Outburst

 With the Emperor's words said, the Imperial guards surrounding the Zou group moved to attack. 

"Clear a path!" Bao Zhun ordered, moving to position himself to make a dash for the Empress dowager.

Chun Hua also prepared to make her own dash towards the Emperor. She knew that if she moved forward, her brother and Bao Zhun would follow and so would their men. She would be protected, therefore she would have a good chance of making it there.

The main problem were the archers, who no doubt rain arrows on them before they could even reach the steps. But she believed they should all be able and willing to sacrifice for the grand victory of killing the Long Emperor. 

As the swords were raised and set to clash, a blue light suddenly flashed out from the center of the Zou group, temporarily blinding the imperial guards and all around...and then their swords fell on air. 

The light was gone as quickly as it illuminated and with it, went the Zou group.