Chapter 16: A brewing storm

News of Konga’s return swept through the capital like wildfire. After being humiliated and cast out by General Lee, she had reappeared with Lord Choi, a wealthy but naive merchant, in tow. Though divorced from the Lee family and disgraced, Konga was determined to claw her way back to prominence, using her charm and cunning to exploit her new husband’s wealth and connections.

Konga’s New Game

Settling into a rented manor outside the noble districts, Konga wasted no time ingratiating herself with merchants and minor officials. She shamelessly flaunted Lord Choi’s wealth, hosting lavish gatherings to showcase her “return to fortune.” While she could no longer lay claim to the Lee name, she cleverly spun tales of victimhood, portraying herself as a wronged woman cast aside for political reasons.

Her children, Nian Dou and Gou, each had their own roles to play. Nian Dou, now of marriageable age, attended every noble gathering she could, flaunting her beauty and attempting to catch the eye of eligible men. Gou, still as brash and entitled as ever, followed his mother’s lead, arrogantly boasting about his stepfather’s growing trading empire.

Though Konga was no longer tied to the Lee family, she was not above using their name to bolster her own image. She dropped sly hints about her past connection to General Lee, hoping to regain some measure of respectability.

Silla’s Growing Prestige

Meanwhile, Silla had become the talk of the capital. The Imperial Beauty Shop had solidified its position as the most sought-after establishment in the city, thanks to the emperor’s endorsement and the banner he had personally gifted. Nobles and merchants alike flocked to her shop, eager to purchase the cosmetics she crafted with her modern knowledge and ingenuity.

Despite her success, Silla remained vigilant. She was well aware that Konga’s return could spell trouble, even if the woman no longer held any claim to the Lee family. With her younger brother, Han, safely staying with the Shen family, Silla focused on strengthening her alliances and protecting her hard-earned reputation.

One such alliance was with the Crown Prince, who had recently shown a growing interest in her—not just in admiration for her business acumen but something far deeper. His subtle gestures, lingering glances, and frequent visits to her shop had not gone unnoticed.

The Banquet

The emperor decided to host a banquet to honor the merchants and artisans who had contributed to the prosperity of the capital, and both Silla and Lord Choi were invited. It was a calculated move by the emperor to strengthen the empire’s economy while also giving Silla another opportunity to showcase her talents.

Silla arrived at the banquet with her usual poise, dressed in a gown that was both understated and elegant. Her presence commanded respect, and many of the nobles and officials greeted her warmly.

Konga, too, arrived with Lord Choi, draped in gaudy silks and adorned with heavy jewelry. She made a show of her husband’s wealth, loudly praising his trading ventures and exaggerating his influence. However, it was clear to the more discerning guests that Lord Choi was an inexperienced merchant who relied heavily on his wife’s schemes.

As the evening progressed, the tension between Silla and Konga became palpable. Though Silla maintained her composure, Konga could not resist taking subtle jabs at her, implying that Silla’s success was merely a stroke of luck rather than the result of hard work.

“You’ve certainly come a long way, Silla,” Konga said with a saccharine smile. “Who would have thought that someone from such humble beginnings could rise so high? Truly, the emperor’s favor is a powerful thing.”

Silla met her stepmother’s gaze with calm indifference. “It’s true,” she replied evenly. “The emperor’s favor is a blessing—but maintaining it requires more than just wealth or flattery. It requires integrity and results.”

Konga’s smile faltered, and she quickly turned her attention elsewhere.

The Crown Prince’s Intervention

As the banquet continued, the Crown Prince made a grand entrance, drawing the attention of every guest in the room. He greeted the emperor before making his way toward Silla, much to the surprise of the other attendees.

“Princess Mei Yongqi,” he said, his voice warm and sincere. “It is good to see you again. I trust your business continues to thrive?”

Silla curtsied gracefully. “Your Highness, it is an honor. The shop is doing well, thanks in no small part to your support.”

Their conversation drew curious glances from the other guests, particularly from Konga, who watched with growing envy. The Crown Prince’s interest in Silla was undeniable, and it only served to highlight Konga’s own fall from grace.

Trouble on the Horizon

As the banquet came to an end, Silla returned to her shop, her mind racing with thoughts of the evening’s events. The Crown Prince’s attention, while flattering, was also concerning. His growing interest in her could lead to complications, especially if Konga decided to exploit the situation to create scandal.

Meanwhile, Konga was already plotting her next move. Furious at being overshadowed by Silla, she began devising ways to undermine her stepdaughter’s reputation. With Nian Dou and Gou by her side, she set her sights on turning Lord Choi into a weapon against Silla.

But Silla was no stranger to Konga’s schemes. She had faced far greater challenges before and emerged stronger each time. As the moon rose high in the sky, Silla prepared herself for the battles yet to come.

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