On New Year's Eve, according to ancestral tradition, the Emperor is supposed to stay at Jianzhang Palace.
To show the world the harmony of the Heavenly Court.
In the past, no matter how busy Xie Zhixing was, he would arrive early at Jianzhang Palace to discuss year-end matters with the Empress like an ordinary couple, caring for and affirming her hard work and accomplishments... This year, such treatment will no longer be available. He has planned a full itinerary to accompany Yun Jiao to New Year's Eve dinner, ice skating in the West Garden, watching fireworks, and after putting her to sleep, he will go to Jianzhang Palace to read by lamp until morning.
He has planned it well.
Until he saw Concubine Li and Consort Ji beside Yun Jiao in Xianfu Palace.
"Greetings, Emperor."
The two greeted him nervously.
Concubine Xi insisted on bringing them along, and if they had known the Emperor was coming, they wouldn't have joined in the excitement.
