Consort Xie remained kneeling on the ground, her back straight. "Your Majesty, the Empress, Fengyu has just entered the palace and is unfamiliar with its ways. As you suggested, she was taken to the Third Prince's sleeping quarters—who is plotting against her, and why? Forbidden incense is a banned substance in the palace. How could Fengyu obtain it? The Third Prince has a history of reckless behavior, even toying with palace maids. Why are you determined to pin everything on Fengyu? What grudge does the Empress hold against the Feng Family to want their entire household dead?"
"Silence!" The Empress thundered. "The Emperor is present. He will make the final judgment. Your sophistry will not be tolerated. You claim to have met Fengyu by chance at the lakeside—who can corroborate your story?"
Consort Xie pointed at the eunuch. "This servant said he saw a palace maid bring Fengyu to the Third Prince's sleeping quarters—who can corroborate his statements?"
