Liang Muhui leaned against the door, arms crossed.
"Your esteemed Majesties, the Emperor and Empress, what sort of lovers' game are you playing in front of my palace gates?"
The two were invited inside for tea.
Caught in the act of eavesdropping, Ji Qingwu scratched her ear in embarrassment and sat quietly beside the Emperor.
Emperor Wu Su, in contrast, was completely unflappable. Seated in the seat of honor, he began, "You can no longer stay in the Imperial Palace."
Liang Muhui said, "Oh? Is it the Empress who doesn't want me to remain in the palace?"
Ji Qingwu shook her head.
Zhao Mingyan said, "It's not just you. None of the women in the harem need to stay."
Ji Qingwu turned her head, looking at the Emperor in astonishment.
Liang Muhui could tell at a glance that this was Emperor Wu Su's own decision, and the Empress knew nothing of it.
She said decisively, "Fine. I'll pack my things and leave tonight."
