Why did the emperor poison the consort?
I don't think this is ever properly explained.
As far as I can tell, the emperor is aware of the plot to overthrow him throughout the movie. He is also aware of the illicit affair between his first son and his consort, and has been "for some time". Although his first son attempts suicide rather than go along with the consort's plan to overthrow the emperor. The emperor wonders if the son considered how the emperor would feel. Nevertheless, he blames the consort for seducing his son, and later indicates that his first son truly is/was his favorite son.
So, would you say this is the reason for poisoning the consort?
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Shadows fell on their futile ways, and then there was nothing more...