In the empty hall, Lady Qiu's low sobs resonated. The Emperor gazed at Lady Qiu's tearful eyes full of concern. He ultimately couldn't bear it, gently patting Lady Qiu's hand to comfort her: "Alright, don't cry anymore... I will protect you."
Soon, Gao Demao, who was ordered to deliver the white silk to the Empress, stepped into the hall with small steps. After respectfully saluting the Emperor, he cautiously reported: "Your Majesty, I have taken the Imperial Physician and the white silk to the Empress's palace as ordered. Before the physician could examine her, the Empress admitted to her fake pregnancy. Clad in her ceremonial phoenix robe, she requested poison for a dignified death, stating that as the Empress, she should not hang from the rafters, leaving unsightly marks on her neck."
Upon hearing this, the Emperor's chest heaved violently, and his breath became labored.
"Your Majesty! Your Majesty, calm down!" Lady Qiu hurried to soothe him, "Your health is paramount!"
