their excuses were not nearly as convincing as they had imagined.
A Request for Water
