The morning court had barely begun when hurried footsteps echoed through the Hall of Supreme Harmony.
The ministers exchanged puzzled glances as Prince Liang strode inside, his usually composed expression replaced by visible concern.
He stopped before the dragon throne and bowed deeply.
"Your Majesty."
The Emperor looked up from the memorials in his hands.
"Rise, Liang. What has happened?"
Prince Liang stood.
"There is... another problem."
The hall fell silent.
The Emperor slowly set aside the scroll.
"What problem?"
Prince Liang took a slow breath.
"The palace is in chaos."
Several ministers frowned.
"What do you mean?"
"The guards have been reporting the same incident since dawn."
Prince Liang continued, "A hooded man has been seen throughout the palace."
The ministers immediately began whispering.
"The eastern gardens..."
"The imperial library..."
"The lotus pavilion..."
"The western corridor..."
Prince Liang nodded.
