Imperial Palace.
The Emperor entered the central palace, only to find it unusually quiet. He felt a moment of panic – where was the Empress?
A palace maid approached and bowed, "Your Majesty, the Empress is in the side hall."
The Emperor, puzzled, asked, "What is the Empress doing in the side hall?"
"Your Majesty will see if you go there."
The Emperor immediately turned around and walked towards the side hall. Then, he heard the sounds of fighting. He immediately thought of the assassin, but the surroundings were quiet. He somewhat relaxed, but his pace still quickened.
Two guards stood at the entrance of the side hall and saluted, "Your Majesty!"
The sounds of fighting in the room immediately stopped. Footsteps approached the door. The door was opened, revealing the Empress's beautiful figure. "Your Majesty!"
