Counterattack of the Cannon Fodder Chambermaid Chapter 7: 61 to 70, a manhua/chinese comics/漫画 fanfic

After lunch, Xiao Hua walked around her room to digest a little, and went to curl up on the warm kiln.

If it wasn't time to sleep, she would rarely go into the bedroom.

Snow was falling heavily at this time, the skies were cold and the ground was frozen. Since no one would come visit her, Xiao Hua felt that it was very comfortable curling up on the kiln and watching the snow outside, sleeping a little if she felt sleepy.

Xiao Hua usually wouldn't force herself to think about problems she couldn't solve. She just had to quietly observe any changes. She had only been in the rear court for a brief period of time. Things would slowly become clear.

Only by thinking this way would that suffocating feeling of urgency fade a little.

She unintentionally saw the book that the Jing Prince was reading last night on the kiln. Xiao Hua picked it up and flipped through it a little.

Looking at the cover, she realized it was a travel log.

The Jing Prince felt like a rigorous person, and this sort of light reading for leisure didn't seem to be the type of book he would read. However, this was precisely what he had been reading.

Xiao Hua was a little stunned and felt that the book in her hands didn't match that person's appearance. Since she was bored and idle, she also started reading it.

The more she read the more she got drawn in. Before she knew it, half an hour had gone by.

Chun Cao, whom she hadn't seen in several days, came in and switched out Xiao Hua's tea.

"Hey, Chun Cao. What have you been busy with these past few days? It feels like you haven't been around."

Chun Cao gave Xiao Hua a slightly aggrieved look, saw Ding Xiang who had been standing constantly by the side, and hurriedly half lowered her head.

"This servant has been busy organizing madam's allowance the last couple days."

Xiao Hua let out an 'oh', took a sip of her tea and buried her head back into the travel log.

Chun Cao walked slowly out of the western room.

According to reason, she had served Madam Hua the longest. When Madam Hua was still a low-ranked palace maid, she was also a low-ranked palace maid, and it was even because of Madam Hua that she was able to be relocated to the Hall of Splendor.

Since Madam Hua had ascended to the sky, she expected herself to also rise with the tide. However, when she got to the western pavilion she realized Madam Hua's personal palace maids had already been arranged, and she had become unnecessary.

Everyone had their own place. There was a quota for two personal palace maids. It was only because she had come along from the Hall of Splendor with Madam Hua that the high-ranked palace maid Ding Xiang had arranged her to serve inside the house.

Her happy heart was suddenly doused by someone with a bucket of cold water. Even though Chun Cao knew that her age was insufficient to become a high-ranked palace maid, she still inexplicably felt some grievance in her heart at this arrangement.

That Ding Xiang managed her and six other palace maids, and was very strict. In front of the madam she was respectful and deferential, but in front of them she was as strict as can be. Although she didn't beat or curse at them, she was still strict enough to make others feel fear.

Ding Xiang had arranged her to work outside with the other low-ranked palace maids. Although she told the madam that she would be arranged to serve inside the house, she actually never allowed her to enter.

Chun Cao had labelled Ding Xiang as someone treacherous from the start.

This was just her initial impression. Afterwards, that night after the madam had gone to bed, Ding Xiang called her outside and gave her a lecture. Her general meaning was that she would still be able to serve inside the house, but it would depend on her performance. If she behaved well then she would make the arrangements.

These few days Chun Cao was very well behaved on the surface. In her heart she was actually saying that Ding Xiang better not let her seize the chance to go complain to the madam. She had accompanied the madam for so long, she would probably be on her side. But today when Ding Xiang arranged for her to enter and serve tea, she saw the madam yet wasn't able to tattle.

Chun Cao thought it was because it wasn't the right moment since Ding Xiang was there as well.

Xiao Hua glanced at Chun Cao's back and lowered her head again to read.

Although she was literate and had read several books before, it had been a while since she last did so. The reading was quite strenuous. However, the stories recorded in the travel log were exciting, so she stuttered along and felt her mood was pretty good.

"Ding Xiang."

"Madam."

"Chun Cao is someone who has been with me from the beginning. I'd like to look after her."

Xiao Hua thought that Ding Xiang should probably understand her meaning.

"Madam, this servant understands." Ding Xiang paused and continued: "This servant isn't trying to make things difficult for her. Her attitude isn't right and this servant just wants to polish her up a little. If she continues developing as is, she will cause problems for the madam."

Xiao Hua raised her head, "It's not that serious, right?"

Ding Xiang looked Xiao Hua in the eyes, "Mistresses are mistresses, and servants are servants. She shouldn't be unaware of her own place just because she has some relationship with the mistress."

"Chun Cao isn't someone who doesn't know her place…."

"That's because it hasn't developed to that extent." Ding Xiang half lowered her head and said quietly: "Madam, your birth is not noble. Chun Cao also watched as you became a mistress in a single leap…."

Xiao Hua looked at Ding Xiang without sorrow or anger, her expression very calm.

Ding Xiang raised her head and looked at Xiao Hua, continuing to speak: "What inappropriate thoughts will slowly develop into is something none of us can foresee. However, Ding Xiang knows that Chun Cao's thoughts will only cause madam many problems if they continue to develop."

After half a moment, she said again: "Madam cannot afford to deal with any more problems at the moment."

Their eyes met.

Xiao Hua sighed and retreated in defeat, "Alright, I don't really understand these things. However, I trust you."

Ding Xiang didn't reveal much on the surface, but she felt relieved in her heart.

"Ding Xiang will not fail to live up to madam's trust."

Xiao Hua continued reading the book in her hands. Ding Xiang once again sat on the small stool and did some needlework.

The room was very quiet.

"Ding Xiang, where did you work in the past? I feel you aren't someone who came in from the outside." Xiao Hua casually flipped through the book and her tone was one of casual conversation.

Ding Xiang had her head down and her hands never stopped moving.

"This servant was a low-ranked palace maid in the imperial palace. When his highness came to the Jing Province, this servant was assigned over by the palace." She paused, and spoke again: "After coming to the Jing Province, this servant worked under Auntie Qi."

"Oh."

Although the one on the kiln didn't continue speaking, Ding Xiang glanced over, a slight smile appearing on the corner of her lips.

At first when Auntie Qi sent her over, she had felt a little apprehensive in her heart. However, after spending some time with this mistress, she felt that Madam Hua was a pretty good person.

It wasn't known how much time had passed when Xiao Hua's voice sounded from the top of the kiln.

"The consort's side is forcing things tightly. It seems I can only act shamelessly the entire time."

The voice was very fleeting, the person who spoke seemed as if she wasn't even paying attention. However, this made Ding Xiang let out another rarely seen smile.

Xiao Hua did indeed act shamelessly to the bitter end.

Every time she went to pay respects, her attitude was very respectful and she advanced or retreated with her words very appropriately. However, she never even touched the drinks and snacks at the Changchun Pavilion.

The Jing Consort would sometimes appear, and sometimes would only leave them hanging.

No matter what the Jing Consort ended up doing, Xiao Hua decided to remain steady to the end, sitting there unmoving like a clock.

After a few days, not only did the Jing Consort become extremely irritable at the lack of developments, Senior Concubine Qiao had started viewing her in a new light. Even Yu Rong felt that this Madam Hua didn't seem to be a simple mistress.

Yu Jiao didn't consider whether Xiao Hua was simple or not, but only felt that she had a lot of issues.

She would have indigestion every day, or a lack of appetite, or loss of taste due to a cold…after this carried on for a while, even Yu Jiao started feeling something wasn't right, and didn't need Yu Rong to say anything.

In the past the two of them had never been on guard against the Jing Consort's food and drink. It was because they weren't favored, and they also didn't feel that the Jing Consort would do something like try to poison them.

This morning during the routine paying of respects, the Jing Consort suddenly threw a bolt from the blue.

"Congratulations, little sis Hua. His highness has visited you twice in the last five days. You're really extremely favored by his highness." The Jing Consort's smile seemed a little twisted, and her tone was also very ugly, not as nice and amicable as in the past.

Thinking of what her subordinates had reported, the Jing Consort gritted her teeth in hatred. This lowly hussy. She appeared docile on the surface but actually harbored evil intentions. She actually roped his highness over under everyone's noses without anyone finding out about it.

Xiao Hua gave her a glance. Was she jealous, or trying to make her everyone's target, or showing off her information gathering skills?

Probably all of the above.

After the Jing Prince went to her place, the next few times she came to pay respects Xiao Hua had been a little worried the Jing Consort and the rest would make things difficult for her, or attack her outright. However things had been unexpectedly peaceful. The second time the Jing Prince came was three days ago. Who knew that they had only now found out about it?

Xiao Hua calculated in her heart that perhaps the Jing Consort, Senior Concubine Qiao and the two Madams Yu weren't as well-informed as she expected?

Towards the Jing Consorts words, Xiao Hua merely lowered her head and adopted a restrained posture, not saying anything.

The Jing Consort's words really stirred up huge waves amongst the others. However, no one questioned the validity of her statement. Just based on the Jing Consort's unpleasant expression they could tell the news wasn't false.

"We really couldn't tell, little sis Hua has such abilities?"

"Someone who had served under his highness in the past really is on a different level from us. Of course she gets treated more favorably."

"Congratulations little sis Hua. Really makes one deathly jealous."

Yu Jiao's face immediately turned red from jealous spite. Even Senior Concubine Qiao and Yu Rong who rarely spoke couldn't hide their jealousy and spoke several mocking phrases.

Looks like the Jing Prince's actions had thoroughly provoked them.

Xiao Hua wasn't surprised at Yu Jiao's change in expression, and the Jing Consort's anger was expected. However, she didn't expect that Senior Concubine Qiao who had been low-key all this time would also be unable to endure. After all, she had given Xiao Hua the impression of someone still on the fence!

Being attacked from all sides by three jealous women, Xiao Hua remained steadily seated like Mt. Tai. Her posture was still the same half lowered face, sitting there without speaking. It definitely wasn't possible for her to not have heard everything, but she still acted as if she hadn't.

The Jing Consort who was in the seat of honor seemed to feel that she had seen enough of the show and found it hard to conceal her restlessness. She waved her hand with an impatient air of 'we're done paying respects so you guys can scram'.

In the past the Jing Consort had always put on a dignified appearance, but today her face had changed dramatically. It was clear that this news had truly provoked her a lot.

The few people all stood and finished up paying respects for the day.

Unfortunately, due to the Jing Consort gathering everyone's hatred onto her, it wasn't as peaceful as the last few days. After Xiao Hua left the main hall and entered the hallway, Yu Jiao continued to fire off sour words of mockery.

Looking at Yu Jiao's appearance, Xiao Hua felt like she seemed to be possessed by Qiao Lian.1

"Big sisters, this servant concubine will take her leave first." After speaking, Xiao Hua left with Ding Xiang and Ding Lan. From start to finish, she never responded to their words and didn't reveal any indignant expressions. She was shockingly calm.

After leaving the Changchun Pavilion's gates, Ding Lan couldn't resist saying: "This consort is too immoral. Isn't she attracting hostility onto the madam? Also those Madams Yu, especially that Madam Yu Jiao, their words were too ugly."

"Enough, keep your voice down." Ding Xiang said.

"It's fine. They can say whatever they want, it's not like I'll lose any skin over it." Xiao Hua yawned and adjusted the hood over her head. "Right, Ding Xiang. Why do I feel the consort and the rest aren't that well-informed?"

Ding Xiang muttered to herself for a bit before saying: "Probably because they weren't prepared for it. After all, his highness rarely comes to the rear court."

What Ding Xiang didn't mention was that his highness would go for over a year and a half without visiting the rear court in the past, so there weren't many struggles. Now with the appearance of Madam Hua, as well as his highness's two visits, the others would definitely keep a close eye on her place.

Even If Ding Xiang didn't say it, Xiao Hua also understood this. Looks like there will be many problems in the future.

"That's true."

At this time, Xiao Hua's feelings were extremely complicated. She hated being targeted like this, but also felt a little relieved.

It's also good that they knew his highness was coming to her place. At least now on the surface they could only say a few harsh words. When they couldn't do anything to her openly, all that was left to deal with were the hidden schemes.

That one sarcastic low-ranked palace maid ex-roommate.

The Jing Consort truly hadn't made many preparations.

Having been married so many years to the Jing Prince, although she didn't truly understand him she at least knew him a little. This man didn't seem like a man, and he was very apathetic towards things between men and women.

When they first got married, due to the unwillingness in her heart, they didn't even consummate their marriage on their wedding night. It was only after a few days when she was afraid the palace would make inquiries that she reluctantly consummated their marriage. In reality she was just going through the motions.

While they were newlywed, he would come to her room every few days. However, she wasn't willing, and he also didn't force her. Afterwards, things slowly dulled down until today. He never spent the night at her place anymore.

Thinking of the past, the Jing Consort had cursed herself for her foolishness several times.

Over the years, she would occasionally imagine that if she hadn't been so foolish in the beginning, they could probably have become a loving couple. After all, when she married him the Jing Prince's situation was extremely rough. He wasn't young anymore but he wasn't old enough to leave for his vassal state yet. All he had in the palace were cold glances and mockery.

If she had been more sensible and helped him weather these tribulations, their relationship would definitely be extremely good. Unfortunately she had been too young, and could only think of her "cousin" while forgetting that her husband was actually the one whom she would spend a lifetime with.

"What do we do, what do we do? Nana?"

The Jing Consort was really desperate this time.

Others may not realize what visiting twice in five days implied, but she did.

The Jing Prince was afraid of inconvenience and liked to simplify matters. His personality was apathetic to begin with, and therefore would rarely come to the rear court.

Since her relationship with him was estranged, even if she clearly knew his main issue with the rear court was the inconvenience, she would never give the others a clue. As long as she didn't have a child, she would not permit anyone else to have one first. Putting medicine in the tea was one method, and playing dumb about the situation was another.

This was also why she was extremely irritated at Eunuch Fu's group for taking the initiative, and also why she would make countless schemes to move that person out of the Hall of Splendor and into the rear court. Because she understood the Jing Prince's personality. He was an independent person, and to put the idea in his mind of visiting the rear court was very difficult.

However, there was now an exception in this difficulty.

But the exception wasn't for her!

Nana Li looked at the Jing Consort whose face was filled with panic, and couldn't think of any good ideas at the moment.

"Consort, don't panic yet." Chun Xiang soothed.

The Jing Consort smashed the decorations at her side and was a little hysterical, "You told me not to panic yet while she was still in the Hall of Splendor. Now you're still telling me not to panic. When she wasn't able to get pregnant at that time, it was because she didn't have the luck. Now if his highness continues visiting her so frequently, it's only a matter of time before she gets pregnant."

Something the Jing Consort hadn't said, but what even a blind person would know, was that being able to change the Jing Prince's personality was something truly horrifying.

"Vixen! Slut!"

The Jing Consort's face was horrifyingly twisted. Only the heavens were aware how much effort she had spent in preventing herself from tearing that person apart earlier.

Nana Li opened her mouth and said, "Consort, panicking now won't do anything. First of all, who knows if his highness isn't just briefly interested? We can't discern anything from just these two visits. His personality has been like this for many years, it's impossible for him to change overnight. His highness rarely visits to begin with, and in such a short time becoming pregnant isn't a certainty. As long as we put forth a little more effort, she would have no hope left."

"But haven't you seen it? She refuses to touch any of the Changchun Pavilion's things."

"Then we will force her to."

The next day while they were paying respects, the Jing Consort said she wanted to invite all her sisters to the Changchun Pavilion for a banquet. The time was set three nights later.

The Jing Consort smiled very good-naturedly, her attitude seeming to have done a complete 180, making people inevitably bewildered by their doubts.

But since the consort who was above them had spoken, those below could only honestly obey.

Although she said "invite", could they really treat it as an invitation? Don't be silly, she was really just informing you about it, and you couldn't refuse to go.

On the way back to the Rongxi Pavilion, Senior Concubine Qiao's smile was filled with considerable meaning.

Cui'er didn't understand the implications, but Die'er did.

Let's see how that Madam Hua would handle this.

There never seemed to be too much liveliness to watch. If no one was targeting you, you can naturally sit back and watch the show.

At the western pavilion.

Because of the Jing Consort's sudden banquet invitation, Xiao Hua was very quiet these two days.

Although it wasn't really apparent on the surface, Ding Xiang and Ding Lan who served her closely could see she was abnormal.

