Due to the performances from envoys of other countries at the Longevity Festival, the individual performances by young ladies from various families were cancelled. Only twenty girls renowned for their dance skills were selected to perform the opening dance, eliminating the prospect of royal marriages.
Many who had prepared for years were left with no stage to shine on, feeling somewhat regretful.
Xiao'er was among the large group leaving the Imperial Palace. All the ladies and madams she passed were lamenting the missed opportunity to get a royal marriage or to catch the attention of a certain young master or heir.
It was then that Xiao'er realized how many women's futures she had ruined with her own idea. She felt guilty.
Shortly after Xiao'er and Shen Chengyao stepped away, a eunuch from the Empress's side approached.
"This servant pays respect to Marquis Shengping and Princess Rui'an."
