Indecent!
He's being indecent again!
Despite Liao Qing Qing thinking this way, she inched towards Emperor Jing Li's face and gently touched his lips.
"
"
Before she could move back, Emperor Jing Li took the lead.
Very quickly, the two were entwined.
They separated after kissing for a while.
Liao Qing Qing's watery eyes gazed at Emperor Jing Li.
Emperor Jing Li's eyes were filled with lust, and it took a long time for him to calm down. A smile appeared on his dashing face. Just when he was about to kiss Liao Qing Qing's fair and tender face again, Liao Qing Qing stopped him with her hands and said, "Your Majesty, this isn't right."
"What's wrong with that?" Emperor Jing Li asked seriously.
"You are still going through the memorials."
"I[1] am not doing that now."
"Tell me, are you willing to be my Empress?"
"I'm willing," Liao Qing Qing replied.
"Really?" Emperor Jing Li asked in surprise.
Liao Qing Qing thought a lot yesterday. Actually, it was not that the Emperor had disrupted the original owner's life, but that the world had changed as soon as she transmigrated. Since she could not avoid right and wrong in the imperial harem, why couldn't she become the head of the imperial harem and face these right and wrong? Hence, she was willing to stand by Emperor Jing Li's side and treat this world cordially. She nodded in agreement. "Mm."
AD
With a faint smile on Emperor Jing Li's face, he said, "That's the right thing to do."
"Is there anything this imperial concubine[2] has to do?" Once she accepted the position of the Empress, she had to act somewhat like an Empress, right?
"You don't need to do anything. Leave it all to me and just wait to become the Empress," Emperor Jing Li said.
"I don't have to learn to be in charge of the imperial harem and such?"
Emperor Jing Li looked at Liao Qing Qing and said, "Those are all small things. With the Empress Dowager and Virtuous Consort around, you can learn everything."
"That's true." Liao Qing Qing nodded her head.
As he saw Liao Qing Qing appeared to be deep in thoughts, but her appearance was not serious at all, but rather unspeakably dainty and lovely, he could not help but kiss Liao Qing Qing again.
Just then, Liao Qing Qing looked up and noticed his action. She was rendered utterly speechless by Emperor Jing was Emperor Jing Li's head filled with when we talked about such a serious topic? She stopped Emperor Jing Li again and said, "Your Majesty, you haven't had your meal yet."
"Are you hungry?"
"A little."
"Shall we eat together?"
"Mm." Liao Qing Qing nodded and tried to get up, but Emperor Jing Li did not let her go. So she turned to Emperor Jing Li and said, "Your Majesty, let me go."
AD
Finally, Emperor Jing Li only let her go after kissing Liao Qing Qing passionately.
Liao Qing Qing got up and touched her cheeks. She turned back to glare at Emperor Jing Li, with an indescribably adorable appearance.
Emperor Jing Li laughed heartily.
Liao Qing Qing was so angry that she slapped Emperor Jing Li.
This made Emperor Jing Li laugh even more.
Liao Qing Qing ignored Emperor Jing Li, turned around and asked Fu Sheng to fetch water. She brought it to Emperor Jing Li, washed their hands together and sat down to have dinner together.
The dinner was prepared very lavishly.
Liao Qing Qing had a normal portion of food, but Emperor Jing Li had a huge appetite. He ate all the food in the food box. Liao Qing Qing had no choice but to ask, "Your Majesty, are you full?"
Emperor Jing Li replied, "I'm full."
As Liao Qing Qing packed the food box, she said, "Then this imperial concubine will take her leave."
Emperor Jing Li said, "Rest here tonight."
"?"
AD
"Why? You aren't willing?" Emperor Jing Li asked with a raised eyebrow.
Liao Qing Qing answered truthfully, "This imperial concubine hasn't brought any change of clothes yet."
"Tell He Xiang to go back and fetch them." Emperor Jing Li said towards the door, "He Xiang, your mistress is resting in Zhengqian Palace today. Go and fetch your mistress's clothes."
At the door, He Xiang answered happily, "yes," and disappeared in a flash.
Emperor Jing Li looked at Liao Qing Qing. "Is that alright?"
Liao Qing Qing nodded her head.
This was the first time Liao Qing Qing visited and slept in Zhengqian Palace. Every item in Zhengqian Palace was imposing and dignified. It was indeed incomparable to Lisheng Pavilion especially—-the bed.
Big, wide and comfortable. It was not at all comparable to the Babu bed[3] in Lisheng Pavilion. In the end, Emperor Jing Li ran to Lisheng Pavilion to squeeze in with her. At this moment, she was sitting on Emperor Jing Li's big bed, looking from side to side.
Emperor Jing Li asked, "Do you like it here?"
Liao Qing Qing nodded.
"Then you will live here from now on."
"?" Liao Qing Qing said, "Your Majesty, this is your palace."
AD
"It's also yours."
"Hasn't Zhengqian Palace always been the palace of Your Majesty alone? The rules state that imperial concubines live in their respective palace courtyards."
"Rules are also set by people. Moreover, I am the Emperor. I can change them whenever I want to."
"…." Liao Qing Qing once again sighed with emotion. Luckily, Emperor Jing Li is not an incapable ruler. Otherwise, he could really destroy the heavens and the earth with his capricious streak and boundaryless thought patterns! The common people would have suffered!
Emperor Jing Li added, "If you don't like it, I will give you Zhengqian Palace or build you another palace."
"No need. No need." Liao Qing Qing hastily refused, "Your Majesty, there is no need to waste silver. It is fine for this imperial concubine to live in Lisheng Pavilion."
"Lisheng Pavilion is too small."
"It's not small. It has two courtyards. And this imperial concubine likes Lisheng Pavilion."
"Then let's expand Lisheng Pavilion. If not, the baby will have no place to live when we have a baby in the future."
"….." He's mentioning children again.
"Is it okay?"
"Okay." You are the Emperor. You're the most powerful.
AD
"Then that's settled. Let's sleep." Emperor Jing Li turned around and wrapped his arms around Liao Qing Qing again.
"? Your Majesty, don't you want to sleep?"
"I will kiss and touch you before going to sleep."
"…. Your Majesty, was the wet patch on this imperial concubine's bed sheet that day because you—"
"It was you."
"It wasn't this imperial concubine."
"It was you who got it out for me."
"….."
"Beloved Concubine, let's do it again."
"Your Majesty, it's easy to harm your body when you do it like this. Why don't we wait for another ten days or so, and then…."
"We'll talk about it when the time comes."
"…. Your Majesty…."
AD
"Qing Qing, come on, come on."
"…."
He is too lewd.
Emperor Jing Li is too lewd.
When Liao Qing closed her eyes tiredly, she had this thought in her mind. She really didn't want to sleep with Emperor Jing Li lately. It was too tortuous, and she wanted to stay away from him. She felt something warm and wet on her cheeks and forehead. It was Emperor Jing Li kissing her and holding her into his arms. She suddenly felt blissful in her heart again.
Soon, she fell into a sweet dream.
[1] 朕(zhèn)- I (imperial) or we (imperial use).
[2] 嫔妾(pín qiè)- This imperial concubine. It is a self-appellation that can only be used by Lady of Talents (才人), Noble Lady (贵人), etc to the Emperor and Empress Dowager.
[3] 拔步床( bá bù chuáng)- Babu Bed is the largest bed in traditional Chinese furniture. Credits: Chinese Times School
The next day, the news of Liao Qing Qing sleeping in Zhengqian Palace spread through the imperial harem.
What kind of palace is Zhengqian Palace?
AD
It is the palace where Emperor Jing Li resides.
Ever since Emperor Jing Li ascended to the throne, no imperial concubine had ever spent the night in Zhengqian Palace.
Liao Qing Qing is the first person!
Although the entire harem knew that Liao Qing Qing was Emperor Jing Li's favourite, this "favourite" didn't fade with time. Instead, he became increasingly fond of her.
Some of the imperial concubines lamented Liao Qing Qing's good fortune. Some were jealous, some were sad, and some were unrelenting.
Those would be Noble Consort Liang and Worthy Consort.
The two previously framed Liao Qing Qing's father, Liao Shi Wen. Under Emperor Jing Li's hammering, they contacted their respective families and tried their best to clear Liao Shi Wen's name. The two families secretly kowtowed until their heads were injured and gave up some power and financial resources in their hands, hoping that Emperor Jing Li would forgive Noble Consort Liang and Worthy Consort for being insensible.
It was true that Emperor Jing Li did not touch Noble Consort Liang and Worthy Consort. However, he did not pay any attention to them either.
They had no power now and only had the title of imperial concubines.
Presently, they became increasingly angrier when they heard that Liao Qing Qing was becoming more and more favoured by Emperor Jing Li. Moreover, the potatoes that Liao Qing Qing had planted became popular among the imperial officials, and the Emperor took the opportunity to propose the establishment of Liao Qing Qing as the Empress.
Establishing Liao Qing Qing as the Empress?
Noble Consort Liang and Worthy Consort were horrified when they received the news.
AD
Noble Consort Liang even smashed a jade vase.
Her hatred for Liao Qing Qing reached an all-time high.
