In any great family, there are daughters of the main line and daughters from side branches. But even among them, there are finer distinctions: whether their elders hold true power, and if so, how much.
All things considered, even among the noble ladies of the Gu Family, one could probably create more than nine distinct ranks if they were to be categorized. The higher the rank, the rarer they become.
The more exalted a young woman's status, the greater the political considerations she embodies. Once she comes of age, she is expected to represent her family in a marriage alliance, securing benefits and balancing power.
Meanwhile, vassal families also hope the main family will bestow one of their noble ladies upon them to secure their loyalty.
