Consort Shu and Consort Ru naturally did not agree to Mingshu's proposal and chose to resolve their grievances privately. Mingshu deeply regretted this.
With all the commotion, routine training activities had to be temporarily shelved, as the birthday feast of the Empress Dowager was fast approaching.
Finally freed from torment, a flock of ladies in the harem were joyous as if granted amnesty, as happy as if it were their own birthday celebration.
——
In Zhongcui Palace.
"Is this true?" Consort Shu's expression was one of surprised disbelief as she listened to the news Ah Zhu had gathered.
Ah Zhu nodded affirmatively, her expression solemn, "This servant witnessed Yun Zhi from Jingren Palace ordering that little palace maid to ensure the task was completed properly. This servant was extra cautious and stopped the maid. At first she wouldn't speak, but after this servant used a bit of silver, she spilled everything!"