Yet, undeterred by the discord that simmered beneath the surface, Lilith pressed on, her gaze unwavering as she addressed the heart of the matter.
"Now, onto more pressing matters," she continued, her tone firm yet diplomatic.
"The empress dowager has bestowed upon me the honor of preparing the upcoming moon festival, which coincides with my birthday in two weeks' time."
Concubine Zhao Wei, her voice tinged with bitterness, interjected, "Again? It seems Her Majesty is always favored with such prestigious tasks."
Lilith's jaw tightened imperceptibly, but she maintained her composure, her tone measured as she replied,
"The empress dowager's decisions are not ours to question. We are merely servants of the imperial court, bound by duty and tradition."
