The morning sun had barely risen when the Emperor's courtyard filled with the empire's most important figures.
The atmosphere was unusually solemn.
No servants dared to speak above a whisper.
The Emperor sat at the head of the pavilion, his expression unreadable.
To his right sat the Dowager Empress.
Beside her was Princess Zhi, who quietly observed everyone.
On the opposite side sat the Empress, composed as always.
Not far from her sat Lady Chen, her hands folded neatly in her lap, though her heart raced.
Finally, Prince Liang entered carrying a sealed wooden box.
He bowed deeply.
"Greetings, Your Majesty."
The Emperor nodded.
"Begin."
Prince Liang placed the box upon the table.
"I believe we've found our first significant clue."
Every pair of eyes turned toward him.
He carefully removed a folded letter.
"This was discovered during a secret inspection of Minister Shen's residence."
A murmur spread through those present.
Lady Chen frowned slightly.