She seemed a little fidgety, but she had suppressed it beneath her silent exterior. She ate and slept as normal without saying anything. Ding Xiang wanted to speak up, but didn't know where to start.

In the end, no matter how competent she was, she was still a servant.

It's true that in the past she had been with Auntie Qi, but since Auntie Qi had sent her over she had made it very clear. In the future, her mistress would be Madam Hua.

Auntie Qi's meaning was clear to Ding Xiang. Auntie Qi managed internal affairs but never interfered in the business of the rear court. This attitude Ding Xiang was also clear about. In the future, she could only rely on herself, or on Madam Hua.

Actually if Ding Xiang had the choice, she wouldn't have wanted to come serve Madam Hua.

The Jing Estate's rear court had always been peaceful, but that was because there hadn't been any wind. Madam Hua's appearance shattered this previous peace. Regarding this situation, Auntie Qi had hinted at it a couple times. She understood even more clearly what she would have to face in the future.

But since Auntie Qi ordered it, even if she was unwilling she could only obey.

Before she came, she was nervous. After she came, she got rid of any distracting thoughts and set her heart to do her job well. She knew that Auntie Qi looked well upon her always steady appearance and sent her over to give Madam Hua some assistance.

Having spent some time with her, she felt this mistress of hers was not simple. After the Jing Prince visited twice, she was joyful in her heart, and felt even more that Madam Hua's future prospects wouldn't be bad.

Although her thoughts were good and their momentum looked to be decent, it couldn't withstand the Jing Consort's continuous pressure.

Without any proof, no one could accuse the Jing Consort of wanting to do something.

She was the consort, and apart from the Jing Prince she had the highest status in the estate. Even if everyone knew in their hearts this wasn't really the case, just based on her status she was able to easily manipulate the concubines beneath her.

Furthermore the Jing Consort hadn't done anything that was over the line these few days. She had merely offered some tea and snacks while people came to pay respects. It was just treating her guests, and there wasn't anything anyone could fault her on. Also, there was a reason for the banquet: to celebrate the addition of a new little sis in the rear court.

Xiao Hua would actually prefer it if the consort came at her with her knives bared. It would make it easier for her to deal with her schemes. But since she maintained a warm appearance, her schemes in the dark were especially hard to deal with.

Although her methods were crude, it was still not possible to guard against them.

In other words, even if Xiao Hua accidentally fell victim, could she say it was done by the Jing Consort? Who would believe anyone would openly slip medicine to someone inside their own pavilion? Even fools wouldn't do such a thing, but the Jing Consort precisely did such a "foolish" thing.

Without falling victim, just based on her conjecture no one would believe her. After falling victim and using herself as evidence, what use would it be to make a fuss then? Moreover, the Jing Prince hadn't come to visit since coming those two times. He was an apathetic master who was hard to see through, and didn't seem to be treating anyone more favorably.

From an outsider's perspective, the Jing Prince visiting twice in five days was a sort of special favor. But Ding Xiang who served by Xiao Hua's side had never seen the Jing Prince's apathetic face show any trace of special feelings towards Madam Hua.

When other men favored a woman, they would eventually bestow some things, or use various methods to make the woman feel special and make others feel afraid to intrude.

But this usual convention seemed to be lost on the Jing Prince. He came with an apathetic face, and left with the exact same expression. He didn't bestow anything and didn't make any extra motions, not even saying a few words more. No one could understand what he was thinking.

In the past while Ding Xiang worked as a palace maid in the estate, she at most felt that the Jing Prince's personality was a little strange, but didn't think too much about it. But coming to the western pavilion to serve Madam Hua, her status and circumstances had changed. Looking at the Jing Prince now, she couldn't help but feel more anxious, especially since Madam Hua's situation looked unstable at the moment.

Xiao Hua understood the situation as well.

Therefore she could only constantly endure, and didn't get into open conflict with the Jing Consort. She also never assumed that the Jing Prince's treatment of her meant that he favored her. To put it plainly, it wasn't love, it wasn't favor. It was at most lust.

She was also clear of her own place. She was just a plaything for the Jing Prince to satisfy his desires. He only came to her because her massage skills were decent, and perhaps because he felt he might as well go with what he was familiar with.

Even though she didn't want to admit it, Xiao Hua was clear about it. She was just a plaything.

In her past life she was a plaything. It was just that the 4th young master didn't make her feel like one, so she could pull wool over her own eyes, telling herself that she was the 4th young master's most favored person.

In this life, the Jing Prince expressed it clearly, making her unable to fool herself. She knew she was just a plaything in reality. Nothing could make Xiao Hua more clearly analyze her circumstances in her past and present life than this moment.

Her analysis was very thorough, and very tragic. These were things she wasn't willing to think about normally, but she had to face them at this moment.

Apart from this, there was still the constant and increasing pressure from the Changchun Pavilion.

In a blink, the Jing Consort's banquet was about to arrive. That afternoon, Xiao Hua in a rare occasion had Ding Xiang and the others prepare a bath for her.

There were a few dried flower petals in the tub. Xiao Hua didn't let anyone serve her, and carefully washed herself clean.

She washed her hair while in the bath. After getting out, Ding Xiang used a handkerchief to wring her hair dry, and then used the steamer to dry it eighty to ninety percent while using a comb to slowly help her straighten it.

Xiao Hua had a mane of thick, jet-black, beautiful hair. It looked like a curtain of top grade satin.

But Xiao Hua knew that her hair was slowly conditioned after coming to the Jing Prince Estate. In the past it had been a little dry and withered. Having improved daily in this place, not only was her person more spritely and tender, her hair quality had also been improving. In her past life she also had nice hair, which was slowly conditioned after becoming the 4th young master's chambermaid.

Living two lives, with all the twists and turns, she actually ended up in the same situation.

Xiao Hua sat in front of the dressing table and looked at herself. Her face was still that same face, but there was a large difference from the face in her memories.

In her past life, she had been arrogant, flamboyant and domineering. Her eyes had been filled with a charming yet penetrating glare, as though warning others not to provoke her, and that she was not easy to deal with.

Actually that arrogance was a sort of insecurity. Because she was insecure, she covered it up with a display of arrogance.

In this life her face was the same, but her eyes were gentle and refined. She was low-key and graceful, calm and elegant. Her temperament seemed to have changed a lot.

Xiao Hua allowed Ding Xiang to apply some foundation on her face, and then slowly rubbed some makeup over it.

The Jing Prince Estate's benefits were very good. All these feminine makeup products were sent over as part of her allowance.

Ever since coming back to life, Xiao Hua had never put any makeup on her face. In her past life she was very proficient at it. Not only were her makeup skills pretty good, and she was also decent at discerning quality.

The face powder inside the case was a high-end cosmetic made from ground pearls. In her past life she had used something similar, costing several taels of silver per case. However, that still wasn't as finely textured as the one currently in her hands. It was glossy and fine, and wasn't too visible when applied on the face. It only made others feel she had a very good complexion.

Then it was time for lipstick. There were two types of lipstick. One was crimson, and the other was pink. Based on the smell it was clear they were made purely from flower petals. Xiao Hua chose the pink colored one and rubbed it onto her lips. She didn't apply any blush to her face.

"Ding Xiang. Today I will be wearing the satin lined jacket with woven snow clouds and the dress with golden threaded butterflies flying through clouds and flowers that you newly made for me. Style my hair to match well with this." Having spent the last few days with her, Xiao Hua knew that Ding Xiang was quite good at styling hair.

Ding Xiang styled Xiao Hua's hair up in a slanted topknot. It was slanted to the left and hung behind her head, and a few strands of hair on her temple were left loose and hung down level with her chin. The topknot was pinned with a pearl lotus flower, and an ornamental golden threaded pearl was inserted along the same angle.

The look combined with the clothing made her seem as if a different person.

Xiao Hua showed off her beauty in front of the mirror, letting out a smile. The delicate, lush eyes and brows seemed as if drawn with ink, and carved out a divinely appealing display, making one feel unable to look straight at her.

"Alright, let's go attend the banquet."

At the Changchun Pavilion.

The spacious courtyard and the walkways of the main residence were decorated with colored lights, making the scene appear bright and splendid.

The snowy weather outside made one's breath visible in the air, but the Changchun Pavilion's main reception was warm and cozy. A steamer outlined with golden Luan1 burned with plum flower flavored incense and high quality silver-threaded coal. Those who approached would be met with the smell of plum flowers.

Inside the hall a large square table was laid out with all sorts of delicacies that one could think of. It was very rich and abundant, with golden cups and jade plates. The splendor of the estate was on full display. Everyone had arrived, and after paying respects to the Jing Consort, they each took their seat.

The Jing Consort was wearing a red peony flower embroidered jacket. Her hair was pinned with a pure gold ruby inlaid phoenix hairpin. Seated in the seat of honor, her smile was extremely resplendent.

"The estate has always been quiet and the only banquet we have has been during New Year's. With so few opportunities to hold banquets together, I've somewhat failed in my duties as a consort. This time since we've added a new little sis here, I've invited everyone to eat, drink and chat. Everyone cannot be too reserved."

"Based on what you're saying big sis consort, us women in the rear court will have many opportunities in the future to sit together." Senior Concubine Qiao lightly raised her eyebrows and let out a charming smile.

"Exactly. I had wanted to invite his highness, but he is unfortunately busy with official business. Therefore it's just us today."

Who here didn't know that you wouldn't be able to invite his highness here? There was no need to cover it up.

Even though everyone here knew it, these words could definitely not be spoken. Therefore everyone merely smiled. As for what was beneath their smiles, only they themselves knew.

Since Yu Jiao found out the Jing Prince had visited her twice, she had constantly been on Xiao Hua's case these past few days. She didn't do anything else, but would talk glibly to vent her anger. She didn't miss the opportunity this time either.

"His highness is busy visiting the western pavilion in his free time. Little sis Hua is truly capable, clinging onto his highness's feet and dragging him there." Normally Xiao Hua never responded to Yu Jiao's needling. However, this time was different.

"Big sis Yu Jiao is making it sound like others can interfere in his highness's business. Doesn't he just go where he wants to go?"

Today Xiao Hua was wearing the satin lined jacket with woven snow clouds and the dress with golden threaded butterflies flying through clouds and flowers. Her clothes were beautiful and conspicuous, and makeup was also well done. She was good looking to begin with, and now suddenly seemed outstanding.

Compared to her usual simple and plain appearance, it seemed as if she was a completely different person.

Yu Jiao's eyes were stuck on her the moment she arrived, and secretly cursed her as a vixen several times. It was no wonder she couldn't remain steady and started mocking the moment she sat down.

As if feeling one sharp retort wasn't enough, Xiao Hua added another, "As for where his highness can go, it depends on the person." She glanced Yu Jiao up and down, lightly puckered her lips and shook her head, "Big sis, hmm, seems to fall a little short."

This expression, this attitude and these words were very aggressive. It was just short of pointing at Yu Jiao's face and saying 'you're too ugly, no wonder his highness doesn't look at you'.

Xiao Hua had always given others a docile and respectful impression. She spoke little and was timid. It also wasn't Yu Jiao's first time mocking her, and she had never responded before. She had seemed to be a sculpture who had no temper.

Of course they all knew that she wasn't completely without temper. At least, on the first day of paying respects she had made a retort, letting others know she wasn't easy to provoke. But afterwards she had never made any response, even in the face of their mockery, making them feel even more she was a sealed gourd.

Today her actions had truly taken them all aback.

Was this still that sealed gourd? Why did she seem so domineering? They saw her cute and beautiful smile, but under her fluid and charming eyes her mouth spoke words that stabbed into one's heart like a dagger.

Not only was the Jing Consort shocked, Senior Concubine Qiao was also shocked.

There was even less need to mention Yu Jiao, whose face directly turned red, and in the end slightly black.

"You you—-" Yu Jiao was so angry she couldn't speak coherently.

As Yu Jiao's good partner, Yu Rong naturally couldn't just watch her get bullied.

"Little sis Hua's words were really too ugly. We're all sisters here, is there a need to be so overbearing?"

"Oh—-"

This drawn out, melodious "oh" was a tone Xiao Hua would never use normally but was coming out of her mouth at this time. Accompanied by her suddenly radiant face, it made others feel it was well matched, as though this person should be like this to begin with.

Xiao Hua actually had a very spritely face. It was small and delicate, the most outstanding feature upon it were her peach blossom eyes. A faintly seductive appearance was discernable between her flowing gaze that took over one's soul. It was just that she normally kept her face half lowered, and remained low-key. She never fought over things and never made a fuss, making others unable to see her edge.

But for some reason today, her edge was on bright display, almost stabbing their eyes blind.

Xiao Hua didn't need a mirror to know what she looked like at the moment. Her current appearance was one she had used often in her past life. She had been a favored concubine then, and occupied the very peak of the 4th young master's heart. Wasn't it only natural that she displayed such a domineering attitude, and angered others to death without affecting herself? Using such an attitude, using such a face and using such words, she had wiped out several people who fought over favor with her.

Unexpectedly, although she wanted to remain low-key, to be tolerant and to be yielding, she was still forced to use it in this life as well.

This was drinking poison to quench one's thirst, but she had no other choice!

"Big sis Yu Rong's words are really frivolous. My words weren't directed at you, right? When she targeted this madam all those other times, why didn't you step out and say anything? After all, her words weren't directed at you either. Did you really take me as a sculpture that you can knead however you want?" She paused and said disdainfully: "What nonsense!"

The first part could be overlooked, but her last phrase was truly harsh. That tone completely displayed the meaning of the word "disdain" in great detail.

Not only was everyone shocked stiff, even the palace maids including Ding Xiang and Ding Lan were stunned.

Did this Madam Hua go crazy?

But no one could say she was in the wrong. After all, Yu Jiao, Yu Rong and Xiao Hua were all madams, and were all of the same status.

Although Yu Jiao and Yu Rong were bestowed by the emperor, they had never been visited by the Jing Prince. This was known by everyone present. Xiao Hua was also a madam, and her status was truly the lowest amongst everyone here. However, she had come from the Hall of Splendor, and even after moving to the western pavilion his highness had visited her twice.

Everyone here was able to measure what exactly held more weight.

But hitting someone's face so openly—–

Xiao Hua didn't pay any attention to Yu Jiao and Yu Rong's expressions, appearing too disdainful to give them a glance. She smiled at the Jing Consort and said: "Consort, please don't mind this servant concubine's ugly words. This servant concubine was also angered beyond her limit. At first since they were older sisters, and their ages were older than mine by a lot, I tolerated and yielded. Who would have guessed she would start enjoying what she was saying? She may have been speaking joyfully, but this servant concubine's ears were painfully shriveled from listening."

Yu Jiao's face was no longer black this time, but had turned completely purple. Not only was her expression ugly, it was also extremely twisted.

Feeling the fire rush to her head, she directly stood up and charged towards Xiao Hua. Having been dazed by Xiao Hua's words, Yu Rong was unable to react in time to hold her back.

"Aiya, couldn't win a battle of words so she wants to use her hands…." Xiao Hua patted her chest and cried out with a frightened expression.

Despite her words, Xiao Hua's movements didn't stop. She herself stood up and dodged out of the way, her actions seemingly hurried in response. As she moved, her body accidentally sent all the dishes on her table flying.

Yu Jiao's charge was too vigorous and since Xiao Hua dodged out of the way, she first knocked into Xiao Hua's chair, and then flipped over it directly onto the banquet table.

In an instant, the scene had turned to complete chaos. A table of delicacies had also been more or less destroyed.

The Jing Consort looked at the disordered scene and frowned in anger.

"What do you think you are doing? Do you still have this consort in your eyes?!"

Yu Jiao was sprawled dazedly on the table. Only when Yu Rong came to lift her up did she snap out of it. Although she stood up, her appearance was a mess. Not only were here hands full of oil, sauce and soup, her clothes were also completely ruined.

Xiao Hua knelt down on the spot, "Please forgive me consort. She made a move first."

"She made a move?" The Jing Consort's chest rose and fell in anger, her face full of resentment. "Do you think the servants are dead? Naturally, someone would have stopped her. This perfectly fine table of dishes…."

"It's this servant concubine's fault. This servant concubine shouldn't have dodged when she charged over."

Xiao Hua's words were a little incriminating, but they weren't wrong. No one could expect someone to remain seated while someone charged over, right?

