Hidden alliances

Ning is confined to her room for 5 days as punishment for her leave from the palace. Zhuo is a psycho; demonstrated by making Pei kill his best friend as a young boy. He is suspicious about the identity of Madame Li and Pei’s loyalty. Pei makes a very convincing show of allegiance, and while frightening for Ning, she understands what he is doing and why necessary. These two play off each other well and are growing closer in understanding. Pei shares the treats he was duped into buying and notes that they really are a favorite for her. He is very cool and calculating in his assessment of people, which is why it’s surprising he was willing to change his mind about 5th Prince Ning. He tells her that whether an Emperor does good or evil is more important than gender. He is walking a fine line with Zhuo, but is successful for now in toeing the line. He questions Li thoroughly to find out who knows Ning is a woman. He knows he will have to figure out a way to keep this all quiet and considering his options. He tells Li flat out she will not get a second chance to deceive and her life is in the balance if she tries it. Li is protecting someone other than Ning but she definitely doesn’t want it known by anybody. The machinations continue and alliances are both fluid and steadfast. Zhuo is wondering if Li is someone from his past but hasn’t connected all the dots yet. His hatred and obsession with revenge clouds his judgment for the big picture. He prefers the scorched earth approach to dealing with conflict and doesn’t care about collateral damage. One interesting development is Ning wanting to allow women to have property. This will not go over well with officials but will be a godsend to widows who have no family or male to fight for them. This will allow them to live on their family land and to make a living without harassment from bully officials profiting from their hardships.

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