Shangjing.
The white silk decorations of Duke Shun Mansion have not been removed.
Though it is a sunny day, there is a desolate air everywhere.
The servants in the main courtyard are trembling with fear, not daring to make a noise.
The Duchess Shun lying on the couch, her body turned to the wall, has grown significantly thinner, and the bruised marks on her neck are glaring.
The person speaking is the sister-in-law from Duchess Shun's maternal family.
"Mother-in-law has cried over Gui Zhi's affairs repeatedly, and right now, her biggest worry is you."
"We're still hiding the matter from you, fearing it would sadden the elderly lady. When she heard I was coming today, she wanted to come along. However, she's aged, her body isn't as strong as before, and in your current state, it wouldn't be good for her to see you. Both your brother and I persuaded her time and again."
Duchess Shun does not respond.
