"Did you know?" the Emperor repeated.
Helena spoke before the First Consort could answer. "She knew. She's known for forty-three years. The resonance is old guilt, worn smooth by decades of denial."
The Emperor's expression went cold in a way Elara had never seen. Not angry. Not furious.
Beyond that. Something older and deeper and utterly implacable.
"Guards," he said. "Detain the First Consort and Lady Chen. Both are now under investigation for conspiracy to commit murder and obstruction of imperial justice."
"Your Majesty, you can't—" the First Consort started.
"I can. I am. And I should have done it forty-three years ago." He looked at Lord Justice Harwick. "This trial is suspended. New charges are being filed. The Fourth Princess's case will resume after we've properly investigated the murder of Lin Mei."
Lord Justice Harwick bowed. "Yes, Your Majesty."
