The Secret Left by Blossom Pavilion

Capital City, Imperial Palace, Ice-containing Hall.

"Consort, I have delivered the message. I will take my leave now." The man in white bowed respectfully, turned around, and prepared to depart.

Behind the curtain, a graceful figure suddenly spoke up, halting the man in white. "Wait."

Though her voice was soft, it carried an undertone of authority and coldness.

The man in white paused, slowly turning back. "Consort, is there anything else you command?"

The curtain was pulled aside, and a figure emerged from behind it. The man in white immediately lowered his head, avoiding direct eye contact with Noble Consort Wan.

Noble Consort Wan, a woman of Emperor Tianqi and the current consort, was already overstepping propriety by meeting him alone. To directly gaze upon her face would invite censure and potential punishment.