The Empress opened her mouth, about to say something, when she suddenly froze, a look of incredulity appearing on her face. She looked down at the Emperor beside her and said, "Your Majesty? Your Majesty, are you awake?"
As soon as these words were spoken, there was a dead silence in the grand hall, with all eyes turning toward the Emperor leaning against the Empress.
Under the watchful eyes of all, the Emperor showed no signs of movement.
The Crown Prince, who had tensed up, relaxed again and sneered, "Empress, at such a time, do you think using this trick can scare me? Even if Father woke up now, what would he——"
The rest of his words abruptly stopped as he looked, astonished, at the Emperor who had originally been lying with eyes closed, slowly open them.
This scene was not only seen by the Crown Prince but also by all the civil and martial officials.
Immediately, several senior ministers rushed forward, calling out sincerely, "Your Majesty——"
