The moon hung high above the imperial palace, casting pale silver light over the ancient roofs.
Unlike other nights, there was no music.
No laughter.
No sound except the rustling of cold wind through the bamboo leaves.
The palace seemed to be holding its breath.
A group of palace lanterns slowly moved through the darkness.
Leading them was the Dowager Empress.
Beside her walked the Emperor, dressed in a dark robe instead of his usual dragon robes.
Following closely were Prince Liang, Princess Zhi, Lady Chen, Captain Xu with twenty Imperial Guards, and the Dowager Empress's most trusted attendants.
No one spoke.
Every footstep echoed against the stone pathway.
The Emperor finally broke the silence.
"No one leaves."
"No one enters."
Captain Xu bowed.
"Yes, Your Majesty."
With one command, guards spread through every entrance surrounding Shin Gu's residence.
Within moments, the entire courtyard was sealed.
No servant could escape.
No outsider could enter.
---
