Counterattack of the Cannon Fodder Chambermaid

by Usui Takumii

not mine, Princess Capture Plan. Total: 177 chapters and 12 epilogue so 189 chapters .

18. 171 to 180

171

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The next day, the Jing Emperor made an announcement.

The gist of it was that due to the matter of the empress, many issues had popped up in the last few days. It had even implicated Our senior concubine, and made her suffer without reason. Although the empress had contracted this foul ailment, she is still Our principal wife. She was conferred as the Jing Consort by the former emperor, and it hasn't been a full year since his passing yet. Since the empress was seriously ill, for the sake of showing his father gratitude, and for the sake of their marital relationship, he would temporarily not consider stripping her position.

None of the officials had any objections. Even the former emperor had been brought up as well as their marital relationship. Could they force the emperor to disregard his father and his old relationship, and make him out to be a fickle and unrighteous person?

After court was over, the news was transmitted to the Fengqi Palace.

The empress didn't reveal anything in front of the messenger. Only after the person left did she reveal a mocking expression.

"Hypocrite! Clearly using this seat as an excuse to give himself more time, but still making himself sound righteous. Luo Jing, when did you learn to act hypocritically? …heh…..however, this seat won't refuse….."

Others may not realize it but the empress was very clear that after his announcement, the Jing Emperor would definitely not strip her position until she was at death's door.

Was he so certain she would only last a couple of years?

In that case, she must do her best to live on as an annoyance….

"…this adulterer wants to go over this seat's head and live as a married couple with her? This seat is best at making others suffer…."

Cai Lian stood by her side, and was scared stiff by her mutterings.

Ever since the empress got sick, her thoughts weren't quite normal anymore. The messenger had clearly said that for the sake of their marital relationship, his majesty didn't want the empress to worry about her position being stripped and that she could recuperate in peace. How did things become so twisted once they passed through her mouth?

"Cai Lian, go fetch this seat my medicine."

The empress's words interrupted Cai Lian's disordered thoughts. Hearing that the empress wanted to drink medicine, she felt astonished.

Ever since the empress had been diagnosed with tuberculosis, she had stopped taking her medicine, and appeared to be waiting to die. Now, she actually took the initiative to take her medicine.

This probably had something to do with wanting to annoy others. Thinking of such nonsense, Cai Lian hurriedly went to fetch the medicine.

The end of the year soon approached. The Jing Emperor sent out an edict ahead of time summoning the Yun Prince and Qi Prince back to the capital to spend the New Year.

After the Qi Prince lost his arm in the rebellion, the former emperor didn't continue looking into it. He merely restricted him to the Qi Province's Qi Prince Estate. After the Jing Emperor ascended, he didn't change anything.

The Yun Prince and his wife arrived on the 25th. After meeting with the Jing Emperor in the palace, they took up residence in the Yun Prince Estate within the capital. The Qi Prince arrived a night later, and did the same.

On the 26th, the Jing Emperor sealed his brush. The meaning behind this was to declare an end to official business for the remainder of the year. On the fifth day of the New Year, the brush would be unsealed once more and business would resume. Ever since he entered the capital, the Jing Emperor had always been busy. This could count as a rare break.

On New Year's Eve, the Jing Emperor arranged a banquet within the Bright Sun Hall.

The empress couldn't participate. Xiao Hua sat to his left in a slightly lower seat. Also present were Concubine Qiao, the Tranquil and Serene Concubines, Crown Prince Luo Zhuo, Eldest Princess Luo Yi, the Yun Prince and his wife, the Qi Prince and his wife, and the previous crown prince's sons.

This wasn't Xiao Hua's first time seeing these people. When the former emperor passed away, the Yun and Qi Princes returned for his funeral, and she had caught a glimpse of them within the funeral hall. Seeing them again, she was able to recognize them.

The Yun Prince was a fatty, but the Yun Consort was an astonishing beauty. This was the sort of beauty that assaulted one's eyes. One would be frozen in place at a glance.

The Qi Prince's face looked vicious, but also a little depressed. The Qi Consort on the other hand had a delicate appearance, and seemed to be a gentle person. As for the former crown prince's sons, they weren't very old, between seven to ten years of age, and were all extremely taciturn. After saluting, they sat there and faded into the background.

The Yun Prince had always been very curious about the Jing Emperor. After sitting, his gaze never shifted away from him. Only when he felt a familiar stinging pain on his leg did he snap out of it and smile flatteringly at the Yun Consort.

The Yun Consort threw him a "you'll pay for this when we get back" look before withdrawing her hand.

The Jing Emperor had always been one of few words, and everyone was aware of this. Apart from a brief toast, he remained silent throughout the banquet.

After it was over, the Yun Consort saluted and took her leave.

Seeing her walk ahead angrily while a round ball rolled along behind her, Xiao Hua was stunned over and over.

Within the royal carriage, the Jing Prince wrapped his arm around Xiao Hua's waist on the way back to the Chenxi Palace. Seeming to have noticed her astonishment from before, he told her about the Yun Prince and his consort.

After telling her what he knew, the Jing Emperor gave Xiao Hua a kiss and said: "It's still my Xiao Hua'er who's nice."

The Jing Emperor had drank alcohol, and the smell assailed her nostrils and made her tipsy.

Hearing his words, Xiao Hua couldn't help but be surprised that the Yun Consort had the Yun Prince on a tight leash. She was also surprised that the Jing Emperor was telling her this as an amusing anecdote.

She was going to laugh, but suddenly couldn't quite do so. She saw the apathetic eyes of the man across from her asking "why aren't you laughing", and became speechless.

Apart from laughing at others' misfortune, Xiao Hua realized the Jing Emperor also had the weird habit of telling amusing stories.

He told her things he himself found very funny, and was always very happy to share them with her. For example, how an official was saying things he didn't want to hear in court, and thus he ignored him, resulting in that official's mustache flying about in anger. Other examples included how he knew about all sorts of nonsense within some officials' estates.

Sometimes Xiao Hua would laugh, sometimes she wouldn't find it funny at all. If Xiao Hua laughed, the Jing Emperor would tell her something else the next day. If Xiao Hua didn't laugh, he would ponder for a few days before trying again.

Playing around like this, sometimes Xiao Hua felt this situation itself was quite amusing. Sometimes she felt naughty and would put on a straight face despite almost bursting out in laughter. Then she would get to observe his depressed expression.

Whenever this happened, Xiao Hua wanted to give him a kiss.

Wasn't he too endearingly silly?!

Xiao Hua leaned in for the kiss. The Jing Emperor squinted his eyes, moved his hands and instead of kissing his cheek their lips met. The rubbed and pressed together, their lips slightly parted, their tongues dancing lightly. The Jing Emperor kissed her unrestrainedly.

Right as he wanted to move to other areas, Xiao Hua stopped him and scolded: "Wait a while, the children are behind."

The Jing Emperor returned to his original position and pulled Xiao Hua into his arms. The carriage moved smoothly, and it didn't feel as if they were moving at all.

"Majesty seems to have a pretty good relationship with his highness the Yun Prince?"

Xiao Hua noticed the Jing Emperor had exchanged several words with the Yun Prince today. Others only got a few words if at all.

The Jing Prince made an "en" sound, "He has helped Us before."

Only after Eunuch Fu's voice rang out did Xiao Hua realize they had arrived.

After getting off the carriage, a gust of cold wind swept by. Zhuo'er and Yi Yi got off from the carriage behind them. The weather was cold and the people didn't delay in getting inside.

The second prince was still young so they didn't bring him along today.

After changing and getting seated, Xiao Hua had the wet nurse bring him over. The second prince Luo Yu was only five months old, and he was placed on the couch by his mom for his brother and sister to play with. He lay there as his brother and sister alternated between rubbing his face and his hands.

Before long, he grew impatient and started crying.

He only stopped when Xiao Hua picked him up to coax him.

"Yu'er is clearly a restless one. Zhuo'er and Yi Yi didn't cry as much at his age." Xiao Hua told the Jing Emperor.

The Jing Emperor leaned over and rubbed his son's face with his finger. He withdrew before his son started crying again.

"Who knows where he learned it from? Not letting anyone touch him, what a stubborn temper." Xiao Hua continued chattering.

The Jing Emperor gave Xiao Hua a glance and said faintly: "Why does Our prince need to let others touch his little face?"

"It would be fine if it were just outsiders, but he doesn't even let his own family do it. Such a white and chubby face, how can it not be touched?" As she spoke, Xiao Hua gave it another light pinch.

The second prince spat some bubbles, gave a snort and turned his face away, making Xiao Hua laugh.

Yi Yi leaned over and giggled, "Little bro isn't cute at all. Not letting big sis touch his little face."

As she spoke, she lightly pinched with her hand. Before the second prince started crying, Xiao Hua gave him a kiss which turned his cries into laughter.

"Oh? Looks like our Yu'er is closer with his mother concubine. Let's not bother with your mean big sis."

The second prince Luo Yu smiled happily as though agreeing.

Yi Yi pouted her little lips and went to sit in her father's arms before making a face to show off. Yu'er didn't understand this and laughed even more happily.

Zhuo'er couldn't quite resist smiling on the side. He knew to do a facepalm at his young age, and looked as if he couldn't take it anymore.

At this point, not only did the three make Xiao Hua laugh, but even the Jing Emperor let out a rare smile.

Although they planned to stay up for the New Year, they had never managed to last until the end.

The three children usually woke early and went to bed early, and soon became tired. The palace maids took them to rest. The Jing Emperor naturally pulled Xiao Hua along to continue where they had left off in the carriage.

….

On the first day of the first month of the New Year, the Jing Emperor was extremely busy. He went to the Ancestral Worship Hall to offer tributes to his ancestors bright and early. Afterwards was the great court gathering, where he accepted the well wishes of officials and foreign envoys.

As the crown prince, Luo Zhuo had to participate along with the Jing Emperor.

Before the sun had risen, Xiao Hua got up. After making herself look presentable along with the Jing Emperor, Luo Zhuo had come over. The three of them ate breakfast and some eunuchs helped the Jing Emperor put on his imperial outfit. Luo Zhuo was also helped into a miniature crown prince's imperial outfit.

The so called imperial outfit could only be worn by the emperor and the highest ranking officials. Princes and below couldn't wear imperial robes, and could only wear ceremonial robes.

Such imperial robes were commonly worn for ceremonial events. This included visits to the ancestral temple, the first month of the year, the winter solstice, the holy festival, the national offering, the first harvest, and scholarly worship. The emperor's imperial robes had twelve prints: sun, moon, star, mountain, dragon and pheasant were woven into the upper shirt while the chalice, grass, fire, rice, axe and alternating Fu design were embroidered on the lower garment.1

The imperial crown was the headwear worn alongside the imperial robes. It was black in appearance and covered in jewels. The base was round and the top was square. The front and back each had twelve tassels. They were multicolored and contained a jade bead. The crown prince's version had nine tassels and nine beads.

The Jing Emperor looked astonishingly handsome in his robes. His air of apathy matched with the black imperial robes made him look imposing. The faintly discernible handsome face behind the tassels looked rather oppressive.

Xiao Hua couldn't help but lean in past the tassels and plant a kiss on his face.

"Majesty is really handsome!"

The Jing Emperor's face was hidden behind the tassels, but Xiao Hua seemed to have noticed a faint blush.

In contrast to the Jing Emperor, Zhuo'er looked extremely cute in his similar outfit.

He was small in stature, and wearing such long robes and a complicated headpiece made him seem a little unbalanced. His small hand couldn't help but hold his headdress up, afraid to lose his balance.

Xiao Hua smiled and crouched down, helping her son straighten his outfit. When she reached his headdress, she gave his little face a kiss.

"Zhuo'er is going to participate in the great court gathering with father. No need to be nervous. Our Zhuo'er is still young. Just maintain your etiquette."

Zhuo'er nodded and his little face turned red as he looked at his mom.

Father got a kiss and he got one too. He wore the same outfit as his father. He was his father's son and also the crown prince. He just had to follow his father's example. Thinking this way, Zhuo'er was no longer as nervous.

The Jing Emperor stretched out his slender fingers towards his son. Zhuo'er raised his head and looked at his father before grabbing his hand.

The two men, one big and one small, wearing the same imperial robes and walking off in the same direction out of the hall. Their silhouettes appeared exceptionally dignified in the imperial robes, yet Xiao Hua couldn't help but feel extremely moved.

See here for the twelve patterns, and here for the outfit.

172

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The father son pair only returned in the afternoon.

Zhuo'er had long since been unable to maintain the appearance of a crown prince. At this moment, he was carried off the carriage and into the Chenxi Palace by the Jing Emperor.

Right before they got to the main hall, he struggled and wanted to get down but the Jing Emperor didn't let go.

Xiao Hua took him into her arms and gave his blushing little face a kiss.

"Zhuo'er is tired. It's fine to let father carry you. No need to be shy in front of mom and little sis."

Zhuo'er mumbled and didn't respond, his face still red.

Yi Yi went up to her brother and played around with the beads on his headdress. She then asked Zhuo'er to take it off and let her try it on. Zhuo'er was very tired and couldn't be bothered to respond.

A group of palace maids and eunuchs came in to help the Jing Emperor and Zhuo'er take off their imperial outfits. Yi Yi took Zhuo'er's headdress and put it on her head crookedly, asking Xiao Hua if it looked good.

Xiao Hua looked at her daughter and burst out laughing, repeatedly saying that it looked good. Yi Yi then went to ask the Jing Emperor, who said the same thing.

A few minutes later, Yi Yi took the hat off and complained: "This hat isn't easy to wear. Can't see properly from the sides. Brother, how did you walk like this?"

Xiao Hua smiled and took the miniature headdress over and handed it to Ding Lan, "Eldest Princess Yi Yi, just because you can't see clearly doesn't mean your brother can't."

Zhuo'er didn't say anything. He didn't want to admit that he actually couldn't see clearly either, and had almost tripped a few times. Luckily his father had been holding onto his hand, and his father's large sleeves had shielded him from view, preserving his etiquette.

Thinking to this point, he looked at the Jing Emperor. The father and son exchanged a glance of tacit understanding.

On the first day of the New Year, the concubines in the rear palace had to pay respects to the empress. This could be counted as giving New Year's greetings.

Because the empress was ill, this was cancelled.

On the second day, Concubine Qiao and the Serene and Tranquil Concubines came to pay respects to the senior concubine.

Concubine Qiao had fallen from the skies back to the ground in a single night. She had been the third highest in status within the rear palace, but was now even lower than the Serene and Tranquil Concubines. They at least had titles, whereas she was now just addressed by her surname. She previously had her own palace, but was now relocated to a side hall according to the rules. Luckily, the Serene and Tranquil Concubines who lived with her in the Longcui Palace wanted to keep things simple now and didn't kick her while she was down.

