There was trouble in Jianzhang Palace today.
The concubines who came to pay their respects all vaguely sensed the oppressive atmosphere hanging over Jianzhang Palace. This was especially clear from Fu Jin, who was there to greet the ladies. Usually, her smile was radiant and sweet enough to melt one's heart, but today it was faint, her expression nearly a scowl.
'What an eye-opener!' Fu Jin thought. 'To think Noble Princess Consort Rong would resort to such tricks to curry favor, and all to startle Her Majesty. The Empress drank the calming soup, but her face is still pale. She keeps feeling nauseous at the memory of that overwhelming metallic smell. Even the scent of incense is unbearable to her now, so we had to have it all removed and brew a cup of hot tea to calm her nerves.'
Everyone entered and paid their respects to the Empress.
As always, the Empress quickly bade them rise. Her expression was placid, her lips pressed tightly together.
