### Chapter 109: Her Pursuit

### Chapter 109: Her Pursuit

When Prince Chu Nan got married, she had already been wedded and was still in the capital at that time. Later, she left for Shu. After returning to the capital this time, she only entered the palace once to express her gratitude and apologize, and since then has been secluded, recuperating from illness.

Thus, her impression of Empress Xu is still from when Empress Xu was just the Crown Princess, those first two years. Back then, Empress Xu was still the Crown Princess. In Jinping's memory, Empress Xu was ordinary-looking, quiet, and cautious in her conduct.

Although she had long expected that times change and people change with them, now that her brother has ascended the throne as emperor and the Crown Princess has become empress, it naturally would be different from before. Yet, Jinping never imagined that Empress Xu would change so much.

Before Fan Xueyao arrived, Empress Xu said some unpleasant things. Although Jinping felt uncomfortable, she wasn't particularly angry. Such thoughts were prevalent at the time.

In fact, Jinping herself felt ashamed, having married unwisely, being unambitious, and causing worry for the ailing empress dowager and the emperor.

She was naturally gentle and timid, following rules meticulously. Since Empress Xu is the empress, even if what she says is harsh and hurtful, Jinping wouldn't resent her. She merely thought that Empress Xu was too strict with Confucian principles.

But now, seeing her, Empress Xu seems to have lost her mind.

Regardless of Empress Xu's faults, the empress dowager would admonish her, and Jinping would fulfill her duty by trying to persuade her.

"Empress Dowager, please don't take it to heart. The empress was impulsive. She is still young, and if there are any shortcomings, you can teach her when you have the leisure. If you're tired, let the ladies-in-waiting assist you. Why bother getting upset? Didn't the imperial physicians say your condition requires peace of mind and rest?"

Although Fan Xueyao didn't want to speak up in such a situation, she stood up, approached the empress dowager, and gently massaged her shoulders and back, soothing her anger.

The empress dowager listened to her daughter's words. Seeing Fan Xueyao reminded her of today's significance—the first birthday banquet of the eldest prince, his first appearance before the imperial relatives. Such an important occasion required Empress Xu's presence; otherwise, the eldest prince's honor would diminish. Moreover, showing discord among the imperial family would be detrimental.

After weighing the pros and cons, the empress dowager sighed deeply, glanced wearily at the kneeling Empress Xu, and waved her hand. "Today, I don't want to scold you. As the saying goes, 'Too many words lead to mistakes.' I hope you will be more careful in your actions and words from now on. Get up and go freshen up. You need to greet the imperial relatives soon. It wouldn't do to appear like this."

What Empress Xu feared most was not being allowed to attend the birthday banquet. With all the imperial relatives present, her absence would reflect poorly on her.

Hearing the empress dowager's words, Empress Xu gratefully thanked her, covering her face with her sleeve to hide her disheveled state as she went to freshen up.

Afterwards, Empress Xu behaved more obediently, perhaps fearing further mistakes. She maintained her regal demeanor, leaving the honor of accompanying the guests to Princess Jinping and Fan Xueyao.

The ladies-in-waiting nodded approvingly, thinking she had improved. Previously, they always saw her vying for attention, losing all decorum. Now, she seemed more dignified. Clearly, setbacks helped her grow.

With these thoughts, their eyes turned to Fan Xueyao, finding her increasingly admirable.

Gentle and graceful, her words were soft and pleasing. She exuded a serene comfort, truly a likable woman.

Despite the emperor's favor and bearing the eldest prince, she showed no arrogance.

Standing next to such a person, even the most beautiful would pale in comparison. Empress Xu, lacking beauty and grace, could only improve.

Fan Xueyao chatted with the ladies-in-waiting for a while. As noon approached, the servants from Changchun Palace came to invite them to the banquet. Fan Xueyao rose and excused herself. "I need to return and change my clothes. I'll join you at the banquet later."

The ladies-in-waiting hurriedly rose to see her off.

