As he spoke, even Long Jingyuan, who rarely discussed court affairs in front of the Empress Dowager, could not help recounting Su Qiao's achievements.
The Empress Dowager fell silent for a moment after hearing him. "If she truly has such ability, then that would indeed be a great blessing for our Longhua Kingdom."
"Your Majesty, someone like her must not be allowed to fall into the hands of the other three kingdoms."
"I know that, but unfortunately..." Long Jingyuan's eyes dimmed slightly.
It was rare for the Empress Dowager to see such a despondent expression on him. She asked with concern, "Unfortunately what?"
Long Jingyuan looked up at her. "She is free-spirited by nature, indifferent to fame and wealth, and unwilling to be confined within the Imperial Palace."
"You mean she doesn't want to enter the palace?" The Empress Dowager was stunned.
Was there really a woman in this world who did not want to enter the palace?
Long Jingyuan nodded. "Yes."
The Empress Dowager had still been somewhat skeptical that Su Qiao truly possessed such abilities, but now she believed it to some extent.
"Your Majesty, Su Yuan may be a little slow-witted, but that is precisely what makes him easier to control. Your Majesty has always been benevolent. Why not spare him?"
"As for Su Qiao, she is the legitimate daughter of the Su Marquis Manor. Since Your Majesty values the manor, she will surely be deeply grateful."
How could Long Jingyuan never have considered all this?
"When Qiao'er was born, she was sent to the south because her health was too weak. Over the years, the manor ignored her and left her to fend for herself. They did not even allow her to return when her mother passed away. The manor may not be able to keep