Su Xinyi also grew anxious and stood up to address the Empress, "Mother Empress, I and seventh brother will first return to check on things. I will send someone to deliver a message to the Crown Prince, please be at ease."
The Empress, knowing that Su Xinyi was thoughtful, advised her, "You and Prince Rong venturing out of the palace together will surely be noticed. How about this, I will have Mrs. Zhao accompany you, to prevent any groundless gossip."
Prince Rong originally wanted to decline, but upon hearing Su Xinyi readily accept, said, "Thank you, Mother Empress."
The Empress summoned Mrs. Zhao and ordered, "You send them to Qi Country Duke's Mansion and then return immediately."
This was a clear sign that Mrs. Zhao was not to stay at Qi Country Duke's Mansion to gather information. Somewhat surprised by the Empress's decisiveness, Su Xinyi did not bother with pleasantries and, after thanking the Empress once more, she left with Prince Rong and Mrs. Zhao.
