The emperor chose Taoists to be alchemists, although it was a secret, many people were well-informed.
Not only were people inside the palace well-informed, but some outside were well-informed too.
When the emperor learned that the alchemists he selected were paralyzed upon reaching the palace.
The emperor was furious, believing that something must have gone wrong along the way.
The guards, imperial physicians, must be responsible.
When the emperor is angry, it often leads to ruined families and unfortunate deaths.
People outside knew, they were just as puzzled; a mass paralysis is not something an ordinary person can accomplish.
Unless it's a conspiracy.
People outside thought of it, and surely those inside the palace thought of it too.
Even the emperor thought it might be a conspiracy, that someone was stopping him from becoming immortal, determined to find out who the saboteur was.
