I heard you were looking for me

Gasps filled the hall, sharp and loud, like the breath of the entire empire had been sucked into one gasp and then let out all at once.

Every single pair of eyes turned toward the dais.

The veil that had covered the Empress's face was gone, ripped away in a single flash of motion by that perfect arrow. It now hung pinned against the wooden pillar behind her, the delicate red silk fluttering gently in the sudden rush of wind from the open doors.

But no one was looking at the veil anymore.

They were all staring at her.

At Hua Jing.