Night settled quietly over the palace.
The earlier commotion in the servants' courtyard had finally ended.
Lanterns glowed softly beneath the eaves.
The corridors were nearly empty.
Most servants had already retreated to their quarters.
But inside Shin Gu's courtyard, the lights remained on.
---
Prince Liang sat beside Shin Gu in the main hall.
A warm cup of tea rested in front of her.
She still looked pale.
At least on the surface.
Her eyes appeared slightly red.
Her shoulders trembled occasionally.
The image of a frightened woman.
---
Prince Liang sighed softly.
"Are you feeling better now?"
Shin Gu nodded.
"A little."
Her voice sounded weak.
"I was truly frightened today."
Prince Liang looked at her quietly.
Normally he would have comforted her immediately.
Normally he would have believed every word she said.
But tonight—
Something felt different.
---
His mother's questions echoed in his mind.
The Emperor's expression.
Princess Zhi's observations.
