By the time Hong Nian Niang received a surprise message written in Mingshen's blood, she had less than an hour to prepare. Noble Consort Liu had even less time to rally the army, and both women worked overtime to prevent the worst.
"Your Majesties," Noble Consort Liu greeted, dressed in armour from head to toe. "Please remain in the ancestral hall until the sun rises. It's the safest place there is now. The little prophet, my unofficial niece, will be arriving with reinforcements. Please take care of her, or I would be unable to explain to her parents why all three children sent to our care have gone missing."
Yihao's sudden departure just the day before was puzzling enough. However, the reappearance of the rowdy cultivator and his siblings told them everything they needed to know.
"We understand," the Empress nodded, grabbing Liu Guiya's hands in hers. "Please, be safe."