And at this moment, Liao Qing Qing also heard about the "establishment of the Empress".
Establishing an Empress was different from being promoted. The latter required the Emperor to do it himself, while the former had to be approved by most of the imperial officials.
After all, the Empress was the mother of the country.
Hence, it was not unusual for Liao Qing Qing to hear about the imperial subjects arguing about the establishment of the Empress.
When she looked at Emperor Jing Li, she found that Emperor Jing Li was also relaxed and told Liao Qing Qing how the imperial subjects were arguing in the imperial court. When he narrated the climax of the imperial subject's dispute, he even laughed out loud.
"…." Liao Qing Qing said, "Your Majesty, aren't you angry?"
Emperor Jing Li replied, "Why should I be angry? It is good to have some conflicts between the imperial subjects. It will be problematic if they are so harmonious."
Liao Qing Qing didn't know anything about politics, but she thought that the sight of each of them expressing their own opinions was good.
"So, Qing Qing, don't be in a hurry." Emperor Jing Li said, "Anyway, no matter how much they argue, they will all listen to me in the end."
Liao Qing Qing, "….."
AD
"I will ask the Directorate of Astronomy to choose a good day to perform the ceremony of the crowning of the Empress. But I still felt a little regretful…."
"Of what?"
"The preparations for the ceremony of crowning the Empress will take at least three months, but it needs to be completed within ten days."
"Why does it have to be done in ten days?"
"Because there are nine more days before we can consummate the marriage."
"(Cough)!" Liao Qing Qing, who was drinking water, choked for a moment. So Emperor Jing Li was counting down the days to the ninth day from thirty-one days already?
"Why did you choke?" Emperor Jing Li hastily took the teacup from Liao Qing Qing's hand and put it on the table. His big hands gently stroked Liao Qing Qing's back and said, "Why are you drinking so anxiously?"
"?" She's drinking so anxiously? She's drinking so anxiously? She is clearly choking because of his words!
Emperor Jing Li tilted his head and asked, "Are you feeling better?"
Liao Qing Qing turned to look at Emperor Jing Li. Her eyes were watery, and she looked a little aggrieved because she had choked on water. Her lips were moist and full. Emperor Jing Li's breath instantly hitched and asked, "Qing Qing, are you feeling better?"
"Better," Liao Qing Qing responded.
"I am not well." Emperor Jing Li's voice was slightly hoarse.
"
"
"What's wrong with you, Your Majesty?"
As soon as Liao Qing Qing finished her sentence, Emperor Jing Li pinned Liao Qing Qing against the soft couch… Liao Qing Qing sat with her clothes dishevelled on the soft couch and snarled, "Your Majesty, this imperial concubine still has to meet the Empress Dowager!"
"I will accompany you," Emperor Jing Li said.
"…." After she realised he was neurotic, temperamental, childish and dramatic, Liao Qing Qing had discovered another flaw of Emperor Jing Li—clinginess.
It was clingy in the literal sense.
Since her return from Liao manor, whenever she and Emperor Jing Li were together, she either sat on Emperor Jing Li's lap or slept on his body. The least was holding hands. In short, their bodies had to touch one another.
At this moment, they were heading to Shouxi Palace together.
Now that it was summer, it was not yet time to use ice. Hence, everyone wore thin garments, which was the same for Liao Qing Qing. She had deliberately spent silver to make a set for the Empress Dowager, which she was presenting to her currently.
Empress Dowager ordered Chang Momo to receive it with her usual expressionless face and said coldly, "Lady Xi of Bright Countenance is thoughtful."
Liao Qing Qing knew that Empress Dowager was a cold-faced, warm-hearted person who basically did not say anything nice but did particularly heart-warming things. With a smile, she said, "It's this imperial concubine's blessing to be able to pay filial respect to the Empress Dowager."
Empress Dowager did not have much reaction and said, "This grieving one[1] called you here today is not a big matter. It's just that summer is here. There are a lot of mosquitoes and insects. You're shuttling between crops all day, and you'll inevitably come across them. This grieving one happened to bring back a lot of incense from the private courtyard. You can take it back and light it to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes."
Just like she said, Empress Dowager was particularly warm-hearted. Liao Qing Qing unceremoniously said with a smile, "Thank you, Empress Dowager. This imperial concubine will light it properly."
AD
As Empress Dowager nodded her head, she saw the red spots on Liao Qing Qing's neck.
Chang Momo, who was holding the incense, also saw it and exclaimed, "Lady Xi of Bright Countenance, you've been bitten by mosquitoes, right?"
"Where?" Liao Qing Qing asked.
"There's a red patch on your neck."
"Does it itch? This old servant will take some ointment so that you can apply it." After these days of getting along, Chang Momo especially liked Liao Qing Qing. Liao Qing Qing was sincere and respectful to Chang Momo. Chang Momo was simply like an old mother caring for Liao Qing Qing on a daily basis. Upon seeing that Liao Qing Qing was bitten by mosquitoes, she immediately frowned and said, "I don't know if this mosquito is powerful. It caused a big patch."
Liao Qing Qing immediately touched her neck and didn't feel anything different. However, looking at Chang Momo's eyes, it seemed to be very serious, so she said, "Then I will trouble you, Chang Momo."
Chang Momo immediately put down the incense and went to get the medicine.
Empress Dowager tried to stop Chang Momo, but she couldn't intervene.
"Ahem." At this time, Emperor Jing Li coughed and said, "Chang Momo doesn't need to go get it."
"Why?" Chang Momo turned back and said, "It's red. At first glance, it is a big mosquito bite. Your Majesty, you don't know some mosquitoes are particularly powerful. One bite can cause a large patch. This old servant here has—"
Emperor Jing Li interrupted Chang Momo. "It's not a big mosquito. It's me."
"?" Chang Momo could not react.
AD
Emperor Jing Li repeated, "The red patch on Lady Xi of Bright Countenance's neck is not bitten by a mosquito. I bit it."
The Empress Dowager lowered her head and said nothing.
Chang Momo's expression hardened.
Liao Qing Qing's face turned red in a flash.
This time, not only her neck was red, but her entire body was also red.
The author has something to say: —
Liao Qing Qing: I've lost all of my dignity!
Liao Qing Qing: Let me die!
Emperor Jing Li: ….
[1] 哀家(āijiā)- This grieving one/ I (self-referring by a widowed empress etc, used in historical novels and operas)
Emperor Jing Li has gone too far!
He has gone too far!
How can I show my face to anyone?!
AD
Even though Liao Qing Qing had come from the twenty-first century and was open-minded, she couldn't get used to Emperor Jing Li's shamelessness.
Empress Dowager is listening!
Chang Momo heard it too!
And many other palace maids and eunuchs…. Heard it….
Liao Qing Qing wished she could find a hole in the ground to hide.
"Ahem!" Seeing Liao Qing Qing's embarrassment, Empress Dowager coughed at this moment and said to Emperor Jing Li, "Emperor, you are recovering. Don't do anything rash."
"Yes," Emperor Jing Li complied.
"Mm." The Empress Dowager nodded and said, "Chang Momo, divide the incense into two portions. Give one to the Emperor and the other to Lady Xi of Bright Countenance."
"Yes." Only then did Chang Momo return to her senses.
When Liao Qing Qing received the incense, she was too embarrassed to raise her head.
While Emperor Jing Li acted naturally.
Empress Dowager said, "There is nothing else here. So you should also go back to attend to what you need to do."
AD
"Yes."
Liao Qing Qing and Emperor Jing Li bowed together and turned to leave.
Only then did Chang Momo ask, "Empress Dowager, are the red spots on Lady Xi of Bright Countenance's neck really bitten by His Majesty?"
The Empress Dowager nodded.
"Has His Majesty recovered?" When Emperor Jing Li was poisoned, only these few people close to him knew about it.
"Mm. Imperial Physician Fan said that His Majesty had recovered last year."
"That's wonderful." Chang Momo said happily, "His Majesty loves Lady Xi of Bright Countenance so much. Maybe next year, Empress Dowager will be able to have a grandchild."
"This grieving one[1] thinks so too."
Chang Momo couldn't help but smile as she watched Liao Qing Qing's and Emperor Jing Li's back.
Their hearts were filled with anticipation.
Liao Qing Qing and Emperor Jing Li were unaware of the anticipation of Empress Dowager and Chang Momo.
They left Shouxi Palace together.
AD
Emperor Jing Li ordered Fu Sheng to get the memorials. He turned to Liao Qing Qing and said, "Qing Qing, I[2] will go back to Lisheng Pavilion with you."
Liao Qing Qing reluctantly agreed, "Yes."
Emperor Jing Li did not notice Liao Qing Qing's strange behaviour.
When they returned to Lisheng Pavilion, Emperor Jing Li casually sat down on the soft couch after entering the bedroom. He said, "Qing Qing, pour me a cup of tea."
Liao Qing Qing went forward and poured water for Emperor Jing Li without saying a word.
Emperor Jing Li looked at Liao Qing Qing in bewilderment.
Usually, Liao Qing Qing would somewhat smile naively and comfortably when meeting people. Why does she have a taut face now?
He called out, "Qing Qing?"
"Mm," Liao Qing Qing answered sullenly.
