The Empress rose with the Crown Prince's support, dusted off her mourning attire, and gazed through the white veil at the black wooden coffin inside.
The Hidden Guards sent earlier returned without a trace, likely meeting a grim fate. Once she learned that Gu Chengyu practiced martial arts, her suspicions were further confirmed.
The Crown Prince sighed upon hearing this, "Mother, I know you're worried he'll harm me. However, the court needs him now, and pushing him too hard isn't wise. Allowing him to wield such military power is the greatest threat to me."
The Empress turned to the Crown Prince, her eyes revealing a hint of resentment.