Back at Yaohua Palace, Chu Nan was still reading on the couch. Seeing her, he put down his book and greeted her. "Why did you come back? Aren't you going to Changchun Palace with the empress dowager and the ladies-in-waiting?"

Fan Xueyao looked at him helplessly. "I wanted to, but I need to change my clothes first."

"Ah, yes. Take your time changing. We'll go together to Changchun Palace." Chu Nan realized her attire was inappropriate, yet she looked elegant even in simple clothes.

Fan Xueyao considered it reasonable. This was her son's birthday celebration, and she was a key figure. Going with Chu Nan made sense.

"Alright. Please wait a moment while I change." Fan Xueyao went inside to dress.

Chu Nan also needed to change, but it was simpler for him—just a new robe and hat. He had plenty of time to read until Fan Xueyao finished dressing.

Soon, Fan Xueyao emerged, and Chu Nan's eyes lit up.

She wore a red silk robe embroidered with peonies, phoenixes, and butterflies, perfectly complementing her fair skin, making it glow like snow.

Her dark hair adorned with jewels and flowers, her delicate makeup enhanced her beauty. She looked like a celestial maiden, graceful and captivating.

Smiling, her charm was irresistible, making Chu Nan stare in awe.

Embarrassed, Fan Xueyao lowered her gaze. "Why are you staring at me, Your Majesty?"

Caught off guard, Chu Nan blushed and turned away, stammering. "I've never seen you dressed like this before. I was... momentarily stunned."

Fan Xueyao smiled, teasingly. "If dressing up makes you look, I should do it more often."

Chu Nan's face reddened as he took her hand. "You're beautiful whether dressed up or not."

Fan Xueyao laughed, her joy warming the room. "To hear you say that, I feel complete."

"Don't talk nonsense about dying," Chu Nan chided, lightly tapping her hand.

"I won't die, not until I've heard enough of your sweet words." Fan Xueyao giggled, whispering tenderly in his ear, making him shiver.

He leaned close, murmuring softly, "Tonight, I'll make sure you hear enough."

Fan Xueyao wanted to bite him, embarrassed by his boldness. She glanced around, relieved no one was watching, and excused herself to check on Xu'er.

Chu Nan watched her flushed cheeks and ears, grinning triumphantly.

As the main character of the banquet, Chu Xu had his own elaborate attire. The eunuchs instructed the wet nurse to dress him. Once ready, he was brought out.

Fan Xueyao saw her son, dressed intricately in red robes, looking like a porcelain doll.

Though adorable, Chu Xu clearly found the outfit uncomfortable, constantly trying to remove the hat. The wet nurse kept reassuring him, but with little effect.

"How is this?" Seeing Chu Xu frowning and whimpering in discomfort, Fan Xueyao quickly took him into her arms. The palace maids wanted to remind her that it would wrinkle her ceremonial robes, but seeing the situation, they swallowed their words.

Afraid of being scolded for not serving the Crown Prince well, the wet nurse hurriedly explained, "The Crown Prince has never worn these clothes before; he's not used to them."

Hearing this reason, Fan Xueyao felt helpless. Chu Xu had to wear the clothes for such an important occasion and formal banquet, no matter how uncomfortable they were.

But children are not like adults; they do not understand helplessness or endurance. As soon as he felt uncomfortable, it showed on his face. In his mother's embrace, he immediately sought comfort, whimpering and crying, "Mother, it hurts!" He tugged at the hood covering his head, which was poking his neck, and his voice turned into a sob, making him look pitiful.

She quickly kissed him and cooed softly, "Don't be uncomfortable, my dear Xu'er. Mother will make you feel better." Chu Xu's skin was delicate, and the hood was irritating his neck and cheeks.

Feeling his discomfort, Fan Xueyao gently scratched his neck and cheek, noticing a small rash appearing under her fingers.

Her brows furrowed, and she said with concern, "Oh, Xu'er, you've developed a rash. No wonder you're so uncomfortable." She immediately began to untie the hood from Chu Xu's head.