"What's wrong with you?" Emperor Jing Li asked.
Liao Qing Qing replied sulkily, "This imperial concubine is angry."
Emperor Jing Li asked in confusion, "What are you angry about?"
"
"
"Your Majesty, why did you say that you bit me?"
"I had originally bitten you." Emperor Jing Li looked at the red marks on Liao Qing Qing's neck and asked guiltily, "Did Icause you pain from biting you?"
"No!"
"Then why are you angry?"
"Empress Dowager, Chang Momo and the others all know about it!"
"Know what?"
"They know that we… slept together."
"Don't we sleep together every day?"
"No, this imperial concubine is referring to the fact that private matters should not be brought out. It's so humiliating to talk about it!" Liao Qing Qing was tempted to lose her temper, scolding Emperor Jing Li for being so frivolous and such.
But she didn't dare.
She was cowardly.
She could only grumble.
AD
"Disgraceful?" Emperor Jing Li repeated that word. Then, he extended his arms and held Liao Qing Qing's hand, pulling the standing Liao Qing Qing towards the middle of his legs. He rubbed Liao Qing Qing's slender fingers and said, "Then I won't say it in front of everyone in the future."
Liao Qing Qing raised her eyes in surprise.
Emperor Jing Li compromised so easily?
Emperor Jing Li asked softly, "Is it alright?"
Liao Qing Qing nodded. "Yes."
"Then, you aren't angry anymore?" Emperor Jing Li's voice was filled with gentleness.
"Mm." Liao Qing Qing nodded her head once more.
Emperor Jing Li looked at Liao Qing Qing with a smile.
Liao Qing Qing asked, "Your Majesty, why are you smiling?"
"I'm smiling because you are adorable."
"…."
"You are adorable when you are angry."
AD
"….."
"If you are angry in the future, just tell me, okay?"
"…."
"Got it?" Emperor Jing Li reached out and pinched Liao Qing Qing's nose.
Only then did Liao Qing Qing say, "Got it."
"Okay. Fu Sheng is here. I'm going to go through the memorials. Are you going to accompany me?"
"This imperial concubine has to take a look at the garden."
"Alright. I'm going to go through the memorials."
"Mm."
As she watched Emperor Jing Li leave, Liao Qing Qing suddenly felt warm and happy in her heart. Suddenly, she didn't care about Emperor Jing Li's words "I bit it" in front of Empress Dowager and the others.
Emperor Jing Li also said that he would not say it again.
So she forgave him.
AD
With a trace of joy, Liao Qing Qing got up and went to look at the vegetables in the courtyard. Presently, it was summer, a time when fruits and vegetables were in abundance. Some of the cucumbers, beans and aubergines she had tried to grow had actually grown.
However, the most important thing was the potatoes she had personally experimented with.
They were even bigger than the ones grown in the Department of Agricultural Products.
She purposely went to the Department of Agricultural Products and talked to the Bureau Chief of the Department of Agricultural Products about her growing techniques.
The Bureau Chief of the Department of Agricultural Products did not doubt Liao Qing Qing's professionalism in the slightest.
He picked up a brush and started taking notes.
Recently Emperor Jing Li had been so busy that Liao Qing Qing had not yet had the chance to ask about growing potatoes. Hence, she inquired with the Bureau Chief of the Department of Agricultural Products.
"The experimental area has already been selected," The Bureau Chief of the Department of Agricultural Product said.
Liao Qing Qing questioned, "Is it in Zhu prefecture?"
"Yes. His Majesty has given this matter to the Minister of Revenue and this humble subject.[3] After discussing it, we decided to keep in line with Lady Xi of Bright Countenance's idea of selecting a thousand households in Zhu prefecture and giving each of them an amount of one mu of potato tuber to plant and teach them how to grow them."
"Are they willing?" Liao Qing Qing asked.
"Of course, they were reluctant and didn't quite believe that this potato could grow into anything. Therefore, this humble subject had discussed with the Minister and told them that if the potatoes failed to grow and survive, they would be compensated with two hundred catties of grain the following year."
AD
"And they agreed?"
"That's right. Currently, the Department of Agricultural Products is busy with the sprouting of potatoes. The thousand mu[4] of experimental fields in Zhu prefecture can be emptied at the end of this month. The ploughing and night fertilisation will be carried out at the beginning of next month, and the potatoes will be ready to be grown by the middle of next month so that they can be raked out at the beginning of next year."
Liao Qing Qing nodded. "Good planning."
"Thank you, Lady Xi of Bright Countenance, for the compliment." The Bureau Chief of the Department of Agricultural Products bowed with his hands forward.
Liao Qing Qing replied with a smile, "You don't have to be so polite."
The Bureau Chief of the Department of Agricultural Products thought to himself, 'Can he not be polite?'
Although Lady Xi of Bright Countenance is merely a Lady of Bright Countenance and is incomparable to Virtuous Consort or Noble Consort Liang at this moment, she is the concubine that Emperor Jing Li held in the highest regard.
She is also the candidate for the future mother of the nation.
Not to mention the fact that she has the skills to do so.
She is the person who discovered the potatoes by herself and who will go down in history in the future. He admires such a woman from the bottom of his heart, so he naturally behaves respectfully and politely. With this in mind, he silently bowed to Liao Qing Qing again.
Liao Qing Qing said, "Alright. There's nothing else, so I'll return."
"Respectfully seeing off Lady Xi of Bright Countenance."
AD
[1] 哀家(āijiā)- This grieving one/ I (self-referring by a widowed empress etc, used in historical novels and operas)
[2] 朕(zhèn)- I (imperial) or we (imperial use).
[3] 微臣(wēichén)-This humble subject/this small official. It's a self-humbling term used by government officials and officials in feudal courts.
[4] 亩(mǔ)- Classifier for fields. Unit of area equal to one fifteenth of a hectare
When Liao Qing Qing came out of the Department of Agricultural Products and walked towards Lisheng Pavilion, she bumped into Noble Consort Liang and Worthy Consort, whom she had not seen for a long time.
The two had little power now, and their families were still under Emperor Jing Li's control.
They did not dare to overstep their boundaries even though they hated Liao Qing Qing to the core. However, they could not do anything. After receiving Liao Qing Qing's salutations, they turned around and left.
AD
Worthy Consort asked unhappily, "Elder Cousin, are we just going to let that bitch step on our heads?"
"What can we do then?" Noble Consort Liang asked in response.
Worthy Consort said, "We are now miserable, and our families are having a hard time. When Liao Qing Qing becomes Empress in the future, we will only be worse off."
Upon hearing that, Noble Consort Liang's body stiffened.
Worthy Consort said, "Since that's the case, we might as well…"
"We can't act rashly," Noble Consort Liang hastily said.
"If we don't do anything, she'll be the Empress."
"It won't be that soon." Noble Consort Liang said, "Although His Majesty has started preparing various matters for the establishment of the Empress, Liao Qing Qing has no background and no merit. His Majesty will definitely follow the public opinion to establish Liao Qing Qing as the Empress only next year when the potatoes are harvested, and Liao Qing Qing's fame increases."
"Then we have to act before the Empress is established…."
"Let's discuss after we return." Noble Consort Liang immediately stopped her.
Worthy Consort Liang instantly kept her mouth shut.
The two of them walked towards Linhua Palace. At this time, Liao Qing Qing had already returned to Lisheng Pavilion. She asked He Xiang to send the vegetables and fruits from the courtyard to the imperial kitchen to be served as cold dishes for lunch.
AD
When lunch was served, Emperor Jing Li complimented her.
He also rewarded Liao Qing Qing with silver.
Liao Qing Qing liked silver the most and accepted all of them.
In the next few days, several meals were added with the silver. However, Liao Qing Qing did not send the silver to the imperial kitchen today since the imperial kitchen deliberately added a lot of dishes for dinner.
"Why are there so many dishes?" Liao Qing Qing asked.
He Xiang responded, "His Majesty bestowed them."
"Has His Majesty made a fortune today?"
"…." He Xiang remained speechless for a moment before she said, "It should be because His Majesty is in a good mood."
"Why is he in a good mood?"
"This maidservant doesn't know."
Not long after, Emperor Jing Li arrived.
Liao Qing Qing similarly inquired about the plentiful dinner.
AD
Emperor Jing Li said, "Because today is a good day."
"Why is it a good day?"
"Has Beloved Concubine forgotten?" Emperor Jing Li asked.
Liao Qing Qing recalled for a moment. It didn't seem to be any special day. So she asked, "Your Majesty, this imperial concubine is stupid. I don't know what good day it is."
Emperor Jing Li did not get angry. He still continued to smile and had an ambiguous smile.
Liao Qing Qing felt a little creeped out inwardly.
Emperor Jing Li said, "Today is the day where Beloved Concubine and I can copulate."
?
!
Liao Qing Qing looked at Emperor Jing Li in astonishment.
Emperor Jing Li laughed and said, "Looking forward to it, right?"
"?"
AD
"I am also very much looking forward to it. So hurry up and have your meal and go to bed."
"?" Your Majesty, where do you see that I am looking forward to it?
Emperor Jing Li personally gave Liao Qing Qing a vegetable with his chopsticks.
