Chapter 1603: Coercion
They were grappling with poverty and despair, yet they faced the world with smiles and kindness. Qiao Xuan observed no signs of extreme bitterness, hatred, cynicism, cunningness, or deceit in them. These individuals carried their own stories and had reached this point due to helplessness.
The innocent eyes and pure hearts of the children moved Qiao Xuan deeply. While she couldn’t be their savior, she could extend help to those destined for it. Rather than merely providing financial support to 70 to 80 people, Qiao Xuan believed in the principle of teaching them to fish, not just giving them fish.
Recognizing that the manor needed additional manpower, Qiao Xuan saw an opportunity to arrange for them to work there. Trusting Zheng Sangge, she considered him capable of overseeing the manor in their absence.
As for Songshi, leaving with them was a natural course of action. Qiao Xuan had limited personnel under her, and they were essential. During their discussions, Qiao Xuan involved Songshi and Qingyan in the decision-making process. Given the shortage of housing in the manor, Songshi’s insights into suitable locations proved invaluable.
After an entire morning of discussions and scheduling an appointment with Songshi to bring the group to the manor the next day, Zheng Sangge and the others departed. Further details would be ironed out between Songshi and Zheng Sangge, with those still undecided municating their expenditures to Qiao Xuan.
Shao Yunduan requested that Qiao Xuan refrain from going out for the next few days.
Gradually, whispers of gossip circulated from the outside. Allegedly, due to Lord Shao’s desire for release, Princess Consort sent Madam Shao to the Prince’s Mansion, reprimanding her for not being virtuous enough to care for her husband. The insinuation was that Lord Shao’s thoughts wouldn’t have strayed if Madam Shao had been more attentive, leading to accusations of jealousy and disrespect.
In summary, Madam Shao faced severe scolding from Princess Consort, leaving her trembling and pale as she exited the mansion.
Upon hearing the rumors, the recovered Auntie Fu reported to Princess Consort.
Startled by the news, Princess Consort’s initial concern was whether some maids had leaked the information. Consequently, she summoned all the maids and interrogated them. Frightened, the maids knelt and begged for mercy, vehemently swearing not to utter a word to anyone.
Princess Consort, known for her strictness with the Crown Prince and other noble ladies, had left everyone too terrified to speak when Madam Shao had angered her. Her resolve not to let Madam Shao off was unwavering.
Boldly reminding Princess Consort, Auntie Liang voiced her concerns, “Princess Consort, we don’t have the courage to do that, but… it’s hard to predict what Madam Shao might do.”
Others, finding someone to shift blame to, echoed this sentiment.
Princess Consort frowned, contemplating the situation. It hadn’t occurred to her before that Madam Shao might not keep this incident a secret.
In her perspective, Qiao Xuan would want to keep the matter private. Why would she disclose it to anyone? Wouldn’t she feel embarrassed to publicize it?
Auntie Fu sighed inwardly, gently attempting to persuade Princess Consort. “Princess Consort, Auntie Liang has been your loyal servant for many years and would never dare to defy you. However, in this world, keeping secrets between two people is challenging. Perhaps Madam Shao’s maid might unintentionally say something…”
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