Saying that the servants aren't dead and someone would naturally stop her was all well and good, but what if they couldn't stop her? What if Yu Jiao had scratched her face? After all, when women fought they usually aimed for the face. Who would dare take such a risk?

Therefore it really couldn't be blamed on Madam Hua. At most she shouldn't have provoked Madam Yu Jiao with her words.

But it was also Madam Yu Jiao who targeted her first. Madam Hua had also said it: tolerating, enduring and yielding had only made her start speaking more enjoyably.

Doesn't everyone have a temper? Who would dare say she shouldn't have retorted?

Therefore this loss would definitely be for Yu Jiao to eat. Of course, the Jing Consort had eaten a loss as well.

The Jing Consort couldn't blame Madam Hua on the surface, and could only glare at Yu Jiao, that shit stirring stick.

On the other side, Xiao Hua continued to say apologetically: "It's all this servant concubine's fault, ruining an entire table of dishes. The great consort is being magnanimous and not scolding this servant concubine, but this servant concubine cannot just play dumb. In order to atone, this servant concubine has decided to confine herself to her quarters for a month."

The Jing Consort was astonished and swept her eyes in Xiao Hua's direction. She had already decided everything before the consort opened her mouth?

Xiao Hua showed off an appearance that said she deserved to die a thousand times for her crime, "I still need to ask consort for forgiveness. This servant concubine will definitely confine herself in her residence and reflect on her actions for a month."

In front of so many people, she had admitted her crime and punished herself. What could the Jing Consort say about it?

"This also can't be blamed on you…."

"Consort, no need to console this servant concubine. Mistakes need to be punished. This servant concubine is willing to reflect on her actions in confinement. It's only that during confinement this servant concubine won't be able to come pay respects."

Having said so much, her goal turned out to be this.

The Jing Consort's face turned rigid, "There's no need. This matter was caused by Madam Yu Jiao, you are not to blame. This consort is still someone who understands reason." Only the heavens knew how hard it was for the consort to say the phrase "you are not to blame".

"But this servant concubine is also at fault. This servant concubine should have properly kept her temper in control. Big sis Yu Jiao's temper was bad to begin with, and this servant concubine couldn't endure and ended up fighting with her. Therefore, this servant concubine has decided to punish herself with one month of confinement."

The reason why she didn't set a longer period of time was because Xiao Hua knew the Jing Consort wouldn't agree.

"There's really no need…"

"Does the consort feel one month is too short, and isn't enough to make up for this servant concubine's mistakes? Then this servant concubine will punish herself with two months of confinement."

The Jing Consort's eyes looked sharply over. Xiao Hua's half lowered face was filled with shame and her eyes looked very sincere.

The two's gazes met for half a second before the Jing Consort contained her anger and took a step back.

"Alright, no need to speak further. Let's make it half a month."

Xiao Hua paused, knelt on the floor and saluted the Jing Consort once again, "Thank you for consort's leniency."

Yu Jiao and Yu Rong were both stunned, and were a little confused at what Madam Hua was playing at. Yu Jiao's anger hadn't faded yet, but being worried about the Jing Consort's anger she could only stand there rigidly.

Senior Concubine Qiao's eyes flashed and she didn't say anything.

Xiao Hua, as the accessory to the crime, was "punished" with half a month of confinement. As the "main culprit", Yu Jiao could naturally not avoid it. She was punished by the consort with a month of confinement, and also had to write ten copies of the nun's scriptures.

Since the banquet was ruined, there was naturally no need to eat. The Jing Consort had everyone disperse with a rigid expression.

Xiao Hua took Ding Xiang and Ding Lan out of the Changchun Pavilion. Only after leaving the gates did she reveal a weary expression.

She rubbed her brows and leaned heavily on Ding Xiang.

Yu Jiao followed behind, and looked as if she wanted to settle accounts with Xiao Hua but was forcibly restrained by Yu Rong.

Xiao Hua didn't look at them. She pulled her hood up and started walking back.

They walked all the way back to the western pavilion. Upon entering the room, a wave of warmth immediately rushed out to greet them.

Ding Xiang and Ding Lan also didn't dare speak. Ding Lan was shocked at Madam Hua's sudden drastic change. Ding Xiang on the other hand saw everything and also understood madam's intentions.

She sighed in her heart as her hands continuously helped Xiao Hua take off her outerwear.

Xiao Hua didn't eat dinner, and the dishes at the Changchun Pavilion had also been smashed. Even if they weren't smashed, Xiao Hua hadn't planned on eating them. Ding Xiang supported Xiao Hua over to sit on the kiln, and had Ding Lan go fetch some cakes and pastries as well as tea.

After randomly eating some pastries, Xiao Hua washed up and went to sleep.

She had bought herself half a month of peace after racking her brains. Yu Jiao and Yu Rong also probably hated her to death.

If they hated her they hated her. Her actions had also been caused by her helplessness. As for the Jing Consort's thoughts, she couldn't mind them. Regardless, she was hated by her anyway. She could only take things one step at a time.

Drinking poison to quench one's thirst. Really drinking poison to quench one's thirst!

Mythical bird related to the phoenix.

Sure enough, after that day Xiao Hua confined herself to reflect upon her actions.

Since it was winter and Xiao Hua never went anywhere to begin with, her days ended up being pretty much the same.

The Jing Consort was hopping mad on one side while Xiao Hua jumped about with joy on the other. The days still had to pass after all. She couldn't stop passing her days just because her circumstances were hard.

Ezoic

Ding Xiang took advantage of the free time to whip her subordinates into shape one by one. Apart from her, Ding Lan and Chun Cao, the other low-ranked palace maids were all gathered from other areas of the estate. Ding Xiang had to carefully guard against the undercurrents within the estate during these days.

Although Xiao Hua appeared to be leisurely, she was actually a little worried.

Half a month would pass in an instant, and in this brief amount of time she had to find something to rely on. What she originally relied on was the Jing Prince, but since he didn't come and it wasn't like she could just drag him over, she could only silently suffer.

On this day, the Jing Prince graced the western pavilion with his presence.

Ezoic

Xiao Hua didn't show it, but she was extremely ecstatic. Ding Xiang and Ding Lan also looked to be overjoyed at the unexpected surprise. It could clearly be seen how the entire western pavilion hoped for the arrival of the lord.

After the Jing Prince sat down, Xiao Hua was extremely attentive and served both tea and snacks.

The Jing Prince looked at the low-ranked palace maid whom he appeared to be very fond of, and remembered how she said she couldn't bear to leave his side. His heart softened slightly, though he didn't show it on the surface and as usual didn't say anything.

Xiao Hua voluntarily gave the Jing Prince a round of massage, and then prepared some warm water for him to bathe. Having been massaged and then soaked in the warm bath, the Jing Prince felt comfortable all over and his pores were all opened. His heart was also very joyful.

After Xiao Hua finished bathing, the two of them got in bed.

The Jing Prince was clothed in his underwear and half leaned against the pillow on the bed.

Under the faint yellow lamplight, the prince was jade-like. His apathetic slanted phoenix eyes, his scattered long dark hair, and his slightly open undershirt that revealed his vigorous and firm chest made the air surrounding him seem less oppressive compared to the past, and instead added a few shades of elegance and a lack of restraint.

Ezoic

Beneath her undershirt, Xiao Hua wore a smoky purple chest wrap that firmly propped up her soft mounds. Although they couldn't match those who were naturally gifted in that area, they were still more developed compared to her past life. The satiny white mounds were pressed together by the chest wrap, forming an enchanting line down the middle. The slightly open shirt collar faintly revealed an attractive image, and her limpid peach blossom eyes made it several times more alluring.

Xiao Hua was still fresh, since she was young after all. However, she was also charming. This charm was due to her natural appearance. The combination of freshness and charm resulted in a temptation that was irresistible for men.

Especially since her current attitude was vastly different from the past.

In the past when she was with the Jing Prince, Xiao Hua had never taken the initiative. To put it plainly, she was always on the receiving end. If the Jing Prince needed something, she would give it. If he didn't she would also not step up on her own.

Ezoic

But now Xiao Hua was extremely clear about her own circumstances. It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say her situation was desperate. She naturally had to convince herself that nothing was more important than her safety.

She was a bed servant to begin with. As a bed servant, she might as well serve in bed.

"Highness…."

The little beauty who was quite pleasing to his eyes moved towards him by herself, and also looked extremely tasty. Even if the Jing Prince was someone apathetic, he couldn't maintain his appearance of decency.

The Jing Prince pulled Xiao Hua over, and his dark eyes could no longer move away after looking at that spot. His long and slender fingers squeezed them a couple of times and then pulled off the clothing that Xiao Hua had meticulously prepared.

The white and tender mounds were two flowers in bloom, making one have the urge to pluck them. Xiao Hua was nervous and her mind a mess. By the time she snapped out of it, she realized the Jing Prince had instead already made a beeline for the main event.

At first there was the pain that was always present in the beginning. The pain she felt in her body notwithstanding, Xiao Hua also felt a little discouraged in her heart. She felt that all her charming and flirtatious actions had been performed for a blind man.

This "blind" man's reactions weren't quite the same as normal people, but he wasn't lacking in enthusiasm and vigor.

Xiao Hua opened her eyes slightly, and saw that although the person's face was apathetic, his eyes were dark whirlpools that made it unclear what he was looking at. His line of sight seemed to be directed at her chest area, but his gaze also seemed vague and unfocused.

In the past Xiao Hua never opened her eyes when doing this with the Jing Prince. Now with her new mindset, she secretly snuck a glance and seemed to realize something.

This person seemed like…he didn't know what he was doing?

Xiao Hua had a moment of astonishment.

But it was already too late to try anything at this time. She could only cry out in a lovable voice "highness, have mercy on this servant concubine", use her eyes that seemed about to spill water to draw him in and wrap her slender legs around him, resulting in his movements becoming several times harder.

She seemed to have trouble breathing, and despite the slight pain she forced her arms around his neck, gently pressed against his firm chest and gyrated along with his motions intentionally or otherwise.

She felt his burning gaze resting on the place where they were connected, but he didn't make any other movements. He still moved mechanically like in the past.

Xiao Hua was a little enlightened in her mind, but soon didn't have any spare energy to think any nonsense.

……..

It wasn't clear how much time had passed before the Jing Prince finally collapsed heavily before stopping his movements that had lasted for a long time.

At this moment, not only was Xiao Hua's mind numb, even her legs were extremely numb. She was still young after all, and being tossed around clumsily for so long she was unable to regain her energy for a long time.

She wasn't clear when she was carried by someone to the bath. When she returned, the bedding had already been changed. Only then did the two lie back down.

Xiao Hua was extremely tired. She had many thoughts in her mind but didn't have the energy to entertain them, falling into a deep slumber.

The Jing Prince however felt wide awake. He used the light shining through the curtains to look at the person next to him who was fast asleep.

Ezoic

In his past life the Jing Prince's personality was apathetic, and he didn't feel strongly about matters in the bedroom. Normally he felt it was a chore he had to deal with, and didn't feel much enjoyment from it. He knew that many men liked such things, but he never understood what was to like about it.

In this life, his mind was often on other things, and regarding affairs between men and women he was still extremely apathetic. Therefore, with two lifetimes of experience, the Jing Prince was actually a very inexperienced master.

This low-ranked palace maid had actually repeatedly changed his perception.

Ezoic

At first he felt it was pretty good, and there was some flavor to it. After realizing the low-ranked palace maid was scared of him, he knew that if he could relieve her fears, she would feel better and like it more. But today when he felt her cooperating of her own initiative, he finally understood what a union between fish and water was like.

Understanding was one thing, and he also felt really comfortable, but the Jing Prince still didn't show anything on the surface.

A speechless night passed.

The next day, the Jing Prince got up at the usual time.

Although she was very tired, Xiao Hua still put on her clothes and helped him change and wash up.

Ezoic

Once everything was done, the Jing Prince left. As in the past, he came apathetically and left apathetically, as if the person in bed last night was just a figment of Xiao Hua's imagination.

The Jing Prince's attitude made Xiao Hua feel a little disheartened. She couldn't figure out what he was really thinking. Compared to the others in the rear court, the amount of times the Jing Prince visited the western pavilion was truly outstanding. But to say she was favored, she didn't really feel it.

Ezoic

Especially since after such an intimate night, the Jing Prince had still left with the usual apathetic expression, and was still coldly silent, making Xiao Hua really feel like flipping the table. But the Jing Prince was the master, and while she dared to think it she didn't dare actually express anything.

After sending off the prince respectfully, Xiao Hua went back to the couch and slept a little more without even eating breakfast.

She got up at noon to eat lunch, and was about to use the free time to think about the Jing Prince's attitude when a palace maid announced the arrival of Doctor Hu.

Ezoic

Xiao Hua was a little surprised at his sudden visit. She used her mind to ponder why Doctor Hu would suddenly come while she used her mouth to order them to invite him inside.

Xiao Hua met with Doctor Hu in the living room.

"Doctor Hu please have a seat. Ding Lan will serve tea."

While Xiao Hua knew about this person, she had only met him once before. This was when he came to take her pulse a few days after she was poisoned.

But Xiao Hua was aware that it was this doctor who had cured her of her poison, and her complete recovery was thanks to him. Naturally since she was grateful, her attitude this time was also very warm.

Doctor Hu gave a bow and sat down on the chair.

"This concubine has to thank Doctor Hu for his assistance during last time's poisoning."

"Madam is being too courteous. This old man was just doing his job."

This was their second meeting, but her status was as different as night and day. However, Doctor Hu was not very surprised.

In the past as the imperial physician in the palace, he had seen too many palace maids who had become mistresses in a single leap. The last time he had treated Madam Hua who had been a low-ranked palace maid at the time, he had known her future prospects wouldn't be bad. The result was as he expected.

Ezoic

The two exchanged some pleasantries and Xiao Hua asked: "I'm not sure what Doctor Hu is here for today."

"The estate has the convention of taking each master and mistress's pulse as a health checkup. This old man is here for this reason today."

What a health checkup pulse check was, Xiao Hua didn't understand. Seeing Ding Xiang nod imperceptibly, she let Doctor Hu step forward to take her pulse.

Ding Xiang padded Xiao Hua's wrist with a handkerchief and Doctor Hu bent down to take her pulse.

Ezoic

He muttered irresolutely for a few seconds, excused himself for his impropriety and went with Ding Xiang to the hallway outside.

Normally when a rich household's madam was diagnosed, the doctor would direct any inconvenient questions towards the personal maid. Xiao Hua knew this as well, and didn't mind it.

Ding Xiang and Doctor Hu spoke quietly outside for a while, and then both came back into the room.

"Madam's body is very healthy and there are no problems. This old man still has business in the medical center, so I shall take my leave."

"Ding Xiang, escort Doctor Hu out."

Ding Xiang returned after sending him out, and Xiao Hua asked about what just happened.

"Doctor Hu just asked a little about madam's period, and what this servant told him was just regarding this." Ding Xiang replied.

Ezoic

Xiao Hua's face was a little embarrassed. No wonder he had to pull Ding Xiang aside to ask. It turned out to be such private details.

"Doctor Hu said madam's periods are a little irregular, but that it should be fine if you avoid spicy or cold foods. He was going to prescribe some medicine but this servant told him that Nana He would send over medicinal soups every day, so he said there was no need for additional medicine. He knows Nana He is very skilled at nursing women's health."

Xiao Hua nodded her head, and didn't think too much about it anymore.

However, there were some misgivings in Ding Xiang's heart. The estate did have the convention of having regular health checkups for the masters and mistresses, but it had always been Little Doctor Hu responsible for it in the past. Unexpectedly, today Doctor Hu had come himself.

Ezoic

Perhaps Little Doctor Hu was busy today, so Doctor Hu had to do it? The entire estate was aware of the relationship between those two doctors. Therefore, Ding Xiang just had some misgivings before no longer thinking about it.

Ezoic

Doctor Hu went straight back to the medical center. He saw his son Little Doctor Hu sitting there drinking tea.

He didn't say anything and entered his study. He muttered to himself for a few seconds before taking out a piece of parchment. He carefully cut it a little smaller before writing a few things on it with his brush.

After writing, he placed the weasel bristle writing brush in his hands down and waited for the ink to dry before carefully folding it up.

Only now did he speak a few idle words with his son and sat down at the desk with a cup of tea.