The corners of Liao Qing Qing's mouth twitched.
Emperor Jing Li kept urging Liao Qing Qing to eat quickly. At the end of the meal, he said with chagrin, "I have miscalculated. I shouldn't have prepared such an abundant meal today. A simple meal would have sufficed."
Liao Qing Qing, "…."
The food was eaten quickly and slowly, but she was full in the end.
Emperor Jing Li dragged Liao Qing Qing around the courtyard and said, "Come on. Let's go and bathe."
"We're bathing now?" Liao Qing Qing asked.
"Yes, bathe early and go to bed early."
"…."
"Let's go. Beloved Concubine can bathe first."
AD
"It's better for Your Majesty to go first."
"Alright." Emperor Jing Li was unceremonious to Liao Qing Qing.
Very quickly, he entered the bathroom and then swiftly came out again. He urged Liao Qing Qing to go to the bathroom. After Liao Qing Qing entered the bathroom, he asked by the door, "Are you done yet?"
Liao Qing Qing's entire body felt uncomfortable.
Liao Qing Qing came out after she finally finished bathing.
Emperor Jing Li sent all the palace maids out and specifically ordered that no one disturb them.
Only then did the bedroom fall silent.
Emperor Jing Li hurriedly pulled Liao Qing Qing to sit on the bed. Without giving her time to react, he pinned Liao Qing Qing down. Recently, they have been tossing and turning quite a bit.
So undressing and whatnot was something Emperor Jing Li was familiar with.
But he was more excited than ever.
"Your… Your Ma-Majesty." Liao Qing Qing felt that Emperor Jing Li was too excited, like a big wild wolf that had been starving for centuries.
"I am here."
AD
"Your Majesty, be gentler."
"I am being very gentle."
"Your–Your Majesty."
"…."
The bed was already making a slight noise before the two had even gotten to the main topic.
"Your Majesty."
"What's wrong?"
"It's not right."
"What's not right?"
"It's wrong."
"How is it wrong? Where exactly is it?"
"Ah. Your Majesty, be gentler."
AD
"It's here, right?"
"Mm."
The two were sweating all over and panting.
After much difficulty, they finally entered the main topic, and both were extremely worked up.
Emperor Jing Li was excited that he was finally a real man!
Liao Qing Qing was worked up because she wondered whether it would hurt?
The two of them were holding their breath for the first time in their lives. Just then, they heard a very soft and continuous squirt sound and both of them froze simultaneously.
Liao Qing Qing looked towards Emperor Jing Li.
Emperor Jing Li looked at Liao Qing Qing.
Their eyes slowly moved to one spot. A stunned expression appeared on their faces at the same time.
Just… Just… Just… within seconds?
The author has something to say: —
AD
Emperor Jing Li: Let me die!
Liao Qing Qing: I wanted to die in the last chapter, while you want to die in this chapter. We're even.
Emperor Jing Li: ….
Although Liao Qing Qing had no experience in this area, she and her roommates constantly talked about the problems between men and women when they were in university. All of them said that men basically did it in seconds when it came to their first time.
She didn't expect that Emperor Jing Li would also do it in seconds.
Is it really the first time for Emperor Jing Li?
Didn't they say that the ancient people will have already done it at thirteen or fourteen years old…
She slowly raised her head and looked at Emperor Jing Li in shock. She didn't expect that the king of a country would really be a first-timer!
AD
Emperor Jing Li was still staring at that spot.
What's going on?
This was not like what he had imagined!
His brain rumbled.
His powerful self-confidence was struck for the first time, causing a tremendous shock to him. The shock caused him to be unable to react momentarily. Why did he do it so quickly… He slightly raised his eyes and met Liao Qing Qing's surprised gaze. His heart fell.
A man is supposed to be thick, big, hard, strong, and lasts long.
Bu–but he did it so quickly.
Liao Qing Qing would disdain him, right?
In a flash, all sorts of self-doubting words popped up in his mind, and the word "impotent" took precedence over reason.
Anxiousness surged through him, who was usually calm. He stared straight at Liao Qing Qing.
Liao Qing Qing carefully called out to him, "Your Majesty."
Emperor Jing Li could form a single word, "I[1]… I…."
"
"
Liao Qing Qing hurriedly defended Emperor Jing Li's shattered pride and said, "Your Majesty, this imperial concubine[2] understands."
"?"
Liao Qing Qing continued, "It's Your Majesty's first time."
"First time?"
"Mm. It will be the case for the first time for all men."
"How do you know that?"
"…." This is an excellent question. Liao Qing Qing deliberated for a moment before saying cautiously, "Before this imperial concubine entered the palace, this imperial concubine's mother had asked a Momo[3] to teach me."
"How come no one taught me?" Emperor Jing Li asked.
Liao Qing Qing asked in response, "No one taught Your Majesty?"
"No one."
"How come there isn't? Didn't people say that one would be taught at the age of thirteen or fourteen?"
"I ascended the throne when I was thirteen years old."
AD
"…. What about when you were fourteen years old?"
"I started to plan to seize power at fourteen years old."
"What about fifteen years old?"
"At fifteen years old, I was in the process of seizing great power."
"…. Then your imperial harem…."
"I didn't care about the imperial harem."
"Wouldn't the Empress Dowager send someone to teach you?"
"She did."
"And what happened?"
"Then I was very busy, so I told them to leave the books, and I will read them myself."
"What kind of books?"
"The Pictures of Spring."[4]
AD
"And then?" Shouldn't you have tested it after looking at the Pictures of Spring?
"I was poisoned."
"…." Alright. An Emperor whose heart is in the world and whose life is in danger all the time is not likely to be in the mood for XXOO. It is normal to know that there is a bit of scarcity in this area.
"Qing Qing," Emperor Jing Li suddenly called out.
Only then did Liao Qing Qing dare to lift her eyes. At this moment, she was pinned under Emperor Jing Li's body.
"Your Majesty, what are you doing?"
"Let me try again."
"?" He just received a blow of doing it in seconds and had an "it's not worth it to live on earth" look, as if he is going to kill himself in the next second. How come he suddenly got aroused again?
"I will not be defeated so easily!"
The word "impotent" was thrown down from the heights of sanity and crushed by Emperor Jing Li.
Who is he?
He's the number one man in the Great Wei Dynasty!
AD
How could he fall into self-doubt merely because of a single defeat?
All of the negative emotions were momentary to Emperor Jing Li, and he would eventually overcome them all.
He was such a confident man.
Liao Qing Qing, however, said sceptically, "But you…."
"Don't doubt me. I can do it!"
"…."
I can sense that.
Liao Qing Qing sensed danger from that direction.
She suddenly wanted to escape.
But Emperor Jing Li had forcefully swept her into the huge waves, sinking and floating in the waves, receiving all kinds of beatings. For a moment, she couldn't tell if it was a dream or reality only until she felt a pain like she was being split open.
All the beauty disappeared.
She struggled desperately against the huge waves for several moments and then sank under the soothing, gentle words of Emperor Jing Li. She felt it wave after wave. She was disoriented and did not have any sensation or strength. It was as if her soul had been drained away.
AD
She slumped helplessly.
There was a warm sensation on her hands and face. She heard Emperor Jing Li call her name tenderly. He seemed to say, "I told you I can do it."
After a while, she heard He Xiang's voice, and then she entered a warm embrace.
But she was too tired.
Gradually, she lost consciousness.
[1] 朕(zhèn)- I (imperial) or we (imperial use).
[2] 嫔妾(pín qiè)- This imperial concubine. It is a self-appellation that can only be used by Lady of Talents (才人), Noble Lady (贵人), etc to the Emperor and Empress Dowager.
[3] 嬷嬷(mómo)- In ancient times, Momo is a title, which refers to palace maids that are of a certain age and position. It usually refers to elderly palace maids of seniority.
[4] 春宫图(chūngōng tú)- The Pictures of Spring refers to book filled with erotic pictures or pornographic drawings. The word "spring" is a common euphemism for sex.
It was unknown how long Liao Qing Qing had slept.
When she woke up, she felt sore all over, especially her lower body. It took her a while to recall what had happened last night. Emperor Jing Li did it in seconds, and then he felt embarrassed. After that, Emperor Jing Li stood up. Lastly… She sat up abruptly.
"Ah." She cried out in pain.
Upon hearing the sound, He Xiang got up and walked in quickly, "Mistress, you're awake."
"Mm." Liao Qing Qing answered. She looked down at the blanket and subconsciously looked at her inner garment.[1]It was as if everything was different from last night. She turned her head to look at He Xiang. With a slightly warm face, she asked, "Did you change my clothes?"
AD
"Responding to Mistress, it was Your Majesty who changed Mistress's clothes. This maidservant only changed the bedsheets." When she said this, He Xiang blushed a little. She did not expect the sheets and blanket that His Majesty and Mistress slept on to be wrinkled in such a manner, nor did she expect the sheets and blanket to…
Liao Qing Qing was embarrassed for a moment. She asked, "His Majesty wouldn't have given me a bath, right?"
"He didn't."
Liao Qing Qing let out a sigh of relief.
He Xiang said, "His Majesty wiped Mistress's body."
