Xia and several guards cornered Lady Mei in a secluded part of the palace, where she had been attempting to blend in with the crowd. "Lady Mei!" Xia called out, her voice sharp. "You need to explain yourself. The guests have been poisoned, and we believe you have a hand in it."
Lady Mei's eyes narrowed as she realized the gravity of the situation. "I have no idea what you're talking about," she retorted, feigning innocence. "How dare you accuse me!"
"Enough!" one of the guards snapped. "We have witnesses who saw you tampering with the drinks. You need to come with us."
Lady Mei's expression shifted from feigned innocence to cold defiance. "You think you can intimidate me? I will not be silenced. You will regret this—"
Before she could finish, Xia stepped forward, her gaze unwavering. "You will regret threatening this kingdom. We will find the truth, and if you're guilty, you will face the consequences."