Kunning Palace.
Huo Mingyan sat in the main seat, and the concubines beneath her were seated on both sides, chattering noisily.
Wen Kuixiang scolded, "Her Majesty has something to say. Why are you all squabbling? Can't you quiet down?"
Shen Yunxi rolled her eyes, "Acting all high and mighty with nothing but chicken feathers."
Huo Mingyan said indifferently, "I have gathered all of you here today not for any private matter of mine. It has been over half a year since His Majesty ascended to the throne, yet the harem remains void of joyous news. You sisters have entered the palace for months, but there's been no sign of movement in your wombs, leaving His Majesty's lineage pitifully thin."
"But, Your Majesty, surely you cannot blame us for this?" A concubine spoke softly, "His Majesty rarely visits the harem. We can scarcely earn his favor, let alone bear children to extend the imperial lineage."
