Aren't You Afraid of Being Poisoned

In the Imperial Study, Emperor Jin Xuan, confident of victory, cheerfully asked Gregory Gu Jr. to join him for a game of chess.

Meanwhile, the Empress grew increasingly anxious, uneasy that her son had not yet returned.

Seeing the Empress so troubled, Emperor Jin Xuan waved his hand and laughed, "No need to worry about Prince Ling. He took six thousand soldiers to besiege the Prince of Qin's Manor. Even if Alexander Hayes and his remaining followers manage to escape, Prince Ling will be just fine."

The Empress listened to Emperor Jin Xuan and nodded. "Yes, Your Majesty, but I just can't settle down until Prince Ling is back..."

Emperor Jin Xuan thought for a moment, then instructed his attendants, "Go out through the other palace gates and send someone to inquire about Prince Ling. Have him return to the palace at once."

"Yes, Your Majesty!"

With nothing else she could do, the Empress returned to her own chambers.

Meanwhile, Emperor Jin Xuan and Gregory Gu Jr. continued their chess match. Emperor Jin Xuan was in high spirits, thinking he could finally rid himself of Alexander Hayes.

Gregory Gu Jr. was just as elated. After so many years, he could finally bring down Alexander Hayes and win the woman he loved. He was so excited his hands trembled.

On the other side, the Empress made her way back to the palace, which was eerily quiet.