Chapter 200: Yue Lao - Rebirth of the Noble Daughter

Chapter 200: Yue Lao

Hearing Princess Fulin’s words, the Empress was initially taken aback but then found some sense in them.

"Sixth Prince has a simple mind and is indifferent to fame and fortune, just like his consort mother. I've known them for over twenty years and can't find any fault in them. However, his mother's family is of low status. I wonder if Lord Xu's family would approve?"

Compared to the Xu family, Consort Liu's family was much inferior. She had only one elder brother who was a peasant years ago. Due to Consort Liu's position, he eventually became a minor local official. Over the years, Consort Liu had not gained the emperor's favor, and as a result, the Sixth Prince was also treated coldly. In name, he was a prince, but his life was less luxurious than that of some noble family's sons.

Such a background seemed like a high climb for the Xu family.

"The Xu family doesn't focus on social status. I think Mingyue is open-minded, and the Sixth Prince has a refined personality. If they marry, it would be a good match."

The Empress nodded. Considering it this way, it indeed seemed an excellent choice.

"If that's the case, I'll find time to discuss it with Consort Liu and see what she thinks. If the Sixth Prince is also willing, I'll ask His Majesty to grant them the marriage. Lately, the Sixth Prince has been diligent, following Yunshen’s example. Such a good marriage is well-deserved."

The marriages of the princes always involved various considerations. The Empress agreed so readily because the Xu family had no heirs. Despite their current high prestige, they would collapse once Lord Xu passed away. Only Xu Mingyue remained, incapable of causing significant trouble.

Princess Fulin considered Xu Mingyue’s future. After breaking off her engagement with the Liang family, it would be difficult to find a suitable match among the noble families. Marrying the Sixth Prince was more practical—no one would gossip, and it wouldn’t affect the current political situation.

Having lived for more than half a century, she had seen princes fight bloodily for the throne. Instead of marrying into a powerful family, it was better to marry into a secure and prosperous one and live comfortably as a carefree princess consort.

While they were deeply engrossed in their discussion, Consort Wei had just returned to her palace when she heard that Liang Luo had sent a visiting card, hoping to speak with her.

"Oh? Another one aiming for Yunli?"

Yue Shi, who was attending her, served tea and snacks before Consort Wei slowly spoke.

"This Miss Liang is beautiful, but her status is slightly lacking compared to Princess Qianling. However, she could be a suitable concubine for Yunli."

She tossed the visiting card aside, already forming some thoughts about Liang Luo.

Her father, Liang Quanbin, was about to be appointed the superintendent of the Grand Canal. Being related by marriage to the Wei family and an indispensable part of their interests, his navy was crucial.

Princess Consort could only be Princess Qianling, but three of the four concubine positions were still vacant, making this a possibility worth considering.

Her eyes showed calculation as she instructed Yue Shi, "Send a reply and invite Miss Liang to the palace to speak with me."

"Yes, ma'am."

By the time the reply arrived at the Liang residence, half a day had passed.

The Liang residence was bustling with festive decorations, but Miss Liang Luo’s courtyard was particularly quiet.

Liang Luo dared to express her feelings to Consort Wei because she had seen the Ninth Prince in the crowd when he set off for war. A single glance at that dark yellow figure ignited a fierce desire in her heart.

What was once a faint, tender affection turned into a burning longing. She dreamed of becoming the woman beside him. After returning home, she impulsively sent the visiting card, but hearing nothing in return made her anxious. She feared Consort Wei found her presumptuous and worried other noble ladies might also be coveting the Ninth Prince.

"Miss, miss, the palace has sent a reply! They invited you to the Hanzhang Palace to speak with Consort Wei tomorrow!"

"Really?" Liang Luo's eyes sparkled with disbelief as she grabbed Jin Xiu's sleeve, who had just run in with the news.

"Really, truly. Here is the invitation to enter the palace. They said Consort Wei likes you very much and is looking forward to speaking with you tomorrow."

Seeing the invitation, Liang Luo finally felt relieved. Holding the invitation as if it were a precious prize, she was overjoyed. Since the Ninth Prince had not returned yet, his marriage would naturally be decided by Consort Wei. If she could gain Consort Wei’s favor now, she would surely marry into the Ninth Prince’s household.

"Hurry, bring my best clothes and jewelry. I need to choose carefully to make a good impression on Consort Wei tomorrow!"

"Yes, miss!"

Jin Xiu was equally eager, thinking that if her mistress married the Ninth Prince, her own status would rise.

While excitement filled Liang Luo’s courtyard, the father and son in the Liang family study were not as cheerful.

"The position of superintendent of the Grand Canal is almost mine, but Bai fainted, delaying any confirmation. Once Miss Wei marries in, you should ask her to find out the Duke’s intentions."

Liang Quanbin, a man who pursued fame and fortune, saw this as a golden opportunity.

Although Liang Gongzi was hesitant, he agreed for the family's sake. "Father, Grandfather said he would find me a position once I married. Where should I go?"

Although the Count of Changyi had been out of court for many years, his influence was still considerable, and securing a minor official position was not difficult.

"A civil position won’t work. You didn't pass the imperial examination, so even if you get a minor position, climbing up would be hard. A military path is better; it has real power and quicker promotions. The Metropolitan Commandery would be suitable."

As he spoke, he pondered, "The Duke has coveted the Metropolitan Commandery for a long time but hasn't found a reason to replace Lin Wang. If you serve there for three to five years and achieve something, the Duke will surely take notice. Then, advancing will be easy."

His son saw the wisdom in this.

The Metropolitan Commandery ensured the capital's safety, rarely going to war, making it similar to a civil position despite being a military path. "Thank you for your guidance, father. I'll speak to Grandfather about it."

Liang Quanbin was pleased. Despite his son’s lack of civil and military talents, he had chosen a good wife.

Having Miss Wei marry into the family was an excellent choice, promising a bright future for his son and himself. If his daughter also married well, the entire family would prosper.