Her full sisters, her future husband, and the families of her half-sisters' husbands are all fundamental to her ultimate survival in the palace.

Chuxiu Palace

Consort Zhao, of the Niohuru clan, sat upright with a slightly somber expression.

After a moment of thought, Caiyue spoke softly, “Your Majesty, although Consort Xu’s maternal family has been honored with the title of ‘Upgraded Banner’ and given the surname Xu Mu’er, their foundation is still shallow and they will not be able to establish themselves in Manchuria for the time being.”

"Your Majesty need not worry too much."

Consort Zhao snorted coldly, slammed her hand on the table, and said in a deep voice, "That is indeed the case. My maternal clan, the Niohuru clan, is a prominent Manchu family with a solid foundation. Although she was honored with being raised to a higher banner and given a surname for her merit in giving birth to imperial heirs, she can never surpass me."

After a pause, Consort Zhao murmured softly.

"I am simply unwilling to accept that she, a mere palace maid, is so fortunate to give birth to such an auspicious dragon and phoenix child. I have served the Emperor for many years, yet I have yet to conceive."

Caiyue and Lianxing looked at each other in bewilderment.

After a moment's consideration, Caiyue whispered words of comfort, "Your Majesty, you are in good health and will conceive sooner or later, so that Your Majesty may have children."

"Although Consort Xu is fortunate to have given birth to three imperial heirs, her maternal family has no one in the previous court and can never surpass Your Majesty."

"I am aware of these things, but..."

With a sigh, Consort Zhao's thoughts drifted away, and she said with a helpless expression, "Father has passed away suddenly. There are quite a few princesses who have grown up in the Niohuru family over the years. If I do not become pregnant and give birth to an imperial heir, the Niohuru family will eventually send another young and fertile woman into the palace."

"At that time, what awaits me is being abandoned by my family."