During the transition between Cold Dew and Frost's Descent, Fengjing City is enveloped in a crisp and refreshing atmosphere.
Since His Majesty regained his health and returned to court, government affairs have been carried out smoothly and the world has been at peace.
With the imperial examination reform finalized, major academies in Fengjing opened girls' schools, and even the Imperial Academy passed a resolution to increase the number of female students, bringing a fresh start to the literary atmosphere throughout the country.
The autumn harvest went smoothly overall, although some flood-affected areas experienced reduced yields. The imperial court promptly issued an edict to reduce or exempt taxes, which reassured the people.
The war in the north has ended, and the Da Gan army has indeed made a name for itself with the Battle of Zhenbei Pass.
They firmly grasped the initiative and completed the reconstruction and reinforcement of the barbican before the arrival of winter.
The Shuofeng army suffered heavy losses, and with the first snowfall on the border, the weather was unfavorable, making another large-scale siege highly unlikely.
The southern border is even more peaceful and prosperous. The border troops in the south have been reorganized, and the court has appointed a new general to take charge.
Several villages and towns bordering southern Xinjiang were designated as trade markets, attracting merchants from both the north and south.
The trade of grains, oils, rice, and flour for delicacies and furs began to take shape on a large scale.
Commercial taxes alone have become a very considerable source of revenue for the national treasury.
As for the four once-illustrious families, their names have been completely erased from the genealogy of Daqian's powerful and wealthy families.
The resulting new land policy has become the most hotly debated and central issue in the current government.
There will naturally be resistance, since this law touches on the fundamental interests of many long-established powerful figures and local tycoons.
However, even the largest aristocratic families had fallen, and the implementation of the new policies ultimately moved forward steadily amidst turbulence.
The Third Princess, the Fourth Princess, and the Fifth Prince have all assumed official posts.
The third princess entered the Phoenix Pavilion to study government affairs, the fourth princess entered the Heavenly Office for training, and the fifth prince went to the Ceremonial Office to serve.
The Sixth Princess, who was in charge of the Xuanji Guard, continued to stay in her residence every day, or disguise herself and sneak out to drink, stroll the streets, and have fun.
He didn't attend court, ignored the affairs of the Xuanji Guard, and completely became a hands-off manager, living a carefree life.
On this day, Qin Zhaoyue got up a little earlier than usual.
It was because today was a day of imperial holiday, and the Third and Fourth Princesses had sent her invitations early on to attend a flower-viewing party at Liuyuan Garden.
Qin Zhaoyue wasn't particularly interested in admiring the flowers themselves.
But the third sister specifically mentioned that she had invited several top chefs and prepared many novel dishes, which made the trip well worth it.
Sitting in front of the dressing table, she was still a little sleepy, yawning, and letting Granny Liu comb her long hair.
That's right, Sui Mo personally went to the old nanny's house and invited her back to the mansion.
Liu Mama was implicated by her superior in the Shangyi Bureau. Although she was not punished, she lost the dignity of a palace lady and left the palace in disgrace.
For an elderly person who has lived in the palace their entire life, the contrast is unimaginable.
Given Sui Mo's sincerity and the fact that they had previously shared a bond through "medicine," Granny Liu finally accepted the invitation.
Liu Suxin herself never expected that, after all the twists and turns, she would return to the mansion she had abandoned years ago when she was at her lowest point.
At first she was a little uneasy, but in just over ten days she was completely at ease.
The monthly salary was generous, and the job was easy. His main task was to teach the maids in the mansion etiquette and various skills.
The maids all treated her with great respect, and it was rare for them to have her serve them personally.
The old man, who had taught rules and regulations his whole life and was known for his rigid and strict nature, is now gradually learning to relax a bit.
She knew that she must never lose face or decorum when dealing with outsiders, but such opportunities were rare.
As for internal affairs... what are the rules? Your Highness's happiness is the most important thing.
Today is a flower viewing party, and I heard that the two princesses are organizing a very grand event, so I specially invited her to come and do His Highness's hair and makeup, just to keep things in order.
Granny Liu was extremely skillful; with her nimble fingers, she quickly styled Qin Zhaoyue's thick, black hair into a fairy-like bun.
A red-gold and kingfisher feather butterfly hairpin is tucked diagonally into the center of her hair; the butterfly's wings flutter lightly, and the tassels sway gently.
On each side, a pair of small, exquisite pearl bats are adorned to cover the temples, symbolizing lasting good fortune.
A few wisps of hair falling across her forehead added to her girlish charm.
The overall design is dignified and elegant, yet lively and dynamic, perfectly suited to the late autumn season. It is neither too somber nor lacking in royal grandeur.
After combing her hair, Qin Zhaoyue looked at herself in the mirror and marveled at her appearance.
"That's why I say it's all thanks to your skill, Master. Sui Mo Tao Yao and the others still have to learn from you."
Upon hearing this, Granny Liu smiled gently.
"This old servant only has this meager skill left. If it can satisfy Your Highness, it is my blessing. I dare not accept Your Highness's praise."
Knowing that there were delicious dishes in the garden, Qin Zhaoyue only had some snacks to fill her stomach in the mansion before heading out with great interest.
Liuyuan Garden was the elegant garden that was originally used to persuade talented young women in the capital to participate in the provincial examinations.
At this moment, the area outside the garden was bustling with carriages and people, but this was naturally not a problem for Qin Zhaoyue.
Who would dare to obstruct the carriage of the Commander of the Xuanji Guard?
Although he has not appeared in any formal occasions since His Majesty re-entered the Phoenix Palace, his invisible deterrent power is enough to make everyone wary.
The carriage arrived smoothly at the garden gate, and Qin Zhaoyue then got out of the carriage with the help of a maid.
Several stewards from the Prince's mansion were waiting at the entrance. The old steward from the Third Princess's mansion twitched involuntarily when he saw her.
The scene of the warehouse being "looted" that day is still a nightmare for him, and he feels heartbroken whenever he thinks about it.
He quickly composed himself, strode forward, and bowed respectfully: "This old servant greets Your Highness Prince Jing."
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