Finally, Cassian spoke. "I don't know."
Wei Xiang blinked. It was probably the first time he had ever heard Cassian admit uncertainty.
Cassian continued calmly, "I know forcing her to stay won't make her happy. But letting her leave..."
He stopped speaking.
Wei Xiang finished the sentence for him. "...Means losing her."
Cassian slowly nodded. "Yes."
Neither man spoke after that. There simply wasn't an easy answer.
Elsewhere, deep inside another section of the palace, Physician Selene carefully packed away several bottles of medicine.
A young palace maid entered. "Physician Selene."
Selene looked up. "What is it, Lian?
"The herbs you requested have arrived."
"Good."
The young maid hesitated. "May I ask something, Ma Selene?"
Selene smiled. "You may."
"Is Lady Lin really doing well?"
Selene's expression softened. "She is. The babies are growing exactly as they should."
The maid smiled with relief. "I'm happy to hear that."
