Seeing the Pure Consort basking in imperial favor—summoned daily to accompany the Emperor and even meddling in court affairs—the Chu Family grew worried. Their anxiety eased slightly only when they saw that the Empress continued to preside over major state functions, such as the Double Ninth Festival ceremony. To that end, Madam Chu submitted a request to enter the palace, hoping to speak with her daughter face-to-face and reassure the family back home.
Madam Chu, dressed in navy blue robes, was led by Fu Jin to Jianzhang Palace. As she stepped over the threshold, she frowned almost imperceptibly.
She asked, "Fu Jin, how is Her Majesty's health?"
"To answer Madam's question, Her Majesty had caught a cold during the change of seasons but has since made a full recovery. It's just that the Emperor is concerned for her, so he has instructed Song Yuanzheng to check her pulse every day to confirm she is well."
Madam Chu hummed softly. "That's good, then."
