The atmosphere inside Phoenix Hall was far heavier than the silence outside.
The cursed letter had been sealed inside a jade box and placed on a lacquered table. None of those present dared touch it again.
Candles flickered softly, casting long shadows across the room.
The Emperor sat at the head of the hall, while the Empress Dowager, Empress Lian An, Lady Chen, Princess Zhi, and Prince Liang sat on either side.
For several moments, no one spoke.
Everyone was replaying the events that had unfolded in Lady Chen's courtyard.
Finally, the Empress Dowager broke the silence.
"This matter... is not as simple as someone trying to frighten Lady Chen."
The Emperor looked toward his mother.
"What do you mean?"
The Dowager gently folded her hands.
"I have been thinking since we arrived."
"Who benefits from attacking Lady Chen?"
No one answered immediately.
Lady Chen lowered her gaze.
"I cannot think of anyone who bears such hatred toward me."
