Qiao Xuan smiled and instructed the stewards, eunuchs, and aunts to manage the court and its affairs according to the rules. She emphasized that there was no need to worry about anything beyond that.
However, she made it clear that anyone who broke the rules would face punishment.
Qiao Xuan’s relaxed attitude seemed to embolden the court ladies who considered themselves attractive. They became increasingly bold in their attempts to catch Shao Yunduan’s attention.
As a result, several were punished for their transgressions. Those who had tried to dress provocatively or break palace rules in order to approach the Emperor were caught and dealt with harshly. They were beaten and sent to places like the cold palace or the laundry bureau.
Qiao Xuan intended this to serve as a warning, but it had little effect on those who remained. Instead, they believed that those who were punished had simply made mistakes and were unlikely to bee serious petitors. For them, fewer rivals meant fewer obstacles.
The petition between the beautiful palace maids was even more intense.
Qiao Xuan was speechless...
Ding Xiang sneered. "It’s perfect that they think so. The sooner they make themselves known, the sooner we can deal with them. The Emperor’s harem is still empty. Do they really think he’d be interested in them? How dare they dream of it!"
A few days ago, Shao Yunduan had punished three individuals who had tried to approach him by chance, ordering them to be flogged thirty times. He had made it clear that anyone who approached him without proper reason would face severe punishment. This warning had effectively scared off those considering similar actions.
Despite this, rumors started circulating, accusing Qiao Xuan of being too narrow-minded and failing to fulfill her role by not filling the Emperor’s harem. Some even went as far as to privately accuse her of being malicious and unable to tolerate anyone who might support the Emperor.
Enraged by these accusations, Shao Yunduan ordered a thorough investigation. He punished those involved in spreading the rumors and confined them within the palace. Fear of further repercussions led to a tense silence.
With the atmosphere somewhat stabilized, the day of the Flower Appreciation Feast arrived.
The palace gates were abuzz with activity as luxurious carriages entered one after another.
The madams and young ladies, all elegantly dressed, disembarked from their carriages and, guided by palace maids and eunuchs, made their way to the imperial garden.
In the Floating Jade Palace by the water, the atmosphere gradually became lively. The madams and young ladies attending the banquet whispered to one another, catching up and exchanging the latest news.
During these uncertain times, it was prudent to keep doors closed and avoid hosting large gatherings. It had been a while since the ladies from various families had the chance to gather and socialize, making today a valuable opportunity to share news and opinions.
As they chatted animatedly, the arrival of Madam Tian with her two daughters-in-law and Tian Shanshan drew many curious glances. The motion was palpable.
The feud between the Tian Family and the Empress was well-known, and now that the Tian Family had bee the Emperor’s in-laws, speculation ran high about what might transpire when the Empress arrived.
Despite the attention, Tian Shanshan remained posed and indifferent, though her expression was noticeably cold.
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