Ms. Wang dared not look too closely, but lowered her head, took two steps back, and stood to one side.

The room fell silent for a moment, while the cheerful conversation outside drifted in through the thin window curtains, and the noblewoman unconsciously pricked up her ears to listen.

When the noblewoman heard Shi Lan's soft, childlike voice say that the white rice cake was as soft as soft clouds, yet sweeter than clouds, her eyes reddened. The young lady, who should have been nourished by fine wine and jade dew and wrapped in silk and satin, had, by some twist of fate, lived a life worse than that of ordinary children.

The Imperial Concubine couldn't help but recall the chaotic scene of fleeing people in the south, where she happened to see them gnawing on grass roots and chewing on tree bark. Her heart ached, and she hated Chang Shi even more.

Caixia and Shilan walked in hand in hand, followed by two palace maids carrying fruit and tea trays.

The palace maid placed the fruit platter on the small table by the window, bowed, and withdrew.

Caixia helped Shilan wash her hands, then helped her to the couch. She cut the snow-white pastries into small pieces and placed them on the plate in front of her. She also brewed tea and placed it beside her.

Shi Lan glanced at the Imperial Concubine, picked up the plate, stood up, and handed it to the Imperial Concubine.

The imperial concubine's eyes reddened, but worried about frightening Shi Lan, she quickly smiled, picked up a piece, put it in her mouth, and said, "It's very sweet, it really tastes like clouds."

Shi Lan had been watching her anxiously, but when she heard her say that, she relaxed her tense shoulders and revealed a relieved smile.

Caixia quickly cut another plate and brought it to Shilan.

Shi Lan smiled sweetly at her and said, "Thank you, Sister Caixia," which made Caixia blush.

The Imperial Concubine frowned slightly and glanced at Lady Wang.

Ms. Wang immediately understood and cupped her hands in greeting.

The imperial concubine nodded, ate another piece of pastry, then put down the plate and looked at Shi Lan, who was enjoying her meal.