Before this, the Empress had already received records from the Shadow Guards hidden within the city about this secret meeting.
Of course, since the meeting was top secret, no one knew the exact details, but the Empress was aware of it.
Casually mentioning it now was a calculated move to test the waters.
Xiao Donger trembled, a look of confusion and grievance appearing on her face:
"Your Majesty, please see clearly, I indeed sought the help of Mr. Zhao, but from beginning to end, it was only about official matters, absolutely nothing else!"
Xu Zhenguan squinted, scrutinizing her subtle expressions; a moment later, he smiled gently:
"I didn't say anything, quickly rise."
...
...
Outside the Yangxin Hall.
Zhao Douan watched Xiao Donger disappear from view as she headed toward the Imperial Study Room. After thinking for a moment, he decided not to meet with familiar faces who had returned but instead turned around, took several turns, and arrived at a side hall.