Of course, the two of them weren't fools. They naturally knew the reason Concubine Qiao was demoted was due to the senior concubine's matters. She was currently the only favored one within the palace, and the two of them naturally wouldn't try to get closer to Concubine Qiao. They didn't step on her, but they didn't interact with her either. Everyone passed their own days in peace.

After the three of them paid their respects, Xiao Hua had them take a seat. After some superficial conversation, the people took their leave.

Xiao Hua didn't know what to say to them, and they were the same way. As women who shared the same man, she had occupied all the rainwater while the rest of them didn't even get a single drop. How could they chat freely with each other?

After leaving the Chenxi Palace, the three got on their own carriages. Before getting on, the Serene Concubine spoke to Concubine Qiao. This was the first time they spoke after she was demoted.

"You should put aside any notions and give up. It's not worth trying to get some intimacy at the expense of your life. She's a magnanimous one. If you're smart, you should know what to do. Why make things difficult for yourself?"

Having known the senior concubine for so long, the Serene and Tranquil Concubines could be said to have understood a few things.

The senior concubine had a good personality, and was also magnanimous. Just based on what the two of them had done in the past, anyone else would have secretly killed them off countless times. But she did not do so. Although their days were dull, they still received everything they should. Their allowance had never been embezzled before either. The palace maids and eunuchs were respectful to the two of them as well.

Concubine Qiao could be said to have become enemies with the senior concubine this time, almost to the extent of bitterly fighting to the end. However, the senior concubine didn't do anything. Apart from losing her status and being relocated, Concubine Qiao's days still passed the same way.

The Serene and Tranquil Concubines both noticed this.

As people with bitter fates, they had all experienced times when they weren't resigned. However, some things didn't work out just because you refused to accept it.

His majesty's personality was apathetic, and he wasn't easily stirred. But once he was stirred, it would be to the end. From the looks of it, she would be his only one, and it would be the same way in the future. The others should just honestly go do their own thing.

Regardless, this was how the Serene Concubine saw it. Whether Concubine Qiao could see things the same way was up to her. She only spoke up since they were in similar circumstances.

After the Serene Concubine finished speaking, she got on her carriage. The Serene and Virtuous Concubines left, leaving Concubine Qiao frozen in place for a while before slowly getting on her own carriage.

On the fifth day, the brush was unsealed. On the first court session of the new year, the Jing Emperor official named the period of his reign as the "Splendid" era,1 starting the chapter of a new era.

Once the Jing Emperor started back up with official affairs, Xiao Hua became idle in the Chenxi Palace.

During this time, the Yun Consort had come to visit Xiao Hua several times. After a couple of interactions, the two became somewhat familiar with each other.

After getting to know the Yun Consort, Xiao Hua realized that she was an outspoken person, and wasn't as arrogant as she appeared on the surface.

The Yun Consort also knew this prime senior concubine was someone who occupied the Jing Emperor's heart, and intended to form a good relationship to begin with. Coupled with the fact that the prime senior concubine was a good person, the two women chatted about children, about their own men and become more and more intimate.

On the fifteenth, the Yun Prince and the Qi Prince returned to their vassal states.

Whether the Jing Emperor saw the Qi Prince off, Xiao Hua didn't know. However, when the Yun Prince left, the Jing Emperor especially held a farewell banquet for him.

The banquet this time didn't have many people, only the Yun Prince and his wife, the Jing Emperor, Xiao Hua, Zhuo'er and Yi Yi. It could be counted as a gathering of two families.

Xiao Hua sat with the Yun Consort on one side of the table, the Jing Emperor and the Yun Prince each took a side and the two children sat together on the fourth side. The group of them filled out the square table perfectly. Sitting at the same table was more intimate, and it wasn't as distant compared to sitting at separate tables.

"Who knows when you can come to the capital again after leaving? I don't have many friends to begin with, and now that I finally have one, you have to leave."

The Yun Consort gave a dazzling smile. She pulled Xiao Hua's hand and said: "This is nothing. I'll just have my highness bring me to the capital more often in the future."

"Then you have to keep your word. Don't forget it."

"That's for sure."

The Yun Prince listened to the women's conversation and interrupted with a smile: "Little sister-in-law, perhaps in the near future, this prince will be bringing the consort along to live in the capital."

Xiao Hua gave the Jing Emperor a glance. His expression was mysterious. She then looked at the Yun Prince, whose chubby face was filled with teasing laughter.

The Yun Consort gave him a glare and said to Xiao Hua, "Ignore him. He's always talking nonsense. However, I'll send you a letter when we're free. Just have your majesty summon us to the capital and we'll come."

"Alright, that sounds good."

The Yun Prince exchanged a glance with the Jing Emperor and raised his glass, leaning close to him, "Ai, if things end up working out, big bro will depend on you in the future for his meals."

The Jing Emperor gave him a glance, raised his own glass and said faintly: "You have more money than Us."

The Yun Prince winked, "All the land under the heavens belongs to you. Don't put me on a pedestal. I'm just a small vassal prince who needs to rely on majesty for my meals. How can I be compared to you in terms of wealth?"

The Jing Emperor's gaze was dull and he couldn't be bothered to respond to his comments, "You don't need to do this. We always keep Our word."

"Ai—fine, fine. I'll put it bluntly. I feel that governing a vassal state is a lot of trouble. There's so much to deal with, not only do the taxes not cover my expenses, I even have to put my own money into it. I'd rather be an idle prince and live a carefree life. The troublesome things can be left to you to handle." Speaking up to here, the Yun Prince gave a look of complaint to the Jing Emperor, "You just force others to put things so plainly. You're too mean."

The Jing Emperor automatically ignored the word "others", and said: "Then what are your plans for the future? Don't tell me you're going to freeload and wait for death. We won't believe that."

"Well, I—-" The Yun Prince rubbed his chin, "Naturally I want to take my wife and children on a trip across this nation to play. I can finally relax. I've promised to take her out for a while now."

The Jing Emperor silently nodded.

The Yun Prince had a cocky expression, "What? Jealous? Muahaha. I told you being the emperor was the hardest thing in the world. This sort of thing should be left to someone born in the year of the bull."

"We aren't born in the year of the bull."

The Yun Prince choked and took a sip of his alcohol.

"You seem to have lost weight." Don't think that the Jing Emperor couldn't tell the Yun Prince was making fun of him. Although he didn't understand what being the emperor had to do with being born in the year of the bull, he still knew how to retaliate.

The Yun Prince felt his own stomach and put on an aggrieved appearance.

This was a tragic story. Ever since he bragged to his consort that he could lose weight if he wanted to, but was too lazy to do so, his days had become tragic. The consort would chase him throughout the estate with a whip, forcing him to run.

The Jing Emperor spoke some irritating words with a straight face, "The Yun Consort is doing this for your own good. We are skinny, so Our royal body is very healthy."

The Yun Prince gave the Jing Emperor a jealous glance, and tried to figure out if his slender figure actually had some muscle under his robes.

Definitely not, definitely not. He's so pale, he's definitely a little twig. The Yun Prince was different. He would definitely become a bronzed macho man with a six pack!

Thinking this way, the Yun Prince felt better in his heart. He viciously took another sip of alcohol, "Next time you see this prince, you'll be in for a huge surprise."

The Jing Emperor laughed in his heart while his expression remained apathetic, "We will look forward to it."

Author's notes:

This chapter is a little short, currently trying to polish up the ending. Please forgive me.

The characters used here are the same as those used in the Hall of Splendor. The characters are "Jing Tai", the same Jing as in his name, and translated literally mean "grand and bright".

173

After the yun Prince and his consort left the capital, Xiao Hua truly became idle.

Apart from spending time with the three children every day, there wasn't much else to do.

With the start of the year, Zhuo'er started his education. The Jing Emperor arranged the official institution within the eastern palace and set up the crown prince's three tutors and three vice-tutors. The crown prince's imperial teacher, imperial master and imperial guard guided him on virtues and ethics while carefully protecting him. The vice-teacher, vice-master and vice-guard observed how the crown prince took to these teachings.

The Zhanshi1 Estate which was responsible for guiding the crown prince in daily matters had yet to be established. This was because the crown prince was still young and had just started his education.

Regarding the three tutors and vice-tutors, the Jing Emperor had been rather meticulous in choosing them. He didn't follow the precedent of choosing only old officials of outstanding reputation and virtue, but rather chose a mix of people. There were old reputable officials, but also officials from the commoner faction. It was clear the Jing Emperor put quite some emphasis on the crown prince's education.

Therefore, Zhuo'er became a little schoolboy who had to take classes from his instructors every day.

He had to get up early for his lessons. He came back during lunch time, and had to return afterwards until late afternoon. A few days of this made Xiao Hua's heart ache. Such a small child already had so much homework every day, and had to practice his writing after getting back.

Yi Yi on the other hand was extremely jealous of her brother taking lessons and learning to write. She bothered Xiao Hua about tagging along. Xiao Hua wasn't able to make the decision on this matter since the instructors weren't ordinary teachers. They were either great scholars or officials, so she told Yi Yi to go ask the Jing Emperor.

Yi Yi went to pester the Jing Emperor. He didn't say anything, and merely nodded in agreement.

Therefore, Yi Yi got up early the next day, left behind Whitey who was running around her legs, and went to class with her brother.

The first day was very novel. Yi Yi came back and told Xiao Hua how long the imperial master's beard was, and said he would always stroke it and looked very strange.

The next day she could still endure.

The third day she grew a little impatient, but when Zhuo'er said a few faintly mocking words she immediately stopped complaining.

After a few more days, Yi Yi couldn't endure any longer and made a fuss about not going anymore.

Xiao Hua said the same thing. Your father was the one who agreed, so he must agree once again for you to stop going.

Yi Yi went to pester the Jing Emperor again.

The Jing Emperor was very calm, and didn't say anything. Only when Yi Yi used her ultimate move of wiping away tears did he relent. His stipulation was that she could temporarily be let off, but still had to start learning two years later.

Yi Yi was still young and didn't understand how long two years was. In her mind, not having to learn at the moment meant she was free, so she smiled and nodded.

When he returned that night, Xiao Hua laughed at the Jing Emperor, "I had hoped majesty would be able to resist. Who would have thought you would also give in."

The Jing Emperor didn't feel that letting his daughter off was something embarrassing, "We only have this one daughter. Girls don't have to learn too much, might as well let her be happy."

Xiao Hua nodded and thought the same way.

Zhuo'er was the crown prince so he had no choice. Yi Yi was a princess, and wouldn't lack for status in the future. She also didn't have to worry about her marriage. Whether she was educated wasn't a big deal as long as her personality was good and she was sensible.

Spring went by and summer came. The days gradually became hotter.

The capital was much hotter in the summer compared to the Jing Province. Back at the Jing Province, Xiao Hua didn't need any ice. Ever since coming to the capital, she needed ice last year and this year was no different.

The Jing Emperor was taking a nap but Xiao Hua wasn't able to fall asleep.

When the Jing Emperor came back from the royal study for lunch, he had told her a story.

This story was rather complicated. It was about a concubine's daughter being sold out of the capital by the evil principal wife.

If nothing was out of the ordinary, that girl would have lived out her life in a remote countryside. Unfortunately, this girl had a capable older brother. He had risen up in ranks rapidly, and spent countless efforts to find his younger sister.

At that time, she had already married and given birth to children. She had married a local farmer and given birth to two sons. The brother could only accept this low-born brother-in-law of his, and bring them both back to the capital.

Of course, that principal wife didn't have a good outcome. Because the events ended up spreading after the girl returned to the capital, the people all disdained her stepmother for her malice and lack of motherly virtue.

The main point wasn't how preposterous or laughable this story was. The main point was—-

She knew both of them.

The brother in the story was Commander Lin of the Jing Prince Estate. He was now both the Dingyuan Marquis and the commander of the capital guard office, and was his majesty's trusted aide. As for his sister, she was the girl who was sold out of the capital with Xiao Hua by Trafficker Qian, and given to a farmer as his wife: Lin Qing Wan.

Xiao Hua only knew Qing Wan's name and not her surname. Only after the Jing Emperor told her did she know.

Qing Wan….

The delicate yet tenacious girl back then still remained fresh in her memories. She still remembered that it was during her lowest moment when that girl had given her a shock and hope….

That's right, a sort of hope. The sort of hope that despite experiencing the twists of fate, she would not give up on dreaming of a beautiful future.

Perhaps the two hadn't interacted much, but she had learned quite a lot from her. For example, optimism, being easygoing and facing life with a smile….

Xiao Hua thought about many things. Only after the Jing Emperor awoke did she snap out of it.

The Jing Emperor had to deal with official business in the royal study that afternoon. Xiao Hua helped him put his clothes on. Before he left, he stroked her hair, "You have nothing to do during the day. You can summon her into the palace for a chat."

Xiao Hua nodded. She understood the Jing Emperor's intentions. He knew she didn't have many friends and found her someone to talk to.

After sending him off, Xiao Hua had the palace maids bring the second prince over.

Yu'er was now ten months old. The weather was hot so he only wore a pair of underpants. Xiao Hua put him on the couch and let him crawl and play by himself. Xiao Hua coaxed him while thinking things over.

She was quite interested in the Jing Emperor's suggestion. But she was also hesitant. She wasn't sure how she was supposed to face Qing Wan.

If she was of ordinary status, there was naturally no need to hesitate, and they could interact as common women and their relationship would be convenient. But as the senior concubine, the rules of the palace were strict. Qing Wan wasn't even a titled woman, and it wasn't easy to enter the palace with all its rules and etiquette.

She could indeed summon her into the palace without reservations, but would Qing Wan feel uncomfortable? If it were anyone else she wouldn't feel troubled by it. Only Qing Wan was different. Where exactly she was different, Xiao Hua wasn't able to sort through her tangled feelings at this moment….

To put it plainly, Xiao Hua was feeling a little nostalgic at meeting an old acquaintance, especially since this old acquaintance was quite special to her.

After thinking a little longer, she called Ding Lan over. She had her send someone to investigate the Lin family's situation as well as the Dingyuang Marquis's Estate.

Such things were usually left for Xiao Xia Zi to handle. He felt quite at ease with it and directly went to meet with Eunuch Chang.

Eunuch Chang was now the vice general manager of internal affairs, and was also responsible for handling the Jing Emperor's intelligence network. Seeing Xiao Xia Zi come seeking information on the Dingyuang Marquis's sister and hearing it was for the senior concubine, he didn't say anything before handing the information over.

Before long, Xiao Hua held the papers in hand.

After looking it over, Xiao Hua had a better understanding of Lin Qing Wan's recent situation.

