Upon arriving at the Eastern Palace, Qing Qing saw a crowd of people, some sitting, some standing, but the most eye-catching was the bright yellow figure at the head. Qing Qing did not dare to look closely, only bowing her head in obeisance and wishing for auspiciousness. “Qing Qing, rise,” the Emperor said clearly, then pointed to a woman in noble attire beside him, “This is the Empress, the Crown Prince’s mother. Pay your respects to her as well.” Qing Qing, unsure of the Emperor’s intention, quickly glanced at the Empress but did not dare to stare, bowing once more in greeting. “Rise!” The Empress’s voice was noble and steady, with a hint of warmth that made one feel both her dignity and a sense of familiarity. Qing Qing stepped back, only then daring to steal a glance at the Empress’s face. The Empress was not particularly beautiful, which explained why the Emperor often emphasized “The importance of choosing a wife.” However, the Empress had an aura that commanded respect, her makeup was exquisite and fitting, wearing a rose-colored robe with silver magpies, overlaid with a bright red diamond-patterned shawl. Her head was adorned with a pearl and ruby-set red plum blossom hairpin. She looked regal and dignified. She continued, “Second Son, you were wrong today.” She sipped her tea with an air of a gentle, caring mother scolding a child who had spilled his tea, while Li Qin was already sweating. He quickly knelt on one knee, his tone sincere and repentant: “Your son knows he was wrong, please punish me, Mother Empress!” “Oh?” The Empress maintained her calm demeanor: “What was your mistake?” Li Qin, without hesitation, replied, “Your son should not have been extravagant, wasting precious resources. Nor should I have blamed Miss Lin for criticizing me.” Only then did the Empress nod slightly, instructing the maid beside her to help Li Qin up, and slowly said, “Indeed, the banquet you arranged today was inappropriate. Miss Lin’s criticism was well-intentioned.” She paused, glancing at Qing Qing, and added, “However, Miss Lin’s lack of understanding of etiquette is forgivable, but remember, there must be respect for hierarchy. Before you correct the Crown Prince’s mistake, you must ensure your own safety.” Seeing Qing Qing’s half-understanding expression, she added, “Do you understand?”
The Importance of Choosing a Wife (Part II)
