5 hours before the fire at Emperor Ming's study, The Imperial Palace.
After his request for the dissolution of the private guards of novel families was once again denied by the ministers. Zhongshan Ling no longer held in his anger, he stood from the dragon throne with the aid of his wooden clutch and sat on the wheelchair beside the throne. He rolled the wheel of his seat at a quick speed as he stormed out of the room much to everyone's surprise. He went straight to his study, ignoring the Prime minister's call. His entire procession of servants scrambled to follow him due to his quickened pace.
Zhongshan Ling ignored the greeting from the servants and guards at the entrance of his study as he placed a hand ant the door leading into his study and quickly pushed it open. A bang was heard as the door hit the wall making the frame vibrate.