She gradually felt relieved. She had been worried that her life had been hard after marrying a farmer, but it seems she was doing pretty well….

The Dingyuan Marquis was getting married in a few days, and as his sister, Lin Qing Wan naturally wasn't idle. Xiao Hua decided to wait until afterwards to call her into the palace for a meeting.

….

The venue of the Dingyuan Marquis's wedding was extremely large. The Jing Emperor was naturally generous with his bestowals to his trusted aide.

With his majesty backing the wedding, the large venue along with the additional bestowals made the Dingyuan Marquis temporarily the most prominent within the capital. His sister Lin Qing Wan also became widely known.

As for the dispute between the Dingyuan Marquis's family and one of Minister Lin's branch family, everyone in the capital had some understanding. But since the Dingyuan Marquis was currently at the peak of his power, everyone would naturally give him face. They also gave Lin Qing Wan some face during their interactions with her.

However, since her husband's background was too lowly, their politeness was only due to the Dingyuan Marquis. However, what happened next made the people see his sister in a different light.

His majesty's favored prime senior concubine summoned the Dingyuan Marquis's sister into the palace.

Whether or not it was the marquis who asked the Jing Emperor to help his sister's reputation, since the proud and aloof senior concubine had never summoned a titled woman into the palace, but was now summoning a commoner woman, her reputation became gilded despite being a peasant.

Lin Qing Wan was also quite confused. She asked her brother about it but he merely smiled and didn't say anything. He just told her to relax and go.

Since her brother was the emperor's trusted aide, Ling Qing Wan naturally didn't need to worry about anything bad happening.

Especially since she could tell something fishy was going on based on his smile.

A carriage had picked her up and taken her all the way to the palace gates. Only after arriving at an extremely large palace did some palace maids lead her inside.

Within the hall, a person was seated on the seat of honor.

Lin Qing Wan knew this was the senior concubine who had summoned her. It had been been five or six years since Ling Qing Wan had transmigrated to the Great Xi, and she was well aware this was a world where the emperor reigned supreme. There was naturally no saying about how there was gold beneath one's knees.2

Unexpectedly, she had yet to fully kneel when the palace maid helped her up and brought her to an embroidered chair to sit.

"You are Lin Qing Wan?"

A gentle voice sounded from up high.

Before she entered the palace, Lin Qing Wan had been taught some basic etiquette. Therefore, she had never raised her head and naturally didn't see Xiao Hua's excitement.

"Yes, this commoner woman is Lin Qing Wan."

"Then lift up your head and take a look at who I am—-"

Lin Qing Wan lifted her head and carefully examined the extremely beautiful person on the Luan throne.

A pink palace outfit which emphasized her fair and bright skin. Two large gleaming eyes with thick eyelashes, which were long and slightly lifted like the wings of a butterfly. A pair of pink cherry lips and an upright nose-bridge were set in a pointed face which would make countless women astonished even in Lin Qing Wan's previous world.

This was the most beautiful woman Lin Qing Wan had seen since coming to the Great Xi.

After being dazed for a moment, Lin Qing Wan said in embarrassment: "You are the senior concubine."

Really now, did this senior concubine not know who she was?

"Qing Wan, do you really not recognize me anymore?"

Xiao Hua froze and felt her own face, laughing in spite of herself. "I'm Xiao Hua…."

Looking at the face filled with smiles, Lin Qing Wan was shocked.

"You are—-"

Xiao Hua nodded, "Can't recognize me anymore? I've gotten older and my appearance has changed. You as well…"

Author's notes:

Qing Wan, do you still remember the Xiao Hua back then by Daming Lake?

I remember I wrote in my novel "Qing Wan, do you still remember the Xiao Hua back then?" and it was translated as "the Xiao Hua back then by Daming Lake."

Qing Wan: Of course I remember. You are that Xiao Hua? Why do you look different?

Xiao Hua: (blushing) Well my life is good, the food is tasty, I'm well nourished, so it's only natural I'm different from before. (As she spoke, Xiao Hua purposefully perked her chest up)

Qing Wan had a smile on her face but was cursing inside: cheh, what are you perking up for? This big sis doesn't need nourishment to be perky.

Everything above was just a joke.

Excellent affairs

Idiom saying how one shouldn't kneel easily.

174

Lin qing wan was a little in disbelief.

The Xiao Hua from back then had also been fresh in her memories. This was because during her hardest days, it was Xiao Hua who taught her that survival was most important. It was even thanks to Xiao Hua that she didn't make the mistake of trying to escape back then.

She truly knew the girl called Xiao Hua, but apart from her eyes being slightly large, that girl in her memories wasn't special at all. She was withered and skinny, a tiny little girl. How did she become this person in front of her who was the complete opposite in terms of bearing, and was even the senior concubine?

Lin Qing Wan was currently a mess.

After a long time, she finally recovered and stammered: "Then, then how did you become the senior concubine?"

Xiao Hua smiled brightly: "Didn't you become the Dingyuan Marquis's sister? It was all due to luck. I really didn't think we could meet again. After so many years, I still occasionally think of you and wonder how you're doing. Now that I see you're doing well, I can be at ease….."

"That's right. Fate is a strange thing. Never expected to be able to see you again…."

The two of the smiled, their eyes filled with reminiscence and emotion, and many other things.

That's right. Who would have thought that from the carriage of the trafficker heading out of the capital would come two women with completely different destinies.

One was married into the countryside, but used her own abilities to have a happy life and marriage. The other went from a little lass who was sold over and over to a vassal prince's favored concubine, and finally to the emperor's favored senior concubine. Perhaps there may be even bigger changes in the future.

Therefore, fate was truly something mysterious….

"Are you well?" Lin Qing Wan involuntarily asked before laughing in spite of herself: "The senior concubine is naturally doing well. Look at my foolish words."

Xiao Hua nodded and replied seriously: "I'm very well."

She knew Lin Qing Wan would understand her meaning.

Lin Qing Wan understood as expected. She smiled and said: "I'm also very well."

…..

The two of them chatted for a long, long time, until the sky started turning dark. Only then did Lin Qing Wan say her farewells. Xiao Hua told her to come to the palace when she was free, and that she would give instructions to the subordinates.

Lin Qing Wan agreed straightforwardly. She said her family had built a residence on the outskirts and would remain by the capital in the future. She would definitely come bother the senior concubine.

After Lin Qing Wan left, Xiao Hua sat there in a daze for a while. She would occasionally think of something and reveal a knowing smile.

Outside the hall, Yi Yi's chattering sounded out.

She had stopped going to class with her brother, but was now too bored. Therefore, she started going to pick her brother up after class. Every day right before late afternoon, she would take her palace maids, eunuchs and Whitey in a majestic procession to the Esteemed Literary Hall to pick up Zhuo'er. The two of them returned to the Chenxi Palace together.

Xiao Hua heard her son say several times he wouldn't let his sister go pick him up, but Zhuo'er seemed quite happy every time they came back together.

Actually Xiao Hua knew that she wasn't going for her brother's sake, but rather because there was no one for her to play with. Xiao Hua wouldn't let her run around freely, so Yi Yi used Zhuo'er as an excuse for some freedom.

Once the children returned, Zhuo'er changed his clothes and Xiao Hua had the palace maids bring some water and towels to wipe him down. After changing into comfortable clothing, Xiao Hua fetched some pastries and ate with her children.

After being taught by the imperial instructors for a period of time, it was clear that Zhuo'er had matured a lot. Only in front of his mom and sister would he reveal some childishness.

Right as things were getting lively, the Jing Emperor returned. Xiao Hua went and busied herself helping the man.

After, the two of them went and sat with the children.

The Jing Emperor asked about Zhuo'er's homework and he seriously replied to everything.

The Jing Emperor then turned to Xiao Hua.

"The Dingyuan Marquis's sister left?"

Xiao Hua nodded, "According to Qing Wan, they are going to live by the capital. I told her to come hang out in the palace whenever she's free."

The Jing Emperor nodded and didn't say anything.

Soon July arrived. The second prince Luo Yu turned one year old.

The second prince's one year anniversary naturally needed a huge celebration. All the officials, nobility and titled women entered the palace to give their blessings.

Luo Yu's treatment was far better than his crown prince brother. Back then, Zhuo'er's one month anniversary and one year anniversary hadn't been celebrated. The Jing Emperor had brooded over this for a while, so now the second prince's naturally needed to be grand.

Luo Yu did his one-year-old catch within the Bright Sun Hall in front of his father and all the gathered people. This little one was impatient and grew tired of it quickly. He randomly grabbed a little sword before calling out for his mom.

Therefore, the second prince Luo Yu was carried personally by general manager Eunuch Fu into the Peacekeeping Hall into Xiao Hua's arms.

Within the Peacekeeping Hall stood many titled women. Some who were more cordial had long since sidled over to Xiao Hua and were speaking with her quietly. The current prime senior concubine was at the peak of her power, and was also solely favored. Many people were willing to fawn upon her, so there were quite a few of them around her.

Xiao Hua was a little helpless, but had to force a smile and exchange pleasantries with them. Seeing a woman within the distant crowd shoot her a teasing smile, Xiao Hua surreptitiously shot back a glare.

The titled women all made way as they saw Eunuch Fu carry the second prince over.

Yu'er's eyes brightened as he saw his mom. He reached his little arms out and mumbled "mom".

"The second prince is really smart and cute…."

"That's right. My little brat back home only learned to call for me when he was one and a half years old…."

Xiao Hua stood up and received Yu'er.

Eunuch Fu bowed in salute, "Concubine, the second prince made a fuss about wanting you, so his majesty had this servant bring him over."

"Thank you general manager Fu for your trouble."

After Eunuch Fu left, Xiao Hua was surrounded once again. They were all smiling and praising the second prince. They managed to never say the same thing twice.

Yu'er's temper wasn't good, and he had long since gotten tired of the surrounding people. He called out with his mouth 'go, go'.

Xiao Hua rejoiced in her heart, and gave an embarrassed smile to the people around, "Sincere apologies, the second prince has an impatient temper. If he stays in place for too long he'll start crying. This seat can't accompany you all, please enjoy the banquet."

Amongst the chorus of "respectfully seeing senior concubine off", Xiao Hua left the Peacekeeping Hall. At the same time, an unobtrusive person left with her as well.

Xiao Hua led Lin Qing Wan back to the Chenxi Palace and into the hall.

"I really don't like crowds. Our Yu'er is the same way. So I led you back to the palace for some peace and quiet."

Lin Qing Wan laughed softly and said: "That's true. I'm also not used to such a scene. So many people sitting together, comparing their clothing, their jewelry, their husband's status. Truly boring."

"Looks like you've endured some suffering these days." Xiao Hua joked.

"It's not that bad. It was novel at first, but now it's just boring. Especially since I'm pregnant now, and don't like to be out and about." Lin Qing Wan felt her own round stomach and said.

Xiao Hua looked at her stomach and said: "I feel like you have twins. Back then when I was pregnant with Zhuo'er and Yi Yi, my stomach was also as large as yours."

Lin Qing Wan spaced out.

Xiao Hua thought she was worrying about twins being harder to deliver and said comfortingly: "Don't worry. I've got a skilled nana by my side. I'll have her go to your estate for the delivery."

"Then I have to thank concubine."

As they spoke, Zhuo'er and Yi Yi came in with two other children.

The two were both boys. One was sturdy like a little bull, the other was slender and looked rather scholarly.

That's right. He was only five years old but gave off the air of a scholar. The boy who looked like a little bull was taller and sturdier than that slender boy, but was actually the younger brother.

These were Lin Qing Wan's two sons. The five year old called Yang Nuo was the older one, and his nickname was Nuo Nuo. The younger one was younger than Zhuo'er and Yi Yi by a month, and was called Yang Heng. His nickname was Heng Heng.

This was the second time they came to the palace. The first time was when Xiao Hua invited the three of them. It turned out that Zhuo'er and Yi Yi got along very well with them, so Xiao Hua reminded her to bring the children along for the second prince's anniversary.

"Little bro Heng Heng, why are you so tall? Why is big bro Nuo Nuo shorter when he's older than you?" Yi Yi kept saying. This issue had surprised her countless of times.

Heng Heng was confused and naturally couldn't explain it clearly. He could only say this was how it was.

Nuo Nuo understood, but didn't know how to explain it. He felt a little ashamed. Being shorter and skinnier than his younger brother was something that bothered him. That eldest princess Yi Yi repeatedly dug the knife into his wounds.

Although Yang Nuo was mature for his age, he was still a five year old child. He wasn't able to conceal his emotions and his expression was a little angry.

Zhuo'er explained for his sister: "Yi Yi is a little dumb. Don't take her silly words to mind."

"Highness crown prince, Yang Nuo naturally won't get angry with the eldest princess." Nuo Nuo imitated a scholar and cupped his hands in salute.

The sharp-eyed Yi Yi naturally noticed and sidled over asking: "Big bro Nuo Nuo, why are you imitating those old fogeys and cupping your hands?"

The old fogeys Yi Yi referred to were the imperial instructors who taught Zhuo'er. In her mind, only old people did such things. Big bro Nuo Nuo doing this at such a young age looked truly weird.

Xiao Hua smiled and pulled her over, tapping her on the forehead: "You curious little thing, asking about everything. Your big bro Nuo Nuo is showing courtesy, unlike you who's basically a wild thing."

Yi Yi pouted her little mouth and grabbed her mom's sleeve in disagreement. Xiao Hua gave Zhuo'er a glance. Zhuo'er sensibly pulled his sister along to go play.

"Such young children are supposed to be curious about everything. Our Heng Heng is the same way." Lin Qing Wan smiled a said: "But the crown prince is so mature at his young age, truly hard to come by."

"Enough, no need for us to flatter each other. Isn't your Nuo Nuo the same way?"

"Mine is just a little bookworm."

Xiao Hua smiled and looked at her older son, "Mine is about to be the same. However, men have more responsibilities on their shoulders compared to women. There's nothing we can do about it."

The two women chatted while the few children played.

Well, it was Yi Yi and Heng Heng who were playing. Zhuo'er and Nuo Nuo huddled together in conversation. The four were clearly similar in age, but two of them seemed like little adults and the other two were completely like children.

"Didn't expect these four to get along so well. But it makes sense, there aren't many children in the palace. Zhuo'er and Yi Yi don't have many playmates." Xiao Hua lamented, and turned to Lin Qing Wan, "How about I talk to his majesty about having Nuo Nuo and Heng Heng be fellow students with Zhuo'er?"

Lin Qing Wan froze and hesitated, "It that ok?" Being classmates of the crown prince was naturally different from normal classmates. If the crown prince succeeded the throne in the future, his original classmates naturally would have promising prospects.

