Qingqing knew this, bowing, “Qingqing is still young; I’ll understand later.” The Emperor said, “Qingqing, I need you to promise me… no, I’m asking you to do something.” At this moment, the Emperor stopped, looking at her earnestly, even forgetting to use the royal “we”, his expression seemed to carry a hint of pleading. Qingqing bowed deeply, solemnly saying, “I know Your Majesty favors me; I’ll do anything within my power, even if it means going through fire and water.”
The Emperor laughed, “It’s not that serious.” He sighed, “I hope, regardless of whether the Crown Prince marries you, after I’m gone, you’ll stay by his side in his study.” Qingqing quickly said, “Your Majesty will live as long as the heavens, there’s no need to…” The Emperor replied, “Who doesn’t die? I hope you’ll promise me that even if you marry someone else, you’ll ensure your husband supports the Crown Prince.”
Qingqing suddenly remembered the words of the Fourth Prince, which might have already reached the Emperor’s ears, and knowing the ongoing rivalry between the Crown Prince and the Fourth Prince, she felt both embarrassed and anxious. The Emperor laughed heartily, “Am I being too meddlesome?” Qingqing, ashamed, buried her head in her chest and continued walking quietly behind the Emperor.
The next day, the Emperor issued an edict stating: Lin Xiang’s eldest daughter, Lin Qingqing, and second daughter, Lin Yafu, are both dignified and well-behaved, especially the eldest, Lin Qingqing, who has won my heart. They are hereby granted the status equivalent to princesses. By imperial decree.
This decree caused quite a stir in the palace, with people marveling at how an “ugly girl” who had offended the Crown Prince could still receive such favor. There was both disdain and envy, while Yafu, a beautiful and lovely girl, was greatly respected and adored. With the decree, Qingqing and Yafu no longer needed to bow to the Crown Prince or others of his rank. At the study room door, Qingqing encountered Li Qin, who was making a stern face towards her. She bowed, unsure whether out of nervousness or defiance. Li Qin, feeling guilty for his harsh words to Qingqing the day before, wanted to apologize, but seeing her expression, he swallowed his words. Throughout the morning class, both Qingqing and the Crown Prince were distracted.
