Chapter 24

The Imperial Guards will handle the aftermath, so the remaining matters have little to do with the Qiao family.

Qiao Zhongguo was eager to take Qiao Jiaojiao home and immediately bid farewell to the Crown Prince.

The Crown Prince’s expression softened, “This time, thanks to Imperial Censor Qiao’s timely arrival.”

Qiao Zhongguo’s eyes flashed slightly. Although he wasn’t sure if the Crown Prince’s words contained any deeper meaning, fortunately, he had already prepared a perfect excuse.

“I, too, was terrified. Originally, I was worried that the second brother wouldn’t take good care of his sister, but I didn’t expect to encounter the northern assassins’ disturbance.”

“Your Highness, it’s fortunate that you’re unharmed. However, that second brother is indeed useless. Look at how cold Jiaojiao’s little hands are. When I go back, I really need to give that brat a good scolding!”

As Qiao Zhongguo spoke, he became increasingly indignant, his expression full of concern, which seemed flawless to anyone observing.

The Crown Prince smiled, “It’s widely rumored in the capital that Imperial Censor Qiao dotes on his wife, and now it seems another rumor is confirmed.”

Qiao Zhongguo chuckled sincerely, saying, “Your Highness, it’s my good fortune. This life is sufficient.”

Seeing Qiao Zhongguo’s contented appearance, the Crown Prince couldn’t help feeling a twinge of envy.

To have someone who loves you sincerely in this world, along with children around your knees, and a happy family life, is indeed a rare blessing.

However, such blessings are too extravagant for those of their royal family…

“Imperial Censor Qiao, my mother is eager to meet the younger Miss Qiao. Could I ask Mrs. Qiao to bring the younger Miss Qiao to the palace in a few days to visit my mother?”

A summons from the palace cannot be refused.

Qiao Zhongguo appeared pleasantly surprised, “That would indeed be a blessing for my wife.”

Jiaojiao had already started to yawn.

[Ah, so sleepy! I miss Mom and her warm hugs!]

Hearing Jiaojiao’s thoughts, Qiao Zhongguo’s heart raced even more.

Back at the Qiao residence, Mrs. Qiao must be worried.

The Crown Prince was very satisfied, “In that case, Imperial Censor Qiao, please return. We’ll discuss this matter further in court tomorrow.”

After Jiaojiao was sent into the carriage, Aunt Liu immediately changed her into clean clothes. By the time they returned to the Qiao residence, Jiaojiao had already fallen asleep.

Over the next few days, news of the northern assassins attempting to assassinate the Crown Prince spread like wildfire, causing a great stir.

However, this upheaval in the court had little to do with Jiaojiao.

Today, she was dressed up beautifully because palace officials would soon arrive to take her and Mrs. Qiao to meet the Empress.

After Qiao Zhongguo returned triumphantly with Qiao Jiaojiao in his arms, Mrs. Qiao was granted the title of a first-ranked Consort by the Empress for her contribution. Now, she was dressed in her court robes, radiant as ever.

Aunt Liu, busy as ever, smiled and praised, “Mrs., look at you! You’re just as radiant as you were the first time you put on these court robes.”

Jiaojiao, nestled on the couch, nodded with a smile.

[That’s right, that’s right! There are three kinds of fates in this world: life, longevity, and my mother’s charm that can enchant anyone to death! This is truly the masterpiece of Nuwa!]

Mrs. Qiao burst into laughter. Jiaojiao’s mouth is truly something; she’s becoming quite eloquent.

“Madam, the palace officials have arrived,” said Aunt Liu from the doorway.

Mrs. Qiao nodded, picked up Jiaojiao, and went out, boarding the carriage prepared by the palace.

Jiaojiao’s heart was filled with excitement.

[What does the palace look like? Is it dazzling with gold and jade, enough to blind your eyes at first sight?]

[I really want to go to the Imperial Garden, the kind where the concubines often meet the Emperor!]

[Oh, and the Jinluan Palace! But I probably won’t get a chance to see what the Jinluan Palace looks like in this lifetime!]

Jiaojiao couldn’t stop thinking all the way, her chattering bringing a sense of peace to Mrs. Qiao’s ears.

However, Jiaojiao was bound to be disappointed. When they reached the palace gates, they immediately switched to a soft sedan chair. According to protocol, the curtain couldn’t be casually lifted.

After disembarking, a voice called out, “Mrs. Qiao, you have arrived at Yikun Palace. Please alight.”

Mrs. Qiao stepped out with Jiaojiao in her arms, and Jiaojiao’s big, round eyes looked up to see the words “Yikun Palace.”

Before Mrs. Qiao could take a step, a lively figure dashed out from the palace like a little swallow!

“Mother, sister is here! Come see, sister is the prettiest!”

The Western Crown Prince, Shen Yuanling, was still carefree at his age, making a racket all day long. It was clear that the Empress and Crown Prince took excellent care of him.

However, Jiaojiao had seen his calm demeanor when the northern assassins attacked that day, so she didn’t dare to underestimate this little kid.

Mrs. Qiao was led inside by palace maids, where she respectfully bowed. A figure in vermilion personally helped her up.

“Mrs. Qiao, no need for so much courtesy,” said the Empress.

Jiaojiao looked up at the Empress, who managed the entire harem despite being about the same age as Mrs. Qiao. She was well-preserved, but leading the six palaces kept her busy, and signs of fatigue were evident on her face.

At this moment, she wore a smile, her eyes gentle, more like a neighborly aunt than a powerful Empress.

When the Empress saw Mrs. Qiao, she couldn’t hide her admiration.

“The number one beauty in the capital is truly worthy of her reputation.”

Mrs. Qiao was flustered, “Your Majesty overpraises. This humble subject dare not accept it.”

The Empress smiled warmly and familiarly.

“Mrs. Qiao, no need to be so restrained. A few days ago on Putian Street, if it weren’t for Mr. Qiao’s timely arrival to save the Crown Prince and Little Xi, this palace wouldn’t know how to face the fear.”

“Today, let’s forget about ranks and just chat casually as sisters, alright?”

Mrs. Qiao didn’t expect the Empress to be so amiable. Although she couldn’t relax in her heart, she smiled on her face.

“It’s my honor, Your Majesty.”

At this moment, the Empress shifted her gaze to Jiaojiao.

“What a handsome girl. Would you like a hug?”

The Empress showed her affection and reached out to Jiaojiao.

Jiaojiao wasn’t really a child, but seeing the Empress’s friendliness, she immediately smiled and leaned towards the Empress.

The Empress’s eyes brightened, and she picked up Jiaojiao.

Jiaojiao today was dressed today in a festive red jacket, with two little buns on her head and a small red mole on her forehead, making her look charming and lovable.

The Empress, who had originally been a little reserved, melted even more when she saw Jiaojiao’s lovely smile.

When she was pregnant with Little Xi, she had also fantasized about having such a cute little girl.

Thinking of this, the Empress took off a beautifully exquisite bracelet from her wrist and gently put it on Jiaojiao’s small chubby hand.

Mrs. Qiao had seen good things before and knew the value of the bracelet. She was about to politely decline.

But the Empress preempted her, “I’m delighted by this girl at first sight. This is a gift for our first meeting, Mrs. Qiao, you mustn’t refuse.”

Jiaojiao pretended to raise her hand, her face showing a curious expression, which made the Empress laugh.

[The Empress is really kind, but her life is too bitter. Sigh…]

Jiaojiao suddenly sighed, frightening Mrs. Qiao to the core.

Fortunately, no one else heard this, or it would have been a serious crime punishable by death!