In the same room, Chu Nan could not miss such a commotion. He walked over and saw the red marks on his son's neck and cheeks, his brows slightly creasing. He asked sternly, "How are you serving him? If the Crown Prince feels uncomfortable, don't you know to remove the hood?"

"The servant begs forgiveness!" The four wet nurses and palace maids hastily knelt down to plead for mercy.

Fan Xueyao removed the hood and handed it to the wet nurse, instructing Huaping, "Quickly bring me the hand cream to apply to the Crown Prince."

"Yes, the servant will fetch it right away!" Huaping hurried inside to retrieve the cream and returned quickly.

Fan Xueyao took the golden ceramic jar, scooped out some cream, and carefully applied it to Chu Xu's neck and cheeks, blowing gently, "Xu'er, does it still hurt?"

After removing the uncomfortable hat and applying soothing cream, Chu Xu felt much better and finally stopped his whimpers. His eyes, like black obsidian, glistened with tears as he looked up at his mother, pouting pitifully and nodding.

Fan Xueyao affectionately kissed him, ignoring the wet nurse's outstretched hands, shaking her head, "I'll carry him myself."

"You're wearing such cumbersome clothes; how can you hold Xu'er? Let the wet nurse carry him," Chu Nan said, disapproving of her constant doting on their son. With so many servants around, there was no need for her to tire herself.

Fan Xueyao glanced at him, smiling helplessly, "Xu'er is already crying so much. If I hand him over to the wet nurse now, his eyes will be swollen by the time we reach the banquet."

Chu Nan frowned, looking at Chu Xu, who clung to Fan Xueyao like a rock. He remembered that their son always preferred his mother when upset. Handing him over to the wet nurse now would likely result in more crying.

He knew his son had a loud voice, having experienced it firsthand. He sighed in resignation.

"I told you to let the wet nurse take care of him. You spoil him too much. Every time he cries, you pick him up. Look how he's become; even the best wet nurse can't handle him. Remember, children grow fast. He's still small now, but soon you won't be able to carry him anymore."

Fan Xueyao pouted, looking a bit petulant, "He's my son. When he cries, my heart aches. Am I not allowed to hold him? Besides, I can only hold him now while he's still small. Once he grows bigger, I won't be able to carry him anymore. I should cherish this time."

Chu Nan chuckled, pinching her nose affectionately, "You win. I can't argue with you. Do as you please."

"That's more like it." Fan Xueyao smiled sweetly, dimples forming on her cheeks.

As they chatted, Li Huairen entered, announcing that the sedan was ready.

Chu Nan checked the water clock, "It's about time. Let's head to Changchun Palace."

"Alright." Fan Xueyao nodded, following Chu Nan with their son nestled in her arms.

Chu Xu's first birthday banquet was held in Changchun Palace, with seating arrangements separated according to guests' status and gender. Despite the imperial banquet, men and women were still divided by ornate screens, allowing them to hear each other but not see clearly.

With music and dance performances, the center of Changchun Palace was adorned with crimson carpets, and dancers in embroidered red dresses and gold skirts, adorned with jewels and silk ribbons, swirled gracefully to the court music.

All the guests had arrived. No one dared to be late for an imperial banquet. The ladies of the court had arrived early, paying respects to the Empress Dowager and expressing their loyalty. The princes and their sons arrived later but still earlier than Chu Nan and Fan Xueyao.

When Chu Nan and Fan Xueyao's sedan arrived at Changchun Palace, Chu Nan paused and extended his hand to Fan Xueyao.

"What's wrong?" Fan Xueyao blinked, looking at him curiously.

"Hand Xu'er to me."

Fan Xueyao blinked, handing their son to him instinctively.

Chu Nan carried Chu Xu with one hand, and Chu Xu pouted, his eyes welling up with tears.

Fan Xueyao blinked, unable to suppress a giggle. Her natural beauty shone through without the usual grace and gentleness.

Chu Nan didn't rush to enter, waiting for Fan Xueyao to join him before entering together.