Ezoic

After a short moment, Vice Manager Eunuch Chang entered.

Eunuch Chang walked in and Doctor Hu put his tea down and stood up, "Eunuch Chang, why is it you who came this time? If I had known, I would have delivered it personally."

Doctor Hu was not worse than anyone at speaking pleasantries. An imperial physician needed not just medical skills, but also worldly wisdom. Everyone in the palace had extensive experience, and none of them could be offended. Doctor Hu had thus refined himself as an excellent networker.

Eunuch Chang naturally knew that Doctor Hu was just being polite with him. Not only was Doctor Hu advanced in age, his highness also had a high opinion of him. Therefore Eunuch Chang didn't dare put on airs, and not only was he polite in his speech, his face also showed a rarely seen smile.

"Doctor Hu you're being too polite. I'm just here to handle his highness's business."

Doctor Hu smiled understandingly, turned around and handed over the slip of paper he had just written.

"Please tell his highness if he follows this schedule, there should be no problems."

Eunuch Chang nodded his head in understanding and took his leave.

Little Doctor Hu had been sitting on the side while his dad and Eunuch Chang had their exchange, but he couldn't understand what they were saying. He couldn't help but ask curiously: "Dad, what were you just talking about?"

Ezoic

He received an unhappy glare from his father, and Little Doctor Hu knew he had asked about something he shouldn't have. He laughed and put on an appearance of 'I won't mention it again'.

Doctor Hu shook his head. His highness had ordered him never to speak of this matter. But what his highness was really thinking, he didn't have the faintest idea!

"Madam Hua's health checkups will be done by dad in the future, so just please don't interfere." Doctor Hu said after pondering for half a second.

Ezoic

"Dad, I got it."

Author's notes:

Ezoic

Don't ask this author what that small slip of paper was for. Determined not to spoil things.

A major move was used. It was used by Xiao Hua, hehe. But although the Jing Prince seems to have bought it in his heart, he doesn't appear to have on the surface. Therefore Xiao Hua feels a little discouraged. However, her discouragement is only temporary. Since there are fierce tigers closing in from behind, she naturally has to hurry and hug onto the golden thigh in order to be happy and to take her flying…..

Even though everyone here knew it, these words could definitely not be spoken. Therefore everyone merely smiled. As for what was beneath their smiles, only they themselves knew.

"His highness is busy visiting the western pavilion in his free time. Little sis Hua is truly capable, clinging onto his highness's feet d dragging him there." Normally Xiao Hua never responded to Yu Jiao's needling. However, this time was different.

"Big sis Yu Jiao is making it sound like others can interfere in his highness's business. Doesn't he just go where he wants to go?"

Today Xiao Hua was wearing the satin lined jacket with woven snow clouds and the dress with golden threaded butterflies flying

Eunuch Chang returned to the Hall of Splendor and purposefully showed his face in front of the Jing Prince.

A short while later, Eunuch Fu was sent out on business by the Jing Prince.

Seeing this, Eunuch Chang went to the study.

"Enter."

Eunuch Chang entered. He first gave a bow in salute, and after he was asked to rise he walked a few steps closer.

"Highness, Doctor Hu said that by following the schedule listed on here, there should be no problems." After speaking, he respectfully placed the paper onto the table.

This wasn't Eunuch Chang's first time performing this task. Every month, his highness would send him to look for Doctor Hu. He didn't know what was written on the slip of paper. The Jing Prince ordered him to fetch it, and also said not to let Eunuch Fu know. He merely obeyed his orders.

Eunuch Chang had always been someone cold faced and withdrawn, and also didn't have much curiosity. This was because he knew that servants with more curiosity died faster. Although his highness wasn't quite like other masters, Eunuch Chang would still remind himself every once in a while not to overstep his bounds.

Overall, compared to Eunuch Fu, Eunuch Chang was a very fitting and useful servant. This was also why the Jing Prince would leave many things to Eunuch Chang instead of Eunuch Fu.

Of course, Eunuch Fu and the Jing Prince's affection was naturally not the same. This had nothing to do with whether or not their relationship was good. The situation this time was also kept from Eunuch Fu for various reasons.

Waving his hand to let Eunuch Chang take his leave, the Jing Prince opened the slip of paper in his hand. He looked at the dates listed on it, and couldn't help but frown.

He actually had to wait that long?

When this thought flashed through his mind, he actually didn't realize its implication.

After a brief moment, the Jing Prince stood up and took out a book from the shelf, putting the slip of paper inside.

Time passed by quickly, and in the blink of an eye half a month had passed.

During this time the Jing Prince did not come to the western pavilion again. Meanwhile, the Jing Consort's side seemed very impatient. The day before her confinement was to end, Chun Xiang came over to inform Xiao Hua her restrictions can be lifted.

She certainly wasn't that kind hearted, and the reason she came over was to remind Xiao Hua to pay respects the next day. Xiao Hua naturally understood the meaning behind this.

Regarding this, Xiao Hua was helpless and speechless. Sometimes she couldn't understand what the consort was thinking. Was she really not afraid she would bring it up to the Jing Prince?

After all, no matter how one put it, she was someone who came from the Hall of Splendor, and could be said to be favored. The consort was not favored, and this was something the whole estate was aware of. Where did she get her confidence from?

But when she thought of the Jing Prince's apathetic face, she understood a little in her heart.

Just based on that master's apathetic appearance, it seemed like he had no one in his heart. None of the women or nothing that happened in the rear court seemed to be able to evoke any waves in his emotions. Furthermore, Ding Xiang had told her that the consort was someone from the current empress's clan. As her niece, her status was extremely noble. No wonder she had such confidence.

Compared to her, she was just a servant-born lowly concubine.

Thinking like this, Xiao Hua's heart overflowed with sorrow.

But no matter what her thoughts were, time wouldn't stop for anyone. She would face what she had to face.

Moreover, Xiao Hua had also thought things through. Since things were like this, she would act shameless until the end. Let's see if the consort had the ability to directly fall out with her.

As though Madam Hua's arrogant and despotic behavior was merely a flash in the pan, she had resumed her respectful, gentle and docile manner when she appeared once more.

The Jing Consort didn't seem any different from before. Senior Concubine Qiao and Yu Rong were also still the same, speaking a few superficial words with the Jing Consort. Xiao Hua once again sat in her old spot. Because Yu Jiao who enjoyed jumping out to provoke others wasn't there1, today's paying of respects passed smoothly and cleanly.

"Alright, this consort won't keep you all here any longer."

The Jing Consort stood up and Chun Xiang stepped forward with the appearance of seeing the guests out. Xiao Hua followed the others in bowing before turning and heading out.

As she turned, she secretly took a glance over to the side. She clearly saw the Jing Consort's brows concealing impatience and restlessness.

Could the consort not be planning on dealing with her? Or was there something else going on…..

Seeing the people off with their eyes, Chun Xiang and Xia Xiang looked at each other. Both of them were worried sick as they walked to the inner room.

Today the consort was unexpectedly silent. Not only were the people paying respects surprised, even her personal palace maids were extremely astonished.

When news of his highness's visit to the western pavilion several days ago had been reported, the consort had smashed many things in the house. Chun Xiang had thought when the consort let her remind Madam Hua to come pay respects that she definitely had some scheme in mind. What she never expected was for nothing to happen.

Everyone was used to the Jing Consort causing a ruckus. When she didn't cause a ruckus, that's when everyone started worrying, afraid that she would fall ill out of anger.

"That Madam Hua is really a vixen!" Xia Xiang cursed in a low voice.

Since she was on different sides, her viewpoint would naturally be different. If today his highness had repeatedly visited the Changchun Pavilion instead, everyone there would say it was to be expected.

Chun Xiang laughed bitterly and didn't say anything.

This was a knot that couldn't be unraveled to begin with. They could only hope the consort's disturbances wouldn't end up causing any problems.

Having returned to the western pavilion, Xiao Hua didn't say anything and seemed no different from her normal self. Ding Xiang started to keep a tighter leash on her subordinates. Not only did she give them a lecture every once in a while, she also made sure to personal fetch Xiao Hua's meals from now on.

With a helper like Ding Xiang, Xiao Hua really felt a lot more at ease. Ding Xiang was also extremely smart. She basically didn't need to give any instructions for her to know what to do next.

While Xiao Hua guarded against the Jing Consort's schemes on one side, the Jing Prince seemed to get busier on the other.

Movements over in the capital seemed to increase a lot recently. This news sent over by someone, but it was overly scattered.

The Jing Prince had muddled along too much in his past life, and he wasn't clear how the Jin Prince had rebelled and seized the throne.

In this life, as a simple person he could only use simple methods, having his scouts collect a lot of scattered tidings from the capital while he pieced and analyzed and compared before managing to obtain a little news. His focus was placed on the crown prince, as well as Senior Imperial Concubine Xu, the Jin Prince and the Qi Prince.

The Jing Prince wasn't good at such things, and reading over it was extremely strenuous. However, he was very serious in his efforts and didn't give up. Doing it is better than not doing it in the end. Every time he did would be another chip in his hand. This diligence also matched his nature.

After working for several days straight, the Jing Prince finally relaxed a little.

He sat there silently, enjoying the rare moment of leisure. A bunch of words suddenly appeared in his mind. He thought that he must have misremembered, turning towards the book shelf and taking out a book.

Opening it, the small slip of paper was still between its pages.

His jade-white hands grasped the paper, and rubbed its edges with his fingers while his face was apathetic as usual.

One corner of this palm-sized slip of paper was already crinkled, clearly having been rubbed many times by someone.

The Jing Prince stood silently for half a moment before putting it back inside the book.

That night, the Jing Prince arrived at the western pavilion.

Because the Jing Prince came quite late, the pavilion doors were already closed.

The Jing Prince stood unmoving, and shot Eunuch Fu a glance. Eunuch Fu honestly walked up on the spot, pulled up his sleeves and started knocking on the door.

He knocked for a long time before the doors were finally opened.

"Why did you close the pavilion doors so early?" scolded Eunuch Fu.

Chun Lan2 took a while to realize who was standing there before kneeling down with a thump. Apart from saying "this servant deserves death", she didn't dare say anything else. She naturally didn't dare point out the lateness of the hour.

The Jing Prince had already stepped inside the pavilion.

Xiao Hua had already heard the commotion and gotten up. She was awoken while still blurry from sleep by Ding Xiang, who said his highness had come. She had thought it was a dream, and before she was fully awake she got pulled off the bed. Before she could finish putting on her clothes, the Jing Prince walked in.

"Highness." Xiao Hua could only drape a shirt over herself and lower herself in a half squat as a salute.

The Jing Prince raised his hand a little and didn't say anything.

Seeing this, Ding Xiang and Chun Lan both didn't dare to move. Only when Eunuch Fu gave them a glance did the two of them follow him out.

The room grew quiet. Xiao Hua glanced at the Jing Prince who was sitting on the bedside, and saw that he sat there silently and expressionlessly without looking at her. Towards the prince's habits, Xiao Hua had already long gotten used to them. However, it was still hard to cover up the restlessness in her heart. She had told herself she needed to find some shelter, but after being left hanging repeatedly the drive had faded.

Who was willing to stick their warm face to a cold butt?3. However, circumstances trumped personal feelings. Xiao Hua didn't forget her own situation. She forced a smile and quietly said: "Highness, do you want this servant concubine to help you change and wash up?"

The Jing Prince gave her a glance and didn't make a sound. Only when Xiao Hua was about to call Ding Xiang to prepare water did he say a single phrase: "Already washed." Xiao Hua secretly snuck a glance at him.

He was wearing a casual purple robe and his white jade crown, appearing to be dressed in his everyday clothing. His hair was also tidily combed, not seeming like he had washed up at all. Furthermore, why would he not go to sleep after washing up, and instead run all the way over here?

When this thought crossed her mind, Xiao Hua mocked herself on the inside. He's here to sleep of course!

Thinking of this, Xiao Hua blushed a bit.

"Then this servant concubine will help you change."

The Jing Prince didn't say anything and glanced at her with hidden depths in his eyes as he stood up.

After changing, it was time to do what was supposed to be done.

The two of them lay on the bed. Xiao Hua didn't have time to consider how to take the initiative yet before the Jing Prince already moved over impatiently. She really didn't want to use this word to describe it, but compared to the past, the Jing Prince truly seemed a little impatient this time.

The Jing Prince also didn't have any fancy moves. He would always go straight for it every time. With careful observation, one could even make out the clumsiness within his actions. Under such circumstances, the girl would naturally not feel good. This Xiao Hua still understood. But since she was serving this weirdo, this master who appeared to not know what he was doing, she didn't dare make any requests of him.

She did her best to relax her body as much as possible, allowing her to get past this initial juncture. Having served the Jing Prince so many times, she was quite experienced.

Looking at the eyes that seemed half asleep and the apathetic looking face above her, Xiao Hua realized that she rarely saw the Jing Prince make any other expressions. Even under such circumstances, when she could clearly feel his movements getting harder and harder, his face would still be without expression.

Did he feel good or not? Xiao Hua really couldn't tell.

But she really didn't feel good!

She bit her lips and curled up a little, which was followed by her being pressed even tighter. Wave after wave, making her unable to even catch her breath.

Seeing his face still without expression, Xiao Hua suddenly felt wave of determination in her heart.

She wrapped her arms around his neck, and pressed herself completely against him. She blew a breath of air into his ear and lightly took a bite.

The arms around her waist gripped even tighter.

Xiao Hua decided since she did one thing she might as well do another and stuck the tip of her tongue out to give a little lick. Seeing the Jing Prince not make any moves to stop her, she grew bolder and bolder. She left the earlobe, and wandered down towards his jaw.

Only when she kissed it did she realize she had been a little impetuous, but it was too late for regrets. She could only brace herself and keep going.

After a few more times, the breathing by her ear had gotten heavier and heavier, boiling, burning and engulfing the tip of her ear, making her unable to resist shivering a little. Therefore she felt even more regretful. Just as she was considering whether or not to stop, her cheek was suddenly lightly pecked, after which her chin was raised and her cherry lips were held between his.

1-She had been confined for one month vs. Xiao Hua's half a month.

2-One of the four renamed low ranked palace maids.

3-Getting snubbed while showing warm feelings.

The next morning, the Jing Prince got up much later than usual.

Xiao Hua was used to getting up early by now since she had to pay respects to the Jing Consort every morning.

She opened her eyes and realized the person next to her hadn't gotten up yet. She snuck a glance and happened to meet his eyes. Xiao Hua blushed and quietly shrunk into the blankets, burying her face in it.

Last night couldn't be said to be smooth, but it was already better than before by a lot. This Jing Prince seemed clumsy enough in bed, but had actually started learning a few small moves from her. During their second round, Xiao Hua had felt a lot better. Although it wasn't huge progress, it at least signified some lessons learned.

Perhaps because the feeling in her heart was different, but although it wasn't their first time doing it Xiao Hua inexplicably felt extremely embarrassed at the moment.

The Jing Prince sat up and Xiao Hua also didn't dare delay, pulling on some clothes before helping him put his on. From start to finish, she didn't dare raise her head, deeply afraid to see anger in his eyes.

The Jing Prince didn't stay for breakfast. Before he left, he stroked Xiao Hua's hair that was hanging in front of her chest.

Xiao Hua blanked out. What was this supposed to mean?

The Jing Prince walked from the western pavilion gates towards the martial training grounds.

Ever since he started learning martial arts, he would practice for an hour every day, and had done so for the past four years. However, today he was late.

After taking only a few steps, the Jing Prince and Eunuch Fu happened to encounter Eunuch Chang, who had ran the whole way over.

Eunuch Chang spoke a few words by the Jing Prince's ear. The Jing Prince who had intended to go to the martial training grounds immediately changed directions and headed to the front court.

Someone was waiting for the Jing Prince as he entered one of the inner rooms in the Hall of Deliberation.

Seeing the Jing Prince, that person revealed a happy expression as he knelt to the floor with a thud.

This inner room was a secret area not even Eunuch Fu could enter. The Jing Prince walked forward in a rare display and lightly helped the kneeling person up.

Eunuch Su was nearing forty in age. He was thick and sturdy, large and wide. If one didn't know he was a eunuch, no one would be able to tell from his appearance. He had served by the prince's side when the prince was only ten years old. Although it wasn't as long as Eunuch Fu, it was also quite a long time. That year he had followed the Jing Prince to the Jing Province. It was just that he rarely appeared in the estate.