"…." Liao Qing Qing's face was also a little warm. She asked, "Where is His Majesty?"
He Xiang replied, "His Majesty accompanied Mistress just now. But a junior eunuch came to inform that there was something to report from the Ministry of Appointments, so His Majesty went to the Imperial Study to deliberate and he will return in the evening."
"What time is it now?"
"It's past Wushi (11 am to 1 pm)."
What?
It is past Wushi (11 am to 1 pm)?
Did she sleep through the entire afternoon?
AD
She had actually slept for so long!
"Mistress, don't be alarmed. His Majesty said that you don't need to go to Shouxi Palace or the Department of Agricultural Products today. You can just rest in Lisheng Pavilion. Both the Empress Dowager and the Department of Agricultural Products know that you are not feeling well."
Good, good… Thoughtful Emperor Jing Li.
He Xiang asked, "Mistress, you're hungry, right?"
Liao Qing Qing was far more than hungry; she was practically starving.
He Xiang said, "This maidservant will have someone bring you a meal."
"Alright." Liao Qing Qing nodded her head.
Under the service of He Xiang, Liao Qing Qing put on her clothes. There was still a slight soreness between her legs, but Emperor Jing Li probably applied some ointment, so it didn't hurt as much as she thought.
However, just when she thought of Emperor Jing Li bathing, dressing, and applying ointment… She had never been so intimate to a man in her two lives.
Then thinking back to Emperor Jing Li's pectoral muscles, abs, sense of power…
Inexplicably, her heart raced.
"Mistress," He Xiang called.
AD
"Hm?"
"I'll eat."
Liao Qing Qing retracted from her thoughts, picked up her chopsticks, and began to eat.
She was famished and had eaten quite a lot of chicken, fish, and pastries.
After eating, she was still tired and sleepy.
After a while, she lay on the bed again and slept for a shichen (two hours). After she got up again, she felt as if she was alive and her body wasn't sore anymore.
She thought about how she couldn't give up learning from Empress Dowager and Virtuous Consort about managing the harem halfway.
It seemed inappropriate to go to Virtuous Consort's palace today.
Hence, she went to Shouxi Palace.
Who knew that Empress Dowager would say, "You were so tired from attending last night. Don't come over today. If not, your body can't take it."
Liao Qing Qing's face immediately flushed.
This kind of thing was probably something that Emperor Jing Li had told the Empress Dowager, and even if he hadn't said it explicitly, Emperor Jing Li had hinted it to the Empress Dowager.
AD
This Emperor Jing Li is too lewd.
He is too unrestrained!
Empress Dowager added, "We will not study today. Have some tea with this grieving one."[2]
Liao Qing Qing had no choice but to accompany Empress Dowager to drink tea for a while.
She only left Shouxi Palace during the evening.
Once she arrived at Lisheng Pavilion, she saw Emperor Jing Li sitting in the hall drinking tea and looking at her.
The moment their eyes met. Liao Qing Qing suddenly thought of the passionate night yesterday, causing her heart to thump. She also realised that Emperor Jing Li also seemed a little shy. Emperor Jing Li thought of his first time, which was simply a stain on his life, and then thought of the second and third time… Of how he was so brave, forcing his first time to flush out of his head. He recalled last night's scene. Deep down, he felt so warm and excited but unknowingly bashful.
The two of them lowered their heads together.
When He Xiang naturally paid her respects, Liao Qing Qing followed suit.
Emperor Jing Li quickly went forward, took Liao Qing Qing's hand and said, "I've told you before that there's no need to be so formal in private."
This is not in private either. There are several palace maids and eunuchs around.
Liao Qing Qing still did every step appropriate to the occasion.
AD
Emperor Jing Li also didn't say a word.
This time, the two of them held hands, which in turn eased the shyness between them, and then Emperor Jing Li began to advance. He took Liao Qing Qing's hand and did not let go. He Xiang and the others naturally retired. He secretly asked, "Does it hurt?"
Liao Qing Qing did not understand what he meant by this random question. Her eyes contained confusion. "What hurts?"
"There."
"Where?"
"Just your particular area."
"My which… "Liao Qing Qing suddenly understood before she finished her sentence. Her face immediately started to heat up. She wanted to whack Emperor Jing Li to death. She was really blind to think that Emperor Jing Li was a cold person back then. As they got along more, she realised that this eldest master was a taciturn man.
No, he is an openly lewd man.
He could say anything in front of her.
"Does it still hurt?" Emperor Jing Li asked again.
Liao Qing Qing really wanted to hit someone. She said through gritted teeth, "It doesn't hurt anymore."
"Did it hurt last night?" Emperor Jing Li asked.
AD
"?"
"I was clearly very, very gentle, but you still cried out in pain."
Liao Qing Qing couldn't listen any longer and shouted in slight anger, "Your Majesty!"
"What's wrong?" Emperor Jing Li saked.
"Don't say anymore!"
"Why?"
"It's the kind of matter that you don't talk about in broad daylight."
"So I can say it at night?"
"Your Majesty." Liao Qing Qing was rendered speechless.
Emperor Jing Li began to laugh. He extended his arms and wrapped them around Liao Qing Qing. He kissed her on the forehead and said, 'What's there to be shy of?"
Liao Qing Qing, "…."
"You must be hungry. Let's have our meal first."
AD
Emperor Jing Li pulled Liao Qing Qing to have their meal. He took great care of Liao Qing Qing, gave Liao Qing Qing dishes and served her soup. He Xiang and the others on the side had shocked expressions on their faces. However, on second thought, His Majesty had always favoured their mistress so much. They were all happy for Liao Qing Qing in their hearts.
On the contrary, Liao Qing Qing was extremely not used to this.
She always felt that Emperor Jing Li was up to no good.
After having their dinner under Emperor Jing Li's enthusiastic care and resting for a while, she took a bath and was about to sit on the soft couch to read a book when Emperor Jing Li suddenly approached her.
"Qing Qing, you said just now that it doesn't hurt anymore, right?" Emperor Jing Li asked.
"?"
"Then let's continue tonight."
"?"
"I didn't even enjoy myself to my heart's content last night."
"?"
The author has something to say: —
Liao Qing Qing: Le-Lewd. This imperial concubine just can't win.
AD
Emperor Jing Li: ?
[1] 中衣(zhōng yī)- Inner garments, mostly white cotton or silk. Also called zhongdan(中单).
[2] 哀家(āijiā)- This grieving one/ I (self-referring by a widowed empress etc, used in historical novels and operas)
"Qing Qing, let's do it!" Emperor Jing Li said with a serious expression.
"?" Liao Qing Qing's face was filled with confusion.
AD
Seeing that Liao Qing Qing did not object, Emperor Jing Li pounced on Liao Qing Qing.
Only then did Liao Qing Qing shout hastily, "Your Majesty."
"I'm[1] here," Emperor Jing Li said softly.
"This is inappropriate." Liao Qing Qing pushed Emperor Jing Li.
Emperor Jing Li asked in a hoarse voice as he kissed her, "How is it inappropriate?"
"We're on the couch."
"It is fine to be on the couch. There is also a picture located outdoors in the Pictures of Spring."[2]
"?" Too lewd. Emperor Jing Li is really too lewd. In the midst of Emperor Jing Li's movements, Liao Qing Qing said in a discouraging manner, "Your Majesty, you must not indulge in debauchery. It will harm your body."
"My body is very good."
"Your Majesty."
"….."
"Your Majesty."
AD
"…"
At first, Liao Qing Qing was able to shout. But after a while, she started to compromise. Even though it had only been a day, she could clearly feel that Emperor Jing Li had significantly improved in terms of technique.
He must have been secretly reading books that he shouldn't be reading and practising in private.
Liao Qing Qing slowly immersed herself with Emperor Jing Li, unknowingly moving from the soft couch to the bed.
They only stopped until late at night.
When Liao Qing Qing got up the next day, Emperor Jing Li had already returned from the imperial court and dismissed the palace maids. Presently, he sat in front of the bed, examining her body carefully.
She was startled and quickly pulled the blanket over herself.
With a smile on his lips, Emperor Jing Li said, "What is there to cover? Which part of your body… have I not seen?"
?
What kind of words are these?
How is this man so unrestrained?
Ahhhhh!
AD
It is not like anything can be said out loud.
Liao Qing Qing's face flushed with shame and annoyance.
Emperor Jing Li asked, "Does it hurt?"
Liao Qing Qing tilted her head to the side in anger.
Emperor Jing Li extended his arms to adjust Liao Qing Qing's face with a smile.
Liao Qing Qing continued to tilt her head.
Emperor Jing Li adjusted it again.
Liao Qing Qing tilted her head again.
This time, Emperor Jing Li simply held Liao Qing Qing with both hands and said, "I won't do it next time."
"Won't what?" Liao Qing Qing asked.
"Next time when you don't want it anymore, I will be quicker."
"?"
AD
"I mean to finish faster."
"?"
"So that your part below won't swell up."
"…."
I don't want to care about this man anymore!
"I will not mess around for a few days so that you can recuperate."
"…." I'm really going to ignore him!
