The First Consort strode hastily through the winding corridors of the imperial palace, her silk robes billowing behind her as her entourage of maids and attendants struggled to keep up with her hurried pace.
The golden embroidery on her attire shimmered under the palace lanterns, reflecting her elevated status, yet the tension in her brow betrayed the urgency that drove her forward.
The Yard of Grace had not been enough to contain her fury, nor had the humiliating tale of Madame Lin and Madame Qiao's disgraceful expulsion from Hua Jing's residence satisfied her. No, this matter needed to be brought before the Empress herself.
As she neared the Empress's palace, the guards stationed at the entrance bowed low, stepping aside without a word.
The First Consort's visits were common, her authority second only to the Empress within the inner palace, and none dared hinder her passage. A eunuch rushed ahead to announce her arrival.
