Given the Empress' not-so-prominent family background, the fact that she has remained secure on the queen throne for so many years shows she is certainly no fool.
In the joy of expecting her son's return, the Empress called for Mrs. Zhao and directed her, "You should first explain to the Crown Prince about the preparations for the Chinese Valentine's Day banquet: how it was managed in previous years and clarify this year's regulations."
Mrs. Zhao smiled in agreement.
Taking the opportunity, Su Xinyi stood up to take her leave, but the Empress said, "Don't rush, you should first get acquainted with Mrs. Zhao. Come back later, as I have other matters to discuss with you."
Su Xinyi was taken aback but nodded in agreement nonetheless.
Mrs. Zhao apparently had been prepared, laying out the account books and regulations of the past Qixi banquets, all written down explicitly, ensuring that following them to the letter would prevent any mistakes.
