So-called “Topple Country” refers to something used to manipulate a country and bring about its downfall. As the name suggests, it’s something that can cause a country to collapse.

“Is it a type of poison?” Gu Yu asked, his brow furrowed slightly.

“It can be, but it’s not entirely a poison. More precisely, it’s a kind of powder,” the old palace attendant replied with a sigh.

“Powder? How can a powder topple a country?” Gu Yu asked, still confused.

The old palace attendant shook his head and said, “This powder is extremely special. It can be mixed into any type of food or drink without altering its color, taste, or smell in the slightest. Anyone who consumes this powder won’t notice anything unusual initially. However, after consuming it for a long period, perhaps several years, their body will begin to undergo subtle changes.”

He paused, and a look of deep melancholy appeared on his face.

“Over time, the person’s mental state will deteriorate, their vitality will gradually decline, and they will become paranoid and easily agitated. Their judgment will become flawed, and they will make rash decisions. Eventually, they will become mentally unstable, making it impossible for them to govern effectively. This is the so-called ‘Topple Country’ powder.”

“It’s truly insidious,” Gu Yu said, his face grim.

“Indeed. This powder was developed by the Gong Shang family during the reign of the Taizu Emperor. It was intended as a means to control officials and consolidate imperial power. However, after the Taizu Emperor’s death, the Gong Shang family attempted to use it to seize power for themselves. They were ultimately discovered and exterminated, but the formula for ‘Topple Country’ was never found,” the old palace attendant explained.

“So, you suspect the current emperor has been poisoned with ‘Topple Country’?” Gu Yu asked, his voice serious.

The old palace attendant nodded slowly. “His Majesty’s recent behavior has been erratic and unpredictable. He has been making increasingly unreasonable demands and displaying signs of paranoia. It’s strikingly similar to the symptoms of ‘Topple Country’ described in historical records.”

“If that’s the case, then the situation is dire,” Gu Yu said, his gaze distant.

“Precisely. If His Majesty is truly poisoned, the country will inevitably fall into chaos,” the old palace attendant replied, his voice heavy with worry.

“Is there an antidote?” Gu Yu asked, his eyes fixed on the old palace attendant.

The old palace attendant shook his head sadly. “According to historical records, the Gong Shang family never developed an antidote. ‘Topple Country’ is a slow-acting poison that gradually erodes the mind and body. Once the symptoms manifest, it’s usually too late.”

A heavy silence fell between them. Gu Yu’s mind raced, trying to find a solution to this seemingly insurmountable problem. The fate of the entire country rested on his shoulders.