Noble Consort Zhou suppressed the anger rising within her, her mind racing. She could not explain these matters clearly at this moment; she could only pin her hopes on Emperor Youning showing mercy for Li Chengji’s sake and letting her off for now. Later, she would stage a pitiable scene—fasting, praying, or kneeling indefinitely in the Ancestral Hall—anything to wash away this offense. She clenched her fingers so tightly that her palms stung from her own nails.
A voice announced from outside the tent, "Your Majesty, His Royal Highness the Crown Prince has an urgent matter to report."
Emperor Youning lifted his hand weakly. "Send him in."
Chapter 177