Wen Haoyu's final words echoed across the vast hall.
The Emperor's gaze shifted slowly toward Bai Zihan.
"Bai Zihan, do you admit to the charges brought against you?"
Hundreds of eyes locked onto the lone youth standing at the center of the court.
Bai Zihan did not hesitate.
"Admit?" His tone was calm. "What evidence does he have?"
"Surely," Bai Zihan continued, his gaze sweeping across the gathered people, "the Imperial Court does not intend to determine guilt based solely on one man's words?"
His eyes briefly met the Emperor's.
"Or is testimony alone sufficient when it comes to punishing my clan?"
The implication was clear.
One without evidence, offering only accusation, would have grown nervous and retorted weakly.
But instead of growing flustered—
Wen Haoyu smiled confidently.
"Of course," he said, bowing slightly once more, "mere words would not suffice."
He raised his hand.
A crystalline artifact appeared within his palm.