The reason was none other than his heavy responsibilities that kept him busy.

In his past life after Luo Jing came to the Jing Province, his barren vassal state's taxes couldn't even cover his expenditures. Those responsible for allocating his official allowance would delay repeatedly, causing his Jing Prince Estate to fall into the awkward situation of not even having enough for its daily expenditure.

At that time he had endured.

In this life, he endured on the surface but secretly had his trusted aide undertake all sorts of profitable ventures within the Jing Province's borders. The money from these ventures were used to supplement the estate's expenditures, but part of it was also saved for the future to make certain affairs easier to handle.

After all, changing one's destiny couldn't be done without money.

Eunuch Su was precisely that trusted aide. Not only did he handle the Jing Prince's personal ventures, he also handled the secret gathering of intelligence. Although he was a eunuch, he was tall and sturdy. After putting on a fake mustache, his identity as a castrate would not be revealed.

Seeing the Jing Prince's questioning appearance, Eunuch Su smiled and said: "This servant felt he hasn't returned in a very long time, and decided to stop by and take a look."

"It's been hard on you."

The Jing Prince went over to the chair and sat down, indicating for Eunuch Su to do the same.

Eunuch Su spent most of the year away and wasn't a reserved person to begin with. He also understood the prince's personality so he didn't put on airs and sat down as well.

"It's not hard. This servant will risk life and limb to handle master's affairs." After Eunuch Su finished with the pleasantries, he continued to speak: "The world outside is much more exciting than in here. Although this servant has been busy this whole time, there's plenty of energy to spare."

This was actually the truth. If it weren't for this opportunity, eunuchs who entered the palace would spend their entire lives there. Eunuch Su's life on the other hand was a lot like a normal person's, and was actually a lot more carefree. Apart from his status as a eunuch, everyone who saw Eunuch Su on the outside would have to call him elder.

All along, the most profitable businesses was in tea and salt.

Especially salt. Since the imperial court didn't permit the smuggling of salt, the Jing Prince was able to take advantage in many ways. The Jing Province was his vassal state, and that included the salt mines within the borders. The Jing Prince's first venture was to use this salt as a springboard. Using public goods for private transactions, he collected quite a bit of money that was used for developing outward slowly.

With a vassal prince as a backer, his personal businesses were naturally not the same as others. They had money if they needed money, they had troops if they needed troops and they had workers if they needed workers. They could advance and retreat as needed. Over the years, the businesses rapidly developed under Eunuch Su's hands.

The private salt business had already expanded dramatically, and it wouldn't be an exaggeration to say it was raking in money. The money earned was used to earn more money by opening several taverns, bars, brothels and gambling dens. These were not only good investments, but also good locations for information gathering.

Of course Eunuch Su's return this time wasn't just stopping by as he said on the surface. Another reason was to report his gains and losses.

No matter how busy Eunuch Su was, he would return a few times a year to report. Whether or not the Jing Prince looked over it was one thing, but Eunuch Su wouldn't take his master's trust for granted.

The Jing Prince was also aware of Eunuch Su's character. As expected, there was a large chest in the corner of the room. He knew that within it contained all the private ventures' accounting statements for the year.

Eunuch Su reported the important things to the Jing Prince, and then placed a black box on the table.

"Highness, here is the surplus profit for the year. If there isn't anything else, this servant will take his leave. Having not been back for so long, this servant plans to find those old fellows for a good chat."

The Jing Prince was never able to say anything overly emotional, "Stay a little longer. Don't be too hard on yourself."

These words were already quite rare coming from the Jing Prince, and Eunuch Su could naturally tell the implicit affection behind them.

"This servant knows."

The Jing Prince waved his hand and Eunuch Su left.

Xiao Hua was shocked by the Jing Prince stroking her hair, and only snapped out of it after a long time.

She couldn't figure out why he would suddenly do something like that.

It was getting late, so once the Jing Prince left Ding Xiang dragged Xiao Hua over to get dressed up so she wouldn't be late in paying respects.

Today Xiao Hua put on a light peach foundation, and wore a buttoned light jacket with decorative embroidered rose edges and a pink traditional skirt. Ding Xiang and Ding Lan had continuously made Xiao Hua several beautiful outfits. It couldn't be said to be too luxurious since the madam's allowance was only at such a level. However, at least no one could mock Xiao Hua for wearing rags anymore.

After she was dressed up, Xiao Hua hurried over to the Changchun Pavilion without even eating breakfast.

Who knew she would still be a little late by the time she got there.

Everyone in the rear court had already arrived. Even Yu Jiao who just had her restrictions lifted was already there.

Xiao Hua walked into the hall, sighing in her heart without showing anything on the surface, and paid her respects.

The Jing Consort sat in her seat of honor stirring her tea, seeming not to have noticed. Only after a while did she raise her hand.

Xiao Hua nodded her head once again in gratitude and took her place at the side.

As she sat, Yu Jiao opened her mouth and said, "Keeping so many people waiting, what arrogance."

Yu Jiao didn't specify anyone by name, but everyone knew she was referring to Xiao Hua. Yu Jiao looked with jealous resentment at Madam Hua who was changing day by day. She saw her limpid, peach blossom eyes and her continuously developing figure. She looked bright and lovable. Her recent days had clearly been good.

In comparison, during her month of confinement she had been filled with resentment daily, and her complexion was instead not as good as this slut.

Xiao Hua twitched her lips and half lowered her head, not sparing Yu Jiao a glance.

Sometimes she felt that the Jing Prince Estate was really a royal estate, and many things were different from other places. For example, the rules and etiquette. But sometimes she would feel the Jing Prince Estate was actually not much different. For example, paying respects everyday. For example, the struggles inside the harem, and the scathing faces of the women.

But the reason they were scathing was due to jealousy. They were jealous but were also afraid to act in case they ended up hurting themselves, so they could only use words to vent. In her past life, Xiao Hua was pleased when those around her reacted this way. She had felt that if no one was jealous of you, you were mediocre. In this life she encountered the same situation, but apart from sighing in her heart, she wouldn't do anything else on the surface.

"Don't say that, little sis Yu Jiao. Little sis Hua has a special reason for being late today." The Jing Consort who had been silent until now suddenly smiled and spoke. Her words were another bolt from the blue the moment she opened her mouth.

Senior Concubine Qiao let out a meaningful smile and followed along: "His highness slept at the western pavilion last night. Little sis Hua's lateness should naturally be forgiven."

Xiao Hua looked at the two of them and thought 'here we go again' before lowering her head.

Regardless of what she said it would be wrong, so she might as well say nothing.

Yu Jiao and Yu Rong didn't have much of an information network, and hearing this they were first shocked and then jealous. Especially Yu Jiao whose eyes were about to pop out. She was originally decent looking, but the jealousy added a few shades of ugliness to her appearance.

The Jing Consort and Senior Concubine Qiao spoke a few stinging remarks intermittently, while Yu Jiao served as cannon fodder and continuously threw out sour ridicule at Xiao Hua. But having heard too much of it, it was quite easy to ignore. Her skills were too low.

Xiao Hua said nothing, having made up her mind not to respond. You can say your piece while she didn't hear a thing.

It seemed that these women were angered quite a bit.

They had known this Madam Hua was a troublemaker, but it was the first time they experienced just how profound this troublemaker was. In the past it was only Yu Jiao who wasn't able to adapt to the situation. This time not only the Jing Consort, but also Senior Concubine Qiao who rarely spoke couldn't hold it in any longer. However, Xiao Hua still remained unmoving like a mountain.

Such a repetitive performance, even if the listener didn't get tired of it the speakers would. Towards the troublemaking Xiao Hua, the Jing Consort was full of weariness in her heart. She couldn't even be bothered to speak, and waved her hands to have everyone disperse.

"Madam, it seems to this servant that the consort won't be able to sit still any longer." Ding Xiang said.

Xiao Hua frowned as she walked. She slept too late last night and got up too early this morning. Having been attacked from all sides, her head was extremely sore.

"She hasn't been able to sit still for a while, it's not like today was the first time."

"But in the past, she hadn't disregarded her own appearance like she did today." Ding Xiang pointed out with meaning.

Every day the madam came to pay respects, Ding Xiang would be waiting in the corner. She naturally saw the key points of the situation clearly. The consort would sometimes be a little too obvious, but she had never lowered herself to argue with a madam before, and merely instigated others to do so. But today she had changed.

Xiao Hua curled her lips mockingly. Did the Jing Consort still have an appearance to maintain?

Ever since the Jing Consort found out the Jing Prince would visit the western pavilion, her people had kept a close watch. Whenever the prince visited, Xiao Hua would have to endure a new round of baptism the next day.

Ever since the banquet, the Jing Consort had changed her strategy. She never offered her "tea" anymore, and sometimes couldn't even be bothered to treat her guests. Instead, she started instigating others to attack her with words.

Before Yu Jiao was released from her confinement, Senior Concubine Qiao and Yu Rong both didn't enjoy accepting the knife the consort passed to them. Today with Yu Jiao's return coinciding with the Jing Prince's visit last night as well as her tardiness this morning, it immediately attracted everyone's blades towards her.

Luckily she had seen such situations many times before in her past life, and wouldn't be at a loss. In her past life she would have directly counterattacked, but in this life she chose to "play deaf". After playing deaf for a while, she actually felt this was better than counterattacking. It prevented a lot of problems from arising.

Xiao Hua gave Ding Xiang a glance, "There are going to be some tough battles ahead. Based on what I've seen, I reckon it's about time they stop their actions on the surface, and start using schemes in the dark."

Ding Xiang didn't say anything and only nodded her head.

After returning to the western pavilion, Xiao Hua had Ding Xiang undo her hair and change her clothes before returning to her bedroom's palanquin bed and laying down.

"Madam, how about eating something before resting."

Xiao Hua yawned, "Let me sleep a little first and we'll see."

Having worked hard all night and gotten mocked by others during the day, not only was her body tired, her heart was tired as well. Sometimes Xiao Hua felt her life was very hard, without a day of peace.

But since things had developed to this extent, she could only face it. Luckily her present circumstances were still a lot better than the past. As long as the Jing Prince continued to visit her place, the others would refrain from acting in case they screwed themselves over. At least they didn't dare on the surface. She just had to guard against their hidden schemes. As for the future…..

Xiao Hua thought maybe it would be better if she gave birth to a child.

The Jing Prince…

Thinking of last night's Jing Prince, Xiao Hua couldn't help but blush again.

She slept until noon. When lunch was brought back, Ding Xiang woke Xiao Hua up so she could eat.

Because she was in her own house and she planned on going back to sleep after eating, Xiao Hua didn't care too much about her appearance. She casually put on a small jacket and court dress, left her hair scattered behind her and went to the table.

Today's dish was a clay pot of bamboo shoots mixed with smoked duck, and also included some mushrooms and beansprouts. The two other two stir fried dishes were fresh mushrooms with cabbage stems and stir fried kidneys. Xiao Hua liked eating clay pot style dishes, which made one feel warm in the dead of winter. Furthermore, the bamboo shoots mixed with smoked duck was delicious.

She ate half a bowl of rice in one go, and turned towards the soup.

The soup was sent over by Nana He, and there would be one every day. The person fetching the meals knew to first go to the meal management center, and then over to the Hall of Splendor where Nana He would hand over the packaged soup.

It was just a small jar of soup, but the implications behind it were too heavy. Not only did it bring honor to those that served the western pavilion, even the other palace maids outside would have fawning faces when looking at them.

These servants naturally had no idea the soup was given by Nana He, and assumed that it was bestowed by his highness. They felt even more that the western pavilion's Madam Hua was his highness's newly favored, and decided to be more mindful in the future.

Xiao Hua also understood this, and accepted Nana He's kindness in her heart.

Without even mentioning that the soup was good for body, just Nana He's implicit actions of helping her increase her reputation made Xiao Hua feel deeply grateful.

For someone like her who had no background, this gesture was far too important. At least Xiao Hua had noticed that the four low-ranked palace maids would look at her with eagerly attentive smiles that even contained hints of being inspired.

Only if the mistress was favored would the servant have future prospects. This was something everyone understood.

What the madam said that day, Ding Xiang had also kept in mind.

She polished Chun Cao for several days, beating her into shape with all sorts of methods. She truly spent quite some effort on her.

Being raised and taught by Ding Xiang this way, Chun Chao didn't have any appreciative feelings, but still understood that a servant had her own place, and the mistress would remain the mistress. Only after Ding Xiang pointed it out a few times did she understand why Ding Xiang had this attitude.

She wasn't foolish to begin with, and her mindset was adjusted extremely quickly.

Seeing Chun Cao correcting her attitude, Ding Xiang moved her to serve by Xiao Hua's side.

Therefore, Xiao Hua saw Chun Cao serving by her side. Her appearance wasn't any different from the past, but her attitude seemed to have changed a little.

She felt a little apologetic in her heart, but she knew that she had too many things to deal with recently. She herself didn't have any foundation and Ding Xiang doing what she did truly was for her own good. Only after those around her were organized could she focus all her attention on guarding against outside attacks. After all, those she could trust were really too few.

Xiao Hua didn't have a lot of capacity in her stomach. She drank a jar of soup, ate a bowl of rice, and ate a couple servings per dish before she was full.

After eating, she washed her hands and rinsed her mouth with Ding Lan's help and drank half a cup of tea.

"Share the rest amongst yourselves, let's not waste the food. I'm going to sleep for a while, you guys go eat. Otherwise the food will get cold."

After speaking, Xiao Hua went to her inner room.

"Madam, let me help put you to bed." Chun Cao followed to the side and spoke. Compared to her past immature self, her face seemed to have gotten a little steadier.

Xiao Hua gave her a meaningful glance on the side and smiled: "Am I such an unreasonable person? Hurry and go eat."

These words made Chun Cao's nose feel a little sour. She felt that big sis Xiao Hua, oh, no, Madam Hua hadn't changed, and was still her old self.

It was as big sis Ding Xiang said after all: her attitude had been wrong. The madam's current circumstances were difficult at the moment, and everyone should be united in performing their own roles well.

"Alright, everyone hurry and go eat. Madam is being considerate, and is afraid that if we eat cold food in the winter it'll harm our stomachs."

Ding Lan already brought in lunch for the three of them. Ding Xiang divided the dishes on the table up and had Chun Chao deliver it to the other four low-ranked palace maids.

Only after the three of them sat down did Ding Xiang say: "The two of you need to stay alert these next few days. I feel that the consort's side isn't that simple."

Ding Lan nodded her head. Chun Cao also understood a little and nodded along as well.

Ding Xiang looked at the two of them, her expression stern: "The three of us are basically madam's closest people by her side. Therefore we have to perform our jobs well, so that the madam can feel at ease about everything. Right, Chun Cao. You're still living with those four low-ranked palace maids. Don't move out yet. Help keep an eye on them a little."

"Big sis Ding Xiang don't worry, I'll watch them closely."

"Those four were all brought in from different places. We aren't clear yet if anyone amongst them had been bribed. It's better to keep an eye on them."

"Yes."

Based on his usual convention, today was the day the Jing Prince came to sit at the Changchun Pavilion.

The Jing Consort woke up early, 'respectfully greeting' those who came to pay respects every morning, and had them all disperse without delay.

After leaving the Changchun Pavilion, Yu Jiao spoke with a pinched voice: "We really can't be compared to this consort. His highness goes to see her on a regular basis after all."

It wasn't clear whether these words were directed towards Senior Concubine Qiao or Xiao Hua. Regardless, both of them ignored her and each returned to their own pavilion.

The Jing Consort apprehensively waited an entire morning, and ate lunch a little absentmindedly. Only in the afternoon did she hear her subordinate report that his highness had arrived.

It was still the same old apathetic expression, and he still completely ignored her. She would feel bottled-up anger every time, but this time her anger could almost not be contained, and due to her thinking of certain things and a certain person, the anger even threatened to surge out.

The Jing Consort wasn't someone good at maintaining her outward appearance to begin with. Often times she would force herself to do so. With the sudden appearance of this Madam Hua these days making her mood chaotic, seeing the apathetic expression on the Jing Prince who was sitting there suddenly made her wonder if he was still so detached when he was with that person.

Her sight suddenly became a little blurry and her heart was extremely stuffed up. The Jing Consort squeezed her fingers tightly and spent a huge amount of effort to resist the urge to smash something.

