From a rational point of view, Jiang Ning believed that Jiang Ruobai did nothing wrong.
However, it is impossible for people to completely eliminate their feelings.
In essence, Jiang Ruobaiâs actions were to use his daughter as a pawn, binding Prince of Zhao to the Jiang Familyâs huge ship.
Jiang Ning whispered, âFather, have you ever thought about one thing?â
âWhat?â
âYour decision to make me the Empress has no real benefits for the Jiang Family.â
âIs that so?â
âThe imperial family cannot tolerate the power of the relatives of the Empress.â Jiang Ning looked up at Li Hongyuan standing by the carriage, âWhen the Crown Prince takes the throne, his next target may be to deal with the Jiang Family.â
âYou are underestimating the Jiang Family.â Jiang Ruobai laughed, âThe Jiang Family has always been loyal, both the Emperor and the Crown Prince are reasonable people. The situation you are thinking of will not happen.â
âFatherâ¦â
âYou are smart, but you are also too cautious. Whether the Emperor and the Crown Prince would tolerate the Jiang Family or not, it has nothing to do with your becoming the Empress.â Jiang Ruobai said with a smile, âBut if you become the Empress, when your father and uncle are no longer able to help, you may still have the power to take care of your mother and sisters. So, do not reject the opportunity to become stronger.â
âFather, donât say that. Even if you are unable to help, my uncle will be there.â
ââ¦Are you sure youâre my own flesh and blood?â
Jiang Ruobai laughed and scolded.
The atmosphere became light and lively again.
As parting approached, Lin Ziziâs eyes swelled with tears, full of reluctance.
At this moment, she always resented Jiang Ruobai. Why did he have to marry off his daughter so soon after finding her?
She didnât get the chance to live with her daughter day by day and make up for the years of lost motherly love.
Jiang Ruobai could only accept his wifeâs complaints wholeheartedly.
Watching the carriage slowly leaving, he gently put his arm around his wifeâs shoulder, whispering softly, âI understand your feelings, but Seventh Sister will definitely lead a happy life.â
Lin Zizi wiped away a tear from the corner of her eye, leaning on him and staring blankly at the carriage.
After returning to the palace, the Crown Prince reported the Jiang Familyâs intentions to the Emperor.
Thus, this marriage was settled.
Next was the wedding preparations.
By name, Li You was still the son of the Prince of Kang County, and it was only right that the wedding was arranged by the Princeâs Mansion. The Emperorâs gift was a luxurious Zhao Prince Mansion for Prince of Zhao and Jiang Yuan to live in after their marriage.
Jiang Yuan, the new Princess Consort, instantly became the most envied new bride in Changâan City.
If there was only one reason, it was â she didnât have to live with her in-laws.
After crossing the threshold, she would be the master of her own house. It would be so relaxing.
Jiang Ning laughed when she heard this, saying, âThe relationship between mother-in-law and daughter-in-law really is an age-old problem.â
âItâs really fate.â Huang Ying smiled, âThe Fifth Daughter married into the Countâs Mansion. Although it is glamorous, she still has to be humble and obedient to her in-laws. But the Sixth Miss, after marrying, became the Princess Consort of Zhao in control of the estateâs affairs.â
The difference in status and treatment was enormous.
No wonder Jiang Yuanâs teeth were itching with jealousy.
Time flew, and the Lantern Festival on the 15th of the first lunar month arrived. It was the most lively day of the year in Changâan City.
On this day, both men and women were allowed to go out freely for strolls, dates, and socializing.
Many unmarried individuals, or those who had already set a date for their wedding eagerly looked forward to spending time with their lovers on this day.
Although Jiang Ning did not have such a need, the three children had long been looking forward to attending the lantern fair. Jiang Ning had promised to take them for fun and had reported her plans to the Emperor and Empress early on.