Princess Xinping was so docile that Consort Wu was taken aback. She felt both a little suspicious and a little sorry for her. After watching her for a moment, she saw that it was getting late and waved a hand, leaving to return to her palace.
As soon as she went out, she asked the female official Orchid, "Does Her Majesty know about this?"
The "Her Majesty" Consort Wu meant was naturally the empress. Apart from the empress, no one else warranted such a form of address from her.
Orchid looked slender and frail, but her expression was composed. "Your Highness, Her Majesty should already know."
For such a major incident, anyone with even a few eyes and ears outside could not possibly remain unaware.
Although the empress lived deep within the palace, Consort Wu believed she must have connections beyond its walls.
Even if she had no connections outside, she was still the empress. There would always be people eager to bring news to her.
"Since she knows, we shall see what she chooses."
"We shall see whether she chooses to provoke the emperor."
Consort Wu reached the doorway and gazed at the courtyard outside the reception hall. Her lips pressed together, and her eyes darkened slightly.
After all, no matter how much affection there is, it cannot withstand being worn away time after time. Your Majesty, just what choice will you make?
Palace of Eternal Joy
The Palace of Earthly Tranquility had traditionally been the empress's residence, but it was far too solemn. Twenty years ago, the empress had moved into the Palace of Eternal Joy, and she had never moved back. November had passed, bringing several bouts of rain and snow, and the cold wind was growing bitter. Preparations for the New Year had already begun within