Liao Qing Qing's body slumped into the bed. She pulled the blanket to cover herself and did not listen to Emperor Jing Li's obscene and unrestrained words. Who knew that Emperor Jing Li wrapped his arms around her through the blanket, kissed the blanket and said, "I'll abide by what I said. You can sleep for a while, just a while, and then get up for dinner later. I'll be next to you to go through the memorials. Call me if you need anything."
Liao Qing Qing didn't answer.
Emperor Jing Li sat down at the small table on the soft couch and reviewed the memorials.
Liao Qing Qing lay for a while. She slightly turned her head and gazed at Emperor Jing Li by the couch. The sunlight shone from the window and fell on Emperor Jing Li's body. It was like the light was emanating from his body, making his whole body look gentle and beautiful.
He was concentrating on his work.
AD
But then she suddenly thought of the words 'a tranquil and comfortable life' and gazed at him silently.
Just then, Emperor Jing Li turned his head. When he met her gaze, his eyes softened. Then, a warm smile appeared on his face, causing her heart to melt into a clear spring of sweetness.
She turned her face to the side because Emperor Jing Li's gaze was too searing.
"Are you awake?" Emperor Jing Li sat on the edge of the bed.
"Mm," Liao Qing Qing softly replied.
"You're hungry, aren't you?" Emperor Jing Li's voice was gentle as ever.
Liao Qing Qing's heart fluttered when she heard his words. She answered, "A little."
"Let He Xiang serve you to freshen up and eat something."
"Mm."
"I'll continue with my work."
"Mm."
Emperor Jing Li kissed Liao Qing Qing's white and tender cheeks before continuing to review the memorials. Liao Qing Qing touched her cheek and smiled helplessly.
AD
It wasn't long before He Xiang arrived.
After she had washed and freshened up, she had her breakfast and read a book. In the next two days, Emperor Jing Li did keep his promise and did not torment her again. She slept exceptionally well, and her already pretty face had become even more beautiful, with an additional touch of charm.
This was something that everyone noticed.
Even Emperor Jing Li marvelled that his Beloved Concubine became increasingly gorgeous. He wished he could try out all the poses in the Pictures of Spring with Liao Qing Qing, but he had to put it aside for the time being as Liao Qing Qing's body was not that great.
He focused on the imperial court.
In the imperial court, there were still constant arguments over the establishment of the Empress. Some people agreed to make Liao Qing Qing the Empress, while some supported Noble Consort Liang and Worthy Consort. However, Emperor Jing Li did not answer and ordered people to prepare for the coronation ceremony.
The date has been set!
It is just a matter of not knowing who would be the Empress.
The imperial subjects were speechless at Emperor Jing Li's behaviour.
On second thought, their Emperor Jing Li had always acted unorthodoxly. They were often unable to guess, so they continued to assert their own opinions and admonished him to death.
This led to a great deal of furore.
The imperial concubines in the harem also heard about it. Many knew they were not favoured and were secretly envious of Liao Qing Qing, who was someone without talent and power, to be fancied by the Emperor. Therefore, they resigned to their fate. Many were secretly jealous of Liao Qing Qing and could not wait for something to happen to Liao Qing Qing. There were also several people planning to plot against Liao Qing Qing.
AD
That was Noble Consort Liang's faction.
Worthy Consort said, "Your Highness, Noble Consort, that person, Liao Qing Qing, is very peculiar."
"Why do you say so?" Noble Consort Liang asked with a cold expression.
"Every time someone caused harm to her, she was promoted to a higher position, and this was the case last year. The most classic example was when Noble Lady Liang and Noble Lady Jiang wanted her to get involved with Xie Yi. In the end, she was injured and met Xie Yi. Not only was she not given the cold shoulder by His Majesty, but she was also promoted."
Noble Consort Liang nodded upon hearing her words. "Indeed."
"We can do it differently and plan this matter slowly."
"What method?" Noble Consort Liang was instantly intrigued.
Worthy Consort immediately leaned over and whispered into Noble Consort Liang's ears, vaguely mentioning the words "Liao Qing Qing".
The two of them began to mutter about Liao Qing Qing, and it was unknown what they were scheming. These few days, they were very quiet.
Liao Qing Qing didn't pay any attention to Noble Consort Liang and the others.
She was busy at the moment.
Zhu Prefecture had already cleared some land for the experimental fields.
AD
The Department of Agricultural Products had also finished cutting and sprouting the potatoes.
They were just waiting to be planted in the test fields.
Liao Qing Qing and the Bureau Chief of the Department of Agricultural Products made a final inspection.
Liao Qing Qing said, "Bureau Chief, you are already more knowledgeable than me regarding the growth of the potatoes. There is no need for me to say anything else. It's just that you need to explain it to the people."
"Lady Xi of Bright Countenance is too modest. But don't worry, Lady Xi of Bright Countenance. These potatoes will be personally sent to the test fields in Zhu Prefecture, and this humble subject will also personally explain to the common people there." After all, this is a discovery that will change history!
Liao Qing Qing replied with a smile, "That's great. You can continue with your work, and I will be leaving."
"This humble subject respectfully sees off Lady Xi of Bright Countenance."
The Bureau Chief of Agricultural Products bowed to Liao Qing Qing with immense respect and sent Liao Qing Qing away with an admiring gaze before going about with his business.
[1] 朕(zhèn)- I (imperial) or we (imperial use).
[2] 春宫图(chūngōng tú)- The Pictures of Spring refers to book filled with erotic pictures or pornographic drawings. The word "spring" is a common euphemism for sex.
When He Xiang saw this, she laughed and said, "Mistress, look at how the Bureau Chief of the Department of Agricultural Products treats you as if he is giving sacrificial offerings to a celestial."
Liao Qing Qing asked in response, "Does he treat me like a celestial?"
"That's not all. The Department of Agricultural Products staff treats the Mistress like a celestial."
AD
"Is that true?"
"Mm. Mistress, you may be unaware, but this maidservant[1] heard about it the other day."
"Heard about what?"
"I heard that after you discovered this potato, all the people in the Department of Agricultural Products had their salaries doubled, and everyone was privately thanking the Mistress."
"They are thanking me for the silver, right?" Liao Qing Qing pointed straight to the crucial point.
He Xiang insisted, "They are definitely thanking the Mistress. Mistress's merits are certainly not measured in silver. There is no telling how many people will benefit from this in the future."
Liao Qing Qing smiled.
He Xiang said proudly, "Mistress is that amazing!" When the concubine candidates entered the palace, He Xiang was assigned to serve Liao Qing Qing in Lisheng Pavilion. Liao Qing Qing was just a small Liangyi for a long time.
Compared to the palace maids, she wasn't really surviving very well.
But she didn't think about it that much. She just wanted to serve her master well. However, she didn't expect that Liao Qing Qing was going to be the head of the imperial harem in just over a year. Her monthly salary was much more than the others and her parents and younger sister were living better than before.
He Xiang was not a person that compared with others unrealistically.
But she was still overjoyed to have achieved something good, especially since her mistress had discovered potatoes, which had such a high production rate. The poor would have a better time in the future.
AD
She was proud to be able to serve her mistress.
Liao Qing Qing smiled and continued the conversation, "I think I'm quite amazing too."
He Xiang laughed along with her.
The master and servant got along very well.
After departing from the Department of Agricultural Products, Liao Qing Qing got on the carriage, and He Xiang walked beside her. The weather was already hot by this time, and Liao Qing Qing stayed at the Department of Agricultural Products for quite a while. After returning to Lisheng Pavilion, bathing and changing her clothes, Liao Qing Qing was in good spirits.
She heard the birds chirping around her and wanted to go out for a walk. So she said, "He Xiang, let's go out for a walk."
"Mistress, where do you want to go?" He Xiang asked.
Liao Qing Qing said, "To a cooler place."
"A rockery or by the lake?" He Xiang thought about it and added, "You can also go to the bamboo forest. There are people over there who clean the bamboo forest. It's cool to walk around in it, just that there are some mosquitoes."
"No need to go to the bamboo forest. We can just walk casually to look at the trees and listen to the birds chirping." It had been a long time since Liao Qing Qing had strolled around the imperial harem, mainly because the potato matter was sorted out and Liao Qing Qing wanted to relax. If she could, she would like to go on a picnic tour.
"Yes. Mistress, would you like an umbrella?"
"Open an umbrella."
AD
"Yes."
Hence, Liao Qing Qing and He Xiang shared an umbrella. When they were under the shade, the umbrella was kept away. They walked around to look at the flowers and grass.
He Xiang said, "Mistress, look at how pretty the flowers are."
"The Rainbow Pink,"[2] Liao Qing Qing said.
"What about this one?" He Xiang asked.
"This one is called Shechuangzi."[3]
"Mistress, you know so much. This maidservant only knows the name of some wildflowers."
"I've learned all this from the Empress Dowager. I'll tell you if you want to know. Just remember it."
"Yes."
Liao Qing Qing took He Xiang everywhere to look for different kinds of flowers and grasses on the ground. Just then, He Xiang saw a figure flashing quickly, and she let out an "eh" sound.
Liao Qing Qing asked, "What's wrong?"
"This maidservant just saw one of the palace maids from Noble Consort Liang's palace run away from here."
