Although Hu Xiaotian had phrased his words tactfully, they still served as a reminder to Wen Ya. The string of misfortunes at Bright Moon Palace had robbed her of her composure, and his reminder suddenly brought her back to her senses. She represented more than her own interests; those in her camp surely would not turn a blind eye to her present predicament.
Wen Ya nodded slowly. "Go clear the paths within the palace. Afterward, accompany me to see the Empress."
A wry smile involuntarily appeared on Hu Xiaotian's face. A woman's heart was a needle at the bottom of the sea. A moment ago, she had wanted to drive him away, yet in the blink of an eye she had changed her mind. Still, it was hardly surprising. Bright Moon Palace had originally had three palace maids and three eunuchs. Now two were dead and two had been taken away by Murong Zhan. If she drove him away as well, only Baobao would remain. Making him clear the palace paths-didn't that amount to a punishment?
Hu Xiaotian offered no resistance and obediently cleared the paths in Bright Moon Palace. About an hour later, Baobao returned from delivering word to Xinning Palace. As head of the imperial harem, the Empress was not someone one could simply call upon at will. That was why Wen Ya had sent Baobao ahead to ask whether she had time; only with her permission could Wen Ya go to see her. But Baobao's news was disappointing. Empress Jian had caught a chill that day and was feeling unwell.
Wen Ya knew at once that it was an excuse. Empress Jian plainly did not wish to meet her at such a sensitive time. She nodded dejectedly and told Baobao, "You may go."
Just then, Hu Xiaotian