The accusation sounded absurd to the Ministers in attendance, they exchanged glances with each other, uncertain of how the Emperor could even entertain such thoughts.
"Consort Xīnyí, how do you plead to this accusation?" The Emperor demanded, glaring at his beloved consort as though she were filth.
The consort in turn weakly lifted her gaze to him and parted her lips, "Jiang He? Who is that?" She asked in a listless tone, denying the man she had personally recommended from the outskirts.
"Do you think I'm here to play games?!" The Emperor slammed his curled fist against table, startling the parents and officials alike.
"Please calm down your majesty!" The Ministers chorused, bowing at almost the same time to the disgruntled Emperor.
However, Xīnyí remained unfazed and even went as far as to sit on the floor, the Emperor clicked his tongue in distaste. "Tasteless! How dare you act like this in court?! Consort Xīnyí, are you aware your behavior is a crime?"
