The Empress Dowager suddenly felt that her neck no longer ached and her head no longer felt heavy. Even the bracelets on her wrists seemed light.
Not everyone could bear this burden. Even the Empress was not entitled to it.
Once that competitive streak in a woman's heart rose up, there was no holding it back.
The two Noble Consorts came next, followed by the Four Consorts. Behind them came the other consorts, concubines, and princesses in order of rank.
The vast procession brought a cloud of fragrance with it as it entered, nearly overwhelming Jiang Shuyue.
Jiang Shuyue said, "Good heavens, I already thought the fragrance was a little strong, but when this crowd of women came in, they nearly sent me to the next world!"
Huahua said, "A different scent for every person. It's more than ten times stronger here than in a shopping mall, so nearly dying is perfectly normal. Especially with Consort Shu-she recently got two jars of local specialties. Oh, that stink! Even with her palace gates shut, it carries over ten meters. She's wearing almost as much perfume today as all the other consorts and concubines combined."
Noble Consort Chen thought, No wonder there's been this stuffy stink lately. I thought a rat had died somewhere!
Noble Consort Chen stole a glance back at Consort Shu.
Consort Shu thought, ...Why are you glaring at me?
Jiang Shuyue asked, "How much silver does the palace spend on fragrances every month?"
Huahua said, "A little over two thousand taels, probably. That doesn't include the Emperor and Empress. The Empress Dowager likes floral and fruity scents and sandalwood, and hers aren't included either."
Jiang Shuyue said, "Wow, then Consort Shu's perfume budget alone has already topped two thousand taels. Look at her, all glittering gold and splendor-she