The Empress Dowager was hesitant to allow daughters of noble families into the palace, fearing the Emperor might favor them through their familial connections. As she was advanced in years, she recognized the importance of external alliances. However, being too ruthless could result in a reputation for jealousy, especially as her clan awaited her to establish their prestige. The Empress Dowager desired more than just power. Xu Qiu’er silently questioned her intentions, thinking, “Do you really think I know nothing, my Empress Dowager?”
Noticing Cang Yue still standing still, Xu Qiu’er raised her eyebrows and whispered, “Why aren’t you going?”
“Your Highness,” Cang Yue responded gently, “Forgive me for speaking out of turn. Last time, when you arranged those sisters, the Crown Prince scolded you. It’s been over a month since he visited Autumn Hall. If he learns about your arrangements again, we may offend both him and the Empress Dowager. Instead, you should focus on regaining his favor.”
Xu Qiu’er paused, recalling the events from a month ago. Who the Crown Prince chose to favor was his business; her involvement had been a misstep. Allowing him to indulge in beauty was seen as servility.
But in the inner palace, beauties competed relentlessly, and no matter how enchanting they were, he would eventually tire of them. She was unwilling to have physical contact with Long Hanxie, who was not entirely heartless but awaited her to beg him. Yet, she aimed to preserve her damaged body.
Now, she assisted the Empress in managing the six palaces, handling every detail to maintain peace in the inner court. She understood etiquette and propriety, and helping the Crown Prince select suitable concubines was the duty of a virtuous concubine. Unfortunately, instead of earning the title “virtuous,” she was labeled “servile.” The Emperor did not comprehend Xiao Ju’s role, and discussions of the Crown Prince’s wife might even overshadow the Pure Concubine.
Beauty could not sustain her position long-term. She remained there only because he had shown her favor, but the duration of that favor was uncertain. To consolidate her position, she had to take indirect routes.
“This isn’t happening inside the palace. The Crown Prince is going to the Tangyuan palace, so how can anything on the road be blamed on me?” Xu Qiu’er waved her hand. “Go, just be careful.”
