Chapter 1202: Fear

Editor: Henyee Translations

She believed that only her cousin, who possessed intermediate talent, met her standards. However, the Xie Family held a different opinion about her.

Undeterred, she resolved to venture into the capital without hesitation. Only individuals of noble birth were deemed suitable in her eyes.

Her confidence in her allure and intelligence led her to envision herself in the Fourth Prince’s residence, not merely as a concubine, but as the instigator of greater accomplishments.

Buoyed by the conviction that her beauty and wisdom would inevitably captivate the Fourth Prince, she anticipated achieving all her desires. A bright future lay ahead!

Yet, reality proved harsher than her expectations. Initial attempts to justify her efforts were met with skepticism. Perhaps her approach was overly audacious?

With time, the Fourth Prince’s patience could wane, leaving her with diminished prospects. The Fourth Princess Consort and Secondary Concubine Shi were no allies either; they orchestrated numerous schemes against her.

This served as a humbling blow to her once-overconfident intellect.

He Zhiqing found herself in a series of setbacks. Deep-seated animosity grew toward Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan.

Why did they thwart her successes? Why amplify her challenges?

From their first encounter in Yuzhang, a dislike had been sown, now matured into fervent loathing.

“How disappointing! To think our paths would cross like this,” remarked Shao Yunduan, a light chuckle accompanying his words. “She’s but a concubine, hardly worth your attention.”

Qiao Xuan chimed in, a smile on his lips. “Indeed!”

Even if she were to become the Fourth Prince’s concubine, she remained precisely that—a concubine. As the wife of a fifth-rank official, there was no need to fear her presence.

He Zhiqing was also undergoing her own struggles, although she had chosen this path willingly.

It wasn’t until they were halfway through the bustling market that Qiao Xuan started to feel fatigue, which coincided with He Zhiqing’s sudden interruption.

Having traversed quite a distance on foot, it was only natural for her legs to protest with ache.

At last, He Zhiqing seemed to return to her senses. Despite claiming her intent to buy lanterns, not a single one had been purchased.

They then proceeded to select more lanterns.

Upon encountering enticing displays of fiery-red candied haws and stir-fried chestnuts, Qiao Xuan enlisted Shao Yunduan to acquire some additional items. With their acquisitions in tow, they commenced their journey home together.

Lixia, Liqiu, and Songshi were already assembled there, awaiting their return.

Qiao Xuan silently acknowledged the reliability of the trio—her confidence in them was well-founded, and there was no need for undue concern. Their diligent efforts had merited her continuous appreciation.

The three companions conversed joyfully, clearly having enjoyed themselves this evening.

Qiao Xuan readily shared the candied haws and stir-fried chestnuts, and together, they all embarked on the journey back home in high spirits.

With the Lantern Festival concluded, the Spring Festival also drew to a close.

The new year had now commenced in earnest.

The subsequent day saw the return of Aunt Qing, Zhao Shu’s caretaker. She arrived with a plethora of tea leaves, described as premium offerings from Jiangnan, meant for their tasting pleasure.

Qiao Xuan perceived the true intention behind the tea invitation—merely a pretext. The urgency in Zhao Shu’s disposition was palpable, signaling that the impending matter demanded resolution.

With this understanding in mind, Qiao Xuan extended her courtesy to Aunt Qing, accepting her arrival with grace. She entrusted Aunt Qing to convey a message to Zhao Shu, outlining that Shao Yunduan would be available for a meeting in three days’ time.

Aunt Qing’s countenance relaxed, a smile forming as she exhaled in relief, nodding in acknowledgment.

The Young Master’s persistent anticipation had heightened her apprehension. Her lack of insight rendered her helpless, reluctant to intervene for fear of complicating matters. Thus, she remained on the periphery, consumed by her own unease.

Eventually, Fifth Madame Shao confirmed that they were ready.

Zhao Shu, born as the legitimate son of Zhao Mu, the wealthiest individual in Yangzhou, was ironically living a woeful existence.