"It's such a pity that my sister has such a beautiful and youthful appearance, yet she's been wasted in this harem," Consort Nian said to Lady Ji with "regret."

Madam Ji felt a chill in her heart and said embarrassedly, "I know I am neither talented nor virtuous, and being a few years younger doesn't matter. Only a woman like the Imperial Concubine would be favored by the Emperor..."

Consort Nian took Ji's hand meaningfully and asked in a low voice, "Doesn't my younger sister want to live the same life as her older sister?"

Upon hearing this, Lady Ji broke out in a cold sweat, immediately stood up, knelt at Consort Nian's feet, and cried out, "Sister wouldn't dare, sister wouldn't dare..."

Lady Nian laughed and pulled Lady Ji up, saying, "Look at you, I just can't stand seeing my younger sister suffer in Zhongcui Palace, having to be subservient to others..."

Lady Ji timidly raised her head, knowing her low rank and lack of favor with the Emperor. Not only did her master look down on her, but even the servants in Zhongcui Palace dared to take advantage of her, constantly giving her attitude and making things difficult for her in every aspect of her life.

Seeing that her words had struck a chord with Lady Ji, Consort Nian pressed her advantage, saying with concern, "In this palace, rank determines everything. If you could be promoted one rank, you wouldn't be in such a miserable state now..."

Ji asked wistfully, "Promotion?"

Consort Nian nodded, raised an eyebrow and smiled, saying, "Why don't you come with me, sister? As long as you can lend me a hand, I'm sure I can achieve my goal."

Lady Ji was fully aware of Consort Nian's intentions—that she was merely being used. Unfortunately, she was powerless and no match for Consort Nian. If she refused Consort Nian now, she would immediately become a thorn in Consort Nian's side, and survival in the palace would be a pipe dream. It was better to agree to Consort Nian's request; perhaps finding a powerful backer would allow her to rise in status and find a way out.

Looking into Consort Nian's eyes, Lady Ji slowly nodded: "I will follow your arrangements, elder sister..."

Consort Nian was overjoyed and happily pulled Lady Ji along, saying, "My sister is indeed clever and quick-witted. Although I am honored as a Consort, there are still people who block my path and get in my way. How can I tolerate such people..."

Lady Ji knew who Consort Nian was referring to, and smiled, "I wonder if Consort Xi of Changchun Palace is tired of monopolizing the Emperor's favor? Your Highness should remind her. I understand your thoughts, and I will certainly not let you down..."

Consort Nian said, "My sister understands so quickly, she truly delights me... Baizhi, bring me the pearl necklace His Majesty bestowed upon me a few days ago, I want to give it to my sister... In this palace, only my sister is worthy of these South Sea pearls..."

"Yes, Your Majesty..."

After Ji came out, she walked out of Yikun Palace with the help of a palace maid.

"Put this away." Lady Ji took the gold hairpin off her head and handed it to the maid beside her.

Meanwhile, at Jingren Palace.

"I haven't seen you in a long time. Since you're here, please stay a few more days. Are you enjoying your stay?" the Empress asked.

Xueying smiled and said, "Very good, thank you for your concern, Aunt. I have kept in mind what you said that day."

The Empress was naturally pleased to hear Xueying say this. She instructed the palace maids to take good care of Xueying.

On the surface, Xueying agreed to the Empress's request, but she had other plans in mind.

However, there are many rules in the palace, and guards are stationed everywhere. Xueying cannot move around freely.