He shook his head. “A refusal would be an admission of guilt. I must learn what venom has been poured into my father’s ears. I must defend my name from the vile accusations flung my way.” He smiled, speaking with assurance. “All will be well. I know the workings of the court, my allies from enemies.”

I wanted to go with him yet was unwilling to leave my mother. Moreover, my presence would likely do more harm than good; we had been commanded to remain here, and neither the emperor nor his court held me in high regard.

Liwei’s expression was grave as he brushed his knuckles across my cheek. “I will put an end to it. I will make it safe for you and your family.”

“You must keep yourself safe,” I told him, hating the quiver in my voice. This was Liwei’s choice, and he was skilled in the maneuverings of the Celestial Court. “If you don’t return, I will come for you.” This was no hollow claim, nor soft words to ease a lover’s parting.

“You must not. The palace will be warded against you soon; you will no longer be able to enter freely as before,” he cautioned. “Do nothing to draw attention to yourself.”

“Warded?” I repeated slowly. “Why?”

“It is common practice for those deemed a threat, those convicted of any offense against the kingdom.”

“Nothing has been proven,” I protested.

“Not yet,” Liwei said. “But for my father to send the minister with this harsh proclamation is just a formality. His official judgment will follow in a day or two, to give the semblance of this matter being weighed at court. None will gainsay him.”

Turmoil raged through my mind, quenching my remaining doubts about Tao’s plan. Once we were sentenced, it would be impossible to enter the Jade Palace undetected—even if I could escape whatever terrible punishment the emperor envisioned for us. The elixir would remain forever out of reach. My father would die. Which meant tonight was my only chance, and I would not squander it.

Minister Ruibing scowled as we approached, his hands clasped behind his back. “Make haste, Your Highness,” he snapped.

As anger seared me at the minister’s disrespect, Liwei raised his chin with the regal arrogance he possessed. “Minister Ruibing, remember your place. I am my father’s loyal subject and will obey his command.” His words served as a pointed reminder that despite his current disfavor, he was the emperor’s son—for whom the tides might swing back in his favor as easily as the wind changed its direction.

“Of course, Your Highness.” A brief pause, as Minister Ruibing hastily bowed. He had expected a chastened son crawling back to earn his father’s favor rather than the unflinching royal before him—but like any skillful courtier, he adjusted to the situation with repellent ease.