She left with the eunuch and was led back to the Emperor's study.
"What news, Rose Daphne?" he asked.
Daphne's face was serious. "They are all fine, Your Majesty. All but one."
She explained her findings, detailing how the poison had taken a deeper hold in the last consort.
The Emperor listened intently. "So the others are truly cured?" he asked.
"Yes," she confirmed. "The antidote worked. They are free from the ailment."
A wave of relief washed over the Emperor's face. He let out a long, heavy sigh, the tension in his shoulders visibly easing.
"Thank you, Rose Daphne," he said, his voice filled with a quiet gratitude. "You have given this Empire hope."
Daphne added, "It is your grace, Your Majesty." Her expression then turned serious. "But I must remind you that the Empress has just two weeks left before her release. I hope you will use this time to solidify your plans, Your Majesty."
