Jiang Yunshan sat among the crowd, basking in the flattering and insincere compliments from the noble young ladies surrounding her.
The grandmother of the Zhenguo Duke's family was celebrating her 70th birthday. Just days ago, Jiang Yunshan's status wouldn't have qualified her to attend such a grand event. But now?
Jiang Yunshan glanced around with a smug expression. Who would dare look down on her anymore?
Unbeknownst to her, the whispers of the truly noble young ladies filled the air.
"Is this the illegitimate daughter from the General's household? The one who somehow got lucky and caught the eye of the Imperial family?"
"Indeed. She's managed to perch herself on a high branch, hasn't she? A sparrow trying to become a phoenix."
Their murmurs were interrupted by an announcement that silenced the bustling hall:
"Her Royal Highness and the County Lord of Qingyang have arrived!"
At these words, the lively Flower Hall fell into hushed reverence. The 70-year-old matriarch rose personally to greet the princess.
Jiang Yunshan clenched her handkerchief tightly. When she had arrived, the old lady hadn't even deigned to meet her, sending a daughter-in-law instead. And Jiang Lingzhen? All eyes had turned to her upon her arrival, the comparisons inevitable.
Jiang Yunshan glanced down at her own attire. The fabric, a gift from the Palace, was meant to symbolize her elevated status among the guests. Yet, compared to Jiang Lingzhen, it felt utterly inadequate.
The Emperor's only full-blooded sister was Princess Wencheng, known for her love of exquisite treasures. Naturally, Qingyang County Lord, Jiang Lingzhen, was adorned with rare and priceless items.
Jiang Yunshan overheard women discussing Jiang Lingzhen's shoes:
"Did you see the pearls on her shoes? They're as large as pigeon eggs! They were tributes from the Northeast King—practically priceless! The Empress and Empress Dowager each have a pair, and Princess Wencheng owns the last."
To Jiang Yunshan's horror, they were not reserved for the Princess but instead adorned Jiang Lingzhen's footwear.
This single detail left all the other women at the event overshadowed by Jiang Lingzhen. Her every accessory spoke of rarity and unparalleled value.
Feeling the weight of judgmental gazes and whispers, Jiang Yunshan couldn't stand it anymore. Making an excuse to those nearby, she slipped away for some air.
Her departure, however, did not go unnoticed. The noblewomen watched as she failed to rise to greet her mother and instead avoided her. Their silent judgment was clear: she might wear fine clothes, but her lack of proper etiquette betrayed her origins as an illegitimate daughter.
Amidst the gathering, the Crown Prince's gaze lingered on Gu Shengyin.
In his mind, Jiang Lingzhen had always been his destined wife. Though he had found her guarded and distant, he had been satisfied with the match. But now, his father's decree had bestowed Jiang Yunshan, the illegitimate daughter, as his concubine.
The announcement had left him reeling with one persistent thought: If Jiang Lingzhen isn't to marry me, who else could possibly deserve her?
The Crown Prince surveyed the hall. Women like Jiang Yunshan were commonplace. But Jiang Lingzhen? Her unparalleled beauty, noble grace, and untouchable status made her unique in the entire dynasty. To him, only the future Emperor—himself—could lay claim to such a woman.
His intense gaze burned as he watched Gu Shengyin, who was surrounded by admiration. The fire in his eyes betrayed his desire.
Little did he know that every move of his was being carefully observed by another figure, silently noting his every expression and intention.
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