Empress Qing's plans were exposed, and with a hardened heart, she still insisted on executing Princess Consort Zi.
But unexpectedly, Dugu Sheng furiously rebuked Empress Qing: "Qing Ling, you vile, venomous woman, don't think that because I've appointed Xiu'er as Crown Prince, you can do as you please. Over the years, how many women beside me have you caused to die? Princess Consort Zi is my dearest love; this time, I must not let you harm her and her child. Once I recover, my first act will be to depose you."
Empress Qing was infuriated, resenting, "Emperor, you say Princess Consort Zi is your beloved? Haha, back when you favored me, you clearly told me that I was your true love."
