The Empress Reigns Supreme

“Your Majesty, something terrible has happened! Fengqi Palace has been sealed off!” The entire staff of Fengqi Palace rushes over in a panic to report the news. The woman wandering outside replies casually, “Then let’s go mooch off the Empress Dowager!” “Your Majesty, the Empress Dowager won’t receive us!” The empress remains unconcerned. “Oh. Then let’s stay at Princess Rongle’s palace.” “Your Majesty, the gates of Rongle Palace are shut, and no one will see us.” The maid runs over, looking helpless. At last, the empress grits her teeth. “It’s fine... Then let’s go to the Cold Palace.” So the great procession follows the self-exiled empress to the Cold Palace. The guards are trembling with fear. “Your Majesty, the Cold Palace is being renovated. His Majesty’s carriage is waiting over there. Would you please accompany him to the imperial bedchamber, Shenlong Hall?” In the distance, the emperor smiles warmly and waves to her. The empress looks at the Cold Palace, which is practically being demolished, and wears an expression of utter despair. Can’t we at least enjoy a little time living apart?