Outside the imperial court, the night air was calm and cool.
Bai Zihan walked down the marble steps of the palace. The faint moonlight traced his figure—cold, composed, and calm.
He had finished his "business" with the Emperor. Now that his purpose was complete, he had no reason to linger.
And Bai Zihan thought that it was a good opportunity to investigate the Second Prince when the Emperor was busy with Sun Yaoqing.
His steps led him toward the guest hall within the palace compound, where the Bai Clan members awaited.
But the moment he stepped into the hall, his brows furrowed.
Something was off.
Normally, a soft, familiar voice would greet him the instant he appeared.
Yet this time—silence.
No Luo Qing.
No hurried footsteps rushing to greet him.
His gaze swept across the courtyard like a blade. The Bai Clan members who noticed his arrival quickly straightened and bowed.
"Young Master!"
Bai Zihan's eyes flicked over them.
"Where is Luo Qing?"
