Consort Yu did not respond with much enthusiasm to the Empress's overtures, a reaction entirely consistent with her established reputation.
As for Consort Rui, who previously only sought to trouble the Empress, she had today turned her sights on Consort Yu as well. Whether she was acting out of sheer foolishness to make enemies on two fronts, or whether she possessed such immense confidence that she felt no fear, no one could say for certain. Had Prince Jin perhaps performed some great new service for the Emperor recently?
Once the minor disturbance had passed, the Empress resumed hosting as if nothing had happened, encouraging everyone to continue with their food and drink. About an hour later, Mother Su, a servant close to the Empress Dowager, emerged. "Your Majesty, esteemed consorts, the Empress Dowager invites you all to Changle Palace to offer prayers."
Chapter 733