The Seventh Prince moved instantly.
His black-and-gold robes flared as he strode toward the fallen dancers, cutting through the chaos like a blade.
The Minister's daughter clung to his arm, trembling, but he shook her off.
Leena's heart lurched.
"Your Highness, wait!"
Her voice pierced the panic. He froze, glancing over his shoulder.
All around them, nobles stepped back in fear, but she ran forward.
"Don't touch them!" she begged, kneeling beside the nearest dancer.
"I—I don't think it's poison. Look here—"
She lifted the girl's wrist, and under the pale lantern light, dark spots bloomed under her skin, spreading like spilled ink.
The hall went silent except for the nervous shuffling of guards.
Even Li Wei hesitated, his hand hovering over the dancer's throat.
Leena shook her head, her gaze locked on his.
"Please… trust me."
For a heartbeat, the world stilled.
The prince's jaw tightened, but he withdrew his hand.
"Seal the hall," he commanded, his voice slicing through the tension.
"No one leaves until I say so."
The great gates slammed shut.
Guards moved into formation.
The entire court held its breath.
Leena felt a hand clamp down on her shoulder.
She turned—and froze.
Bao Wen.
His usually calm face was hard, unreadable.
"You can't stay here."
Before she could protest, he grabbed her wrist and pulled her toward the side exit.
"What are you doing?!" she gasped, trying to pull free.
"We can't leave—"
"You're not safe here," he said in a low, urgent tone.
"I'm taking you away from this palace before it's too late."
Leena stumbled as he dragged her through the chaos.
Across the hall, the Seventh Prince turned just in time to see another man grabbing her, trying to run with her.
His vision blurred red.
"Leena…" he whispered, fury and fear twisting together in his chest.