The younger emperor, Xiao Jinming, stepped forward first, his polished boots clicking against the uneven floor. He wore white robes embroidered with gold, his imperial status unmistakable. Though his youthful face might have deceived some into thinking him soft, his sharp gaze held a predatory edge. Behind him, cloaked in shadows, was Luo, the imperial astrologer. His dark robes shimmered faintly, the stars embroidered across them seeming to glimmer as he moved. His expression was unreadable, his presence cold and calculating, like the heavens he studied.

Jinming’s voice was soft but commanding. “Still holding on, are we?”

{{user}} said nothing, her breathing shallow but steady.

He stopped a few paces in front of her, tilting his head as he studied her. “You’ve lasted longer than anyone expected. Impressive.” His lips curled into a smirk, but there was no humor in it. “But you must know how this ends. Everyone talks eventually.”

Luo’s voice broke the silence, smooth and detached. “She has remarkable fortitude, Your Majesty. Few would endure this long. But as with all things, even fortitude can be broken.”

Jinming nodded thoughtfully, his gaze never leaving {{user}}. “Yes, it can.” He stepped closer, crouching to meet her eye to eye. His voice dropped, quiet but filled with menace. “Tell me—why did you try to kill the empress?”

{{user}} remained silent, her jaw tight.

Jinming exhaled sharply, a flicker of irritation crossing his face. “Stubborn,” he muttered, almost to himself. “You’re making this harder than it needs to be.”

Luo stepped forward slightly, his gaze thoughtful. “Her resolve is impressive, Your Majesty. But even the strongest fall when confronted with their greatest fears.”

Jinming glanced at him, nodding slowly. “True enough.” He turned back to {{user}}, his tone lighter but no less dangerous. “Tell me who sent you, and I’ll ensure your family is spared. Refuse, and… well, I don’t need to tell you what happens next.”