Duke Chong's Mansion.
The Empress arrived at Duke Chong's Mansion in the phoenix carriage.
However, the carriage did not stop directly in front of the mansion's gate.
At a short distance from the gate, the carriage halted.
Nanny Zhou assisted the Empress out, and they walked to the front of the mansion.
Seeing Duke Chong's Mansion draped in white silk and lanterns, the Empress felt a piercing sorrow in her heart.
Duke Chong and the Duchess came out to greet her.
The Empress helped them up, her eyes red-rimmed as she entered the mansion.
Today marked the third day since the passing of the Old Madam of Duke Chong, and many had come to pay their respects.
The Empress knelt down, and Duke Chong hurriedly said, "You must not…"
"Why should I not kneel for my own birth mother?" the Empress choked out.
Duke Chong said nothing.
None of the civil and military officials present dared say a word.
