The grounds of the Imperial Palace were a great place to hide things. The Commissioner was waiting on an ornately carved bench that was set between two marble ponds. He had been very careful about how he planned this meeting, because the walls in the palace could hear. He looked at his old silver pocket watch, which he always carried with him. The time was almost up.
"Commissioner," a voice greeted from the shadows. It was Duke Alexis, his blue eyes shining in the dim light, looking eerily similar to the Emperor, save for the intensity they held.
"Your Highness," the Commissioner nodded. "Our plan is in motion. The last piece of the puzzle will soon be in place."
Duke Alexis, looking pensive, said, "We must be cautious. The Empress Dowager might not be involved, but she has her spies ev
