The Imperial Guard Captain cuts Kareem away from the corridor traffic, one gloved hand lifting in a clear demand for silence. Behind him, Magistrate Wei lingers with the evidence, while the palace beyond them stays hushed and watchful.
Imperial Guard Captain
Her Majesty wants an update, in person. She is waiting in her private chambers.
He does not soften it. His eyes flick once to Kareem, then toward the sealed doors ahead, measuring whether this is an honor, a test, or both.
Kareem Bishop
Private chambers means this is no longer court gossip. It is direct.
The Captain leads him through lacquered arches and silken shadow, past attendants who lower their gazes as the air grows thinner and stiller.
At the final doorway, the Empress stands by a high window over Shou Lung, the city spread below like a map of obligations. The Captain halts, and Kareem is ushered into the center of her attention.
The Empress
Tell me what the Office of Silken Returns tried to bury, and show me the proof. Then show me what your designs can save.