Moxun sat on the chair, sorting through medicinal herbs in a small box, and said indifferently, "The Noble Consort insisted on coming for acupuncture—how could I refuse?"
The elderly imperial physician panicked, "Men and women must maintain propriety! Even if the Noble Consort forced you, you shouldn't have agreed!"
Moxun pursed his lips and didn't respond, continuing to fiddle with the herbs in his hands. From start to finish, Moxun remained utterly composed, not at all like a man facing death.
...
...
After leaving the Imperial Hospital, Shen Wei went to Cining Palace to visit the Empress Dowager.
On the way, Cai Lian handed her a letter. "My lady, this is a letter from Princess Zhaoyang."
Shen Wei read it as she walked, her eyes brightening slightly.
The late autumn air was chilly, and Cining Palace was quiet—the children had gone to the academy to study. Only the slightly older Li Wan'er was keeping the Empress Dowager company.
