Consort Xu De worried about Lian Hua, and not knowing her condition, was anxious to the extreme. Thus, she, along with Ming Jing and the others, made no attempt to conceal the killing intent that emanated from them as they rushed through the paths of the harem, determined to push forward as if to slay any man or Buddha who stood in their way.
Meanwhile, His Majesty also hurried back, not having time to change his clothes. As soon as he stepped into the harem, he received distressing news.
The performance contrived by Xiao Jizi and his cohort was too convincing. Xiao Linzi had only instructed the Shadow Guards to be on the lookout for anyone unusual within the harem, to capture anyone suspicious, but he hadn't provided them with clear instructions. Consequently, after receiving word from within the harem, the Shadow Guard had a sinking feeling.
