On either side of the polished wall table were the two great padded armchairs of the same dark wood. Thereafter, both reclining into the chairs, the Empress Dowager listened attentively to what her son had to say. And it must be mentioned that the reactions she displayed here and there were aptly acted out.
She stared at the young Emperor for a moment before slowly blinking, "What?" Her hand flew to her mouth and she shook her head. "No… no… your uncle wouldn't be disloyal to the Dragon Throne nor accuse me of usurping upon your authority."
"I'm sorry Mother," Taizong said softly. "It's true. The weasel takes me for a fool, trying to cover up his schemes, even pointing the finger at you."
