In the deep of night, a new batch of porcelain was replaced in the Xian Concubine's palace.
The palace maids carefully swept up the shards scattered all over the floor, not daring to glance at the Xian Concubine, whose face was so dark it seemed like water would drip from it.
Xian Concubine stood up and walked towards the bedchamber, gripping a silk handkerchief tightly, wishing she could scratch the Empress's face apart. Twice, the Emperor promised to visit her, but ended up at the Empress's place and never came. What virtue or talent does that lowly woman have to sit on the Empress's position? She is unworthy!
...
The next morning, as per usual, the Emperor met with several ministers after the court session. After handling state affairs and approving memorials, he felt his neck ache a bit and decided he would look at some less urgent memorials later. He decided to take a walk in the Imperial Garden.