AD
"Isn't that normal? This is a public area. All the imperial concubines in the harem can come over, so maybe Noble Consort Liang is nearby." Liao Qing Qing lifted her eyes and surveyed the place. Sure enough, she saw Noble Consort Liang standing on the water pavilion.
When Liao Qing Qing saw Noble Consort Liang, Noble Consort Liang also happened to look over. Liao Qing Qing was still Lady of Bright Countenance, not as dignified as Noble Consort Liang. At this time, she should approach and greet her according to the etiquette.
"Let's go," Liao Qing Qing said.
"Yes," He Xiang answered.
Liao Qing Qing ambled towards Noble Consort Liang and bowed in accordance with the rules, "This imperial concubine greets Noble Consort Liang."
"You may rise," Noble Consort Liang said.
Liao Qing Qing slowly got up.
Noble Consort Liang measured Liao Qing Qing with her eyes. With a smile on her face, she said, "I haven't seen you for a few days, and Lady Xi of Bright Countenance has become increasingly full of life."
Liao Qing Qing responded, "Noble Consort Liang has flattered me."
"Look at your figure. It is getting better and better." As Noble Consort Liang said this, she used her hands to grab onto Liao Qing Qing's arms, like they were very intimate.
Liao Qing Qing wouldn't have thought much about it if this were last year. However, she had already fallen out with Noble Consort Liang and Worthy Consort this year. Presently, there was no one else, so there must be something amiss with Noble Consort Liang acting so intimately.
Instantly, she was alerted and gave a sideways glance at He Xiang.
AD
He Xiang also understood the significance of this. Her body immediately became tense and stared straight at Noble Consort Liang and her mistress, fearing that Noble Consort Liang would do no good to her mistress.
But Noble Consort Liang still appeared to be calm.
Liao Qing Qing took the opportunity to secretly take a step backwards while she paid her respect. She said, "Thank you for your compliment, Noble Consort Liang."
"Bengong[4] is telling the truth. No wonder you can charm His Majesty to be head over heels with you."
"?" Liao Qing Qing felt that Noble Consort Liang was about to show her powers.
Noble Consort Liang's face hardened, and she said, "Nowadays, His Majesty only has eyes for you in his heart and has forgotten about all of us.'
"Noble Consort Liang, this imperial concubine—"
Noble Consort Liang interrupted Liao Qing Qing, "You don't have to explain!" She continued, "you find Bengong a sore in your eye!"
"?" Where is this going? Liao Qing Qing opened her mouth to explain, "Noble Consort Liang, this imperial concubine thinks that you have misunderstood."
"Are you trying to get rid of Bengong?"
"Noble Consort Liang, this imperial concubine does not—"
"Lady Xi of Bright Countenance, Bengong has misjudged you. I didn't expect you to be so evil inside!" Noble Consort Liang's voice raised slightly as she moved closer towards Liao Qing Qing and deliberately pulled Liao Qing Qing's arm.
AD
Liao Qing Qing and He Xiang were instantly taken aback.
He Xiang even stepped forward and grabbed Liao Qing Qing's arm. "Mistress."
But instead of pulling Liao Qing Qing's arm, Noble Consort Liang suddenly leaned back and fell into the lake.
There was a loud splash.
Liao Qing Qing, "?" I didn't use any force.
He Xiang, "?" This maidservant didn't push anyone either.
The author has something to say: —
Liao Qing Qing: ?
He Xiang: ?
Emperor Jing Li: I understand.
Liao Qing Qing: You understand what?
Readers: He is the expert in harem intrigue.
AD
Liao Qing Qing: I understand too.
[1] 奴婢[núbì]- I; your humble servant (term of self-address used by servants, maid-servants and eunuchs when addressing the emperor, minister, concubines, etc.)
[2] 石竹(shí zhú)- The Rainbow Pink also known as the China Pink is the species of Dianthus native to northern China, Korea, Mongolia and southeastern Russia. Credit: Wikipedia
[3] 蛇床(shé chuáng)- Shechuangzi also known as Cnidium monnieri or Monnier's snow parsley is a flowering plant species in the genus Cnidium. Credit: Google
[4] 本宮 (Běngōng) – I, the one who owns this palace. Such as the queen will call herself 'the palace', and the princess with the official title can also call herself 'the palace'.
"Noble Consort Liang!"
"Your Highness, Noble Consort!"
"…."
AD
Several panicked screams suddenly sounded from behind them.
Liao Qing Qing and He Xiang turned around to look.
It was Worthy Consort, Lady Li of Fragrant Ceremony and the others.
They hurriedly ran over towards the water pavilion.
Worthy Consort even leaned over the parapet and shouted, "Your Highness, Noble Consort! Your Highness, Noble Consort!"
Both Liao Qing Qing and He Xiang stared blankly at them.
For a moment, they didn't quite understand what was happening in front of them.
Worthy Consort turned her head and snarled, "Lady Xi of Bright Countenance! You actually pushed Noble Consort Liang into the water!"
Liao Qing Qing said, "This imperial concubine[1] did not."
"Bengong[2] saw it clearly!" Worthy Consort said.
"Uh… "Although Liao Qing Qing didn't understand Noble Consort Liang, she had respect for life and didn't have the fetish of watching people struggling between life and fade away before her eyes. So she said, "Your Highness, Worthy Consort, Noble Consort Laing is still in the water."
Only then did Worthy Consort immediately react and turn around, shouting, "Quickly save Noble Consort Liang!"
Several palace maids hesitated for a moment.
They didn't know how to swim, so jumping into the water would be sending them to die.
Worthy Consort yelled, "Hurry up! Quickly save her!"
At this time, Noble Consort's palace maid arrived. They tossed the tray on her hand aside and shouted, "Your Highness, Noble Consort". Then, she jumped into the water quickly. As she dragged Noble Consort Liang towards the shore, the junior eunuchs nearby had already been informed and went into the water together, dragging Noble Consort Liang towards the shore.
Worthy Consort bellowed, "How about the Imperial Physician? Where is the Imperial Physician?"
A palace maid responded, "Your Highness, Worthy Consort, the Imperial Physician has not arrived."
"Quickly chase him!"
"Yes."
Worthy Consort quickly squatted down in front of Noble Consort Liang and called out with a concerned look, "Your Highness, Noble Consort. Your Highness, Noble Consort."
Noble Consort Liang was dripping wet. Her face was pale, and her eyes were tightly closed.
Worthy Consort ordered the palace maids around her to give urgent help.
The palace maid pounded her chest and strangled her.
AD
Noble Consort Liang slowly woke up.
Worthy Consort and the others were overjoyed.
Worthy Consort called out to her, "Your Highness, Noble Consort. Your Highness, Noble Consort."
But Noble Consort Liang was so exhausted that she collapsed into the arms of the palace maid, ignoring everyone.
Worthy Consort then remembered Liao Qing Qing. She got up in anger and glared at Liao Qing Qing.
Liao Qing Qing looked at Worthy Consort in bewilderment.
Worthy Consort said through gritted teeth, "Lady Xi of Bright Countenance, I didn't expect you to be so vicious!"
Liao Qing Qing asked in confusion, "What's wrong with this imperial concubine?"
"You almost killed Noble Consort Liang!"
"How did this imperial concubine harm Noble Consort Liang?" Noble Consort Liang is already strange, but here comes another strange Worthy Consort.
"How dare you speak of such sophistry?!" Worthy Consort yelled, "So many eyes watched you push Noble Consort Liang into the water. Do you think everyone is blind?"
"Your Highness, Worthy Consort." Seeing that her mistress was being falsely accused, He Xiang spoke up and explained, "My mistress only came over to greet Noble Consort Liang. She didn't push her. It was Noble Consort Liang herself who jumped into the water."
AD
Worthy Consort turned around and rebuked, "Who do you think you are? Do you have the right to speak here?" Just when she was about to hit He Xiang as He Xiang shivered in fear, Liao Qing Qing stretched out her arms and brought He Xiang behind her. She looked at Worthy Consort and said, "Your Highness, Worthy Consort, this imperial concubine did not push Noble Consort Liang."
"Save all these talks when His Majesty and the Empress Dowager arrive."
"This imperial concubine will say the same when I am in front of His Majesty and Empress Dowager."
"Fine!" Worthy Consort said angrily, "Bengong wants to see how you will turn right from wrong when the evidence is all present!"
He Xiang's heart tightened as she listened. She turned to face Liao Qing Qing.
Liao Qing Qing did not respond.
But she knew that this was a ploy by Noble Consort Liang and Worthy Consort.
They had deliberately led her here to pay respects.
Purposely chat with her.
Deliberately jumped into the water to frame her…
She was aware of that!
She knew Noble Consort Liang and Worthy Consort didn't have good intentions!
AD
What should she do now?
Her eyes reflexively darted around.
There is no suspicious person or thing to be found.
There isn't any way to prove her innocence.
Must she be defeated by this?
All of a sudden, Fu Sheng's announcement sounded, "His Majesty has arrived, the Empress Dowager has arrived—"
Liao Qing Qing's heart tightened.
He Xiang became afraid.
Noble Consort Liang forced herself to get up, but she couldn't.