"It's naturally ok. It's good for them to hang out together."

As she spoke, Heng Heng pulled Yi Yi along and ran outside. A large group of palace maids and eunuchs followed behind.

"Look how happily they're playing."

Lin Qing Wan smiled, "Then this commoner woman will thank the concubine for her grace!"

Xiao Hua scolded, "Don't you start that with me. This isn't like you."

Lin Qing Wan laughed straightforwardly, "Basic etiquette still needs to be observed, right?"

175

Yang nuo became the crown prince's classmate and his days grew busy.

The Yang family lived on the capital's outskirts, and he had to take the carriage into the palace before dawn to make it in time for his class with Zhuo'er. He ate lunch at the Chenxi Palace and returned home in the carriage once class was done.

Xiao Hua watched for a few days and felt it was too much work for the child. She called Lin Qing Wan into the palace for a discussion. She proposed letting Yang Nuo live in the palace, which was large and had plenty of space to live in. If that doesn't work, he could live with Zhuo'er in the Chenxi Palace's side hall, where she would take care of him so there was no need to worry. He could return home once every few days. This would make things easier on him.

Although Lin Qing Wan was reluctant, she understood the concubine was being considerate. She went back and discussed it with her brother. To avoid harming her son's future prospects, she agreed in the end.

As for Heng Heng, he was like Yi Yi who loved to play. He could start taking lessons a few years later. When he went into the palace normally, he was just a playmate and didn't need to be reserved.

Yi Yi was also happier with a playmate.

When Heng Heng was in the palace, she would go frolic about with him everywhere. When he wasn't there, she would go pester Zhuo'er and Nuo Nuo to play with her. The few children got along quite well.

Of course, children would occasionally get into arguments. But usually Xiao Hua didn't need to intervene and they would figure things out by themselves. Zhuo'er was a sensible one and Yi Yi also wasn't someone who would abuse her position. Children forgot things quickly. They could be angry one moment and happily playing together again the next.

Time passed like flowing water. A major event happened in court that caused great waves.

First was Minister Lin's retirement announcement.

Minister Lin wasn't actually that old, a little over sixty. Normally, he could still remain in his position for several more years. However, he suddenly announced he was retiring.

After his retirement, the left minister's position became vacant. In theory, a new minister needed to be chosen. Those who had the qualifications all felt their hearts stirring, but the Jing Emperor didn't show any signs of planning to choose a new minister.

While this situation was left hanging, the Yun Prince submitted a memorandum that caused another round of waves.

The Yun Prince asked for his vassal state to be stripped.

His explanation was rather absurd, saying there were too many things to deal with in a vassal state, how his taxes couldn't cover his expenses and how he truly couldn't hold on any longer. He begged his majesty to take pity and relieve him of his burden, saying how he wanted to be an idle prince and live a carefree life.

Of course, he also said a few righteous words towards the end of the memorandum. He said that vassal princes with too much authority wasn't good for the peace of the nation, and would be harmful to the dynasty with the Luo surname. For the sake of the Grand Xi, for the sake of the Luo royal family, he chose to sacrifice himself for everyone's benefit.

This stone caused countless of ripples, and stunned all the officials and nobles.

The Jing Emperor had someone read this inappropriate memorandum out loud in court, and asked all the officials for their opinions.

The officials looked at each other and no one dared to make a sound.

Having had several exchanges with the Jing Emperor, they all knew he was no pushover. Although he spoke little and remained silent most of the time, he never slacked in his duties. Unconsciously, many officials' opinions were changed, and they inexplicably felt a sense of natural respect.

This included Minister Lin's retirement. The court felt that it was due to the Jing Emperor being dissatisfied with him that he was forced to do so. But on the surface, the Jing Emperor didn't seem to have made any moves. They only knew that this towering minister who had stood through three reigns had fallen just like that, fallen without any sound.

Since even an old official like Minister Lin had fallen, no one dared to make the Jing Emperor unhappy. It was better to first see if his majesty agreed or not.

The officials exchanged glances and looked towards Minister Xu.

The old man stood on the left, his hands holding the jade tablet, and looked as steady as Mt. Tai. Although he wasn't a tall person, he gave off a towering presence.

The silence continued.

The officials knew the person above them had a lot of patience, and naturally didn't feel like dragging it out.

At this time, an official stepped out from the back and after saluting said: "Majesty, this servant feels his highness the Yun Prince is truly righteous, and is a pillar of our society…."

This official went on and on in praise of the Yun Prince.

After he finished, he returned to his original spot.

The Jing Emperor didn't reveal any expression, but he nodded his head.

Seeing the Jing Emperor's reaction, several officials naturally followed after and started praising the Yun Prince as well. After a few rounds of this, the intelligent people had already understood the Jing Emperor's meaning.

By praising the Yun Prince, wasn't it saying his actions were extremely correct? It turns out his majesty wanted to abolish his vassal state.

But this matter didn't have much to do with the officials. After all, the one being stripped of his position was one of the Luo family, and had nothing to do with their own benefits. Since his majesty wanted to do it, those under him agreed one after the other.

The Jing Emperor didn't give a response during court, but three days later passed an edict accepting the Yun Prince's memorandum.

He also generously bestowed rewards onto the Yun Prince. Not only did he renovate and expand the Yun Prince Estate within the capital, he also increased the prince's salary from ten thousand grain to twelve thousand. He also preserved the Yun Province and the Yun vassal state, and merely withdrew the militia and authority. The vassal prince still had the choice of living in his vassal state, but could also choose to return to the capital.

He then personally invited the Yun Prince back to the capital, showing extremely favorable treatment.

Then, that was it.

Everyone had guessed that the Jing Emperor was preparing to make a move against vassal princes, but realized he didn't take any further actions. It was as if the Yun Prince's request this time was just a farce, a joke played out by the Yun Prince who had never been impressive.

As time went by, many people forget about this event. But there were others who didn't dare lower their guard.

The first was naturally the Qi Prince.

His conspiracy with the Jin Prince was the turning point of his life. It was impossible for him not to have any designs on the throne himself back then, but he realized he wasn't as capable as his older brother, and willingly became his helper instead.

Unfortunately, things had failed, the Jin Prince perished and he himself lost an arm and was confined afterwards. His mother concubine accompanied his father to the grave. He understood his mother concubine's actions very well. It was to seek a path of survival for him, and for the Xu family.

As expected, his mother concubine's loyalty towards the former emperor resulted in the Chengen Marquis Estate's restrictions being lifted and he himself was left unharmed, merely confined within his prince's estate. In contrast, the people in his wife's family, the Chengguo Duke's Estate, were all either banished or beheaded.

After so many events and having been confined for two years, the Qi Prince had long since given up on his original intentions. Now he only wanted to pass his days peacefully. However, the Yun Prince's move this time spawned many waves in his heart.

The Yun Prince was a crafty one. The Qi Prince had been able to realize this after so many years. The Yun Prince and the Jing Emperor had a good relationship. Why it was good, the Qi Prince didn't know but he had some guesses.

To say the Yun Prince's move had no reason behind it, the Qi Prince definitely wouldn't believe it.

Perhaps, he should learn to be like the Yun Prince?

The Qi Prince pondered over this question for a long time….

Of course, there was another person, or rather, another family, who didn't dare to lower their guard.

That was the Xiao clan.

After the eldest lord was stripped of his office, the Xiao clan had been very quiet. The lively Jing Duke Estate of the past seemed to have been watered down overnight.

Actually they hadn't been watered down. According to themselves, they were merely biding their time and gathering their strength.

Were they really gathering their strength?

Such thoughts left a bitter aftertaste.

The more they experienced the Jing Emperor's methods, the more bitter the Xiao clan felt in their hearts. This person was truly too sinister, and knew how to stab them with blunt knives in the dark.

Although he didn't reveal anything on the surface, he used all sorts of methods secretly to grind away at the Xiao clan's power. Without mentioning anything else, the Xiao clan even had trouble entering the palace to meet the royal concubine now.

According to the royal concubine's message, despite living a life of luxury, she felt extremely sullen.

Sullen?

To make a woman who had lasted decades within the palace say such words, it was clear how skilled the Jing Emperor was. This man was truly hard to figure out. He made no mistakes in the front court, and also didn't let go of the rear court.

At this rate, how was the Xiao clan supposed to accomplish anything great?

In the past, the Xiao clan could have said they were biding their time without any hesitation. Now, these words sounded more like they were comforting themselves.

However, they still had hope. The Xiao clan still had one final trump card.

Out of the former crown prince's few sons, one of them had been conferred a prince. The other two were both regional princes. However, he was still young and wouldn't be given his vassal state yet. Instead, he lived in his own prince's estate within the capital.

This was the Jing Duke's great-grandson, and the royal concubine's own grandson. He was surnamed Luo, and was a tried and true child of the royal line. This meant he was filled with limitless possibilities.

That's right, limitless possibilities. However, this "limitless possibilities" was currently being besieged by the Jing Emperor, and seemed to be in imminent danger.

The Xiao clan was no longer able to manipulate officials in court and have them make a fuss. No one was a fool, and everyone gradually distanced themselves from the Jing Duke Estate. The Xiao clan did have a few people under them, but they were reluctant to use them. Having gotten accustomed to being able to summon winds and rain, it was very hard for them to accept their current poverty.

But even if it was hard to accept, they had no choice but to do so. Especially since the Jing Emperor didn't seem to be planning on dealing with them, leaving them a bit of hope.

The Grand Xi didn't have the boiling frog metaphor, but this was exactly what the Jing Emperor was currently doing. As the frog in the metaphor, the Xiao clan didn't realize they were slowly being cooked alive.

The Xiao clan wanted to burn incense and pray daily that this event was truly the Yun Prince messing around and that the Jing Emperor had no intention of removing the vassal states.

Another year passed, and the Grand Xi had been peaceful and prosperous. The Jing Emperor seemed to have done many things, but also seemed to have done nothing at all.

In the second year of the Splendid Era, another vassal prince submitted a memorandum. The Qi Prince's memorandum also requested for his vassal state to be stripped, and his words were similar to the Yun Prince.

As though following the useless Yun Prince's example, the Qi Prince who had a ruthless violent temper in the past also seemed to have become useless.

The Jing Emperor was pleased when he read it and accepted the memorandum.

Compared to the Yun Prince's treatment, the Qi Prince was given even better rewards. However, the Qi Prince didn't choose to follow the Yun Prince's example and move to the capital. Instead, he remained in his vassal state.

With two vassal princes doing the same in succession, the other vassal princes from the former emperor's generation all started to panic. Some were discreet while others were not.

However, all this wasn't important anymore. At the start of the New Year, the Jing Emperor made his move. Various imperial censors started submitting memorandums impeaching vassal princes for misconduct.

These vassal princes had all gotten accustomed to their easy life, and all had problems that could be picked out. The Jing Emperor released an edict stripping a couple of the most outrageous ones, and the rest all became even better behaved. What happened next didn't need to be said. The Grand Xi's vassal state system which had lasted for three reigns was ended under the Jing Emperor.

The stirrings in court was rather large, and Xiao Hua had also heard about it. Only now did she realize what the Yun Prince had meant back at his farewell banquet.

"Fourth brother is a smart one."

The Jing Emperor had never called the Yun Prince fourth brother to his face, but he would call him this when discussing him with Xiao Hua in private. Xiao Hua knew that men could be awkward, and didn't bring this up in front of the Yun Consort. This was to preserve the men's dignity a little.

"He helped Us a lot…."

"It's fine as long as majesty keeps it in mind…."

"We naturally will remember."

"Right, I heard Yan'er say that she and the Yun Prince are taking their children overseas for a trip." Xiao Hua's face was filled with curiosity. She asked the Jing Emperor, "Majesty, what is the ocean like? Have you seen it? Where do you think the Yun Prince's family will go?"

The Jing Emperor shook his head. He had never seen the ocean before.

The Grand Xi had a lot of territory that bordered the ocean, but as the owner of the lands, he had never gone. Suddenly he felt jealous of that man who could go wherever he pleased.

He understood a little of what the Yun Prince had been up to these past couple years. He only realized now that the Yun Prince's business had grown very large, and had even started working with seafaring merchants.

It was said he was preparing to take his wife and children to visit the country of these sailors.

He felt even more jealous. When would he be able to take his own wife and children for a trip?

Suddenly, the Yun Prince's words rang through his mind—-

"…..I told you that being the emperor is the hardest thing in the world. It requires someone born in the year of the bull to do…."

The Jing Emperor was extremely aggrieved. He grabbed Xiao Hua's hand and said: "Wait until our Zhuo'er has grown up. We will take you out for a trip…."

Xiao Hua was stunned. How did it get to this topic?

She thought back to their conversation and then smiled: "Alright, then majesty has to remember it."

"The monarch keeps his word!"

176

Over the past two years, the officials had quite some complaints about the state of the Jing Emperor's harem.

The Jing Emperor had too few wives and concubines. There were only five people, and one of them was the empress who had yet to die.

Without mentioning the empress who had holed up in her spot and refused to die, the officials were also rather interested in sending girls from their own households into the palace.

In his helplessness, the Jing Emperor used the mourning period of the former emperor as an excuse, and said to bring it up three years later.

But after three years had truly passed, no one dared mention it anymore. This was because the Jing Emperor's attitude was too obvious. After all these years, there was still only the senior concubine.

Of course, there were still those unafraid of death who brought it up, but they were completely ignored by the Jing Emperor.

During this time, the prime senior concubine got pregnant once again.

By now, no one dared cause any trouble anymore. If the senior concubine was angered and it ended up affecting the fetus, none of them could bear this responsibility.

One early spring day in March, Xiao Hua took Yi Yi and Yu'er for a walk in the imperial gardens.

The scenery there had just turned beautiful. The blooming flowers were bright, the grass was long and the birds were flying.

The day was warm and the gentle breeze was extremely comfortable.

Yi Yi wore a pink dress and was running around amongst the flowers, using a small net to catch butterflies. Yu'er ran behind his sister, but unfortunately his short legs prevented him from catching up. He angrily ran over to Xiao Hua and grabbed her sleeves to complain.

"Mother concubine, look at big sis. She's not waiting for me at all."

Xiao Hua pinched her son's chubby cheeks and said: "Wait until you're her age. Then it'll be her who can't catch up."

As of now, only Xiao Hua could pinch this bad tempered yet sensible second prince's little chubby cheeks. He would get snappy at anyone else who tried.

"Alright, alright. Big sis caught a butterfly for you to play with."

Yi Yi brought ran over with the small net, and gave the butterfly within it to Yu'er. Yu'er looked at it a couple of times, and wasn't interested in such things. He turned his head away grumpily.

