Guard Dog

The air in the imperial court hung heavy with the emperor's fury. "How could Yang Xi escape?!" Zixuan's voice boomed, rattling the ancient tapestries.

Chief Minister Xingchen stood among the assembled officials, his expression carefully neutral. News of Yang Xi's escape had reached him early that morning, a cold knot tightening in his stomach. The man who had betrayed him, who had caused so much pain, was free.

A familiar voice cut through his thoughts, sharp and inquisitive. "How is Zemin?"

Xingchen's jaw tightened. Empress Yuzu. It seemed he had been unwittingly assigned as Zemin's keeper, a role he resented deeply. He turned, offering a terse, almost imperceptible bow. "Getting better."

"Did he leave his room yesterday or today?" Yuzu's eyes, sharp and knowing, bored into him. Xingchen knew he couldn't hide anything from her, especially not in the secluded Wú Dián area where they both resided. Yet, he lied.

"I didn't notice, Empress Yuzu."

He felt her gaze linger, sensing her disapproval. His own discomfort was palpable. He just wanted this day to end.