Song Zhiyu's brief stay at the Prime Minister's Mansion brought some liveliness to the place. Niu Pan'er, enjoying a rare break, spent her time chatting with her mother-in-law and entertaining her, or gossiping with her sisters-in-law about various household matters.
During Laba Festival, the palace sent Laba porridge, marking the official beginning of the festive season. Song Ci was summoned by Empress Dowager Wang to the palace to discuss, naturally, Princess Consort Ji wielding her Death Exemption Token, and of course, to gripe about the late Emperor's favoritism.
Song Ci played along cheerfully, though she was wise enough not to openly criticize the late Emperor, choosing instead to echo Empress Dowager Wang's complaints.
"...She's thinking of using the token to manipulate me, but it's a pity I didn't give her a chance. I hear she's still unwell now, serves her right, thinking she could be so clever."
