Southern Chen, Jiankang.
For the past month, a strange atmosphere had hung over the entire city.
At the Prince of Nankang Commandery's Residence, Chen Cuo's Mother had been ill at ease for days.
A month ago, her second son had suddenly returned, only to be summoned into the palace. He had not come back since. Over the past few days, she had repeatedly called in younger relatives who served at court to ask what they knew.
"Fang Qing went away to learn his skills and became one of the immortals long ago. I hear the immortals in the mountains can sleep once and wake to find decades, even a century, gone. But when Fang Qing left, he clearly had more to say. He meant to come back and settle certain matters..."
In the hall, Chen Cuo's Mother sat in the place of honor, one hand pressed to her chest, worry written across her face. As she spoke, she lowered her voice. "The Empress Dowager summoned me two days ago. I made a point of asking about the palace, but heard not a scrap of news about my son. You all serve at court and hear things quickly. Have you discovered anything?"
Zhang Ju and the others sat on either side. At her words, they exchanged helpless looks.
Only five days earlier, Chen Cuo's Mother had gathered them all and asked the same questions. How much time had passed since then? What new information could there be?
At last, Zhang Ju rose. "Half a month ago, His Majesty had just recovered from his illness and convened a court audience. I asked a palace eunuch to pass on a message, but received no reply at all..." He gave a bitter smile. "Since there was no answer, I didn't mention it to you