Xin Lin and Little Xinzhuo sighed in unison.
Xin Lin silently gave Little Xinzhuo a meaningful glance.
"Your adoptive mother sure has a knack for attracting trouble. Ah Zhuo, your days ahead will likely be tough."
Little Xinzhuo clenched his fists, resolved to protect his mother and sister no matter what.
"How could a Noble like you offend the Empress? If the one who strikes is the current Empress, killing you and your family would take but a moment."
Xin Lin rolled his eyes; such a high-stakes entrance to palace intrigue was inevitable for Shi Guiren and Little Xinzhuo, even if they were lucky to return to the Imperial Palace, it was unlikely they would see peaceful days again.
"I also don't know. After much deliberation, I fear it's related to a box my father entrusted to me years ago."
Shi Guiren seemed utterly bewildered.
Shi Guiren had only been in the palace for two years and was known for her timid and weak temperament, never having directly offended the Empress.
