Metamorphosis of an Ugly Girl – Part One

At these words, a fine layer of sweat broke out on Qing Qing, realizing the gravity of the situation. The Empress was smiling at her, and Qing Qing forced herself to calm down, saying, “Your servant will remember the Empress’s teachings.” She then bowed deeply three times before stepping back. The Empress then beckoned to Ya Fu, signaling her to come forward. Despite her fear, Ya Fu immediately put on a smile and approached obediently. The Empress took her hand, smiling, “You did well. The Crown Prince has a temper; he needs someone like you to guide him.” Then, she subtly slipped a transparent jade bracelet from her wrist onto Ya Fu’s, smiling, “This is my reward for you, no refusals.” Ya Fu nodded submissively and whispered, “My elder sister also had the Crown Prince’s best interests at heart, please do not blame her.” The Empress’s face suddenly darkened, and she said sternly, “I have not blamed her.” Realizing she was too stern, she smiled and added, “You are very clever, but remember, ‘The greatest wisdom appears foolish.'” Ya Fu, not fully understanding the meaning, nodded and retreated. Qing Qing, however, understood, recalling Mr. Liu’s words when she had pleaded for Ya Fu and Lin Hong: “You are very clever, but the cleverest should not show it, nor should others perceive your cleverness. The greatest wisdom is to appear foolish.” Mr. Lin had explained it clearly, whereas the Empress’s single phrase, “The greatest wisdom appears foolish,” left Ya Fu puzzled. This was because Ya Fu had not genuinely pleaded for Qing Qing but had instead revealed the Empress’s displeasure about Qing Qing offending the Crown Prince, which naturally upset the Empress. In the midst of the silence, the Emperor said, “The Empress need not be so stern; they are still learning etiquette.” The Empress immediately looked at the Emperor, her voice softening, “Your Majesty is right, I will remember.” Her eyes conveyed admiration and respect, making her face appear even more beautiful. The Emperor then addressed Lord Lin, “Lord Lin, do not privately scold Qing Qing.” Lord Lin responded affirmatively. The Emperor continued to Qing Qing, “I intended to visit your father in the study to see how your studies are progressing, but when I got there, the little eunuch said you all had come to the Eastern Palace for a meal. Upon coming here, I realized the Crown Prince had erred.”