"Huaixi isn't the safest place. Please rest comfortably at this inn, Your Majesty. Let me know when you wish to depart; I can arrange it promptly."
Her tone hinted at dismissal.
Consort Su trembled with anger. "Ms. Qiao, are you implying rebellion? Are you refusing to submit to the Emperor?"
Qiao Xuan smiled earnestly and replied, "Your Majesty, in these uncertain times, self-preservation should be our first priority, wouldn't you agree?"
Consort Su remained skeptical. "The Emperor values Lord Shao greatly. If he pledges loyalty, he'll surely rise to high ranks."
Qiao Xuan countered, "Words alone don't build trust. Verbal promises are often unreliable, wouldn't you agree? In this world, it's wiser to rely on oneself than on others! If you can stand on your own feet but choose to cripple yourself by relying on others, isn't that foolish?"
Confused, Consort Su asked, "What do you mean by relying on others? The Emperor won't allow Lord Shao to depend on anyone else!"