"Aiya, you're a little boy, why are you so petty? Then what does big sis have to do to make you not angry?"

"Give the small net to me to play with." Yu'er finally revealed his intention.

Yi Yi burst out laughing, and made faces as she ran off, "Finally revealed your little fox's tail. Come catch me if you want it….."

Yu'er cried out in anger and chased after her.

Xiao Hua was laughing until she couldn't straighten up. The palace maids around her all said 'concubine, don't laugh anymore. Take care of your body'.

"Alright, no more laughing. This seat won't laugh anymore." Although she said this, Xiao Hua took a while before she could calm down.

"Concubine—-" Chun Cao's voice suddenly sounded out.

Xiao Hua followed her gaze and saw that Concubine Qiao happened to be walking with a few palace maids….

"Concubine look, the sun is great today. It's nice and warm, but not too hot. Taking a walk is good for the mind."

Concubine Qiao didn't speak.

"The flowers in the imperial garden are all blooming. Concubine, which one do you like? This servant will cut it and put it in a vase by your make-up counter. Your mood would improve by looking at it."

The low-ranked palace maid chattered on and on. She was a lively little person and spoke a lot. There were quite a few people serving by Concubine Qiao's side, but she had chosen this one as her personal palace maid.

The reason was because she was lively, and helped add some color to her world.

Concubine Qiao stroked the winter jasmine by her hand and said quietly: "Such a lovely flower, it'd be a shame to cut it."

"But it'll still wilt if we didn't cut it."

"It'll still wilt even it if it's not cut….." Concubine Qiao silently muttered.

"Concubine—-" The low-ranked palace maid pulled at Concubine Qiao's sleeves. "The senior concubine is there with the eldest princess and second prince. Shall we go pay respects?"

Concubine Qiao froze and looked over before withdrawing her gaze.

"No need. The senior concubine is definitely unwilling to see us. Let's go, it's getting late. Better go back."

The low-ranked palace maid still wanted to say something but Concubine Qiao had already turned and left.

Xiao Hua hadn't seen Concubine Qiao in a long time. It was rare for them to meet face to face outside of the one day on New Year's Eve. Having not seen her in so long, Xiao Hua only noticed now that she had become extremely haggard with a sense of loneliness between her brows.

Her heart suddenly became heavy.

….

Yi Yi was running and unexpectedly bumped into someone.

"Yi Yi—"

Hearing her older brother crown prince's voice, Yi Yi raised her head with a smile.

"Big bro, you also came to the gardens? Why aren't you studying today…."

Luo Zhuo's brows were furrowed and looked at her from the side. The person Yi Yi had ran into was Yang Nuo.

"Big bro Nuo, you're here as well."

Yang Nuo didn't say anything and helped the eldest princess up.

Luo Zhuo who was seven years old now was wearing the crown prince's regular outfit. Now that he was older, he looked even more like the Jing Emperor. When the two stood together, one was the large version and the other was the miniature version. Even their expressions were similar.

Of course, Luo Zhuo was still quite different in front of his mother concubine and his siblings. At least he became more talkative.

"I heard that mother concubine brought you and second brother over, and came to find you. You're already so old but are still running around wildly."

"I'm just playing with second brother…."

Right as she spoke, Luo Yu came and grabbed Yi Yi's waist from behind and laughed loudly, "Big sis, big sis, give me the net."

"Here you go, you naughty thing."

Yu'er finally got the net in his hands, and his face turned red in excitement. He called out a greeting to his older brother and big bro Nuo Nuo before running off.

"Greetings to the eldest princess."

Yi Yi frowned and looked at Yang Nuo, "I've told you several times that you don't have to call me eldest princess. Just call me Yi Yi."

"Eldest princess Yi Yi."

Yi Yi stomped her foot and pulled Luo Zhuo to the side, saying loudly: "Big bro crown prince, instruct him a little. Look at how he acts like a stiff old board. He's only so old but already so inflexible. He'll end up harming your crown prince's dignity if he goes out like this in the future."

Luo Zhuo laughed, "Is it that serious? Big bro Yang Nuo's manners are pretty good. After all, men and women are different. How can he call your nickname so intimately? How are you going to get married once you grow older?"

"I'm still so young, what marriage?" Yi Yi's face turned red. "You two stiff old boards, I'm ignoring you." After speaking, she ran off to Xiao Hua. She looked over and seemed to be tattling.

Luo Zhuo smiled bitterly at Yang Nuo and said: "Mom ended up giving all the nutrition to me when giving birth."

"Err, the eldest princess is fine like this. She's young after all."

Luo Zhuo smiled and didn't speak. He led Yang Nuo over to Xiao Hua's side.

"Ai, don't you feel my way of thinking has issues? Who cares how other people are doing? But still, it feels a little hard to bear when I see it."

Lin Qing Wan sorted through her thoughts and gave Xiao Hua a complicated look: "It's normal for you to have such thoughts."

"Is it normal? When I thought about it last night, I didn't feel it was normal. That's why I called you over to discuss. I didn't dare bring this up to the palace maids, and I haven't told his majesty either."

"How should I put this? You feel that you're currently happy, and you feel that others are unhappy because you've stolen something from them. Therefore, you have a sense of guilt."

Xiao Hua thought about it and nodded, "I truly do feel a little like this."

"In the past you naturally wouldn't have such thoughts. But now that his majesty clearly only has you in his heart, you don't need to worry or be on guard. Therefore, you have more thoughts to spare on feeling sympathetic. This is something people normally feel. If I were in your shoes, I'd probably feel the same."

Hearing this, Xiao Hua laughed mockingly at herself, "Actually it's normal for the winner to be king and the losers to be beggars. They harmed me quite a few times. This is why I feel my pity is excessive and laughable. If our positions were reversed, the grass on my grave would probably be knee-high already."

Lin Qing Wan only listened and didn't speak.

"You're still better off. You don't have so many troublesome things…."

Lin Qing Wan smiled: "Actually you're very well off too. I feel you're very incredible. His majesty only has you after so many years. Your happiness is enough for all women under the heavens to be jealous of."

"Aren't you also happy enough for others to be jealous?"

"How can it be compared?! Let's put it this way. The amount of concubines a man has is proportional to his status and power. My man is of lowly birth and has no money. It's only natural that he only has me." Speaking to this point, Lin Qing Wan burst out laughing.

Xiao Hua spat and gave her a glare. "Bugger off. Pretending to be poor every day. It's not like I'm trying to borrow money from you. Do you think I don't know that you're in charge of all the money in your household? It's only natural that your man doesn't have any money."

Lin Qing Wan laughed mischievously, and took a sip of her tea.

She gently let out a breath, turned to Xiao Hua and said: "Actually, you don't have to feel bothered, and you don't have to overthink it. Look at it from a different perspective. You can be an evil person for the sake of your future, and put these eyesores in places where they won't be eyesores anymore. That would naturally take care of the problem."

"You don't mean to say…."

Lin Qing Wan wagged her finger. "Of course it's not the way you're thinking. Why do women have to make things difficult for each other? Of course, if someone's straight up bullying you, you shouldn't let them off. But if they aren't a threat, you should let them off when possible."

Xiao Hua thought for a while and said in a complicated tone: "But I always felt that a woman's happiness doesn't come from living a life of luxury…."

Lin Qing Wan's eyes flashed. She lowered her gaze and stirred her tea with a smile: "The fact that you're able to have such thoughts in a place like this is already very hard to come by."

Xiao Hua thought she was referring to the palace, and that Lin Qing Wan was saying she was kind.

Little did she know that their thoughts were miles apart.

She thought a little longer and muttered with her brows furrowed: "No, my thoughts aren't conventional in this world…."

Lin Qing Wan didn't speak. Xiao Hua thought a little longer. She looked at her and wanted to say something, but hesitated.

"This is something you have to figure out yourself. If you can't think through it, you can discuss it with your majesty….hehe, it's getting late. I'll head back first."

Xiao Hua nodded and didn't get up to send her off. Lin Qing Wan came and went from the palace like it was her own home these past few years. It was naturally a breeze for her.

Only after getting onto her carriage did Lin Qing Wan reveal a smile.

Actually, Lin Qing Wan could understand the concubine's thoughts and attitude. However, in the end it wasn't appropriate for her to say too much.

If this had happened in her previous modern world, she would definitely roast her for being an unreasonable bitch. A mistress1 who won out in the end still had the face to pity others?

But this wasn't the modern world, and under this system it was normal for there to be several wives and concubines. The laws here permitted men to have many women, and the women here would never think of themselves as the mistress.

Furthermore, Xiao Hua was her good friend, and she would naturally see things from her perspective.

Everyone had the right to happiness, as long they didn't offend the heavens and as long as they didn't do anything they should be ashamed of. Everything else was unimportant. Everyone was selfish. If you have something others didn't, it would always be an undoable knot.

It was too hard for women to be happy in this age.

She had her own happiness, and she naturally wanted her best friend to be happy as well.

Therefore, Xiao Hua, you must be happy. You definitely can't allow outside influences to interfere with your happiness.

Author's notes:

Xiao Hua isn't a Mary Sue. Anyone can feel sympathy. Women are especially prone to this. Especially if the other person is so down that you feel they aren't a threat at all. As for Wan Wan, everyone would change how they view things according to their circumstances. She isn't being hypocritical, she's just adapting to her circumstances.

Mistress in this case is not the feminine form of master, but rather the "homewrecker", the "side piece"

177

.

In the end, Xiao Hua was a decisive person and thought things through very quickly.

Actually, what Lin Qing Wan said was very reasonable. She could choose not to think about it and not feel guilty. From a selfish perspective, she could make any eyesores disappear.

Of course, there were many ways to make people disappear. It was up to her to decide how to do it.

Speaking about it was easy but carrying it out was hard.

The Jing Emperor was a man and the emperor after all. How could he release his own women? If the women in the palace wanted to leave, death was probably the only option….

Xiao Hua kept this in her heart for a long, long time, and never brought it up.

As someone who slept beside her, the Jing Emperor naturally realized Xiao Hua'er's abnormality. But since she didn't say anything, he also didn't know how to start asking.

Before long, the Jing Emperor stopped trying to guess.

He first called Chun Cao and Ding Lan away to ask them about it, but didn't get any results. Then, he set his sights on Lin Qing Wan, who was the senior concubine's best friend.

Of course, the Jing Emperor wouldn't summon a commoner for questioning. This was left to the hardworking and diligent Eunuch Fu.

Eunuch Fu brought back the answer.

Lin Qing Wan naturally wouldn't say things too clearly, but still gave a few hints. Who was Eunuch Fu? He was a talented person! Although he didn't completely understand what she meant, he understood one thing. The senior concubine couldn't get used to seeing those three people.

According to Eunuch Fu's thoughts, it made sense. If those people weren't easy on the eyes, they shouldn't be wandering about being eyesores. The concubine was pregnant, and couldn't afford to be angered.

The same words had a different meaning to the Jing Emperor.

He glanced at Eunuch Fu who was standing submissively, "You don't need to worry about this."

Eunuch Fu didn't understand, but responded, "Yes."

That night, the Jing Emperor stroked Xiao Hua's stomach, adjusted his emotions and gave a speech.

This was the first time the Jing Emperor said such sappy and corny words. Regardless, Xiao Hua felt goosebumps popping up from cringing. It couldn't be helped. When a man said such sappy things with a rigid face, anyone would feel uncomfortable.

The gist of his speech has that now he had her, he wouldn't look at anyone else. Therefore, he felt a little sorry for the other people. He lamented and felt guilty, and somewhat blamed himself for not being a better person…..

In the end, he gave Xiao Hua an extremely distressed glance, almost making her tear up.

"Majesty, don't ever say that. It's all because of me. Majesty is like this all because of me." Xiao Hua hugged the Jing Emperor's head and comforted.

The Jing Emperor lay in her soft bosom and let out a sigh.

How comfortable!

"We plan to wait another two years, and once people are no longer paying attention to Our harem, We will release them."

Xiao Hua was in disbelief and rubbed her ears.

Where did this thought come from? Was she too in tune with her man, or was he just too good at reading people?

"Is, is that ok?" She was actually very pleased inside.

"What's not ok about it? Wasting their time would only bring bad karma." The Jing Emperor spoke righteously.

Fine, then Xiao Hua wouldn't have reservations anymore. Since her man had said so, everything was great.

"Then majesty better not regret it afterwards."

"Naturally won't regret."

The empress finally couldn't endure any longer.

She had lasted so many years. Despite suffering from her illness, she had endured it gladly.

Whenever she felt uncomfortable, she would imagine how she was making the two of them hopping mad, and would immediately feel better.

Some people were born to make trouble for others. The empress reflected back on her interactions with the Jing Emperor, and felt this was all she had been good for.

But she was now completely at ease. If she was a bother then she'd be a bother. Since she couldn't obtain his love, it was also good to obtain his hatred. Regardless, he would forget about her in the end. He would forget that in his life, there had once been such a horrible woman.

The empress wanted to see his majesty…

This message was swiftly relayed to the Jing Emperor. Xiao Hua also received the news.

"Majesty, don't go." Xiao Hua grabbed the Jing Emperor's arm and said urgently: "This servant concubine isn't being selfish. Regarding that sick person, these years many of the Fengqi Palace's people have ended up getting infected. You are the emperor, the ruler under the heavens. You naturally have to watch your health."

The Jing Emperor patted Xiao Hua's hand and ordered for everyone in the imperial hospital to be brought over.

The reason he called them over was to ask about the probability of getting infected if he were to meet the empress once. These imperial physicians all hesitated, and finally a young imperial physician surnamed Hu stood out and said that with sufficient preparations and minimizing the period of exposure, there shouldn't be a problem.

This imperial physician was the Little Doctor Hu from back then. He was now an imperial physician at the imperial hospital.

The Jing Emperor nodded and had them make the preparations.

Seeing this, Xiao Hua no longer stopped him, and merely watched as the physicians prepared. In the end, she still didn't feel at ease and ordered them to place a screen in front of the empress's bed.

…

Seeing the slender and tall silhouette behind the screen, the empress held in a bitter smile.

As expected, he still loathed her.

The hall was silent enough to hear a needle drop.

The empress coughed lightly a few times, and had the palace maids beside her support her up before waving her hand and having them leave.

Only two people remained in the hall. The empress in her bed and the Jing Emperor behind the screen. The two should have been the most intimate people in the world, but they were worlds apart.

The empress let out a deep breath and laughed nastily, "Did you feel this seat was extremely irksome these years?"

Silence.

"I can imagine it. You have everything you wanted, and have accumulated enough to confer her as empress. No one would dare object. Unfortunately….unfortunately this seat just refuses to die!" The empress panted rapidly, her voice becoming shrill, "Haha. You have the urge to choke this seat to death, right? You probably hate this seat from the bottom of your heart, right?"

