Shouning Palace.
The Great Qi Empress sat upright on her phoenix throne, her eyes lowered and silent, naturally radiating the majesty of All-Under-Heaven.
Amid the echo of approaching footsteps, the Crown Prince hurried in, concern on his face. "Mother, why did you summon me so urgently?"
The palace maids standing in attendance kept their eyes lowered and their thoughts to themselves. Even their breathing was faint, as they did their utmost to make themselves unnoticed.
The Great Qi Empress's gaze fell on her son, who stood before her, bent forward earnestly. She asked calmly, "Have you heard about He Zhen?"
Jiang Wuhua breathed a sigh of relief, then let out another sigh. "Your son has. They say He Zhen drove recklessly through the busy streets, frightening the people, and was taken into custody by the Patrol Inspection Office."
The Great Qi Empress's voice was naturally dignified as it fell softly. "Now that you know, leave it at that. Don't do anything unnecessary."
Jiang Wuhua studied her expression and said cautiously, "The family servants showed restraint and didn't hurt anyone. The impact wasn't too severe. Even if we leave it alone, he won't face a harsh punishment. But my cousin... will inevitably suffer a little."
Empress He only asked, "What were you doing when you heard about this?"
Jiang Wuhua said somewhat sheepishly, "Your son was cooking for Ning'er."
The Great Qi Crown Princess, Song Ning'er, had not come from any illustrious family. She was merely the daughter of an ordinary Vice Director of the Ministry of Rites. Empress He herself had arranged the marriage years ago, and Jiang Wuhua and the Crown Princess had always been on good terms.
Empress He said, "You should focus on cooking."
Jiang Wuhua said, "This really is a small matter. All it would take