Ashui paused: "Indeed, the deposed Crown Prince probably wishes for the Emperor’s death."

"The Emperor’s sons are worrisome. Jing Yunzhou currently plans to lie low and scheme slowly, but neither the Emperor nor his other brothers will allow it," Qiann Yan analyzed. "If one day he loses hope, he will surely lash out in desperation and might expose everything."

"Jing Xiyu is unlikely to miss this trump card. He is a formidable person, possibly the frontrunner in the struggle for the throne. Barring any surprises, he’s likely to be the victor."

Ashui was surprised; did the County Master even anticipate this?

"Your martial arts skills are impressive; you could seize the opportunity to stir things up. If Jing Yunzhou reveals the Emperor’s doings or causes further disruption, toppling the Emperor isn’t impossible. Each prince has their own cunning; victory will depend on their tactics. The struggle for imperial power is destined to be tumultuous, but it will only ferment earlier, not undermine the foundation—at most, it will harm a bit of the Imperial Family’s bloodline."

Qiann Yan’s words enlightened Ashui. Indeed, ever since ancient times, countless fathers and sons have turned against each other for the throne. It’s not impossible for a son to ruin his father’s reputation to ascend the throne; even risking lives is possible.

Qiann Yan said no more and continued to practice calligraphy.

Ashui pondered silently and inadvertently looked up, only to realize that her writing was excellent. Unlike the delicate hand expected of ordinary women, it was bold and vigorous, exuding an undeniable strength from within.

After staying at the residence for two days, Qiann Yan decided to go out for a stroll.

Having been in this world for quite some time, she hadn’t really wandered around. She wanted to see what changes had occurred in the Capital City.

So far, no assassins had come to the door, probably not so soon.

Her walk led her to a teahouse where a storyteller was recounting her tale, quite accurately with little bias.

However, as soon as the storyteller paused, people began to gossip.

"No matter what, a woman like that can’t be taken home as a wife. Who knows, someday over some trifling matter, she might harm her husband."

"Yes, indeed, as the saying goes, the wasp’s tail is sharp, but the woman’s heart is the most venomous."

"Someone who would even betray her own husband can’t be any good!"

"Now, by betraying her husband, she gained the title of County Master; such a vain woman seeking honor and status cannot be married."

Qiann Yan had already walked up to the group discussing the matter. They were dressed as scholars, nodding their heads while criticizing her actions.

Seeing many around agreeing with them, they spoke with increasing enthusiasm, their words becoming more and more harsh.

"I say, such a woman who betrays her husband should be executed. Leaving her in the world only causes harm."

"She hurt her husband and received the County Master’s title for herself. Her heart is truly vicious. Does she not have nightmares every night?"

Qiann Yan: "I don’t have nightmares."

There were so many people outside discussing, but she couldn’t control that. But encountering such enthusiastic condemnations, she certainly couldn’t ignore it.

These scholars, who read a few books and prattle on about morality, standing on a pedestal to criticize women, are extremely disliked.

It’s them who repeatedly placed various shackles on women, forcing women to restrain themselves, which eventually became a habit.

Everyone fell silent, directing their gaze toward Qiann Yan’s position.

The few scholars who were criticizing Qiann Yan showed disdainful expressions upon seeing her.

"I wondered who it was, turns out it’s Princess Anning; the subject of the story herself has arrived."