However, explaining things to Consort Fu proved impossible. Impatiently, Consort Su snapped, “I told you to dress casually. Why are you talking nonsense?”

Consort Fu was nearly dumbfounded.

This was beyond bullying!

Consort Su paid no mind to her irritation and continued to push her impatiently.

Despite her anger, Consort Fu didn’t dare confront her directly. In the end, she had no choice but to “faint.”

And with that, the tense standoff dissolved into a farce.

Zheng Sangge and the Jinhua County Magistrate burst into laughter upon learning of the incident. They remarked that Consort Su was indeed spirited, despite her coarseness.

Consort Su was adept at reading situations. Her attempt to assert dominance had failed, prompting a sudden change in demeanor. She seemed to transform, becoming more adaptable and less demanding.

Zheng Sangge harbored no ill intentions toward her. He wasn’t inclined to make things difficult, especially since he could afford to be hospitable to guests from Huaixi province. There was no need for petty actions.

The following day, Consort Su and her party continued their journey toward the provincial capital.

That night, news of their arrival reached Shao Yunduan and Qiao Xuan.

Both husband and wife were taken aback.

“What’s the Third Prince up to? Why did he allow these two to come here?”

Shao Yunduan remarked, “I’ve heard Consort Su is the daughter of a bandit who controls Lake Tai. She’s quite different from the other ladies in the court. Whatever their purpose is, it’s unlikely to be benevolent. I’ll head to Huaixi Pass tomorrow morning.”

Whether he encountered Consort Su and Consort Fu or not, Shao Yunduan foresaw trouble and decided to preempt it.

Coincidentally, he hadn’t visited Huaixi Pass since its construction. This would be a good opportunity to inspect it.

Upon hearing this, Qiao Xuan shared his sentiment and added with a smile, “Good idea. I’ll handle them when they arrive. We have two groups of imperial envoys here, and we haven’t greeted the concubines yet!”

Shao Yunduan continued, “Consort Su hails from a bandit family. If the Third Prince didn’t seek to curry favor with her father and brothers, he wouldn’t have taken her as a concubine. I’m afraid she’s not one for reason. If she knows what’s good for her, fine. If not, there’s no need to be courteous.”

Qiao Xuan smiled. “Don’t worry, when have I ever suffered?”

Relieved, Shao Yunduan pulled her into his arms with a smile. “Wife, find a way to send them packing so I can return.”

If they didn’t leave, Shao Yunduan wouldn’t go back to the province.

Qiao Xuan chuckled. “If the Third Prince and the Second Prince knew this could keep you away, they might happily extend their concubines’ stay!”

Shao Yunduan chuckled too. “That won’t happen. If it did, I’d kick him out.”

The next morning, Shao Yunduan departed with Anan.

Having his son along meant they could study together and expand Anan’s horizons. It also meant Qiao Xuan wouldn’t have much time for him when the concubines arrived.

Anan was thrilled to join his father on the journey to Huaixi Pass, but the thought of leaving his mother made him sad. He clung to Qiao Xuan, almost changing his mind.

That evening, Qiao Xuan received another letter from Jinhua City.