The silence continued.

"Do you regret speaking too grandly back then? Luo Jing, this seat may not be good at anything else, but I'm still good at making you feel vexed….."

She was a little out of breath from laughing, her withered body trembled over and over before finally recovering somewhat. However, she realized that the silhouette behind the screen had left at some point.

….

Her dull eyes were blank.

After being frozen for a long while, she lay back down on her soft pillow, and said faintly: "….now, this seat is tired….I don't want to play with you guys anymore….in the next life, I hope to never meet you again…"

Behind the screen, a trembling silhouette appeared, and unfolded something in its hands.

"In compliance with the heavens, receive the emperor's edict….."

In the next life, I never want to meet you again—-

…

At the same time, the Jing Emperor returned to the Chenxi Palace with a sunken expression.

He chose not to enter the main hall right away, and instead went to the side hall where a bath had already been prepared. He used wormwood infused water to cleanse himself and had someone burn the clothes he was wearing. Only after changing into a new outfit did he enter the main hall.

Only now did the worried Xiao Hua feel relieved. She walked over and grabbed his hand, "Majesty….."

The Jing Emperor patter her hand comfortingly, and led Xiao Hua, who was heavily pregnant, to sit down.

"Everything's fine, right?"

"Fine."

The Jing Emperor naturally wouldn't say that the empress only wanted to see him to mock him.

Having ignored the woman who was his wife for so long, he truly felt nothing for her anymore. The slight regard between the married couple over two lifetimes had long since vanished. Even when hearing her say such words, the Jing Emperor truly couldn't be bothered to listen.

There were too many strange people in the world, and there were all sorts of weird ways of thinking. The Jing Emperor didn't want to understand it, and couldn't be bothered to do so.

"We have already passed the edict stripping the empress's position. Tomorrow, We will pass the edict conferring you empress. Really sorry for making you wait so long…."

Xiao Hua squeezed forwards and covered the Jing Emperor's lips, "Majesty, never say that. Perhaps I had thought about it early on, but after so many years, I feel we've long since become undoubtedly a married couple. That official status isn't as important to have."

"We only feel at ease this way."

A eunuch came in and reported with a bow, "Majesty, Xiao-Shi is no more…."

After a while—–

The Jing Emperor waved his hand and had him take his leave.

Xiao Hua was also dazed. After some time, she slowly let out a breath, "How strange. While it shouldn't be the case, I still feel a little uncomfortable in my heart. She, she's gone just like that?"

The Jing Emperor let out a sigh and pulled her into his arms. "You're currently pregnant, don't overthink things."

Xiao Hua didn't say anything. Only after a while did she say: "Majesty…..look how large my stomach is. It's also not too convenient. How about waiting a little later to confer me empress. This servant concubine wants to be a beautiful empress, not a pregnant empress."

How could the Jing Emperor not know what she was thinking? He nodded his head in agreement. "Alright."

The Fengqi Palace was currently extremely lively.

Today was the empress's grand conferral ceremony. The current Fengqi Palace was naturally not the same Fengqi Palace from before. After the former empress passed away from her illness, his majesty had ordered the Fengqi Palace to be torn down, and a new one was constructed in its place.

It was larger than before, and even more luxurious.

The internal affairs department had sent over the empress's imperial outfit for tomorrow early on. It was extremely dazzling, and the entire bed was covered in its various accompaniments and complementary pieces.

The most eye-catching was the empress's phoenix headdress. The round piece was made of jadeite, adorned with nine dragons and four phoenixes. The central dragon held a large jewel in its mouth. It was topped off by a jade cover and a string of pearls. The remaining dragons all held a jewel in their mouths as well. There were forty pieces of jade clouds, twelve large and small pearl flowers, twelve inlaid jade flowers, three strands of trailing ornamental hair adorned with golden dragons and jade clouds, each with a hanging pearl. There was a pair of jade loops with twelve jeweled flowers, twelve jade flowers, some golden support hoops and five types of jade pearl flowers. The base was also surrounded by pearls…..

Xiao Hua weighed it in her hands and truly wondered if her neck could support it.

She then looked at the phoenix robes. These were long traditional dark cyan robes, woven with twelve pairs of pheasants within flower wheel patterns. It had red cuffs, collar and bottom with small golden dragon patterns. The dark cyan robes covered the knees, and there were four flowers for every three pairs of pheasants. The jade leather belt was held in place with green silk, outlined in golden dragons with ten jade ornaments and four golden ornaments. The green and red mixed large band hung down and was also embroidered with golden dragon motifs.

There was also a green secondary belt, a rainbow major tassel, three minor tassels, two sets of jade ornaments, cyan golden stockings, and shoes with five ornamental pearls each….1

Seeing the large amount of things she had to wear tomorrow, Xiao Hua's head swelled up. To say she wasn't excited and pleased would be a lie.

She could finally become his wife, become the person who could justifiably stand at his side. There would no longer be anything that came between them…..

Before dawn the next morning, Xiao Hua got up.

The entire Fengqi Palace was lit up. With the help of palace maids, Xiao Hua took a hot bath and washed her hair. Afterwards, a steamer was used to dry her long hair.

Ding Lan brushed Xiao Hua's hair for her from the roots to the tips. On the other side, Chun Mei and the others were led by Chun Cao in helping her put on a facemask. After everything was done, Chun Cao helped Xiao Hua apply face cream and started putting on makeup.

After putting on makeup, around ten palace maids came in carrying the empress's imperial outfit. Ding Lan and Chun Cao helped her put it on piece by piece. Once everything was in place, Xiao Hua sat in front of the makeup counter while Ding Lan brushed her hair.

Once she was done, Chun Cao carefully put on the phoenix headdress for Xiao Hua.

Xiao Hua stood up after they were all done, and tried taking a couple of steps.

Luckily, it was still stable. She finally experienced Zhuo'ers emotions when he first put on his imperial outfit. It was truly heavy on top and light on the bottom.

Before she knew it, the sky had brightened.

Suddenly, the beating of drums sounded in the distance.

It was still quite far away, but was clearly audible.

Dong, dong, dong…..

It was dignified and solemn.

Chun Cao let out a low sigh, "His majesty has already started."

For the sake of today's conferral ceremony, Xiao Hua wasn't the only one with a lot to do. Chun Cao and Ding Lan also had a lot of homework. They had to know all the proceedings and what to do during each step. Therefore, even if they weren't by the front court, Xiao Hua could understand the situation based on the beating of the drums.

At this time, his majesty should have arrived at the Hall of Origin.

As expected, the drums stopped and instruments began playing the "score of silenced drums".

By the time the music reached the Fengqi Palace, the sound had become quite faint. But it was the empress conferral ceremony today, and everyone was watching. Outside of the relevant ceremonial sounds, the entire palace was naturally silent. Therefore, Xiao Hua could still steadily hear the music within the Fengqi Palace.

Once the "score of silenced drums" was over, the next piece was the "score of celebrated peace" and "score of prominent peace".

Xiao Hua's heart beat extremely fast. This was a sort of indescribable excitement. It made one's blood boil yet also made one's eyes burn at the same time…..

"Concubine, it's time to rise. The conferral procession should be arriving soon." Ding Lan suddenly spoke at some point.

Xiao Hua had the people support her to the Fengqi Palace's gates. Within the courtyard, all sorts of festive tables, incense tables and treasure tables had all been set up already.

The festive tables were in the dead center of the hall. The incense tables were towards the south and the treasure tables were set up in the east and west. The empress's worship position was in front of the incense table, and there were six female officials already waiting.

The distant music came closer and closer.

Xiao Hua got off the steps, and right as she steadied herself, she saw the Jing Emperor in his black imperial outfit. Behind him, a large group of people carried the scrolls and treasure box containing the imperial rites.

It was currently sunrise, when the Golden Crow had just risen. The golden yellow sun shone brightly onto the approaching people, giving them a gilded appearance. That person, dressed in his black imperial robes, looked especially handsome and dignified, as though an immortal had come down from the heavens.

Xiao Hua completely forget what happened next. She merely followed the female officials mechanically and performed the ceremonial actions. However, her eyes couldn't bear to move away from him.

She only looked at him, looked at him the whole time….

The Jing Emperor was the same way. His gaze was apathetic but extremely focused. Just like throughout all these years, he only noticed her alone, and never looked away. His restrained eyes burned with a smoldering gaze….

Following the cry of "Ceremony complete—"

A jade-white slender palm appeared in front of her. Xiao Hua placed her hand upon it and gently used his support to stand up.

"Majesty….."

"Our empress. You look extremely beautiful in this outfit."

"Really?"

"En."

Author's notes:

Just to clarify: the details on the empress's clothing were taken from the internet.

Please allow this author to laugh foolishly for a while…..

It's been three months, and this book has finally reached its epilogue. Actually there's still a lot I want to write about, but also feel perhaps writing about things unrelated to the male and female leads would be dragging it out? Therefore, the main story will end here. What comes next is the epilogue. The epilogue actually just continues where we left off, and tells a few stories about what happens after being conferred empress. For example, Eunuch Fu, Yi Yi, the fourth young master and so on. Of course, there won't be a lack of Xiao Hua Hua and Repressed Jing…..

It won't be too long, but —– I can finally write without restraint!

I always felt that being conferred empress was the conclusion, so let this be a small ending.

Hahaha, this author will put her hands at her waist and laugh loudly towards the heavens. I can only release the carefree emotions in my heart this way.

I've updated chapters for half a year. From my very first novel to this one, I've never missed an update. Actually it was quite a lot of pressure. After all, this author isn't a professional, and this is only a hobby and I enjoy doing it.

Every time this author ended up crying while updating in the middle of the night, I would feel I have some issues. Luckily, there were always readers who could sympathize, whether it was one or two or a few. I'd always feel kind of gratified…..

Every woman has a dream, a beautiful dream. Actually this author is also dreaming, and wanted to share my dream with everyone else…..

As for the empress, this author ended up shedding quite a few tears for this woman. When I wrote the part where she was venting and Repressed Jing had left, I felt especially uncomfortable in my heart. Actually Repressed Jing isn't heartless, he just didn't know what to say, or perhaps after being estranged for so long he really became distant…..

The first chapter in the epilogue is about Eunuch Fu. I'm quite affectionate towards this damn eunuch, and must make his old face bloom in a smile.

Picture worth more than a thousand words….

178

t/n: this chapter should be called Epilogue 1, but I just continued in case it messes up the Novelupdates.

Auntie Qi couldn't help but tear up when she saw the two people standing there holding hands.

She glanced at the person next to her and saw his old face was also stretched tight.

She knew him too well. Just by looking at this expression, she knew his emotions were surging inside.

That's right. They had personally witnessed the empress and his majesty reach this point step by step. No one knew better than them how much the two had experienced during this time.

They had learned to worry at some point…..

When that person was a little child, they worried about whether he could live to grow up. Once he grew up, they worried about his marriage and his offspring, and worried about his happiness. But things were unpredictable, and after many twists and turns over the years, their master had her, had children, had love and everything seemed to be perfect all of a sudden.

Auntie Qi felt a little empty inside and secretly left the Fengqi Palace gates.

The palace roads were empty. Today was the grand conferral ceremony, and those unrelated didn't dare wander about randomly. Her tears suddenly started flowing…..

After so many years, she wanted to have a good cry for the first time.

Auntie Qi didn't know how long she cried for. When she gradually stopped, a voice sounded by her side.

"What are you crying for? Shouldn't you be happy?" Although he said this, she could hear his own voice was also choked up.

This old fellow is always putting on an act!

Auntie Qi wiped her eyes and looked at the person next to her.

A pale face, an upright nose, and tender skin yet with plenty of fine wrinkles….

Old?

That's right, they were both old.

Auntie Qi subconsciously felt around her own eyes. There were also wrinkles there. Suddenly, she felt a feeling of resentment arise in her heart.

She let out a hmph, turned her head and walked away.

Eunuch Fu let out a surprised sound and chased after her.

"What? Why are you angry again?"

Auntie Qi walked faster and faster. After reaching the gates of the esteemed office of the palace, she turned around and said: "Let me calm down." Then, she went inside.

Eunuch Fu was left by himself. He stroked his nose and stood for a while before leaving.

….

General Manager Fu and Esteemed Official Qi had gotten into an argument.

This news reached Xiao Hua's ears.

Not only was she surprised, many people within the palace were extremely surprised as well. Especially those old fellows. Everyone knew that Eunuch Fu and Esteemed Official Qi's relationship went back many years. How did they end up arguing?

Xiao Hua asked Chun Cao out of curiosity. Chun Cao was the most well-informed within the Fengqi Palace, but unexpectedly she didn't know the reason either.

Even Yi Yi could tell Eunuch Fu didn't look quite right, and ran over to find Xiao Hua.

"Mother empress, Fu Fu had a bitter expression the entire day. Did father give him some bones to eat?"

This little thing, ever since she heard the palace maids saying "giving bones to eat" and what not, she learned to use this saying. Of course, she also understood what it meant: to scold or make someone unhappy.

"Mother empress doesn't know either. How about Yi Yi goes to ask father?"

Yi Yi went to find the Jing Emperor, and secretly asked about Eunuch Fu. Unexpectedly, even the Jing Emperor didn't know.

In the end, Chun Cao was still the capable one, and received news that Nana He knew the answer. But Nana He wasn't willing to tell her anything, so Chun Cao went to find Xiao Hua and had her go investigate personally.

After all, the empress and Nana He had always gotten along. Perhaps she could get some clues?

Xiao Hua went to find Nana He to chat, and after getting back her expression was weird.

Yi Yi seemed to have heard from Chun Cao that her mother empress went to investigate, and questioned Xiao Hua after she got back. But Xiao Hua didn't tell her anything, and only said she wasn't able to get any answers.

That night, after getting in bed and extinguishing the lamps, Xiao Hua pulled the Jing Emperor over for a conversation.

"Majesty, do you understand Eunuch Fu's matter?"

The Jing Emperor lay there and his brows twitched.

This was the second time in the past couple days. First it was his daughter asking, and now his daughter's mom asked about it as well. He hadn't been curious at first, but now his curiosity was aroused.

"What? Do you know something?"

Xiao Hua laughed awkwardly and cuddled up to the Jing Emperor. "I heard some gossip."

"Oh? Let's hear it."

Xiao Hua told him about Eunuch Fu's dark past. The information was given to her by Nana He who had known the two the longest….

It turns out that Eunuch Fu was rather shameless.

That year, Auntie Qi missed the period where she could be released from the palace due to the fifth prince. Of course, it wasn't just due to the fifth prince, but Auntie Qi never revealed the reason. She merely said she didn't have any relatives on the outside so she might as well remain in the palace.

