The morning court had ended.
The grand hall was almost empty now.
Only the Emperor and Minister Han remained.
The tall doors were closed, shutting away the sounds of the palace.
For several moments, neither spoke.
Minister Han stood several steps below the throne, his expression grave.
The Emperor already knew why he had stayed behind.
He had seen the black altar himself.
He had been present when General Feng discovered it in the Empress's Phoenix Courtyard.
He had deliberately kept the matter quiet while he tried to understand what it meant.
But apparently, the news had reached the ministers through their own palace spies.
The Emperor looked at Minister Han.
"You wanted to speak privately."
"Yes, Your Majesty."
"Then speak."
Minister Han bowed.
"The ministers know about the black altar."
The Emperor's expression did not change.
"I know."
"They are demanding that the matter not be hidden."
The Emperor's eyes narrowed slightly.
"Demanding?"
"Yes."