When Worthy Consort heard this, she felt overjoyed inwardly, and she glanced at Liao Qing Qing from the corner of her eyes. She saw Liao Qing Qing's gloomy face and became even more delighted.
She turned her head to look at Emperor Jing Li and Empress Dowager.
The Empress Dowager was indifferent as usual.
AD
Emperor Jing Li's face showed anxiety, and his steps were steady and fast.
"Greetings, Your Majesty. May Your Majesty be in great health. Greetings, Empress Dowager. May the Empress Dowager be in good health." A group of people paid their respects respectfully.
"You may rise," Emperor Jing Li casually responded. He quickly walked to Liao Qing Qing and took Liao Qing Qing's hand. His eyes surveyed Liao Qing Qing's body from top to bottom and asked worriedly, "Beloved Concubine, are you alright? Are you hurt?"
Worthy Consort, "?"
Noble Consort Liang, "?"
The palace maids, "?"
The one who fell into the water was Noble Consort Liang, not Lady Xi of Bright Countenance!
Liao Qing Qing said somewhat awkwardly and apprehensively, "Your Majesty, this imperial concubine is fine. It was Noble Consort Liang."
Only then did Emperor Jing Li shift his gaze and ask, "What happened to Noble Consort Liang?"
"She fell into the water."
Emperor Jing Li turned his head to look at Noble Consort Liang, who was still lying in the palace maid's arms. He asked, "Noble Consort Liang, why did you fall into the water for no reason?"
Noble Consort Liang, "?" What kind of question is this? She doesn't want to speak a word.
AD
Worthy Consort responded, "Replying to Your Majesty, it's Lady Xi of Bright Countenance who pushed Her Highness Noble Consort Liang into the water."
Before Liao Qing Qing could refute, Emperor Jing Li furrowed his eyebrows and asked, "Where is the evidence?"
"This concubine[3] sat it with her own eyes," Worthy Consort replied confidently.
"What you saw does not count."
"?"
"Who else saw it?"
"This maidservant saw it." Several palace maids bowed at the same time.
"You only saw Lady Xi of Bright Countenance. Why don't you see that Her Highness Noble Consort is still sitting on the floor?!" Emperor Jing Li raised his voice and said, "Why don't you help Her Highness Noble Consort return to Linhua Palace? What kind of mess is it now?!"
As soon as the words left his mouth, Worthy Consort and the others were startled.
The palace maids hastily helped Noble Consort Liang up and headed towards Linhua Palace.
Emperor Jing Li said, "All of you follow me."
Liao Qing Qing and Worthy Consort replied in unison, "Yes."
Emperor Jing Li looked towards Empress Dowager.
Empress Dowager swept her gaze across the group of imperial concubines and said, "This grieving one[4] will also follow you."
"I have to trouble Queen Mother."
A group of people arrived at Linhua Palace.
The Imperial Physician following them. After reading Noble Consort Liang's pulse, he said to Emperor Jing Li, "Your Majesty, although Noble Consort Liang fell into the water, her body is fine since the weather is hot now."
"Understood. You may leave." Emperor Jing Li said.
The Imperial Physician left.
Emperor Jing Li said, "Invite Noble Consort Liang over."
Worthy Consort hurriedly said, "Your Majesty, Elder Sister just fell into the water…."
"Worthy Consort, I[5] haven't seen you for a long time. You can't even understand the words of the Imperial Physician?"
Worthy Consort was instantly silenced.
"Go and invite Noble Consort Liang!" Emperor Jing Li ordered.
"
"
A palace maid hastily went to invite Noble Consort Liang over.
A newly dressed Noble Consort Liang arrived in the hall in a short while.
Emperor Jing Li and Empress Dowager inquired about the condition of Noble Consort Liang.
Noble Consort Liang replied softly, "Thank you, Your Majesty and Empress Dowager. This concubine is fine."
"It's good that you are fine." Emperor Jing Li did not say any further.
Noble Consort Liang gave a slight sideways glance at Worthy Consort.
Worthy Consort quickly said, "Your Majesty, Noble Consort's fall was the work of Lady Xi of Bright Countenance, so please return justice to Noble Consort Liang and also to the imperial harem."
"What? The imperial harem is not fair?" Emperor Jing Li questioned.
"This concubine didn't mean that. It's just that many people witnessed Lady Xi of Bright Countenance inflicting harm on Noble Consort Liang. Without a result, it's hard to convince the masses." Worthy Consort said.
Emperor Jing Li glanced at the other imperial concubines in Linhua Palace and then at the Empress Dowager, who looked as if she was not concerned. Finally, his eyes landed on Liao Qing Qing, whose head was lowered and remaining silent. He asked, "What do you think is the motive for Lady Xi of Bright Countenance to push Noble Consort Liang into the water?"
Worthy Consort replied, "That's something we've to ask Lady Xi of Bright Countenance."
"Whoever is accusing another person would have to provide the evidence," Emperor Jing Li stated.
AD
Worthy Consort had no choice but to say, "Noble Consort Liang has always been the most respected member of the imperial harem. Lady Xi of Bright Countenance uses the fact that His Majesty favoured her to inflict harm that may cause death because she dislikes Noble Consort Liang." She wanted to say that Liao Qing Qing wanted to be the Empress, but it was not appropriate to bring up the matter of the Empress as it was still being debated.
Initially, she intended to gather the power of the imperial concubines to destroy Liao Qing Qing's image in Emperor Jing Li's mind. Then, she would publicise Liao Qing Qing's evil deeds to influence the imperial subjects to delay the establishment of the Empress. Finally, she would continue pouring dirty water on Liao Qing Qing so that Liao Qing Qing would not be compatible to be an Empress.
Emperor Jing Li asked in response, "Killing in broad daylight?"
"Whether it is broad daylight or in the middle of the night, as long as there is no one around, it is a good opportunity for Lady Xi of Bright Countenance to kill someone. This concubine did not expect to witness Lady Xi of Bright Countenance's bad deeds when this concubine and the other sisters arrived." Worthy Consort finished speaking. From the corner of her eyes, she looked towards the other imperial concubines behind her. Then, she knelt and said righteously, "Your Majesty, please do justice to Noble Consort Liang."
"Please do justice for Noble Consort Liang!" The other imperial concubines followed suit.
They had the intention of forcing Emperor Jing Li.
Emperor Jing Li pressed his forehead. He was really frustrated by Worthy Consort and the others. When he was about to speak, he heard Liao Qing Qing call out, "Your Majesty."
Emperor Jing Li's eyes immediately fell on Liao Qing Qing.
Liao Qing Qing said, "Your Majesty, this imperial concubine did not push Noble Consort Liang."
Emperor Jing Li immediately responded, "I believe you."
Liao Qing Qing, "…." Your Majesty, you shouldn't have replied to this.
Empress Dowager coughed loudly at this point, signalling Emperor Jing Li to pay attention to the occasion.
AD
Emperor Jing Li's words made Worthy Consort jealous and even more pertinacious. Worthy Consort said, "Your Majesty, you can't just believe in Lady Xi of Bright Countenance's words casually just because you favour her. It's unfair to this concubine and the others."
"Worthy Consort—"
"Your Majesty," Liao Qing Qing called him again.
Once again, Emperor Jing Li looked towards Liao Qing Qing.
Liao Qing Qing spoke calmly, "This imperial concubine can prove my own innocence."
Prove her own innocence?
Noble Consort Liang's and Worthy Consort's hearts tightened. They knew that Liao Qing Qing appeared to be lazy, but she was actually very intelligent. However, they had not left any traces today, so Liao Qing Qing would not be able to prove herself even if she wanted to.
With this in mind, they set their minds at ease.
Let's see how Liao Qing Qing makes a joke of herself.
Emperor Jing Li had a 'Be obedient. You can step down and let me do it.' look.
Liao Qing Qing repeated, "This imperial concubine can really do it."
Emperor Jing Li had no choice but to say, "Tell me, how are you going to prove your innocence?"
AD
The author has something to say: —
Emperor Jing Li: I've already brewed it up. Let me do it!
Liao Qing Qing: No, let this imperial concubine do it!
Emperor Jing Li: Then I will be your skills instructor.
Liao Qing Qing: =口=！
[1] 嫔妾(pín qiè)- This imperial concubine. It is a self-appellation that can only be used by Lady of Talents (才人), Noble Lady (贵人), etc to the Emperor and Empress Dowager.
[2] 本宮 (Běngōng) – I, the one who owns this palace. Such as the queen will call herself 'the palace', and the princess with the official title can also call herself 'the palace'.
[3] 臣妾(chénqiè)- this concubine/I, your servant (self-appellation of a lower-rank female). The literal meaning is 'this subject and this concubine'.It is a self-appellation used by the ranks including and above Consorts. They are used by Consorts, Noble Consorts and Empress, etc. in front of the Emperor, Empress Dowager and Consorts, Noble Consorts that have a higher rank.
[4] 哀家(āijiā)- This grieving one/ I (self-referring by a widowed empress etc, used in historical novels and operas)
[5] 朕(zhèn)- I (imperial) or we (imperial use).
Translator's Note: Regular update + a bonus chapter. Thank you once again to the lovely reader for the Kofi. Wishing everyone an amazing weekend! See you next Friday/Saturday!