Consort Rui stood up abruptly, fuming. "Empress, Jin'er is the God of War of Dongling! For years, he has repeatedly performed meritorious service for our nation. How can you allow such blatant slander against a general so loyal and devoted?"
Everyone present knew that although the Empress held the highest position in the inner palace, she lacked a capable son, and her status was actually inferior to Consort Rui's. Otherwise, the Empress and Consort Rui would not have been seated on equal footing during the Emperor’s hunting trip. Because her son was formidable, Consort Rui could stand on equal ground with the Empress most of the time, outside of formal state banquets. Often, the Emperor even preferred to listen to her opinions while frequently neglecting the Empress. The saying "a mother gains status through her son" was perfectly embodied in Consort Rui.
Chu Yueli had already returned to her seat and was sipping tea. She was still covered in grime. Glancing across the way, she saw Prince Mo sitting in his own place, also drinking tea, though his movements were somewhat slower than before. He had been wounded—not lightly—but he did not show it. Clad in black, it was impossible to tell whose blood stained his robes. He had insisted it was the blood of his prey, and neither the Emperor, the Empress, nor Consort Rui had questioned him.
Chapter 239