There was something called "meal partners" in the palace, which was when a palace maid and eunuch got married. This was two lonely people getting together to pass their days and keep each other company. Although Auntie Qi was ordinary looking and wasn't very beautiful, she was steady and magnanimous, so was still admired by quite a lot of eunuchs.

Therefore, there were no lack of eunuchs coming to ingratiate themselves with Auntie Qi…..

Exactly what Eunuch Fu thought about it, no one knew. Regardless, according to Nana He, Eunuch Fu had played some tricks in the dark several times. It was truly a case where he would deal with each one as they came, and send each one away accordingly….

At first, Nana He had some doubts. Then, she witnessed Eunuch Fu that little fellow invite several eunuchs over to give one of Auntie Qi's suitor eunuchs a beating. He even told him never to come looking for her again, or else he would break his damn leg. Only then did Nana He realize why the others had never come back again.

Nana He initially thought that Eunuch Fu and Auntie Qi had gotten emotionally involved. But after watching a few years, she felt that wasn't quite right. Eunuch Fu had never made a move, and Auntie Qi was still young back then. Only when she saw Auntie Qi subconsciously reveal an expression of complaint did Nana He finally realize what was going on.

She had hinted at Auntie Qi several times, but she had always played dumb and never said anything. Eunuch Fu also played dumb. In the end, the young Aunt Xiu ended up becoming Auntie Qi, and no one came to flatter her anymore….

The Jing Emperor's expression was very surprised after listening to this. This sort of expression rarely appeared on his face, so it was evident how surprised he was at this situation.

After his surprise, he frowned and cast his thoughts back. After pondering a long while, he finally said: "We actually never realized."

The Jing Emperor's expression was a little depressed. Xiao Hua said comfortingly: "I heard Nana He say this was something that happened long ago. Majesty was still young back then…."

Only now did the Jing Emperor feel better.

After another while, he suddenly said: "Then what should we do?"

Xiao Hua felt that such a vexed Jing Emperor was extremely cute. She leaned forward and gave his cheek a bite, "What does majesty think?"

The Jing Emperor pulled her into his arms and caressed her, "How about We confer them as husband and wife?"

This simple and crude solution made Xiao Hua choke up, "That's not too appropriate, right? First of all, "meal partners" are a private thing to begin with. The fact that they had remained deadlocked for so many years means that there has to be an obstacle in their hearts."

"An obstacle?"

"That's right." Xiao Hua nodded, and then said: "Alright, majesty shouldn't think about it anymore. Leave this to me. You've been busy with official business lately, and don't have time to mind other people's business."

The rest of the night was silent.

Actually Xiao Hua already had a rough plan after thinking about it during the day.

To put it plainly, Eunuch Fu had some reservations in his heart and wasn't willing to take the initiative. As for Auntie Qi, she had been led on for so many years, and was also resentful in her heart. Thus the situation was at an impasse.

How should she break this deadlock?

The next afternoon, Xiao Hua took some time to go to the small kitchen. She wanted to run her thoughts by Nana He.

Nana He understood the two after all, and would be able to give advice.

"No, no, that won't do. Concubine, you don't know how shady that Eunuch Fu is. Back then, whenever anyone showed any interest, he would secretly screw with them. To put it plainly, he basically swallowed them whole."

"Then let's find someone who isn't afraid of his shadiness…."

"No one is shadier than him in this palace. Concubine, you don't understand. In the palace, he's this one." Nana He held up her thumb. "No one dares to go against him. Furthermore, that old fellow has a lot of methods. He might just screw someone over without a second thought."

"This—–" Xiao Hua muttered, "Then let me rethink things."

What she really meant was to go get some ideas from the Jing Emperor.

Xiao Hua told him her thoughts as well as Nana He's opinions, and had him help think of ideas.

The Jing Emperor squinted his eyes and put on a mysterious appearance.

"You don't have to worry about this. We'll take care of it."

Alright. Seeing her man's confidence, Xiao Hua anxiously awaited the results.

Eunuch Su had been responsible for the Jing Emperor's private businesses back when he was still the prince. Once the Jing Emperor ascended the throne, he was relocated to the internal affairs department.

The internal affairs department interacted with the royal merchants year round. As someone who had personally handled businesses, Eunuch Su naturally knew how much the royal merchants had embezzled from the royal family. Thus, he got rid of them and started his own group.

He made use of his previous team and things operated quite well.

On this day, Eunuch Su came to the imperial study and asked to meet the Jing Emperor.

When he came in, he chattered on about various things before finally getting to the main topic. He asked his majesty to help him out with something. He said that he and Esteemed Official Qi had great affinity with each other. However, as the esteemed official, she was a female official and not a normal palace maid. Therefore, she wasn't allowed to become "meal partners" in private, and needed the master to make a decision.

Eunuch Fu had been out of it these past few days. In the past he always worked meticulously, but these days he needed the Jing Emperor to give him several reminders before snapping out of it.

Only when he heard someone mention "Qi" did he seem to be injected with stimulants. His eyes widened and he perked his ears up to listen.

After listening, Eunuch Fu wished he could tear this bastard to pieces.

This damn eunuch has designs on Aunt Xiu? I'll blind your damn eyes!

The Jing Emperor didn't immediately agree, saying he had to ask Esteemed Official Qi's opinion. Eunuch Su then left.

The moment he left, Eunuch Fu gave an excuse and also slipped out.

Eunuch Su was walking along the hallway and as expected heard footsteps behind him.

His lips twitched in an undetectable smile.

From behind him, a sinister voice sounded out, "You little fellow. When did you start having thoughts towards Auntie Qi?"

Eunuch Su first put on a surprised expression, and then started saying loudly: "A long time ago! Back then, I was still young when I was arranged by his majesty's side. Big sis Aunt Xiu was the one who took care of me and I've always kept it in mind. You also know I was away most of the time back then. I've met many women outside, but none of them were as good as big sis Aunt Xiu."

"You even know to call her big sis. You know she's older than you." What an aggrieved voice.

"That's fine, an older woman is as good as gold!"

"You—-"

Eunuch Fu grew anxious enough that he couldn't speak properly anymore.

He truly had reason to be anxious. Who knows when Eunuch Su this little fellow started having these thoughts? Now that he's suddenly brought this up, Eunuch Fu was truly unprepared. Since it was brought up to his majesty, what if his majesty agreed?

What should he do?

"She's already so old. Based on your status, Eunuch Su, wouldn't it be better to find a younger one? This one noticed several fresh and tender low-ranked palace maids in the palace recently. How about I pick some out for you?"

"Older ones have their own flavor. I prefer older ones."

The sound of grinding teeth.

Eunuch Su revealed a surprised expression, and said in astonishment: "Hey, Fu old bro. What does my business with Auntie Qi have to do with you? Why are you making such a fuss!?"

"Aunt Xiu is from my hometown. This one naturally has to worry."

Eunuch Su had a face of "understanding" as he looped his arm around Eunuch Fu's shoulders and patted him, "You should be able to tell based on my character. Don't worry, I will definitely take care of Aunt Xiu."

After speaking, he released his hand and walked away with large strides. He even hummed a little tune as he left.

Eunuch Fu looked darkly at his silhouette, all sorts of vicious schemes flashing through his mind. He had even finalized his plans….

However—–

However, Eunuch Su wasn't just anyone, he had been old buddies with him for several decades. His methods couldn't be used on his own people, Eunuch Fu was aware of this…..

What should he do?

179

.

Auntie Qi returned to her room. A low-ranked palace maid had already prepared water for her.

She freshened herself up simply and lay down.

After lying for a while, she wasn't able to fall asleep no matter how she tried. Suddenly, she heard a noise by the window. She got up and glanced over, and saw a familiar silhouette she could recognize even if it turned to ash.

It wasn't that she hated him to the bone, but rather because she was too familiar with him. She could tell who it was just by the silhouette.

She waited until the person climbed in through the window, rubbed his old waist and regained his breath, before suddenly speaking.

"What are you doing here?"

That silhouette froze, and chuckled foolishly a couple times. "I'm here to talk to you."

"Don't you know how to use the door?"

"I was afraid you wouldn't open it."

Fiend!

Auntie Qi sat up. She didn't light the lamps, and merely sat there and said: "Whatever it is you have to say, say it."

"Why don't you light the lamps? Where are they, I'll light them." This was trying to act oblivious.

"Hurry and say it, and leave once you're done. I still have to rest." An extremely impatient tone.

The silhouette felt his way over to the desk and used the moonlight to sit down.

"Er…."

"Hurry and speak."

"That, that, I hear you and that little fellow Eunuch Su have quite the affinity for each other?"

"What? What's that got to do with you?!"

That silhouette got choked up and didn't speak for a long while.

"That, Aunt Xiu, your affinity with Eunuch Su isn't real, right?"

"So what if it's real? So what if it's fake?"

"That little fellow isn't anything good. When running around outside for his majesty in the past, he didn't lack in doing those vulgar things…."

"What's it to you if he's good or bad?"

"Aren't I just concerned about you…."

"I don't need your concern!"

"Don't be angry. We've known each other for so long, I'm also just doing this for your own good…."

"For my own good? Was it for my own good that whenever someone came to my side, you would push them away?" Auntie Qi had never said these words before. It seemed the darkness gave her some strength, and allowed her to explode without restraint.

Eunuch Fu was completely frozen. He had thought she didn't know about it.

"Eunuch Fu. Just what do you want? I've gone from feeling hopeful to despair in waiting for you to make a move. You just love playing dumb all day. Since you enjoy it so much, just play dumb until the end. What are you nosing into my business for?"

"I wasn't….." A very weak voice.

"Since you weren't, you might as well leave. Eunuch Su asked his majesty for my sake, so I'll give a response tomorrow."

"Aunt Xiu—–"

There was no response.

"Aunt Xiu—" That silhouette covered his face and bent over.

Eunuch Fu was never one to show weakness. Even though he had acted docile in the past, his humble face never revealed any weakness. He had always thought to let those people be arrogant for now, and take care of them someday.

But today, he truly revealed weakness both inside and out. But in the dark, it wasn't as noticeable.

"I'm not a real man, so I feel you deserve someone better….."

"What does better mean?"

"At least someone who can make you happy….at least someone who's a real man….."

"What is happiness?"

Not having gotten an answer, Auntie Qi laughed coldly and continued speaking: "I'm already so old. What man would be willing to marry me?"

"I'm sorry…"

Back then, he had been afraid she would leave the palace once she reached the age of release. He went almost crazy in acting shameless to have her accompany him, saying he couldn't bear part with her and that the fifth prince needed her…..

When the time came, she didn't leave as expected. He felt happy in his heart, but also felt ashamed…..

He squandered so many years of her time. He was almost fifty, and she was several years over forty. He had once thought to leave it like this. Since no one was willing to be with her anymore, he would stay by her side until death….

Unexpectedly, someone liked old ones!

Eunuch Fu, oh Eunuch Fu. You truly are a despicable person. So despicable that mortals and gods alike would be angered!

"If this is all you have to say, you might as well leave. Pretend you never came."

"Then, Eunuch Su…."

As expected! Auntie Qi closed her eyes, grabbed the pillow next to her and threw it over.

"Scram! I'll give my answer to his majesty tomorrow."

"Aunt Xiu—"

No response.

Eunuch Fu swallowed, "Aunt Xiu, Eunuch Su is a eunuch, and he isn't that young…."

"I'm willing!"

"Then, then what do you think about me? I'm only older than him by a few years…."

Auntie Qi choked up and started crying hysterically, "You fiend! You had to be forced before you were willing to say it!"

Eunuch Fu fumbled over to the bedside and sat there at a loss. "Ai, Aunt Xiu. Don't cry."

"You fiend!" Auntie Qi pounced into his arms, and hit him as she cried, "You fiend….."

Eunuch Fu's hand trembled. He fumbled about a few times before wrapping his arms around her tightly.

The next day, Eunuch Fu went to find the Jing Emperor with an ashamed expression.

"You mean to tell me that you and Esteemed Official Qi have affinity for each other, and it's got nothing to do with Eunuch Su?"

Eunuch Fu puffed out his chest and agreed. He said righteously: "That little fellow's feelings are one-sided! Aunt Xiu doesn't like him at all. The person Aunt Xiu liked has always been me."

The Jing Emperor clenched his fists and lightly coughed. He said with a rigid face: "Hmmm, We feel We should still ask Eunuch Su and Esteemed Official Qi's opinions."

He wasn't afraid of asking Aunt Xiu, but he was afraid new issues would come up if they asked Eunuch Su. After all, that little fellow was a smooth talker, and could make something dead sound alive. He hurriedly said: "Majesty doesn't need to ask Eunuch Su. Asking Esteemed Official Qi is enough."

The Jing Emperor nodded understandingly.

Eunuch Fu's old face immediately bloomed in a smile.

…..

Becoming meal partners was something private within the palace after all. The masters may be aware but they would never bring it up.

The Jing Emperor didn't confer them as husband and wife, but in compensation he still arranged a wedding for Eunuch Fu and Auntie Qi.

There was a bridal sedan chair (what can't be bought with money?), a wedding venue (there were many residences in the palace), people to carry the sedan chair (there were many eunuchs in the palace), drums and gongs (court musicians filled in), visitors and everyone who was close to them attended, including the empress…

Barbarian Yan came looking for Eunuch Fu on the first day.

He was now completely freeloading off the Jing Emperor. He randomly held a position as the leader of the imperial bodyguards. He lived close to the imperial palace, and would come and go as he pleased for his job. The Jing Emperor turned a blind eye to this, so those under him did the same.

After hearing that the old thing Eunuch Fu was getting himself a wife, he had long since gathered some good stuff to share with him.

Eunuch Fu looked at the dazzling assortment of goods in front of him and his face turned purple from anger.

Damned mother! Is this dude doing it on purpose?!

Barbarian Yan still had that same look with his scraggly beard and vulgar smile, "Hey, how is it? Do you like it? Just treat it as a wedding gift."

"Scram, scram….."

"Aiya, so angry you can't speak properly. Hehe, this one's doing it for your own good, understand? For the sake of our relationship, this daddy here has done several days' worth of research. I spent the whole night putting these good things together. You old fellow better know what's what!"

Eunuch Fu knew what Barbarian Yan's hobbies were, but still looked doubtful: "Really?"

"Tsk. Forget it if you don't believe me. Not only did this daddy ask several eunuchs who have become meal partners, but I've also crouched on rooftops to eavesdrop." Barbarian Yan stroked his beard and looked like he expected to be worshipped.

Eunuch Fu was still half skeptical, and randomly flipped through one of the books. The moment he looked, his face turned red.

