In Changning Palace, the main hall was filled with a strong medicinal aroma.
The Empress Dowager lay on the bed, her eyes red and swollen, evidently having cried after waking up. Seeing Ling Hua and Sun Qiaoyan arrive, she, with the help of Nanny Sun, sat up and scrutinized the two, frowning, "How come you both look so worn out? The dark circles under your eyes are so pronounced; haven't you been sleeping well?"
Nanny Sun immediately responded, "The young mistress and Fourth Miss Sun have not slept for an entire day and night. Last night was chaotic all through the night, with the entire palace being thoroughly investigated. This morning, after His Majesty ordered the mourning bell, the young mistress drew Fourth Miss Sun to accompany her in rearranging palace affairs, dispatching personnel, and they've been busy the whole day. Initially, I wanted to help, but with you being ill, I couldn't attend and could only rely on the young mistress and Fourth Miss Sun."
