The dawn sky was still pale blue when the Emperor called the undercover group together.
A thin layer of fog curled between the tents, carrying the scent of burnt ashes from the night's battle.
The barbaric camp was silent now.
Bound raiders lay unconscious.
The threat — for the moment — was gone.
The Emperor stood tall in commoner attire, yet no disguise could hide the authority in him.
Beside him stood the Empress, still wearing her thick cloak and the annoying fake pregnancy pillow. Her expression was pure irritation, but she hid it well.
The twins, Yao Qing, the new man, and the three ghosts (visible only to her) waited quietly behind her.
Fen Yu sulked.
Wei Rong crossed his arms.
Li Shen floated above like a calm scholar cloud.
The Emperor's gaze lingered on his wife longer than usual.
Finally, he spoke.
---
"You may return to Whisper Bowl."
His tone was neutral, but the Empress could hear the hidden meaning:
I don't want you in danger anymore.
