The Emperor continued, “The matter of the Crown Princess, you decide in the future. Both Yafu and Yuzhen will be made side consorts. But remember, even if I am no longer here, your Crown Princess must be unparalleled in virtue.” He looked at Qingqing, “I trust Qingqing.”
Li Qin, who had only Yafu in his heart, understood the Emperor’s meaning. He was still young, and after ascending the throne, he would need Prime Minister Chen’s full support, not just Lin Pu’s. He also sensed Yuzhen’s affection for him and could not refuse the Emperor’s wishes, so he nodded in agreement.
The Emperor then said, “There is one more thing, Qingqing will serve in the study from now on, as your companion.” At this, everyone understood the Emperor’s intent. He was planning to foster a relationship between the two in private. Although Qingqing’s status was only that of a companion, it was still somewhat demeaning, but no one knew how she had persuaded the Emperor, nor dared to ask. Li Qin also dared not; the Emperor had already stepped back, so he had to agree. Sometimes, even a prince could not have everything his way, not even the Emperor.
Chapter 95: The Jade Song
“Qingqing…” Yuzhen, walking out of the palace with Qingqing, seemed to want to say something but hesitated.
“Yuzhen, are you wondering how I convinced the Emperor?” Qingqing gave a light laugh, being straightforward. Sometimes, trust and understanding are key between friends.
Yuzhen nodded, waiting for Qingqing to speak.
“I read the Emperor a poem.”
“What poem?”
“Emerald jade, a humble girl, dare not aspire to noble grace. Grateful for the lord’s golden heart, ashamed for lacking stunning beauty.” Qingqing’s voice was distant and deep. Could such a poem really convince the Emperor?
“Qingqing, I know that’s not your whole intention?” Yuzhen’s smile was mysterious and deep, with a hint of strangeness.
Qingqing chuckled, “Oh? Does my sister know me so well?”
Yuzhen said, “Perhaps you disdain sharing a husband with three thousand others, but I know you care about your feelings. So, you must have reached some kind of agreement with the Emperor.” Her statement was affirmative, not a question.
Qingqing just kept smiling, neither confirming nor denying.
