Chapter 1303: Purpose

Editor: Henyee Translations

All varieties of peonies were clearly well-tended, their robust stems supporting lush branches adorned with enormous, bowl-sized blossoms. Among the verdant leaves and boughs, a profusion of colors unfolded, including rich reds, golden stamens, snow-white, rosy pinks, deep purples, soft greens, pale yellows, and delicate pinks. Most of these blooms were double-petaled, their layers of petals gracefully unfurling in the bright sunlight, a feast for the eyes.

Furong Pavilion was a sprawling, square structure, already prepared with a set table.

The Fourth Princess Consort beamed as she invited the Princess Consort to take her seat.

Once the Princess Consort settled in, the concubines and the Princess Consort of the Prefecture Lord followed suit, guided to their designated spots by the attentive maids.

On the table, tea and snacks were promptly served. These women were well-acquainted within their social circle, well-aware of the Fourth Princess Consort’s dignified and amiable demeanor. Consequently, they felt no trepidation in her presence and quickly engaged in cheerful conversation.

Secondary Concubine Shi had previously invited Qiao Xuan to a banquet at the Fourth Prince’s residence, but the contrast between Secondary Concubine Shi and the Fourth Princess Consort was stark.

Secondary Concubine Shi had once been the center of attention, yet now she found herself sitting behind the Fourth Princess Consort, radiating contentment.

As for He Zhiqing, she could only stand dutifully behind the Fourth Princess Consort, tending to her needs like a palace maid. Her attire resembled that of a top-tier palace maid by the Fourth Princess Consort’s side, and she dared not draw any attention to herself.

Qiao Xuan shot a fleeting glance in her direction before shifting her gaze away.

Times had changed. He Zhiqing, hailing from the esteemed Xie Family in Yuzhang Province, had been the object of adoration among the province’s noblewomen. She possessed talent and beauty, exuding elegance and distinction, leaving many noblewomen envious.

However, within the confines of the Fourth Prince’s residence, she assumed the role of a mere servant.

She couldn’t help but wonder if she would come to regret her journey this far.

What was she truly seeking?

Qiao Xuan harbored no sympathy for her and silently made a mental note of her observations.

She hadn’t forgotten her past actions!

However, at this moment, she had no intention of taking any immediate action against her. After all, if her current plan were to fail, she wouldn’t have a pleasant stay at the Fourth Prince’s mansion, would she?

The group rose from their seats, and the enchanting garden was in full bloom, inviting them all for a leisurely stroll.

The young ladies couldn’t bear to stay put any longer; they eagerly joined their closest friends, relishing their time together.

The Fourth Princess Consort remained in the company of the Princess Consort.

Tian Shanshan, the Fourth Prince’s cousin, was also in attendance. She cast a contemptuous glance in Qiao Xuan’s direction and offered a sly smile.

But as long as Tian Shanshan was around, none of the ladies from other pavilions or the young madams dared to approach Qiao Xuan or extend greetings. They didn’t want to cause any inconvenience for Lady Tian. Furthermore, most of the guests aligned with the Fourth Princess Consort were firmly on the Fourth Prince’s side, leaving Qiao Xuan with little support.

Qiao Xuan comprehended the situation well; she had no desire to forge new connections.

They were about to embark on a carefree, nonchalant stroll with Lixia when a passing maid accidentally spilled half a pot of tea on Lixia.

Lixia let out a startled scream.

Qiao Xuan was taken aback as well. She quickly reached out to Lixia. “Is it hot?”

Lixia’s complexion shifted between shades of red and white as she nervously shook her head. The tea wasn’t scalding, but it was uncomfortably warm, making her flinch.

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