The hall was extremely silent. Chun Xiang, Nana Li and the others stood nervously to the side. They were deeply afraid the consort would start causing a ruckus in front of his highness. Seeing the consort's expression undergo a dramatic change, Nana Li even considered doing something to interrupt, but she saw the Jing Consort take several deep breaths and force her emotions down.

The Jing Prince saw that the Jing Consort hadn't made a sound in a while and stood up, taking steps towards the outside.

The Jing Consort was left sitting with a profound expression on her face. Only after a long while did she smash a teacup to the ground.

Weirdly, she did not become hysterical this time. The Jing Consort spoke with a low voice: "Nana. The things I spoke about last time, put them all into motion."

"Consort….."

"Don't make this consort say it again."

"Yes."

The Jing Province's winters were always long. Spring had clearly arrived yet the snow showed no signs of melting, and it even started snowing again today.

In the afternoon, Xiao Hua sat on the warm kiln. Chun Cao was peeling pine nuts for her to eat when suddenly her subordinate announced the arrival of Senior Concubine Qiao.

Xiao Hua was very surprised that she would suddenly visit in this weather. Although she was surprised, she still had to receive her guest.

Senior Concubine Qiao was the senior concubine whereas Xiao Hua was only a madam. She naturally couldn't put on airs and sit in the main seat. After Xiao Hua invited Senior Concubine Qiao to sit down, she herself sat in the chair opposite her.

Ding Lan served tea and there was silence in the hall.

Senior Concubine Qiao was dressed extremely neat and simply today. She wore a pale bluish white lined jacket and a skirt, appearing very beautiful. Compared to her usual charming sort of beauty, she appeared much more approachable.

"I always wanted to pay little sis a visit, but couldn't find the opportunity. I was free today and so came uninvited."

Xiao Hua smiled a little and didn't know what to say.

The relationship between the two wasn't good. Although they couldn't be said to be complete enemies, they also weren't completely without grudges. It was unexpected that she would come today with such an appearance, and with such a familiar tone of voice.

"There's been a lot of snow recently. I kept intending to come when it wasn't snowing, but couldn't find such a day." Senior Concubine Qiao lifted her teacup, stirred her tea a little and took a sip.

Xiao Hua's eyes flashed. She smiled and said: "That's right. It's cold and there's a lot of snow. If it wasn't for having to pay respects to the consort, this servant concubine wouldn't be willing to go outside."

"The Jing Province's climate happens to be like this. The winters are long, and during winters the days are cold and the snow is heavy. Although winter has left and spring has come, spring here still comes a little later than anywhere else."

Xiao Hua noticed Senior Concubine Qiao's warm tone and apparent kindness, so continued chatting with her about the Jing Province's weather and what not.

After speaking for a while, the room fell silent once more.

Senior Concubine Qiao smiled amicably as though not noticing the slightly awkward air and spoke again: "This Jing Prince Estate's rear court doesn't have many people, and also doesn't have much to do. I normally also don't have anyone I can talk with. Today, chatting with little sis felt natural right away. In the future I will come find little sis to chat if I'm idle. You definitely won't refuse, right?"

"From what big sis senior concubine is saying, this servant concubine naturally welcomes it but merely didn't have the time to express it yet."

Senior Concubine Qiao stood up. Die'er who was on the side draped her cloak over her.

"Having bothered you for so long, I will take my leave first. Little sis doesn't need to see me out, it's cold outside."

Although she said this, Xiao Hua still stood up and respectfully saw her out the door before indicating Ding Lan to see her out of the pavilion.

Ding Lan sent her away before returning to the western room and saying: "Did this Senior Concubine Qiao eat the wrong medicine today?"

"You can say such things in front of us, but when we're outside you have to be more cautious." Ding Xiang was always strict, and never relaxed whether she was inside or outside.

"This servant is naturally aware. Madam, what do you think Senior Concubine Qiao was here for?"

Xiao Hua was already laying on her side on the kiln.

These days Ding Xiang had ordered her subordinates to focus on needlework. The previously empty kiln surface not only had an autumn colored, peony embroidered thick soft gauze mattress, but also a couple of pink cushions embroidered with silver lined peony trees. Now, Xiao Hua really enjoyed lazing on the kiln and burying herself into the cushions. It was soft and cozy.

"What else could she be here for? On the surface she's trying to rope us into an alliance, but in reality there are still other intentions."

The Jing Consort wasn't trying to deal with Senior Concubine Qiao, so there was no need for her to form any sort of alliance. This meant that she had another goal. She could guess what it was even if she used her toes instead of her brain.

In her past life in the 4th young master's rear court, she had seen too many people like this. When they couldn't win openly and wasn't favored themselves, they would try and get close to those who were. Of course they did have the intention of developing a good relationship, but their main goal was to appear more often in front of the master. If they could leave an impression, it would be easier to rope him to their own place.

While she had been a little bewildered at first by Senior Concubine Qiao's intentions, after their parting discussion Xiao Hua had pretty much figured it out.

Was there a need to do this? It wasn't like she was very favored at the moment.

But thinking of how the Jing Prince would barely come to the rear court once a month, she then thought about the number of times he had come to her place. Although it was a small number, it was still outstanding in comparison. To outsiders, she indeed seemed to be that little bit more favored.

From Xiao Hua's words, not only Ding Lan but even Chun Cao understood the meaning behind Senior Concubine Qiao's actions.

"She couldn't really be trying to borrow our place to meet his highness, and then trying to rope him back to the Rongxi Pavilion, right?" Ding Lan was a little worried. Her own madam was already favored little enough, how was it going to work with the addition of Senior Concubine Qiao?

Xiao Hua could only let out a chuckle and roll over in her nest of soft cushions.

Chun Cao looked at Ding Xiang's furrowed brows, and then glanced at Xiao Hua: "Then what should we do?"

Ding Xiang didn't say anything. Xiao Hua spoke: "What else can we do? She's the senior concubine. I'm just a small madam. If she wants to come in the doors, could I refuse? She can come if she wants. In any case, his highness only comes once in a while. Who knows if she could chance upon it?"

"What if she happens to chance upon it?" Chun Cao worried a little too much.

Xiao Hua rolled her eyes and didn't say anything, and suddenly felt extremely annoyed.

It wasn't like she hadn't suffered from this in her past life. The 4th young master had also been drawn away a couple of times. At that time she exploded with anger, angry at that person's shamelessness and also angry at the 4th young master's lack of self-control. Mostly angry because she felt she had lost all her face.

Especially since Bi Yuan was still struggling with her at that time, and would constantly bring it up mockingly to stab at her heart. She had stabbed until Xiao Hua stomped her feet with fury and was ready to stab her back, but with a knife instead.

In this life, facing the same situation, she could definitely not shoo her away. After all her status was higher than Xiao Hua's. Furthermore, she was already having a hard time dealing with the Jing Consort's crude methods. If she offended Senior Concubine Qiao, the result of a two-pronged attack would be hard to predict.

She didn't know if it was because Senior Concubine Qiao spoke very little normally, but Xiao Hua always felt that this person wasn't simple. The Jing Consort's tricks were only threatening because she used her status to her advantage, whereas Senior Concubine Qiao was much more scheming. The Jing Consort would definitely not be able to come express goodwill at this lowly madam's residence.

"Let's take it one step at a time," Xiao Hua gave her conclusion, "Even if you guys aren't satisfied you should be a bit more restrained. Don't make it obvious to others."

"Yes, madam."

Die'er glanced at the sky outside and said with a concerned expression: 'senior concubine, it's snowing outside. Are we still going over to the western pavilion?"

Sometimes Die'er didn't know what Senior Concubine Qiao was thinking. As a senior concubine who was officially listed on the Jing Prince's harem jade slip record, she still ran to a low ranked concubine's residence to express goodwill.

She also understood the senior concubine's intentions, but having gone so many times they hadn't run into his highness even once. Was there still a need to go?

His highness was apathetic to begin with. It could be imagined that even the favored Madam Hua would rarely see him. How much time would they have to waste if they wanted to run into him there?

"We're going. Why would we not?" Senior Concubine Qiao spoke while letting Cui'er dress her up. Her expression was completely relaxed without the slightest trace of impatience.

"But…"

Senior Concubine Qiao naturally understood what Die'er was trying to say, and raised a hand to stop her, "There's nothing to do nowadays anyway. Let's just treat it as passing the time."

Die'er felt uncomfortable hearing this but no longer argued about it.

Actually there were still some words Senior Concubine Qiao didn't say out loud.

From the moment his highness came to the Jing Province, he rarely came to the rear court. On the rare occasions he did show up at her place, it was just to sleep without doing anything. Not only was that woman Xiao-Shi feeling desperate, she herself was also desperate. After all these years she no longer thought about whatever favor. She just wanted a child. For the sake of this goal, she wouldn't let any opportunity, no matter how small, slip through her fingers.

She wasn't like that fool Xiao-Shi, who tried to use underhanded tricks. Even if she succeeded in making others unable to give birth, if his highness wouldn't go to her what was the point?

Of course, Senior Concubine Qiao also had some hope in her heart. After all, from an outsider's perspective, the Jing Prince had only spent the night at her place since arriving at the Jing Province. He had never visited the other places. Perhaps his highness still viewed her a little differently, but had merely forgotten over the course of time.

"Bring the jar of drunken rouge along. This senior concubine will properly let Madam Hua try out some good stuff today."

Die'er heard her words, and couldn't resist smiling as she thought about the expressions on those palace western pavilion palace maids' faces.

"Senior concubine, have you not noticed the expressions on those palace maids' faces over at the western pavilion? They clearly wish they could kick us out, but they can only endure it."

Senior Concubine Qiao smiled charmingly, "Unfortunately for them, I'm the senior concubine and she's a madam."

"Exactly. But from what this servant sees, that Madam Hua seems to be quite mentally stable, as if she's not concerned at all. Is she really that dumb or just pretending to be?"

Senior Concubine Qiao's jade-like finger lightly touched her own lips and smiled profoundly at the mirror, "She naturally wouldn't be a foolish person."

After a pause, she spoke again: "It's because she isn't foolish that she doesn't dare refuse this senior concubine. If I tried this with Yu Jiao, this senior concubine wouldn't even be able to get through her doors."

"Senior concubine is wise."

"Alright, let's go. We don't want to be late."

Die'er helped Senior Concubine Qiao up while Cui'er grabbed the wine jug of "drunken rouge" and the group headed outside.

"Little sis Hua, I've brought some good stuff today for you to try. Tonight I will have my people bring my food over. The two of us sisters will eat together and sample this excellent "drunken rouge".

After Senior Concubine Qiao came, these were her first words. Without any hesitation, she had Die'er place the white jar of wine on the table.

Xiao Hua was a little speechless but still maintained her smile, saying: "Big sis senior concubine is really too gracious, always bringing some things over to share with this servant concubine."

"It's because the two of us are so intimate, I naturally won't treat you as a stranger."

Xiao Hua smiled awkwardly.

The two of them sat on the kiln. Senior Concubine Qiao said: "Little sis Hua's place is just so comfortable. Even this warm kiln is more comfortable than my place."

As if you don't have a kiln yourself!

In the entire Jing Prince Estate, apart from the Jing Consort's Changchun Pavilion and his highness's Hall of Splendor which had heated vents, all the other places had kilns and charcoal basins for warmth. Senior Concubine Qiao's place was the same. Seeing her making a big deal out of something each residence had in common, Xiao Hua couldn't be blamed for cursing in her heart.

Ever since her first visit, Senior Concubine Qiao had truly started coming by daily. She mostly chose to come in the afternoon.

Whenever she came, she would sit for a while and chat with Xiao Hua about various unimportant things.

After spending some time with her, Xiao Hua realized she was a capable person after all.

At least she was very good at making conversation. Even if you had nothing to say, she could come up with a topic that the two of you could chat about. Furthermore, her attitude was extremely good from the very beginning, her smile amicable without any arrogance or overbearingness. She gave off a very approachable and kind feeling.

But illusions couldn't become reality. This was something Xiao Hua understood, so she never wavered.

While she could remain unmoved in her heart, she couldn't prevent the constantly smiling Senior Concubine Qiao from staying longer and longer each day. Now she even brought various tasty foods and drinks as an excuse to stay for dinner.

Therefore, Xiao Hua had been growing more and more annoyed with her recently. She was extremely annoyed at her act, and also annoyed with herself for being so polite in the beginning. Her politeness wasn't fake, but this person had taken her words "literally", and started diligently "visiting" her.

Not only was Xiao Hua annoyed, Ding Lan and Chun Cao were recently very annoyed as well. Ding Xiang was better at concealing it, but whenever Senior Concubine Qiao left she also couldn't resist furrowing her brows.

The two of them chatted idly for a while. It was mostly Senior Concubine Qiao speaking while Xiao Hua listened on the side, occasionally speaking a few words. It appeared very harmonious on the outside, but how it really was under the surface the two of them were probably well aware.

Soon it was dinner time. Xiao Hua and Senior Concubine Qiao's food had been brought over.

Ding Lan brought the others to the western room to set up a square table where the food was placed. Xiao Hua's and Senior Concubine Qiao's dishes together filled the entire table.

The two of them got off the kiln and sat at the table. With the help of their own palace maids, they washed their hands.

"Little sis Hua, big sis will give you a toast first."

Senior Concubine Qiao had Die'er pour a cup of the alcohol named "drunken rouge", and lifted it in a toast.

The cup and jar were both Xiao Hua's. Although the wine was brought over by Senior Concubine Qiao, she had taken a drink first so there naturally wasn't anything wrong with it. Xiao Hua allowed Ding Xiang to pour some for her.

Xiao Hua was actually quite impressed with Senior Concubine Qiao at times. What should have clearly been an awkward situation was not awkward at all when she did it, and instead seemed completely natural. Just like this wine, and also the food she had brought over in the past. She would always seamlessly volunteer to "taste test" it first, making it hard for one to refuse.

"This drunken rouge is highly distilled but doesn't burn the mouth. It has a faint fragrance and doesn't get you drunk. It's the most suitable for us girls to drink."

Since it had gotten to this point, Xiao Hua naturally didn't protest. She lifted her cup and drank.

"Thank you big sis Qiao for the good wine. Please count this cup as servant concubine's toast to you."

The alcohol entered her mouth and it really was as Senior Concubine Qiao had said. Strong but didn't burn the mouth. Not only was there a light fragrance, there were even some hints of fruit flavored sweetness.

In this life, Xiao Hua had almost never drank any alcohol. In her past life she would often accompany the 4th young master in drinking a few cups, and her tolerance naturally wasn't bad. She just didn't know if her experience from her past life would carry over.

The two of them ate while occasionally chatting. Senior Concubine Qiao continued drinking alcohol and Xiao Hua also drank along smoothly without declining. As they were eating, Chun Zhu1 hurriedly ran inside, giving Senior Concubine Qiao a glance before whispering in Xiao Hua's ear.

The Jing Prince was here?

Xiao Hua was a little tipsy but she wasn't drunk. She glanced at Senior Concubine Qiao and a thought flashed through her mind.

Hur hur, what a coincidence! She really managed to run into it!

Although she was thinking this, she still hurriedly stood up and said, "Big sis Qiao, his highness has come. This servant concubine will go welcome him." She then took the lead in heading out and prepared to greet him.

Die'er looked at Senior Concubine Qiao in pleasant surprise. She tidied up her appearance a little, pursed her lips and resisted smiling with some difficulty before following Xiao Hua out.

Senior Concubine Qiao came out just as the Jing Prince walked in. Xiao Hua was in the middle of saluting, and she hurriedly took a few steps forward to salute as well.

The Jing Prince wore black casualwear with golden lines, and a black jade crown rested on his head. A black jade belt was wrapped around his slender but sturdy waist. He looked cool and apathetic but also outstandingly handsome.

Eunuch Fu stood to the side, staring weirdly at Senior Concubine Qiao who wasn't supposed to appear here. The Jing Prince stood fixed in place for a bit but his expression didn't reveal anything as he lifted his hand for them to rise.

Xiao Hua, who was the place's owner, hadn't said anything yet before Senior Concubine Qiao spoke up first, "Your highness, what great timing. Little sis Hua and I were just eating dinner together. I don't know if your highness has eaten yet. How about we all eat a little together?"

