The Mastermind

The sun had risen, casting its rays on the window frame. A faint damp mark was left on the window, but the transparent mosaic tiles on it shone brightly under the sunlight. However, Xie Ning felt that the day had not yet dawned. Around her, there was a fog of danger lurking, like being trapped in an endless night.

She had never intended to harm anyone, but in the palace, one cannot simply stay out of trouble. She was favoured, promoted, and pregnant, all of which aroused jealousy and blocked others' paths.

Seeing Xie Ning's current state, Qinghe guessed that she was frightened and wished to give herself two slaps. Who wouldn't be afraid in such a situation? Xie Ning was like she had passed through the gates of hell. It was strange if she wasn't scared.

Qinghe stood up from her stool, knelt down in front of the bed, and began slapping herself left and right, solidly and without any fakery. Xie Ning startled and quickly said, "What are you doing? Stop it!"