“This… this is not Shu’er’s handwriting. Please clarify, Empress Dowager,” Shu Fei responded smoothly, showing no sign of panic.
“Wan’er, tell everyone the origin of this scroll,” Mu Lengchen commanded sternly, looking at Shu Fei. He had never known his familiar Shu Fei could remain so composed in chaos!
“I found this near the assassin. But I dare not guess if it is Shu Fei’s handwriting,” Wan’er replied softly, her head bowed.
“Xiao Gongong, compare Shu Fei’s usual calligraphy and bring Jin Zhi,” Mu Lengchen ordered the eunuch outside.
Shu Fei was somewhat at a loss, her eyes darting to the Empress Dowager seeking final help. She had been blinded by anger, wanting to punish Mei Siyu, but unexpectedly not only failed but also let the scroll fall into the Emperor’s hands. How could she proceed? If the Emperor misunderstood this as a plot against him, not only would her life be in danger, but her parents would also be implicated. Mu Lengchen had always been cold-blooded and would surely expand the charges to her entire household – something she absolutely did not want!
Even if it cost her life, she would not admit the scroll was hers. Jin Zhi was her confidante and would never betray her. Moreover, the black-clothed man was dead, so there was no direct evidence. If she denied everything, what could they do to her? Shu Fei thought to herself.
These, these, this servant deserves to die, should not have listened to Shu Fei’s orders, intending to harm the Emperor, this servant deserves to die, this servant’s death is not regrettable, and I beg the Emperor to have mercy and spare Shu Fei.” Jin Zhi knelt on the ground, crying bitterly.
“Jin Zhi, when did I ask you to assassinate the Emperor? You must have been bribed to deliberately frame me!” Shu Fei Xing Mu glared angrily at the personal maidservant kneeling beside her, who she had originally thought would never betray her, but who had now pushed her into an abyss.
“My lady, you cannot make another mistake. Do not blame Jin Zhi for speaking the truth. At this point, I cannot let you continue to be reckless!” Jin Zhi cried.
