The atmosphere inside the palace was heavy.
The laughter and relief that Prince Liang had created in front of the public had vanished the moment the royal family returned to the palace.
The black clouds had disappeared.
The strange voice was gone.
The citizens had accepted Prince Liang's explanation that it was merely a prank.
But those present in the private council chamber knew better.
Far better.
---
The Emperor sat at the head of the table.
His expression was dark.
Beside him sat the Dowager Empress.
Princess Zhi.
Prince Liang.
The Empress.
Several trusted royal relatives.
No servants were allowed inside.
The doors were shut.
Guards stood outside.
No one spoke for a long moment.
The memory of that voice still echoed inside their minds.
---
Finally, Lady Chen broke the silence.
She lowered her teacup slowly.
"Everyone accepted Prince Liang's explanation."
Her voice was gentle.
"But..."
She hesitated.
"What about the voice?"
The room grew quiet again.