Seeing his gesture, she understood that Chu Nan intended to elevate their status. Smiling, she stepped beside him, and they entered the palace together.

Inside Changchun Palace, all the guests had gathered. The sound of music filled the air, and the hall was illuminated with brilliant lights, shimmering jewels, and fragrant incense.

The grandeur of the palace, with its carved beams and gilded pillars, was breathtaking. Flowers and fragrances filled the air, creating a dazzling scene.

The guests, dressed in elaborate robes and adorned with jewels, blended into a sea of opulence. It was hard to distinguish one from another.

While Fan Xueyao marveled at the sight, the relatives did not mistake her identity. They saw the majestic Emperor, carrying the jade-like Crown Prince, followed by the elegant lady in nine-pinned ceremonial robes—none other than the Crown Prince's mother, Fan Zhaoyi.

Recognizing her, they scrutinized her appearance and demeanor, admiring her beauty and grace.

Indeed, her beauty was unparalleled. The ladies present, dressed similarly in grand attire, stood out less compared to her. Such a stunning woman was bound to be favored. If she were their wife or concubine, they would surely lavish her with love to win her smile.

The noblewomen were secretly relieved that Fan Xueyao had entered the palace instead of their households. They had seen her demeanor and etiquette during their visit to the Empress Dowager, finding no fault in her character.

If Fan Zhaoyi lacked virtue, the Empress Dowager would not have favored her so highly. Even the Empress did not receive such favor.

Such a woman, both beautiful and virtuous, would be a formidable rival if born lowly. However, she was an official's daughter, making her a legitimate match. Even as a secondary consort, she could not be easily mistreated.

Given her beauty, any husband would adore her. Even as the primary wife, they would have to yield to her.

Those noble ladies who entered the palace with Fan Zhaoyi, how many had lower backgrounds than her? In their youth, they were all praised as noble ladies, but now, they are all overshadowed by her radiant glow.

As the saying goes: How can the light of fireflies compete with the sun and moon?

It's not that they are not good enough; it's just that Fan Zhaoyi is too exceptional, making them appear dim in comparison.

Many of them subconsciously forgot about Empress Xu. Yet, this indirectly reflects their perception and thoughts about Empress Xu.

Outsiders might be unaware, but these royal relatives knew to some extent the circumstances surrounding Empress Xu's appointment as Crown Princess. To them, Empress Xu simply got lucky. Otherwise, given her family background and her character, how could she have become the Crown Princess?

In truth, they all looked down on Empress Xu. She lacks a powerful family, has no skills, isn't particularly intelligent, and hasn't even borne a princess in all these years. They genuinely cannot respect her from the bottom of their hearts and feel she is not a suitable match for the Emperor.

Fan Xueyao took her seat, which was the most prestigious among the concubines. Nearby were a few other concubines of similar rank, as well as princess consorts and county princess consorts. Some of them had young maidens by their side, all titled imperial daughters, either county princesses or county ladies. There were only a few of them, all of marriageable age.

In this dynasty, noble ladies receive titles upon reaching marriageable age before they marry. It's the same for princesses; those favored receive titles early, while others are titled when they reach their teens and are close to marriage.

These imperial daughters are around fifteen years old, and Fan Xueyao is only one or two years older than them.

Though only a year or two apart, their circumstances differ greatly. Their statuses also vary significantly. They are all young, inexperienced, and not yet composed. Sitting beside their mothers, they try to maintain the demeanor of noble ladies, but their eyes can't help but sneak glances at Fan Xueyao, observing her every move.

They are all curious about Fan Xueyao, the favored concubine, and want to know what kind of person she is.

Fan Xueyao gave them a polite smile, and the girls quickly turned away, blushing.

Chu Nan also ascended to his throne and took his seat. All the concubines, royal relatives, noble ladies, and entertainers knelt to pay their respects, calling out blessings.

The stark difference in status was evident at this moment.

This level of nobility and the commanding presence it brings is exactly what Fan Xueyao strives for.