In the following month, the Empress indeed shut herself away for self-reflection. No matter who visited, she would not see them. All matters of the Harem were temporarily managed by Sister Ji on her behalf, while the Empress herself copied Buddhist scriptures and prayed daily.
Honored Lady Du had succumbed to hysterical madness, nearly harming Honored Lady Cheng and the Little Prince. The Empress ordered her to be demoted to Lady and moved to Yaoguang Hall for rest and recuperation. She also issued a special command that no one was to disturb her.
The concubines instantly understood. This is house arrest! It was almost the same as being sent to the Cold Palace. Honored Lady Du would have no more hope in this life. Amid the sighs, no one dared to utter a word.
Consort Hui Pin, holding her daughter, watched as Palace Attendants moved Honored Lady Du's belongings out one by one. She finally felt a great sense of relief. "At last, she's gone!"
