Chapter 1566: Chapter 1566: Looking for Amusement

Song Ci took a sip of tea to calm herself, steadied her nerves, and let out a small sigh.

To be honest, she was really afraid of another arranged marriage like her family’s fourth son. It wasn’t that an arranged marriage was bad, but sometimes it felt like the proverbial chicken ribs. Song Lingjie is the hope of the Song Family; it’s best not to have his marriage dictated by the Royal Family.

"Without you saying it, we’ve already planned to settle down the child. It’s just that with the New Year preparations, we haven’t found an auspicious date yet," Song Ci said. "Though, does Uncle’s Mansion want you to grant a marriage?"

Empress Dowager Wang chuckled, "The Song Family is at its peak, and your grandson is now well-known and naturally attracts those who want to climb. Uncle’s Mansion is no exception; after all, who doesn’t want to climb higher?"

The tone carried undisguised disdain and sarcasm.

Song Ci couldn’t help but laugh, "This really is a case of having one’s name heard all over the world. Jie’er is so popular now; surely, Duke Cheng’en is also highly regarded by many?"

Duke Cheng’en, he definitely could be considered a diamond tortoise based on his conditions.

Empress Dowager Wang said, "People pursuing benefits is normal; you’re quite right. Cheng, too, has many wanting to sound out my intentions."

"Then you must choose carefully. Duke Cheng’en is holding up the main responsibilities. His wife must be capable and able to handle the situation."

Empress Dowager Wang smiled, "You don’t know how this young man has such a mature mind; he even wants to find a wife who can bear children well in the future."

Song Ci was amused and said helplessly, "Nowadays, every child is as cunning as can be."

"Indeed."

Lian Qiao walked in with a smile, "Lady, the Empress and all the palace ladies and noblewomen are here to pay respects to you."

Empress Dowager Wang smirked, "They’ve come quickly, but it’s not real respect. It’s more about hearing their banter and quarrels rather than sincerely visiting me."

"In this deep winter, it’s either watching snow or listening to music—nothing much to entertain. Watching these young ones argue is a kind of entertainment, isn’t it?"

Empress Dowager Wang nodded in agreement, "You do make a point; let’s go find something amusing."

"Better to be humble than oversleep." Song Ci stood up, walked to her, held out her hand, and said, "Lady, shall I support you?"

Empress Dowager Wang gently pointed at her, "You mischievous old thing." She held her hand back.

The two laughed and talked as they headed towards the main hall of Cining Palace. When they arrived, the Empress was already there with a large group of vibrantly dressed people, waiting.

Upon seeing Empress Dowager Wang and her company, everyone bowed deeply in salute.

"May Empress Dowager live in great peace and good health."

Standing beside Empress Dowager Wang and gently supporting her hand, Song Ci was inadvertently included in the gesture. She quickly whispered to the Empress Dowager, "Thanks to you, I’ve shared in this salutation."

Empress Dowager Wang winked at her, deliberately not calling them to rise, allowing them to remain in their crouched bow.

Enjoying the gesture a little longer.

Song Ci: "..."

Even the Empress Dowager has a playful side.

She tugged on Empress Dowager Wang’s sleeve, and the latter finally haughtily called for everyone to rise and sit.

Everyone was secretly puzzled, wondering why the command to rise was so slow. Could it be that Song Ci had poisoned their relationship with the Empress Dowager?

It shouldn’t be so; earlier in Kunning Palace, only Consort Fan crossed paths with her—others hadn’t provoked her.

Empress Dowager Wang seated herself and noticed Princess Consort Ji’s aged appearance, asking, "Imperial Concubine, you came as well. In such cold weather, can you withstand the chill?"

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