The Side Consort Wants to Reach the Heavens

Throughout the capital, from high-ranking officials and nobles to ordinary folk, the person everyone loved to gossip about in their spare time was Prince Rui.

"This is outrageous! The prince is a disgrace to his ancestors' teachings!"

"Did Prince Rui smash the Empress Dowager's colored-glass golden vase today?"

"Have you heard? Prince Rui broke the young master of the Qin family's leg on Anchang Street today!"

"A few days ago, they carried two beauties out of Prince Rui's residence. Tsk, faces that were once lovely are now a ghastly sight!"

Before long, rumors began to circulate that the emperor would strip the prince of his title before much longer...

At the time, Yun Ran gazed at the Marchioness with an innocent, fragile look. When she finished speaking, Yun Ran lowered her eyes and fidgeted with the handkerchief in her hands.

"Shaohe understands. Please don't worry, Mother."

But as soon as the senior madam had left, Yun Ran flopped unceremoniously onto the chaise longue and ate the pears Xiaotao brought her.

"Princess, Prince Rui's residence is a den of wolves! The Empress Dowager's decree says you have to marry into his household, and as a concubine, no less. Is this meant to be your new home, or... or the end of you?"

Her half-closed eyes slowly opened. Yun Ran glanced at Xiaotao's indignant face and smiled. There was no trace of the sweet innocence she showed in public.

Being a concubine was great! She wouldn't have to manage the household, just enjoy a life of luxury. And Prince Rui was handsome and rich. Before the emperor really did strip him of his title, she could use his reputation to make a few plans of her own.

Prince Rui: Mother, didn't you choose a virtuous, refined, and well-mannered concubine for me?

Empress Dowager Dejia: Shaohe is one of the gentlest and most refined young ladies in the capital.

Prince Rui: Is Mother going senile, or did I marry a fake princess...

Shaohe: My prince, will you come again tomorrow?

Theme: Just when everything seems hopeless, a new path opens up.