Senior Concubine Qiao had actually already noticed that there were two low-ranked eunuchs behind Eunuch Fu who were carrying food.

The Jing Prince didn't say anything. Eunuch Fu sighed in his heart and waved his hand, signaling them to lay the food out.

Senior Concubine Qiao accompanied the Jing Prince into the western room, her face full of smiles. The palace maids of the western pavilion all had ugly expressions on their faces. This Senior Concubine Qiao was being too obvious, making it hard not to have an ugly expression.

Although the drunken rouge was supposed to be for women to drink, it would still make one drunk. Xiao Hua not only felt a little dizzy at the moment, but her face was also bright red. However, she didn't reveal any unpleasant expressions and followed behind them to the western room.

The Jing Prince had already sat down, and the food he brought over was already laid out. Senior Concubine Qiao sat on his left side so Xiao Hua sat down on his right.

Senior Concubine Qiao's face was red, extremely tender and beautiful. It wasn't clear if this was due to the alcohol or her excitement.

"Highness, this is the "drunken rouge" that this concubine specially brought over for little sis Hua to try. Would you like to try some?"

The Jing Prince didn't speak, only using his chopsticks to grab food without giving Senior Concubine Qiao a glance.

All those who were able to remain by the prince's side for so many years understood his personality. Seeing his lack of reaction, Senior Concubine Qiao summoned someone to pour some alcohol for him.

After pouring, she also had Die'er pour some more for Xiao Hua, and then refilled her own cup.

"Highness, this concubine offers you a toast."

Under the lamplight, Senior concubine Qiao appeared especially beautiful today, seeming to have spent meticulous effort on her appearance. Her powdered face, cherried lips and limpid almond eyes were matched with a pale bluish white light jacket embroidered with green lotus patterns. Her waist was pinched tightly, making her upper body bulge outwards with great momentum. Her every move carried heavy charm, like a flower already in bloom, able to attract countless butterflies and bees.

Normally when she came it wasn't too apparent. They all merely thought Senior Concubine Qiao was a beauty. At this moment, under these circumstances, her appearance made Ding Lan and the rest unable to resist clenching their teeth. Xiao Hua on the other hand merely chuckled a couple times in her heart, and didn't know how else to react.

That person was scheming, that person had patience, that person was willing to lower herself. With such qualities, that person would always be successful during the struggles in the rear court. Adding on her excellent appearance and decent mind, she was even more unstoppable.

Xiao Hua secretly compared herself to that person and felt that she didn't even qualify to carry her shoes.

The Jing Prince didn't speak, lifting his cup to drink the alcohol.

Senior Concubine Qiao was once again full of smiles as she lifted her cup towards Xiao Hua, "Little sis Xiao Hua, big sis offers you a toast. Thank you for your warm welcome today."

Xiao Hua twitched her lips and snuck a glance at the Jing Prince.

Was he the "warm welcome" she was referring to? Hur hur…..

"Big sis senior concubine, you are being too polite." Xiao Hua lifted her cup, covering her face with her sleeves as she drank.

The moment Xiao Hua put her cup down, Die'er was beside her refilling it while also pouring more for the Jing Prince and Senior Concubine Qiao.

In front of the Jing Prince, since Senior Concubine Qiao had toasted her, Xiao Hua certainly had to return it. Furthermore, she couldn't leave out the Jing Prince either.

Xiao Hua could only lift her cup and toast the Jing Prince first.

"Highness, this servant concubine offers you a toast."

Another one of Xiao Hua's four low ranked palace maids.

Within the western room of the western pavilion's eastern wing, under the light of six burning lamps the room was brightly lit.

The Jing Prince sat at the main seat of the large square table. To the left sat the gentle and lovely Senior Concubine Qiao. To the right sat the fresh and charming Xiao Hua. If Senior Concubine Qiao was a lotus flower in full bloom, Xiao Hua was a budding peach blossom just about to start blooming.

It was hard to say who was more beautiful. It could only be said each had their own charm.

"Highness, this servant concubine offers you a toast."

The Jing Prince silently gave her a glance.

Under the lamplight, Xiao Hua appeared especially charming today. Her palm-sized face carried a trace of pink, and her peach blossom eyes were watery due to her tipsiness. Her lips were stained rose-red from the wine and looked extremely moist.

The Jing Prince tightened his hand and held the cup still as he drank his wine.

Seeing the prince drink up, Xiao Hua turned to toast Senior Concubine Qiao.

"Big sis senior concubine, thank you for your wine today. This servant concubine offers you a toast."

"Little sis Xiao Hua is too polite." Senior Concubine Qiao smiled and said, lifting her cup to drink. Her charming eyes glistened under the lamplight.

Xiao Hua had just put her cup aside when Die'er came up and refilled it once more with the rose red "drunken rouge".

On the other side, Senior Concubine Qiao lifted the other jug filled with wine and poured herself another cup.

"Little sis Hua, big sis offers you another toast." Senior Concubine Qiao smiled lovably and charmingly, and gave the Jing Prince a glance. "Today is a happy occasion since his highness is here. Little sis can't refuse."

Ding Xiang and the other three started feeling anxious. Xiao Hua lifted the cup in her hand as though she didn't feel anything, her lustrous arm was half revealed and sparkled almost translucently in the lamplight. She held the cup and drank.

At this moment, as long as they weren't blind, anyone could see what Senior Concubine Qiao and her personal palace maid were trying to do. Everyone was aware what the Jing Prince was here for. If they got Madam Hua drunk, wouldn't it be benefitting Senior Concubine Qiao?

Chun Cao had always kept Xiao Hua's words in mind, and knew she shouldn't reveal anything in front of others. But at this moment she really couldn't keep the indignation from appearing on her face.

"Big sis Die'er, our madam's alcohol tolerance isn't good. It's better if you didn't give her anymore."

It was kind of rude for Chun Cao to say this. With a master and two mistresses present, should a palace maid be interrupting if they hadn't even said anything?

But Senior Concubine Qiao didn't get angry because of this, and instead said with a smile: "This low-ranked palace maid shouldn't be like this. Your madam is drinking happily, what are you panicking for? This is women's alcohol, you won't get drunk off of it."

Having said this, she used her eyes to indicate Die'er to refill her cup, and lifted it once more, "I'm chatting too much. Little sis Hua let me offer you another toast. Today we're happy, it's fine if we drink some more."

Ding Xiang tugged at Chun Cao a little over on the side. Xiao Hua gave Senior Concubine Qiao a glance, lifted her cup and drank it down.

Due to this back and forth, the Jing Prince had only drank two cups whereas Senior Concubine Qiao and Xiao Hua had drank a lot.

Senior Concubine Qiao's expression looked no different. It was apparent that her alcohol tolerance was pretty good. However, Xiao Hua couldn't keep it up. The Jing Prince was still sitting but she herself couldn't even sit straight, leaning sideways against Ding Xiang who had been standing beside her.

It seemed she was quite drunk.

"Come, come, come. Big sis senior concubine let me toast you again." This time she flipped things around and took the initiative to seek her out for a drink.

Senior Concubine Qiao's smile bloomed like a flower. She covered her mouth and said: "Looks like little sis Xiao Hua really doesn't have much alcohol tolerance. Let's not drink anymore." As she spoke, she glanced at the Jing Prince who didn't respond.

Xiao Hua chuckled a little, her cheeks fiery red, "Big sis Senior Concubine Qiao's wine today is pretty good….drunken rouge….really delicious, its name is also pretty, good wine…."

After speaking, she grabbed the wine jug and poured herself another cup. She lifted it and drank.

"Looks like little sis Xiao Hua really is drunk," Senior Concubine Qiao smiled while sighing, giving the Jing Prince another glance, "Highness, how about this concubine—-"

The Jing Prince had already placed his chopsticks down for a while now. He ate simply and also didn't speak with anyone. Xiao Hua and Senior Concubine Qiao were having a drinking contest on one side while he had long finished eating on the other. He didn't say anything and merely sat there watching, his eyes obscure.

Senior Concubine Qiao's meaning was clear to everyone. The three western pavilion palace maids standing there were all a little panicked. Die'er revealed a joyful smile. Senior Concubine Qiao smiled extra flirtatiously, her glance fluid as water. Xiao Hua swayed from left to right like a little drunkard.

It was as if she hadn't noticed Senior Concubine Qiao's intentions. She stood up shakily as though she were boneless. She rubbed the area between her brows. Ding Xiang came over to support her but she didn't let her, and instead fell over towards the Jing Prince.

She fell onto him and wrapped her arms around his neck.

"Highness—–"

Others had the scent of orchids on their breath while Xiao Hua had the scent of alcohol on hers. However, drunken rouge didn't have a strong alcoholic smell to begin with, and along with Xiao Hua's lightly fragrant body, one wouldn't feel the smell was bad.

Especially since she was such a charming and lovable little beauty, whose limpid peach blossom eyes and full lips moved the heart. The Jing Prince looked at the drunken beauty wrapped around him. His face didn't show any emotions but his eyes grew deeper and deeper.

"Highness isn't going anywhere, and will stay right here. Isn't that right?"

The rose-colored lips were half puckered, seeming a little aggrieved and a little in need of pampering, clearly displaying the attitude of a lovable little girl. She even tightened her arms around his neck, as though she wouldn't let go after latching on, afraid the Jing Prince would run off.

Eunuch Fu stood to one side, wiping his sweat and sighing. Who said that Senior Concubine Qiao would benefit from Madam Hua getting drunk? Having served by the Jing Prince's side for so long, Eunuch Fu could tell at a glance that Senior Concubine Qiao had no chance tonight.

Senior Concubine Qiao's expression was a little rigid, and looked nervously at the Jing Prince. In her heart she cursed Madam Hua for not having any propriety. She was like a vixen, actually seducing his highness in front of her.

Hur hur, why didn't you curse yourself as a vixen when you tried to worm your way here to take advantage?

The Jing Prince's body imperceptibly turned rigid. Only after a while did he nod his head with an apathetic expression.

Xiao Hua's tipsy face revealed a large, large smile, making it obvious she was smiling very happily. She seized the opportunity to rub her face against the Jing Prince's neck a couple times, and cooed quietly, "Highness, you're so kind."

Senior Concubine Qiao stood to the side smiling rigidly, hating how she couldn't use her gaze to poke a few holes in that demoness.

The Jing Prince stroked her hair, and seeing her about to fall off used his hands to carefully prop her up by her butt. However, his actions were not visible and others didn't really notice anything.

Since the Jing Prince had agreed to stay, it was obvious Senior Concubine Qiao had counted her chickens before they hatched.

Eunuch Fu chuckled and upon seeing the Jing Prince signaling with his eyes, he turned to Senior Concubine Qiao with a bow and said: "Senior concubine, please—"

His hand made a respectful send-off gesture.

At this moment, under these circumstances, Senior Concubine Qiao could only leave. She didn't dare express any negative attitude in front of the Jing Prince. She stood up, gave a charming bow, and put on a completely drunk appearance, allowing Die'er to support her out.

Only after they left the main gates did she wave off Die'er's support. She angrily pulled on her handkerchief and stomped her foot a couple of times.

"Trash! All of them, trash!"

Die'er shrunk her neck and didn't dare say anything.

Seeing the thick-skinned Senior Concubine Qiao finally leave, all the palace maids in the western pavilion were full of joy in their hearts.

Since Xiao Hua was drunk to such an extent, there was naturally no need for the food anymore.

The servants cleaned up the aftermath while the Jing Prince picked up the bothersome little thing on top of him and carried her into the bedroom.

After putting her on the bed, the Jing Prince planned to have the servants come give her a bath. However, the hands around his neck were unwilling to let go.

"Highness…."

Hearing this soul-stirring charming voice, the Jing Prince suddenly felt some disorder in his mind.

Before he could react, his shirt was pulled open. The slender but not soft fingers wandered around, resulting in a stimulating feeling from the sensation of calluses rubbing over his skin.

Eunuch Fu, Ding Xiang and the rest who had followed behind saw the situation start to heat up and all took their leave with their heads lowered.

Xiao Hua actually wasn't drunk, but only felt very hot. She felt hot all over, and her mind was also extremely muddled. Her hazy drunken eyes looked at the Jing Prince before her. She vaguely saw that his face was tightly stretched, but still didn't have much emotion.

She was inexplicably a little angry. Why can't he just show a little emotion? Does he not know his apathy made her feel uncomfortable?

"Highness…."

She mumbled as her lips swam upwards towards the Jing Prince's mouth. Her pink tongue stretched out for a taste before locking his lips with her own.

The Jing Prince had never been so intimate with a woman in both his lives. He didn't like feminine charms and was thus apathetic. Due to his apathy he didn't have much skill.

The locking of lips, intertwining of tongues and exchange of fluids was a completely new experience for him. The last time he had tasted a hint of its pleasures, and had kept it in his mind for several days. Today he had only come after checking the date, but unexpectedly this low ranked palace maid got drunk and once again expanded his mind.

Xiao Hua lightly bit the Jing Prince's lips, her hands groping about carelessly. It wasn't known where she ended up touching when the Jing Prince suddenly shivered. His lips accidentally parted and was then invaded by a little pink tongue. After thrusting in, it could be said to be plundering and pillaging, forcing him who should have been taking the initiative to frantically avoid and hide. Unfortunately the space was too small, and his tongue ended up being entangled.

The Jing Prince was stunned for a moment. After snapping out of it, he realized he didn't hate it. Especially since Xiao Hua's "nectar" was extremely sweet and contained a hint of alcohol, making it full of flavor. His passiveness changed to activeness, their lips rubbing and twisting together as he couldn't get enough of this little flower. He had even picked up some skills by himself and changed the position of his lips. He teased around her ear for half a moment before moving to her jade neck.

Xiao Hua felt herself getting extremely excited. She grabbed the Jing Prince's hands, placed them on her body and even helped slide them back and forth in demonstration a couple times. The Jing Prince was a good student. Feeling the two protrusions he lightly rubbed and pinched them a couple of times.

Xiao Hua felt some pain in her chest area but also some pleasure. Her hands urgently grabbed at the Jing Prince's waist. The Jing Prince had been provoked by her a little beyond endurance, and removed both their clothing in a matter of seconds. The spread her slender legs, stood by the bedside and thrust himself inside.

Being suddenly filled up, Xiao Hua let out a suppressed cry through her nose. Her mouth started kissing harder all over as she endured his clumsy yet vigorous thrusting.

How long it lasted neither of them knew. Xiao Hua only knew that this was her first time being so excited. It seemed like being drunk made one more daring. The moves she usually didn't dare use were all thrown onto the Jing Prince.

He seemed to like it quite a bit as his breathing was extremely rough. In the past even during those moments the Jing Prince's breathing would at most be a little disordered, but had never been excited to this extent.

Neither of them knew how they ended up tangled on the bed.

Things had finally stopped, and Xiao Hua's mind was no longer as muddled. Right as she was about to take a break to catch her breath, she was grabbed by the Jing Prince from behind for another round. She was held tightly and thrust vigorously from below. After a moment Xiao Hua couldn't endure any longer, and despite biting on to his arm she couldn't prevent herself from crying out.

….

This was Eunuch Fu's first time hearing such a large commotion on the inside.

Madam Hua's voice sounded out intermittently from the room, seemingly crying and also laughing, begging and pleading mixed with some extremely joyful cries and the sounds of a man's rough breathing.

His highness really had the vigor and fierceness of dragons and tigers. He even made the girl cry!

All men would sigh at hearing these noises. Although Eunuch Fu couldn't be said to be a man, he still had a man's physique.

"Eunuch Fu, the servants have cleaned out a room on the side. Would you like to rest for a bit?" Ding Xiang walked over and said in a quiet voice, "We'll leave someone here. If anything happens we'll call you."

Eunuch Fu nodded his head and walked out.

The Jing Prince rested a long while before regaining some of his energy and stopping his panting. He lowered his head and looked at the person in his arms. Both of them where a mess, their bodies sweaty. Not only was he sweaty, she was also dripping with sweat. His arms had little red bite marks from when she bit him during her pleasure.

This low-ranked palace maid's guts were really big. She actually dared bite this humble prince.

But seeing the flush on her jade-like neck, the Jing Prince suddenly no longer had such thoughts.

Being sticky all over, they should supposedly take a bath. However, the Jing Prince didn't want to move. The person in his arms moved a little, turning over and burying herself further in his arms. She snuggled into his chest and no longer moved.

