Her voice was hoarse, and deep hatred filled the eyes of Consort Xitala.

The palace maids Qingtao and Lvliu exchanged a glance, lowered their heads, and remained silent, secretly planning for their own future.

People strive for higher positions, just as water flows downhill. Qingtao and Lvliu have been in the palace for several years, struggling and learning the ropes there. They have long since learned to choose their trees carefully.

Now, the Hitara clan has lost favor with the emperor due to their improper conduct before him…

After Mid-Autumn Festival

That day, Xu Lejin was leisurely humming a little tune and embroidering a purse in Yikun Palace.

The figure entered with a solemn expression, bowing as he came in from outside Yikun Palace, and reported in a low voice: "Your Majesty, news has come from Yongshou Palace that Consort Xitala passed away this afternoon."

"Okay, I understand."

Xu Lejin responded faintly, finished the last stitch, and murmured, "She behaved improperly before the Emperor and sullied His Majesty's body. It is no surprise that she has passed away now."

"I still remember when we served together in the Empress's palace. We were both head maids by the Empress's side. She was beautiful and quick-witted. When we had free time, I would jokingly say that it was a pity that she was a maid because of her looks."

With a soft sigh, Xu Lejin continued, "Now, in less than two years, everything has changed. I am a concubine with princes and princesses, while she has passed away."

"Ruhua, prepare a funeral rite and send it to pay your respects on my behalf."

Ru Hua respectfully responded, smiling as he spoke.

"Your Majesty is kind and benevolent. Consort Xitala will surely be grateful to Your Majesty in the afterlife."

Nodding slightly, Xu Lejin's expression was calm and composed. "It's just within my capabilities. Mourning her is merely fulfilling the friendship we shared as colleagues and fellow imperial concubines."