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Chapter 997: Good Helper

Qiao Xuan comprehended the situation clearly.

Madame Lin deliberately neglected to introduce the other madams to Qiao Xuan.

Qiao Xuan wasn’t someone to be easily manipulated. If Madame Lin refused to introduce them, Qiao Xuan would make the request with a polite smile.

Reluctantly, Madame Lin finally introduced them to her.

Regardless of whether the other madams avoided her or treated her with fake smiles, Qiao Xuan remained indifferent. All she needed was to know who they were.

Madame Lin had invited numerous guests for the occasion, including twelve women from Hanlin Academy and the six ministries. The living room of the Lin household was filled with bustling noise, comprising both maids and elderly women.

Shao Yunduan, as one of the six Advanced Scholars who had recently joined Hanlin Academy, had three wives accompanying him. Madame Zhou and Madame Han, the new wives of the officials, harbored strong hostility towards Qiao Xuan. Although they were not well-acquainted with each other, this shared sentiment brought them closer, engrossed in their own conversations and laughter. Their disdain for Qiao Xuan only deepened.

Qiao Xuan, who had been treated as a mere tool, could only sigh inwardly.

The women chatted and laughed among themselves, purposefully ignoring Qiao Xuan. It seemed they had no interest in engaging with her, whether intentionally or unintentionally.

Qiao Xuan had never intended to involve herself with them. Neither she nor Shao Yunduan needed their approval. With the Emperor’s support, they wouldn’t dare to make trouble, regardless of their dissatisfaction. After all, Censor Liu had been dismissed, and no one would risk making jests about their husbands’ future.

They rarely associated with each other, and their presence had minimal impact on Qiao Xuan’s life. She had no intention of ingratiating herself with individuals she knew had ill intentions.

That was simply the nature of their social circle. Unless they willingly accepted someone, forcefully entering their ranks was an arduous task.

Furthermore, it was evident that the circle held a dislike towards her.

“Oh, Mrs. ShaoShao, why are you so quiet? Come and join our conversation!” one of the madams suddenly remarked, accompanied by a smile.

All eyes turned towards Qiao Xuan.

“She is the wife of the Primus, and she’s quite exceptional. It’s no wonder she doesn’t find us appealing!” someone sneered. The comment wasn’t particularly loud, yet it resonated with everyone present.

Another person chimed in, laughing brightly, “Well, that’s not entirely accurate! Times change, and the concept of honor and humiliation can fluctuate. We ought to see what the future holds. Ten or twenty years down the line, we’ll have a clearer understanding!”

Everyone nodded in agreement.

“Indeed, being adept at studying doesn’t guarantee proficiency in the role of an officer!”

“Throughout history, there have been numerous Advanced Scholars who ascended to positions of power!”

“Yes, success hinges not only on examination results, but also on genuine talent and character.”

“Absolutely! If one lacks integrity, everything else becomes a facade.”

“In my view, having a virtuous spouse is crucial!”

Laughter erupted among the gathering. “That’s right! We need a virtuous spouse to support us! A harmonious marriage is the key to avoiding trouble!”