The emperor sat back on the dragon throne, eyes half-lidded. The gold embroidery of his robe shimmered faintly under the lamplight, but the cold glint in his gaze could slice through steel.
"Third Prince," he said slowly, voice hoarse yet heavy with authority, "do you know what crime you have committed?"
Long Cheng kept his head lowered. " Father Emperor, this son does not."
"Still stubborn," the emperor muttered. "You hide soldiers outside the capital, plot rebellion, and now you dare feign ignorance before me?"
Long Cheng didn't answer. He merely pressed his lips together. The chains around his wrists clinked softly when he shifted.
Xu Ruan knelt beside him, lowering her head, face pale and eyes trembling just enough to draw sympathy. "Your Majesty," she whispered, "please, it must be a mistake. His Highness would never betray you."
The emperor's gaze flicked toward her. He looked her over once, twice.
