But Shao Yunduan had defeated them one by one.

The Emperor was terrified into submission, unwilling to resist. Though he had been sent to Jiangning and appointed as the Deputy Minister of Revenue, he lacked the prestige he once held as the Prefect of Hangzhou.

She hadn’t seen him since entering the palace. Yet, she remembered his graying temples, weary eyes, and drained demeanor…

Consort Su’s words became a blur to Consort Fu. Suddenly, she felt dejected and disinterested in everything.

What was left to fight for? Who would easily yield such a vast domain to another?

Consort Su persisted in questioning, but Consort Fu’s annoyance stifled any outburst. She resigned herself to following Consort Su’s directives and prattling on.

Meanwhile, Consort Su pondered earnestly, contemplating how to achieve greatness for the Emperor and contribute significantly.

When the banquet arrived, the only attendees besides Qiao Xuan, Lixia, and their companions were those that hadn’t even invited.

Qiao Xuan even took the time to explain to Mrs. Jia.

Mrs. Jia had heard about the incidents at the inn yesterday and was greatly alarmed. Qiao Xuan advised her not to visit Consort Su, which brought Mrs. Jia immense relief and joy.

She had no desire to encounter such a person.

Seeing Consort Su would only lead to humiliation. Why bother?

Moreover, what was there to admire about a “Her Majesty” with a dubious background?

The banquet was lavish. There were twelve cold dishes and eighteen hot dishes, creating a truly sumptuous spread.

The room was brightly lit with tasteful floral decorations, lending an air of festivity.

Yet, Qiao Xuan was the sole hostess, a fact that infuriated Consort Su.

Once again, Consort Su suggested that Qiao Xuan meet with local ladies. Qiao Xuan understood her intent but chose to be straightforward, stating she was unavailable.

Consort Su asked angrily, but Qiao Xuan offered no response.

Consort Su was so furious that she nearly flipped the table.

They parted on bitter terms.

The following day, Consort Su sent Nanny Ling to summon Qiao Xuan, intending to gather the local ladies. However, Nanny Ling couldn’t even step out of the inn.

Though Consort Su had brought several hundred guards, their presence meant little in Huaixi City.

Qiao Xuan appeared after three days and inquired about their departure plans.

No matter how dense Consort Su seemed, she understood that Shao Yunduan had no intention of capitulating. She sneered, “The Emperor is the rightful heir to this domain, destined for the throne. Sooner or later, the empire will be his, and no one can thwart it. If Lord Shao doesn’t submit now, he’ll regret it later! Trying to seize power? In such a small place like Huaixi? You’re overestimating yourselves!”

Qiao Xuan retorted angrily, “Don’t concern yourself, Consort Su! We won’t entrust our fate to others when we can fend for ourselves! If we fail, we’ll deal with it later! This is our choice, and we won’t blame you for it in the future.”