Her expression clearly showed no guilt, when by all rights she should have none, but the suspicion in the Emperor's heart grew like bamboo shoots after the rain, gaining a segment on the way, and another when he saw her in person.
The Emperor said in a serious tone, "Very well, if Mother wishes to hear, then I will tell Mother. Today, the young divine doctor was attacked and nearly injured. Had she not been alert and somewhat skilled, she might have already fallen victim to a fatal blow."
Empress Dowager Jing exclaimed in surprise, "So does Your Majesty think that I am behind this?"
"Isn't it so?" the Emperor retorted through clenched teeth.
"Why would I do such a thing?" Empress Dowager Jing asked.