The Empress Dowager persisted, explaining, "It's not that the fifth princess didn't provide proper guidance; rather, it's an inherent trait of her character. This has nothing to do with the Empress."
Given that the Empress was her own niece, it was only natural for her to defend her.
The Empress Dowager further noted, "Remarkably, the fifth princess bears a strong resemblance to her father and brother, both of whom possess an especially fervent disposition."
The emperor's countenance shifted, and he interjected, "Mother, you've misunderstood!"
The mention of the fifth princess's father and brother alluded to himself and the crown prince. While they may have had numerous romantic liaisons, the emperor and the crown prince were men, not women.
The Empress Dowager retorted with a sneer, "Your Majesty, what's the distinction?"
