The Empress's courtyard had become strangely quiet.
Not peaceful.
Quiet.
There was a difference.
Peace meant one could breathe without thinking about what might happen next.
This silence felt as though the entire palace were holding its breath.
Ever since the black altar had been discovered hidden inside the Empress's chamber, the imperial guards had tightened their control over the courtyard. Every entrance was watched. Every servant was questioned. Even the physicians who came to examine the Empress had to pass through several inspections.
The Empress had once complained that palace life was boring.
Now she almost wished for that boredom back.
At least boredom had been normal.
She sat beside the window, resting her cheek against her palm.
Outside, two guards stood beneath the corridor.
Another pair stood near the garden gate.
A maid was sweeping the same patch of ground for what seemed like the tenth time.
The Empress sighed.
