Ning Shu couldn't help but wonder if Miao Qing would still have a chance to become Li Wen's consort after being labeled disloyal. A wave of schadenfreude washed over her. Miao Qing was a complete white-eyed wolf, biting the hand that fed her. After she became Li Wen's consort, she only added trouble to the original host's life.
"Jiahui, you must come back to the palace to visit Sister-in-law," the Empress said, reaching for Ning Shu's hands as she sized her up.
Today, Jiahui wore a stunning gold-threaded tree peony brocade outfit. Her hair was styled in an intricate and graceful manner, adorned with beautiful hair ornaments. On her feet were embroidered shoes inlaid with pearls. The outfit not only enhanced her imposing presence but also complemented her complexion, making her resemble a consort from the Ninth Heaven. Even the Empress's aura seemed diminished in comparison.
Ning Shu had dressed deliberately to convey that she wasn't slipping away from the palace. She wanted to avoid any rumors about retreating to the Princess Residence to nurse a broken heart when Duan Xinghui returned.
The Empress tightened her grip on Ning Shu's hands, a flicker of envy crossing her face. She had expected Duan Xinghui's death to leave Jiahui devastated, but it was surprising how quickly she seemed to recover.
While the Empress made use of Jiahui, she also harbored jealousy like the other women in the Inner Palace. Ning Shu's special treatment from Li Wen—evident in the large crowd gathered to see her off—only fueled her envy. After all, when had any princess received such respect? Li Wen didn't even treat his own daughters this way.
Ning Shu pulled her hands free and exchanged a few more words with the Empress before curtsying to Li Wen. "This sister-subject is leaving now. Imperial Older Brother, please take care of yourself."
Li Wen replied with a simple "en" before saying, "You should go."
With Yuan Dong's help, Ning Shu climbed into the eight treasures carriage, its hood adorned with green jade and pearls. Little gold bells hung from each corner, tinkling sweetly in the breeze. Two strong horses snorted beside the carriage, stamping the ground impatiently.
Once seated, Ning Shu sighed in relief. She had finally left the Imperial Palace. Closing her eyes, she allowed herself to nap.
Yuan Dong stood to the side, bowing slightly, sensing the change in her master's demeanor. Ever since Ning Shu had woken up, she had treated both Miao Qing and Yuan Dong with a newfound distance, as if she could see through their secrets.
The carriage fell into a soothing silence, broken only by the melodic tinkle of the bells and the rhythmic clop of horse hooves. The gentle sway of the carriage was incredibly comforting.
Ning Shu soon drifted off to sleep. After an unknown amount of time, she felt Yuan Dong gently nudging her awake. "Princess, we've arrived at the Princess Residence."
"En," Ning Shu replied, getting out of the carriage. She looked at the grand vermilion doors and up at the sign above, where the words "Princess Residence" were written in flamboyant cursive calligraphy.
These words had been penned by Li Wen when the residence was completed. They exuded a stern, imposing aura—like golden spears and steel horses, strong enough to engulf the world. This was a stark contrast to Li Wen's usual cold demeanor.
Just from those words, it was clear that Li Wen was meticulous in his endeavors. He would likely be remembered as a great emperor, celebrated for his talents and strength. Suddenly, it struck Ning Shu: since Li Wen cared deeply for his country, she should focus on winning the favor of the people rather than solely on him.
How pitiful it was! She had thought this task would be simple, but it turned out to be far from easy. Li Wen was shaping up to be the biggest boss she had to strategize against.