This is Qiao Lian'er's first time in the capital, but her portrait was sent here in advance, and it's not certain that only those few generals have seen it.
This attack on the Qiao and Qin families in the capital has far-reaching implications, but the two families still have a strong foundation. Some have been exiled, but others have only been demoted.
So it's not surprising that Qiao Lian'er was being targeted.
She pondered that, firstly, she needed to rely closely on the Pei family to shield herself from disaster; secondly, she needed to meet the emperor as soon as possible so that people would know that the Princess of Dingxiang was right under the emperor's nose.
The Pei family's residence was located on the main street. The gate was painted vermilion, solemn and magnificent. The words "Pei Mansion" were inscribed in gilded on the lintel. Two huge stone lions sat majestically, holding pearls in their mouths and piercing eyes. Outside the gate was a marble screen wall, carved with intricate and exquisite patterns.
Looking around, high walls surround the endless courtyards, exuding a profound sense of history that is hard to match after a hundred years. Pavilions and towers with flying eaves and brackets are faintly visible, hidden among towering ancient trees and bamboo forests. Everything is arranged in a well-organized manner, which inspires awe.
Pei Shijiu turned around and glanced at Qiao Lian'er. Seeing the emotion in her eyes, he smiled slightly.
It seems his family is alright.
After entering the mansion and walking along the spacious front courtyard, an elderly man with half-silver hair came forward and bowed respectfully.
"Young Master, Second Young Master, distinguished guests, the food is ready."
"This is Butler Qiu, who has been with the Pei family for forty years," Pei Zhujin introduced to the three.
"I heard that one of our distinguished guests is the Princess of Dingxiang County. May I ask which one she is?" Steward Qiu asked.
"Greetings, Steward Qiu, it is indeed I who am unworthy," Qiao Lian'er said.
After a careful look, Butler Qiu noticed that the girl had a full forehead and eyes that held a compelling intelligence, which made him marvel.
No wonder she became a county princess at the age of thirteen; she truly possesses extraordinary talent.
“The county princess is no ordinary person. She will surely rise to a higher level in the future. I have truly broadened my horizons today.”
Moreover, he was humble and had no airs at all. He had witnessed countless ups and downs in the capital. Those who made it to the end were all people who were virtuous and modest, while those who were arrogant and conceited, even if they were able to climb up, were mostly the kind of people who would fall hard after reaching the top.
"Thank you for your kind words, Steward Qiu," Qiao Lian'er said.
Butler Qiu nodded again. It was rare to see such a genuine person who didn't hide his desires and ambitions. He felt disgusted by people who wanted something in their hearts but said they didn't want it.
"Let me see the sickle girl."
Upon reaching the outside of the hall, a graceful noblewoman emerged, her eyes and brows radiating smiles and warmth.
“This is my mother,” Pei Shijiu reminded her from the side.
Qiao Lian'er gave a greeting: "Greetings, Madam Pei."
"So you must be Miss Lian'er. I've been waiting for you every day, and now you've finally arrived!" Madam Pei was even happier to see such a polite and charming girl.
He reached out and put his arm around Qiao Lian'er's shoulder: "Thanks to the medicinal herbs Miss Lian'er brought, otherwise, I might still be lying here now."
Madam Pei's actions were so gentle that Qiao Lian'er felt a warmth in her heart and said, "Master and Madam are blessed by the heavens. My medicinal herbs are just a small favor."
"Look how eloquent this child is." Madam Pei's smile widened. "The food is ready. You've been traveling all day and probably haven't had a proper meal. Please take your seats."
"The courtyard has been arranged for you. After dinner, rest well for a day. Tomorrow, Jin'er and Jiu'er will accompany you to explore the city. Jiu'er said she will take you to see all the wonders of the capital and have a great time."
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