During Jiang Fula’s back-and-forth explanations, Song Ci had already discerned the conclusions about the astute offspring and thus stopped worrying or asking further questions.
After all, when it cos to manipulating human hearts and political scheming, she, a re actress from later generations, could never match those who had dominated the court for over twenty years. As the saying goes, when the sky falls, the tall ones will hold it up. She, an old lady with not many years left, should simply enjoy her grandchildren and have a peaceful retirent.
"There is one more thing, Madam, please do not be annoyed." Jiang Fula began with a smile.
Song Ci showed a questioning look but saw him patting his palm twice with two fingers, whereupon a girl walked in from outside, her hair in two buns, dressed similarly to the several major maids around her.
However, this girl was unlike the other major maids. Her skin was not fair but rather a bit dark. Of course, in Song Ci’s view, it wasn’t dark; it was a healthy wheat color, with eyes as bright and round as grapes, lips slightly upturned, and a distinct dimple.
Upon entering, she bowed to Song Ci, lacking the specialized etiquette training of the household, a bit carefree and exuding a spirited aura.
"Maid Nan Shan greets the Madam."
Song Ci blinked and looked at Jiang Fula, questioning his intention.
Jiang Fula signaled to Nanny in the palace, who then walked to the door, dismissing the many maids stationed there, and stood guard by the door herself.
"The Pri Minister said that even though he agreed to your request, we must remain cautious and provide additional attendants to serve you. Nan Shan was assigned from Qian Yong’s side; she is skilled in martial arts and poisons, having trained from a young age. If sothing is wrong with the food, she’ll know with just a taste. From today, she will serve closely by your side, dining and having tea with you..."
A wise person can understand the implication from a few words, and it’s clear Nan Shan was given to Song Ci as a personal bodyguard, also to taste for poison, much like the eunuchs who test for poison for the Empress Dowager and Emperor in the palace.
When Song Ci understood, she inexplicably felt goosebumps all over.
It wasn’t that making a young girl taste for poison seed too cruel, but rather the realization that she herself might be in constant danger.
"Is it possible that the elder directly pointed out that the two in You Ran Court are indeed spies trying to harm ?" Song Ci felt her mouth dry.
Jiang Fula noticed the surprise in her eyes and quickly replied, "Not exactly; although the two have been investigated twice, nothing amiss was found, so the Pri Minister ordered another inspection and assigned soone to prevent any unexpected events." He paused, then lowered his voice, "The Pri Minister hinted that the Fan Family’s Madam might not survive this winter."
Song Ci’s heart tightened, recalling that old lady she sparred with three years ago and who entered Kunning Palace almost alongside her. In just a few short years, she was already on her deathbed?
"If the Fan Family’s Madam passes away, the political direction at court will certainly shift. Even without You Ran Court, there might be others trying to muddy the waters and disrupt Song Mansion, hence these arrangents," Jiang Fula explained.
Song Ci tugged at the corner of her mouth, recognizing that these words were for the greater good, but internally, she felt extrely unsettled. Alongside the anxiety, she also realized the importance of her status, akin to high-level officials in later generations receiving top-tier protection—probably for the sa reasons?
Suddenly, she felt sowhat displeased. After all, who could be pleased knowing they might face assassination at any mont?
Song Ci said, "I understand."
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