The palace had been unusually quiet that afternoon.
For several days, strange incidents had continued to circulate in whispers, but outwardly, everything appeared peaceful. Servants walked through the corridors, officials attended their duties, and the women of the inner palace continued with their routines.
Yet beneath that peaceful surface, fear was slowly spreading.
In Shin Gu's courtyard, the atmosphere was different.
The doors were closed.
The servants had been dismissed.
And inside the quiet room, Shin Gu sat beside a small table, sorting several packets of herbs.
Across from her stood Mei Lan.
The young maid looked slightly pale.
"Lady Shin Gu," Mei Lan said softly, "I think I should go to the healer."
Shin Gu immediately looked up.
"The healer?"
"Yes."
"What happened?"
Mei Lan touched her forehead.
"I feel feverish. Perhaps I caught a cold."
Shin Gu studied her face carefully.
"You look pale."
"I'll be fine after taking some medicine."
Shin Gu nodded.
