One day, Noble Concubine Shih once again visited Ningshou Palace to pay respects and accompanied the Empress Dowager to watch a play to alleviate her boredom.
During the performance, as usual, she began to complain.
"Mother, that wretched Lady Xia has monopolized the Emperor for many days."
"The Emperor, being the ruler of this nation, is now actually bewitched by a mere consort! If this were to spread..."
"What would the people of the realm think of the Emperor?"
The Empress Dowager's face was pale, her expression indifferent.
She leisurely sipped her tea, then smiled faintly.
"It's no matter; she's just one woman, after all!"
"Wanxin, you need not worry too much. I... already have a plan!"
Upon hearing this, Noble Concubine Shih's eyes lit up.
"What plan?"
"Aunt, you truly do dote on me the most!"
"No matter what happens, you will always be on my side, right!"
