Chapter 300.1: squeeze someone in

Old Maidservant Liu pondered over Su Xi-ers words for a moment before coming to a realisation a few moments later.

Its just that the Empress Dowager has liked Prince Hao for many years. Surely she has to be frustrated now that shes been forced to bring Pei Anru into the imperial palace?.

However, it was difficult for an old maidservant like her to make a judgement.

Old Maidservant Liu, you should head back first. No matter what happens tonight, it will not implicate the Palace Side Quarters. Su Xi-ers eyes curved into crescents.

Old Maidservant Liu nodded and exited the room, leaving Su Xi-er along in the room as she gazed at the moonlit courtyard.

~~~

While it was extremely quiet at the Palace Side Quarters, it was the exact opposite for the Imperial Garden. Unlike Nanzhao, there werent any parterres in Beimins Imperial Garden, nor was the garden encompa.s.sed by a stone wall. There would also be maidservants who came by monthly in order to maintain the garden.

Large red lanterns were hung on every tree; adding onto that was a group of palace maids holding lanterns in their hands. Combined with the bright moon, the atmosphere appeared to be very festive.

All the court official had smiles on their faces. Even the emperor, Situ Lin, had his eyes curved into crescents as he displayed a huge smile. But when he happened to spot his Imperial Uncle sitting on the right, he couldnt help but feel a s.h.i.+ver go down his spine.

Xie Yun, who was seated on Situ Lins left, noticed his reaction and couldnt refrain himself from laughing. Is Your Majesty feeling cold?

Situ Lin immediately shook his head. This Emperor isnt cold. Dont worry, Commandery Prince Xie.

Pei Yaran took a glance at Pei Qianhao, noticing that he was seemingly disinterested in the entire event. She then observed the other people sitting opposite her. Xie Yun was collected and indifferent; Consort Dowager Guo was doused with the smell of temple incense; and Situ Lin was cold and aloof.

Just then, Pei Anru suddenly stretched out a hand to tug at Pei Yarans sleeves and called out to her.

Pei Anrus soft call attracted the attention of Pei Qianhao. When his gaze fell upon her, Pei Anrus heart sank as she took in the frosty look in his eyes.

So this person before me is Prince Hao. Before I entered the palace, everyone told me that my mission was to close the distance between me and Prince Hao. Mum even held my hand and said that Dads life is in my hands.

It was a heavy burden, so heavy that Pei Anru felt like she was suffocating. She cautiously glanced at Pei Qianhao and clenched her tiny hands into fists.

If I dont curry favour with him, Dad will die! Dad has doted on me since I was young; I dont want him to die!

Stirred by the thought, Pei Anru tugged at Pei Yarans sleeves again.

Pei Yarans brows furrowed together as Pei Zheng signalled to her with his eyes.

All of this didnt escape Xie Yuns eyes. With a nonchalant gaze, he suddenly asked, Empress Dowager, this woman standing behind you bears some resemblance to you.

Taking the bait, Pei Yaran replied, She is this Empress Dowagers niece, Pei Anru. Here, take a step forward and let everyone take a good look at you.

Pei Anru acknowledged Pei Yarans words as she took a step forward and greeted everyone deferentially. This officials daughter, Pei Anru, pays her greetings to everyone.

Situ Lin was just a young child, and was piqued with curiosity when he saw Pei Anru. You look just a few years older than this Emperor. They said that women from the officials household can sing and dance well. Since you are Empress Mothers niece, why dont you perform a dance for us?

Situ Lins careless words suited Pei Zhengs wishes perfectly, causing him to immediately concur. Your Majesty is absolutely right. Anru, perform a dance for us.

Pei Anru nodded and flashed everyone a sweet smile. Just as she was about to start her dance, an icy voice rang out. This Prince has already seen an exquisite dance in Nanzhao. Unless you have the courage to say that you can match up to such skill, there would be no meaning to your dance.