The Imperial Capital slept beneath a silver moon.
The bustling streets that had echoed with merchants' voices during the day were now silent.
Only the distant footsteps of night patrols broke the stillness.
Tonight, however—
The silence carried another purpose.
By secret imperial decree, the Imperial Guards had begun their investigation.
No drums.
No public announcement.
No official proclamation.
Only quiet footsteps beneath the moonlight.
---
Inside the Imperial Palace, Prince Liang stood before twenty carefully selected guards.
He looked at every face before speaking.
"What happens tonight never leaves this room."
The guards bowed.
"Yes, Your Highness."
"No noble family is above suspicion."
"No official is exempt."
"If you discover anything unusual, you report directly to me and no one else."
One captain stepped forward.
"What if they resist?"
Prince Liang's expression remained calm.
"Show the Imperial Token."
"If they still refuse..."
