Morning mist clung to the treetops like a white veil as the undercover group stepped into the dense forest outside the capital. Dew sparkled on the leaves, and the winding trail grew narrower with every step.
The Empress walked in front, fake belly strapped tightly around her waist. Every few minutes she adjusted the pillow, grumbling under her breath.
"If this falls out, I'm blaming him," she muttered.
Fen Yu floated above her head dramatically.
"You look so pregnant you could give birth to twins today."
Li Shen sighed.
"Your acting must be perfect. They will test us."
Wei Rong only scanned the trees silently.
Behind her walked the Emperor, disguised in rough villager clothes — hair messy, robe patched, dirt on his cheek. But even like this, he carried an aura of command no one could hide.
And still — every time the Empress stumbled, his hand shot forward by reflex to hold her elbow.
"Careful," he murmured.
She jerked her arm away.
"I am pregnant, not blind."
