The palace—once filled with celebration, laughter, and the echoes of the festival—had begun to change.
Not visibly.
Not loudly.
But something… had shifted.
—
It began quietly.
Almost unnoticed.
—
The night before the grand banquet.
—
The Dowager Empress's courtyard was calm, as always.
Lanterns burned steadily.
Servants moved with practiced discipline.
The Dowager sat with Lady Chen and Shin Gu, finishing her evening meal.
—
Her expression was composed.
Dignified.
As if nothing in the world could disturb her.
—
Lady Chen poured tea carefully.
"Mother, you should rest early. Tomorrow will be a long day."
—
The Dowager nodded.
"Yes. The banquet must not have any flaws."
—
Shin Gu smiled softly, her tone gentle.
"I have prepared a tonic for Your Majesty. It will help you sleep peacefully."
—
The Dowager glanced at her.
"…You are thoughtful."
—
She accepted it.
Drank.
—
Everything seemed normal.
—
Until—
A few moments later.
—
