The tension in the empire had reached a boiling point. The stolen jade had been retrieved under mysterious circumstances, yet its return only deepened the turmoil. Some saw it as proof of Zhao Min and Liang Hua's legitimacy, while others viewed it as a catalyst for war.
The Jade's Return and Its Unseen Hands
Rumors swirled about who had orchestrated its recovery. Some whispered that the elusive Mei Ying had played a role, working from the shadows to deliver it to the palace gates. The emperor's court erupted in debate—was this proof of Zhao Min and Liang Hua's rightful place in the empire, or a deception meant to unravel the current rule? The emperor, Zhao Shen, despite his failing health, ordered the jade to be examined by the imperial scholars.
"The carvings bear the mark of the first emperor," one scholar confirmed. "This jade is older than the current dynasty."
That revelation sent shockwaves through the palace. If the jade was tied to an older ruling family, what did that mean for the legitimacy of the current emperor?
Political Plots and Foreign Threats
Beyond the palace walls, foreign nations watched the chaos unfold with predatory patience. The northern kingdoms sent emissaries under the guise of peacekeepers, yet their true intentions were clear. They sought to exploit the division within the empire, offering alliances to whichever faction would serve their interests best.
"Chaos breeds opportunity," a foreign general mused in secret to a rogue noble. "Perhaps this is the moment to reshape the empire."
Some ministers, seeing the empire's growing instability, aligned themselves with foreign forces in exchange for promises of wealth and power. Others held firm to their loyalty, rallying behind the emperor and his failing strength. Zhao Min and Liang Hua found themselves caught in the web of these shifting allegiances.
A Deadly Attempt and the Wildcard's Intervention
As the power struggles intensified, an attempt was made to silence Liang Hua once and for all. She had grown too influential, her presence a threat to those who sought to control the narrative. Under the cover of darkness, assassins struck.
Liang Hua barely had time to react as the glint of a dagger cut through the moonlight. A fierce clash erupted, but before the assassins could finish their task, a familiar figure intervened—Mei Ying.
"I told you to watch your back," Mei Ying whispered as she struck down the last assassin with ruthless efficiency. "You're worth too much alive."
The attack left Liang Hua shaken but resolute. She was no longer a mere pawn in this game; she was a contender. The message was clear—her survival depended on outmaneuvering those who wished her dead.
A Moment of Respite and Unspoken Promises
Later that night, Zhao Min found Liang Hua in the gardens, her wounds cleaned but her expression heavy with thought.
"They won't stop until they see us buried," she murmured, staring at the bloodstained sky.
"They won't succeed," Zhao Min said firmly, stepping closer. "You're stronger than they realize."
For the first time in days, a small smile played on her lips. "And if I falter?"
"Then I'll be here to catch you," he whispered.
The weight of their unspoken emotions lingered in the air. In the chaos of war, betrayal, and shifting loyalties, this moment was theirs—brief but undeniable.