After exchanging a few hypocritical pleasantries, the Ancient Dragon Empress—who looked just like Gu Long Zhou's elder sister—sent the ministers away and nervously confessed everything in the secret chamber: "Zhou'er is young and truly doesn't know better. He dares to associate with just anyone, and after being coaxed with a few words, he forgets who he is. Sigh, I only found out about this today myself. That's why I hurriedly sent over a letter requesting an audience, but when I received no reply, I had no choice but to come and ask for one in person."
A trace of lingering fear showed in Gu Long Zhou's eyes, and he no longer dared look at Xing'er. Taihua Lord stroked his beard and took the seat of honor. Seeing that Xing'er remained silent, he rolled his eyes and said, "Ancient Dragon Empress, there's no need to blame yourself. Children don't know better, and it's not strange for them to associate with extraordinary people. As the saying goes, the ignorant are not guilty. I imagine this shouldn't count as a major matter, should it?"
"No, no, no, this is absolutely no minor matter. There are some people one must never associate with—rebellious traitors like that, above all. Senior Taihua Lord, and my several nephews, after you return, please be sure to explain this matter to the Crown Prince Regent. Tell him that, starting today, we will definitely bring Zhou'er back and keep him under strict supervision. This will never happen again. His Imperial Father is already furious in the palace and has executed all the inner ministers and eunuchs involved in this matter. He will immediately submit a memorial to the Crown Prince Regent as well. We only hope this matter can end here..." The Ancient Dragon Empress unexpectedly lowered herself to the