He stroked the person's long, soft hair, closed his eyes and slowly fell asleep.

The next day when Xiao Hua woke up, the Jing Prince had vanished as expected.

After being awoken by Ding Xiang, Xiao Hua glanced at her surroundings, the words "as expected" flashing through her mind. However, she didn't express anything, asking Ding Xiang what time it was before getting up, taking a bath and changing her clothes.

Last night's activities were rather fierce. Xiao Hua could clearly feel her waist and legs were extremely sore. When Ding Xiang helped her up she couldn't stop herself from sucking in a breath.

Ding Xiang said hesitantly: "How about this servant goes to the Changchun Pavilion today and reports madam as ill?"

Xiao Hua shook her head, "Prepare some warm water for me to soak in. Yesterday Senior Concubine Qiao's plans failed, so the Changchun Pavilion will definitely not be leisurely today."

Author's note:

Don't know if this is going to get locked.

Due to Jin Jiang's strict investigations, please don't discuss in too much "detail" in the forums. If you really want to say it, just say "Xiao Hua is really too amazing' like so.

Not sure if everyone could tell everything Xiao Hua did was on purpose. Please note "everything".

As for everyone's opinions, this author will self-reflect over the next few days.

I've "spent too much time on unnecessary details" again. This problem really needs to be fixed. Of course this has to do with the recent posts. These farming, household struggle novels are going to be the death of me. I always felt the more detailed the better, but who knew everyone would have such large reactions. This is a common failing for new writers, this author will keep it in mind in the future.

At first this author was prepared to research the jewelry, clothing and food and what not, wanting to make the writing a little closer to perfection like those writing gods. Seems like there's no need for that. If this author spent a chapter on clothes and jewelry, and another chapter on food, this author will probably get beaten to death. The last part was a joke.

This chapter wasn't going to be in such detail at first, but this author guesses that you all enjoy this kind of "unnecessary detail", so that's what it ended up being. Just to reiterate, don't discuss in too much unnecessary detail in the forums. If you want to discuss it, just say Repressed Jing, you're really too amazing, like so.

Xiao Hua: (embarrassed and indignant to death) Repressed Jing, you groped this momma's ass in public.

Repressed Jing: (rigid face) This humble prince did not.

Xiao Hua: You clearly did!

Repressed Jing: Did not…

Xiao Hua: Did

Repressed Jing: Didn't do it in public…(it was clearly under the table, ok?)

Repressed Jing: Xiao Hua'er, you stole this humble prince's first kiss

Xiao Hua: Did I, did I?

Repressed Jing: …acting wanton!

Xiao Hua: Did you like it?

Repressed Jing: …

Translator's notes: This chapter was heavily censored to the extent that it wasn't just omission, but also dramatically changed content. The author's note had also been removed, which makes sense given that she talks about the chapter and the censorship. I decided to translate the current excerpt from the censored raws below as well so you can see the difference, and also because the conversation was kind of cute. However, I felt it seemed a little out of character for them. The dramatic censorship led me to do some research, and apparently last year the Chinese government released a new round of censorship rules which JJWXC, the website hosting the raws was heavily hit by since it contained primarily romance novels. One of the new rules was "Nothing sexual below the neck".

Hearing this soul-stirring charming voice, the Jing Prince suddenly felt some disorder in his mind.

"You're drunk. I'll have someone prepare some sobering soup for you?"

"I won't drink. I won't drink soup. I wanna drink wine."

She used one hand to hold onto him while waving the other wildly in the air.

"Then I'll have someone come bathe you."

"I don't want a bath. I wanna drink wine."

The Jing Prince held her hand down: "Behave."

At this moment, Xiao Hua suddenly changed her actions, reaching her hands out and cupping the Jing Prince's face.
"Highness, is that you?"

She looked closely but her vision was too blurry. The person in front of her turned from a shadow into two people. Her vision only cleared up slightly after she shook her head with all her might.

She saw that the face looking at her was stretched very tightly, but still didn't show much emotion.

She inexplicably felt some anger. Why couldn't he just show a little more emotion? Didn't he know his apathy made her very uncomfortable?

"You're unhappy?" She said.

"I'm not."

"You are!" She stubbornly insisted, and said: "Are you blaming me for ruining your happy occasion?"

The Jing Prince furrowed his brows: "What nonsense."

She puckered her lips with some grievance on her face: "You clearly are. Heh, did she think I didn't know what she kept coming here for? Wanting to benefit off of me? No way!"

As she spoke, she was once again pleased with herself and put her hands on her hips.

This pose was only maintained for a second before she unsteadily fell backwards. Luckily the Jing Prince's hands were quick and held her fast.

She took the advantage to hug her neck again.

"Highness, you're so kind…."

She mumbled with her mouth as she pushed herself over.

Outside.

"Eunuch Fu, the servants have cleaned out a room on the side. Would you like to rest for a bit?"

Just based on the phrase "plans failed", Ding Xiang could tell that madam's actions last night weren't due to drunkenness. She could only sigh about madam's farsightedness, while thinking how the result was actually by design and not by chance.

What made her happiest of all was that his highness had actually tacitly approved madam's actions. No matter the reason, at least Senior Concubine Qiao didn't succeed in pulling his highness away. Everyone would have to reevaluate Madam Hua's position in his highness's heart.

Tearing off a tiger's skin to use as a banner was something Xiao Hua was very well versed in during her past life.

She also knew that this was drinking poison to quench her thirst, but she still had to do it. The difference between struggling and not struggling was just so hard to grasp, especially since from an outsider's perspective she was already quite favored by the Jing Prince. She would rather take the risk and seek out favor rather than allow Senior Concubine Qiao to take the Jing Prince from her place, and let others mock her while trampling her ruthlessly. It didn't matter if this "favor" truly existed as long as those on the outside thought it did.

As for offending Senior Concubine Qiao and the reaction from the Jing Consort, Xiao Hua could only play it by the ear. After all, the situation was already bad enough. It wouldn't make much of a difference if it got a little worse.

Xiao Hua made countless preparations, but unexpectedly the Changchun Pavilion was extremely peaceful today.

In a rare display, not only did the Jing Consort fail to make an appearance, even Senior Concubine Qiao acted as if nothing had happened. There was even less need to mention Yu Jiao and Yu Rong. Having been left hanging for over an hour, Yu Jiao had long since gotten impatient. If it wasn't for the Changchun Pavilion's restrictions, she would probably have flipped out already.

Xiao Hua looked at her surroundings out of boredom.

The Changchun Pavilion's main hall was magnificently decorated. In the center stood the Jing Consort's seat of honor. The two seats beneath it on either side were used to entertain guests. Each chair had an embroidered seat cushion. The ones they sat on was indigo blue embroidered with words of fortune. The Jing Consort's seat had a crimson mattress padding embroidered with golden threaded peony trees, seeming soft and comfortable, giving off a luxurious air.

The hall was arranged with several fixed treasure display shelves, upon which were all sorts of rarities. To the right was the reception, which was partitioned with a peacock green jade pearl curtain. Last time's banquet was set in that area. In the center of the room stood a flowing gold phoenix engraved incense furnace that was half the height of a person. A faint pleasant aroma permeated throughout the hall.

Rich households had always been fond of incense. Men and women, old and young alike were fond of it, so Xiao Hua wasn't too surprised. Even in her residence Ding Xiang would use some light fragrance.

After sitting for another while, the Jing Consort still didn't show signs of appearing.

Xiao Hua slowly relaxed. Looks like the Jing Consort was going to leave them hanging. It was better this way. She wouldn't have to waste her energy figuring out how to deal with things.

After sitting until it was almost time for lunch, the Jing Consort had still not appeared. Yu Jiao couldn't hold her temper in any longer and asked a palace maid: "What's wrong with the consort today? It's already so late but she's still not out."

That palace maid respectfully bowed and said: "This servant is just responsible for serving tea, and isn't sure of the consort's situation."

"Then don't you know how to go ask? Leaving us hanging here, it's already almost noon." The last line was mumbled by Yu Jiao, but she had still clearly expressed her impatience.

Yu Rong didn't prevent Yu Jiao from speaking this way. Forget about Yu Jiao, even she herself felt things were a little off today.

"Yes, yes." That palace maid bowed and left.

After a while, Nana Li came out.

"The consort sent this old servant to relay her words. You are all free to go."

In the past the Jing Consort would still have an excuse for leaving them hanging. Today, she didn't even offer one, seeming overbearing to the extreme.

Yu Jiao endured and endured some more, not saying anything before standing up and heading out. From her body language, it was clear how indignant she felt in her heart.

The remaining three didn't say anything and also filed out one by one.

From beginning to end, Senior Concubine Qiao hadn't said a word to Xiao Hua or even made eye contact. The recently formed sisterhood had fallen apart due to last night's events, as though nothing had ever happened between them.

The two of them maintained their calm appearance, but as for what their thoughts were, only the heavens knew.

Once everyone had left, Nana Li had all the palace maids within the residence take their leave.

She closed the main gates before calling Chun Xiang and Xia Xiang over.

"Hurry and clean it up. Be careful with it." After speaking, Nana Li went inside the house.

Using handkerchiefs to cover their noses, Chun Xiang and Xia Xiang went over to the flowing gold phoenix furnace, working together to lift the lid and douse the burning incense.

After, they took out the incense ash. Xia Xiang went to deal with it while Chun Xiang went to the window. She cracked the patterned window open, and then went and opened the doors.

After taking care of everything, Xia Xiang revealed a worried expression and walked to Chun Xiang's side.

"Big sis Chun Xiang, this will cause a huge commotion."

Xia Xiang didn't dare express any doubts in front of the Jing Consort, but in front of Chun Xiang, she was unable to maintain her calmness and her face turned pale.

"The consort has gone insane…." Her voice seemed to have been squeezed out from her throat.

Since the day his highness left the Changchun Pavilion, the Jing Consort had gone insane. After hearing that Senior Concubine Qiao had returned last night from the western pavilion in low spirits, her insanity had become more extreme.

Chun Xiang covered Xia Xiang's mouth, "Stop speaking nonsense at once!"

Xia Xiang couldn't help her tears from flowing, and trembled all over from fear.

Chun Xiang patted her shoulders and muttered, "It'll be fine. Our consort was conferred the Jing Consort by his royal majesty, and is also the empress's niece. Nothing will happen."

"But….."

Nothing will happen to the consort, but what about them?

These words Xia Xiang didn't dare say out loud. She could only use her sleeves to wipe her face roughly, revealing a forced and fixed smile.

"Don't overthink it. The consort had set her heart on doing this, none of us could prevent it. We can only do our best to go along with it. The consort is still waiting for our service, let's hurry and go inside. Don't delay anymore."

Xia Xiang wiped her face again before entering the inner room with Chun Xiang.

The sweeper area would send people every day to sweep the snow in various areas. The western pavilion was one of those areas.

Only the eastern wing was currently inhabited. Ding Xiang would send someone to clear the area by the eastern wing's doors and walkways, but the rest of the pavilion was the sweeper area's responsibility.

After Qiao Lian left the Hall of Splendor, she had returned to the sweeper area. Returning to where she once came, it could be said that she got what she deserved.

Of course from Qiao Lian's perspective, she had been treated unfairly. Having been relocated like the others, they had all more or less been assigned to easy roles whereas she ended up in extremely dire straits.

Eunuch Fu, who had some understanding towards certain things, thought that this peaceful place was extremely suitable for this low-ranked palace maid Qiao Lian. Grandpa Fu had always been good at using people.

Like Xi'er, Qiao Lian had been deeply scared by Eunuch Fu's ruthless means at the time. After returning to the sweeper area, she was depressed for a long time.

She couldn't help but be depressed. The sweeper area's chores had become extra strenuous due to the winter. Clearing the snow was something that had to be done every day. The hard work kept everyone busy, leaving them no time to think about anything else.

As time went on, the entire Jing Prince Estate was circulating with rumors regarding the madam in the western pavilion.

It was said that this madam had also started out as a low-ranked palace maid in the sweeper area. Due to her etiquette being good, she was moved to the Hall of Splendor where she one day caught his highness's eye and ascended into the skies to become someone above everyone else.

Qiao Lian naturally knew who that person was. What was there to not understand? The rest of them had either been beaten to death or driven out. The one who benefitted was none other than that person!

Every time she thought of "her", Qiao Lian would grit her teeth in hatred.

On this day, Qiao Lian was picked as one of the palace maids responsible for sweeping the western pavilion. Su Yan took them over to the western pavilion with broom and shovel in hand.

After respectfully letting the palace maids at the door know what they were here for, the people filed into the western pavilion one by one.

Everyone else's thoughts were the same. Those who had once known Xiao Hua or those who were familiar with her would inevitably think of the past when they came here. Because Su Yan was a steady person and it wasn't her first time working here, she was naturally better off than the others. But she would inevitably sigh, sigh over her life, and sigh over how Madam Hua's fate was truly great.

There wasn't anything else.

This was Qiao Lian's first time coming to the first western pavilion. Her emotions were naturally complicated. After entering, her eyes glanced over at the eastern wing.

It didn't snow today, and the air contained a soul-piercing chill. For the group of low ranked palace maids from the sweeper area, this weather was really loathsome. But for those who were holed up in their house with burning kilns and roasting charcoal basins, they would inevitably feel the house was too stuffy.

Xiao Hua wasn't such a delicate person to begin with, and liked to come out for fresh air and revitalize her energy after staying inside for too long.

Under Chun Cao's brushing aside of the curtains, Xiao Hua walked outside. She didn't walk far, taking a deep breath in the walkway outside the door. Her eyes wandered idly over the scenery inside the pavilion and happened to see the bustling figures in the distance.

"Today the sweeper area is clearing out the snow in various places." Ding Xiang spoke on the side.

Xiao Hua spaced out a little, letting her thoughts wander. She remembered her days back at the sweeper area, which seemed to be a lifetime ago.

Xiao Hua didn't look closely, and naturally didn't see her past roommate. But Qiao Lian whose thoughts were focused on the eastern wing naturally saw the curtains being pulled apart and her gaze fell directly onto Xiao Hua.

She saw her fair and tender skin, her exquisite and delicate figure, and her palm-sized face containing her pair of gleaming limpid peach blossom eyes.

At this moment, "Madam Hua" was vastly different from Qiao Lian's image of Xiao Hua in her heart. At that time, although it was hard to conceal Xiao Hua's good looks, she didn't have such an appearance. She currently seemed like a caringly raised flower who suddenly became tender, beautiful and alluring. Her light pink narrow-sleeved jacket and pale bluish white satin skirt made her figure seem especially lithe. Her chest bulged outwards but her waist and limbs were extremely slender.

Qiao Lian didn't know when the frail low ranked palace maid in her memories had transformed into an extremely beautiful woman. It had merely been a few months, but this person seemed to have become ripe. She seemed like a juicy, sweet peach that would leak water with a single prick.

Qiao Lian's face was shockingly pale, and her knuckles had also turned white from gripping the broom. She glanced at her own indigo blue and ginger outfit. The colors were still the same ugly colors from before. The thin jacket and skirt had merely been exchanged for cotton-padded versions suitable for the winter.

She suddenly felt ashamed of her inferiority, but what she felt most was jealousy.

"Qiao Lian, don't space out. Big sis Su Yan glared at you a couple of times." A low-ranked palace maid had her head lowered and never ceased her actions, but she spoke to Qiao Lian.

"Oh." Qiao Lian paused before lowering her head, no longer looking in that direction. Her hands which were red from the cold grabbed the wooden shovel and shoveled the ground. Only after the snow was loosened did she grab the broom and start sweeping.

Xiao Hua let out another breath of stuffy air and went back inside the house. She had wanted to stay outside a little longer, but was helpless in the face of Ding Xiang, who urged her several times to go back inside in case she caught a cold.

After entering the house, Xiao Hua spoke while walking, "Let's have some light and refreshing dishes today. Always eating clay pot dishes makes it hard to have any appetite."

Ding Xiang nodded yes to the side and committed everything to memory.

Ding Xiang personally fetched the meals every day. She kept a close watch on the food.

In the courtyard, Qiao Lian lowered her head and worked for a while, but still couldn't resist glancing at the western wing. She saw the empty hallway and the thick curtains over the door.

It wasn't clear if she was disappointed or frustrated as she slowly squeezed the broom in her hands tightly.