Security around the residence of Dong Bingkun, Minister of Personnel, in Great Yong's Imperial City was exceptionally tight, a marked departure from its usual atmosphere. Worthy Consort Dong had arrived early that morning to visit her family, and this time, the Seventh Prince, Xue Daoming, had accompanied her.
The Dong Family had always been one of Great Yong's most powerful aristocratic clans. Only the Li Family could rival them. Both families had produced an endless succession of distinguished ministers and accomplished generals, earning the Great Yong Imperial House's deep trust. But since the First Prince, Xue Daohong, had ascended the throne, the Dong Family had become much more discreet. After all, the Seventh Prince, Xue Daoming, whom they supported, had also been a leading contender for the throne, a rival to the current emperor. Following Xue Daohong's accession, both Xue Daoming and the Dong Family had grown exceedingly cautious, fearing that he would find an opportunity to strike at them.
This was Worthy Consort Dong's first visit to her family since the new emperor's accession. Once the family had settled in the Flower Hall, she sighed softly. "There's still no place like home."
Her sister-in-law, Yang Yuqi, smiled. "However nice it is here, it can't compare with the Imperial Palace. Fine silks and sumptuous meals, a life of privilege, and so many palace servants attending you."
Dong Bingkun glared at his wife, inwardly cursing the woman for not knowing how to watch her tongue.
Worthy Consort Dong chuckled. "My appetite has been poor these last two days. All I want is some fish soup made by your own hands, Sister-in-law."
Yang Yuqi smiled. "That's easy enough. I'll go make it now." She was no ordinary housewife, either. She could tell that her sister-in-law wanted to send her away.
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