The night inside Lady Chen's chamber had become quieter.
The earlier panic had faded slightly after the healer confirmed that her condition was stable.
Soft incense drifted through the room while candlelight flickered gently against the carved walls.
The atmosphere should have felt calm.
But instead—
There was unease lingering beneath every breath.
—
Lady Chen sat near the window now, wrapped in a pale shawl.
Her complexion had regained some color, though traces of exhaustion still remained.
Beside her sat her parents.
Minister Chen looked troubled.
His wife looked even worse.
Her fingers remained tightly clasped together, eyes filled with worry she tried to hide.
And standing nearby—
The Emperor watched silently.
Observing.
Listening.
Thinking.
—
Lady Chen, however, seemed strangely relaxed compared to everyone else.
Almost…
Too normal.
—
"I've been thinking," she suddenly said softly.
—
The room turned toward her.
—
Her eyes brightened slightly.
