Chapter 281: Peaceful Mindset
In ancient times, ordinary families upheld a tradition of maintaining silence during meals and slumber, a custom that extended even to the royal palace.
During the current meal, an atmosphere of hushed contemplation prevailed, with no one daring to break the silence.
This silence was largely attributed to the fact that each individual was deeply engrossed in their own thoughts. Furthermore, the Empress Dowager herself refrained from speaking, effectively dissuading anyone else from uttering a word.
As a matter of fact, the Empress Dowager had been discreetly observing Qin Zhenzhen. To her discerning eye, Qin Zhenzhen displayed none of the rustic qualities one might expect from a countryside upbringing. In fact, she exuded a grace and refinement that surpassed even those of young ladies born into prosperous families.
Unlike her peers, who either cowered in fear or vied for her favor, Qin Zhenzhen interacted with the Empress Dowager on her own terms. In all honesty, were it not for the fact that she was Jiang Fenglian’s granddaughter, the Empress Dowager might have developed a genuine fondness for her.
Alas, such was the irony of the situation.
Following the meal, the Empress Dowager dismissed the servants, leaving only Qin Zhenzhen and her two trusted attendants.
"Have you added any particular ingredients to that painkiller of yours?"