Behind the political conflict in Kaifeng stood not one, but two masterminds—The Ember of East and The Shimmer …
Behind the political conflict in Kaifeng stood not one, but two masterminds—The Ember of East and The Shimmer of South. In hopes of securing peace in Jiangnan, The Shimmer of South sought out The Ember of East, then a fallen noble in Weiyang City, and offered him a path back home in exchange for executing the "Gold-Making Vessel Theft" scheme. Their aim is to exploit public outrage over the policy of confiscating Tang Coin, driving a wedge between Zhao court officials and the people, and halting the southern campaign. But The Ember of East, unwilling to see the people suffer, emerged in the Furnace and presented the Treasure Basin Plan, a proposal that reshaped the fate they had agreed upon. Though The Shimmer of South foresaw this change, he chose not to intervene. Compassion stayed his hand. For he, too, was devoted to protecting Jiangnan. And now, his true identity stands to be revealed...