"Hehe, what are you blushing for. Actually, you should have looked into these things earlier. If you had known back then, Auntie Qi wouldn't have had to wait so many years for you. You have to trust my abilities….."

Eunuch Fu was shamed into anger and kicked Barbarian Yan out.

After Barbarian Yan left, Eunuch Fu spat towards the door. Then, he carefully looked around before secretly closing the door and continuing his research.

He scarcely imagined that on his roof was a large dark fellow who lifted up one of the tiles and peeped inside through the gap. That fellow secretly laughed while watching.

On this day, the palace was unusually lively.

Although there weren't too many people, everyone was beaming. Even the Jing Emperor and Xiao Hua had come.

Eunuch Fu's eyes were squinted in a smile the entire day. When they reached the ritual kneeling by bride and groom, his face revealed a rare trace of red. His legs and arms tangled up and he almost fell flat on his face.

After the ceremony, the newly-weds went into the bridal chamber.

The remaining people hadn't left. There were two tables of alcohol, and it naturally had to be consumed before leaving.

The Jing Emperor and Xiao Hua didn't linger. If they remained, everyone wouldn't be completely at ease. Such a festive occasion was rare, so they let everyone enjoy themselves thoroughly.

The Jing Emperor and Xiao Hua didn't take their carriage, but instead enjoyed the gentle breeze as they walked back. There were quite a few palace maids and eunuchs following five or six paces behind them.

"How nice." Xiao Hua said.

The Jing Emperor didn't speak. His grip tightened and loosened repeatedly on her hand.

During the ceremony, Xiao Hua had noticed the Jing Emperor's eyes had turned red. However, it wasn't clear from his expression, and since the room had been brightly lit, it hadn't been noticeable. No one understood better than Xiao Hua how much the newly-weds today meant to the Jing Emperor.

Therefore, it was truly good they could be happy.

….

After Eunuch Fu accompanied everyone in drinking for a while, he drove everyone away and returned to the bridal chamber.

The room was bright red, and was extremely glaring. So glaring that it made one's eyes sore.

Auntie Qi's veil had long since been lifted. She wore a crimson wedding dress and sat in front of the table. Hearing the door open, she turned and looked at Eunuch Fu, happening to see this old fellow's red-rimmed eyes.

She thought he had drank too much and scolded: "Told you to drink less."

Eunuch Fu smiled foolishly, "It's a happy occasion, happy…"

Auntie Qi fetched a basin of water and used a towel to wipe his face.

"Did you eat the food I brought over? Still want to eat something?"

"I've eaten, don't want to eat anymore."

"Then, then let's go to bed."

The two went to the bed and took off their outer clothes. They lay in bed with only their underwear. The crimson festive candles crackled a few times before falling silent.

Auntie Qi's emotions were currently surging when she noticed someone fumbling over from the side.

"You, what are you doing?" Her face was red like the sunset, adding some appeal to Auntie Qi's ordinary looking face.

"Er….let me kiss you….."

"Would you give it a rest!?" Auntie Qi blushed and turned her back towards him.

After another while, someone fumbled over again.

Auntie Qi wanted to struggle, but was held fast.

That person mumbled: "Aunt Xiu….that person, Barbarian Yan gave me a few methods. It says the two of us can both, can both be happy. How about we give it a try?"

"En?"

"That fellow probably wouldn't lie to me. Let's give it a try….."

"En….."

Author's notes:

Laughing a hundred times with my hands on my hips. This Barbarian Yan can cure male related issues. If he can't cure it, he'll give your money back!

Just kidding.

Regarding eunuchs doing that, this author specially did a lot of research (Fu Fu, you should be thanking me you know? Was it easy for me?).

In regards to that, the Ming Dynasty cut off the balls, but not the shaft. The Qing Dynasty chops everything off.

It was said the Qing Dynasty did so because there were too many examples of eunuchs being promiscuous within the rear palace during the Ming Dynasty. For example, Wei Zhong Xian and that emperor's wet nurse Ke-Shi and so on. There were especially many meal partners formed during the Ming Dynasty. Even the emperor knew about it. Wei Zhong Xian and Wei Chao struggling over Ke-Shi was something that stirred things up until it reached the emperor. The emperor asked Ke-Shi, who ended up choosing Wei Zhong Xian. However, forming meal partners became forbidden under Emperor Kangxi, though it didn't seem successful….

My face is very red. Therefore, everyone can use their imagination for the rest. You can think of all sorts of methods. Hehe….

Hehe, going to take some time in the next days to start my new novel. Trying to start it before this one is finished. Therefore, only one chapter a day from now on. Don't beat me up everyone.

180

The jing emperor gave Eunuch Fu and Auntie Qi three days off.

Actually they could have taken more time off, but Eunuch Fu and Auntie Qi were both hard workers, and felt that the palace couldn't function without them. Therefore, they only took three days.

During these three days, countless people wanted to come take a look at the situation in their remote pavilion. Unfortunately, the place was guarded by Eunuch Fu's disciple An Chen as well as one of Auntie Qi's palace maids. Naturally, no one could get inside.

Xiao Hua had a secret discussion with the Jing Emperor regarding how Eunuch Fu and Auntie Qi were spending their time during these three days. The Jing Emperor had a stiff expression and his gaze was strange as he thought about what Barbarian Yan had smugly told him. He had been dumbstruck, and decided not to tell Xiao Hua'er the details.

Xiao Hua'er was too innocent and Barbarian Yan was too vulgar.

Alright, not just too vulgar. He so vulgar it angered mortals and gods alike!

However—–

This was truly pretty good.

In the past he hadn't understood the intricacies and had also been ignorant. Wasn't he taking a lot of pleasure in it now?

Thinking of this, the Jing Emperor kissed Xiao Hua's forehead.

Xiao Hua was still mired in endless curiosity when she realized his lips had moved from her forehead to her neck. His intentions were too obvious, but she liked it.

Xiao Hua wrapped her arms around the Jing Emperor's neck and responded.

Therefore, the questions about those three days were put to rest.

….

After Xiao Hua became the empress, she naturally had to learn to handle palace matters. Luckily, when Xiao-Shi had been ill, Xiao Hua had already managed things in her place as the senior concubine for a long time. Now it was just a matter of having the appropriate status.

Three days later, Esteemed Official Qi returned to work, and naturally had to check-in with Xiao Hua.

After Xiao Hua bid her to rise, she swept her gaze curiously over Auntie Qi's face.

She had thought she was subtle about it, but who was Auntie Qi? She had long since seen through the meaning behind Xiao Hua's glance. Her steady and solemn face immediately turned completely red, and her flush even extended towards her neck.

Xiao Hua was a married woman after all, and wasn't that dirty. She also felt this wasn't too good, so she cleared her throat, straightened her expression and had Auntie Qi go back to work.

After Auntie Qi left the Fengqi Palace, her face was still red and she hurried back to the esteemed office of the palace. The first thing she did was gather her subordinates and announce the end of her vacation. Then she went to her own office, walked over to her desk and pulled out a mirror from under it.

She looked at her rosy cheeks in the reflection. En, very normal. Just a little red.

Then she looked further down. Hey—–

What are those mauve colored marks?

Auntie Qi's old face immediately turned purple and smoke almost started coming out of her head.

That damned old thing! Before going to work this morning, he insisted on hugging and kissing her. To think he didn't tell her about the aftermath!

At this point, she no longer had the face to meet with anyone. No wonder the empress had stared at her with curiosity!

Auntie Qi didn't go out the entire day. The people in the esteemed office were all curious why they didn't see her all day. However, they operated based on procedure, so things naturally continued as normal.

Eunuch Fu came to the Fengqi Palace bright and early to accompany the Jing Emperor to court. In the past, his back was always hunched. However, after being gone for three days, he seemed clearly full of energy. His face was rosy and even his smile wasn't quite the same as before. How to put it? It seemed to contain some additional sweetness and secret satisfaction. His gaze seemed much more vivid.

The Jing Emperor got off his royal carriage, glanced at the secretly pleased old fellow next to him, and involuntarily curled his lips in a smile.

Nothing happened at all in court today. The Jing Emperor was in a very good mood.

After court, he returned to the imperial study and summoned some trusted aides and officials to discuss official business.

As noon approached, he returned to the Fengqi Palace as usual.

Lunch was being set up on the table. Xiao Hua came over and personally helped him wash up and change.

Then, they ate their meal.

After sitting, Xiao Hua looked at Eunuch Fu who was standing on the side. She withdrew her gaze and hid a smile before saying to the Jing Emperor: "Majesty, can this empress request a favor for Eunuch Fu?"

The Jing Emperor indicated for her to speak with his gaze.

"Once you're here at the Fengqi Palace, you naturally don't need someone waiting upon you. Eunuch Fu isn't young anymore, and is someone who is always following beside majesty. Why not let him go take a rest during this time. If he's always working around the clock, he'll get exhausted eventually. It's not too late for Eunuch Fu to join you when you leave for official business in the afternoon."

"Permitted."

Eunuch Fu froze, and immediately bowed: "Thank you empress for your grace. Thank you majesty for your grace."

"Alright, alright. Hurry and go. It's lunch time, go eat some food and rest for a bit. Recuperate your energy."

"Aye!" Eunuch Fu said happily and hurriedly took his leave.

After Eunuch Fu left, Xiao Hua couldn't hold it in anymore and burst out laughing, "Sir Jing, you wouldn't blame me for deciding things on my own, right?"

"Naturally won't."

"Everyone says the first three months after marriage is the honeymoon phase. You can't just occupy all his time, how is he supposed to enjoy himself?"

The Jing Emperor had an embarrassed expression: "I'm not. Eunuch Fu is old, and I've told him several times he doesn't have to do everything personally. But he's not willing."

"Even if he's not willing, you can help create some free time for him."

The Jing Emperor nodded, "This is a good idea."

The emperor and empress didn't like having other people serve them for their meals. Therefore, only Ding Lan stood on the side. In the past, Eunuch Fu would be there as well. But since Eunuch Fu went to busy himself, Ding Lan finished up what she had to do and stood to the side with her hands clasped. The rest was left to the Jing Emperor and Xiao Hua.

The Jing Emperor lifted his bowl, "Where are the children today?"

Xiao Hua used her chopsticks to poke at the rice in her bowl and was a little aggrieved, "They went to the eastern palace. Ever since Zhuo'er moved to the eastern palace, Yi Yi that lass likes to run over there. Yu'er is the same."

The Jing Emperor smiled and stroked the strand of hair by her temples. "Don't you have Us here to accompany you? Qi'er as well. Moreover, it's not like the children won't come back."

Qi'er, Luo Qi, was the third prince Xiao Hua had given birth to. He was now four months old, and only knew to go "ah ah ah", laugh foolishly and drool. He couldn't even speak yet.

Hearing the Jing Emperor say this, Xiao Hua was slightly comforted.

It couldn't be helped. The children were all grown up. Yi Yi was a princess so she still lived in the Fengqi Palace. Yu'er wasn't five years old yet and also lived here. Luo Zhuo was the crown prince, and was already eight. He had moved to the eastern palace when he was seven.

This wasn't a huge deal, but along with Zhuo'er moving over, the amount of time Yi Yi spent over there had increased dramatically. In the past, the second prince Luo Yu had been rather clingy with his mom, but now he was more sensible and found his own little playmates. There were more little playmates in the eastern palace, so he had defected as well.

As a mother, this was something she was bound to experience and Xiao Hua knew this. But to know it and to get used to it were two different concepts. Especially since she was also quite lonely. Luckily she had her man to accompany her.

"Then Sir Jing must make more time for me."

"Of course. Look how I come back for lunch and dinner. I come every time I'm done with work." The Jing Emperor's expression was stiff, but his words were earnest."

Xiao Hua laughed a little, and her laughter contained some craftiness.

The Jing Emperor was a hardworking person. If there were memorandums submitted, he wouldn't feel at ease until they were all dealt with. If there was official business left unfinished, he felt the same way. Furthermore, he had a lot of bad habits. He wasn't willing to get up and stretch after sitting for long periods of time. Under Xiao Hua's fussing, he was better than before, but it only treated the symptoms and not the root cause.

Therefore, Xiao Hua communicated with Eunuch Fu. If she wasn't there, Eunuch Fu would be the one to remind him. If she was present, she would naturally do it herself. His coming back for lunch was also something Xiao Hua came up with. It was to set a fixed time for him to take a break. Otherwise, he would forget if things got busy. By the time he realized he was hungry, it would have already negatively affected his health and body.

So far, the effects were rather good.

Of course, Xiao Hua also didn't mind encouraging the Jing Emperor to be more independent.

In the meantime, Eunuch Fu swiftly made his way over to the esteemed office of the palace.

When he reached the gates, there was already a low-ranked eunuch carrying a lunchbox waiting for him.

"Grandpa Fu."

This low-ranked eunuch wiped off his sweat while handing the lunchbox over.

It was good having a high status. Eunuch Fu had given the orders the moment he left the Fengqi Palace, and by the time he arrived at the esteemed office the subordinates had already brought the things over.

Eunuch Fu received the lunch box and tossed a gold ingot to the eunuch.

That low-ranked eunuch was startled and said: "Grandpa Fu, this one doesn't dare accept your reward."

"Since grandpa here is giving it, you should accept it. Grandpa is happy today."

Only then did the low-ranked eunuch accept it and thank grandpa for his bestowal.

Eunuch Fu entered the gates, and the palace maids who saw him all greeted him in salute.

"The esteemed official is in the study next to the main office." Without needing him to ask, a palace maid let him know. Everyone in the palace knew about Eunuch Fu and Esteemed Official Qi.

Eunuch Fu walked over with familiarity. He stood in front of the door and knocked a couple of times. He only entered after the voice inside called to do so.

Seeing Eunuch Fu, Auntie Qi was a little surprised. She soon remembered how he had caused her to remain inside the entire day. Her face immediately burned and her heart was full of reproach.

Eunuch Fu walked up and cleared his throat, "Er, Aunt Xiu, you haven't eaten lunch yet, right? I've brought your favorite food over."

"Shouldn't you be with his majesty? Why did you run over here?" Auntie Qi's expression was both happy and angry.

Eunuch Fu chuckled and put the lunchbox down. "The empress helped me obtain a favor. In the future, I can take a break whenever his majesty's at the Fengqi Palace. I thought that you wouldn't have eaten at this time yet, and so came to eat lunch with you."

Auntie Qi lowered her head. It wasn't clear if she was shy or angry.

Eunuch Fu set up the food on the table and went to pull the unmoving person over. Seeing her rosy cheeks, he knew that she was shy.

Auntie Qi struggled a couple times unsuccessfully before going over half-heartedly.

"Shameless!" Feeling his eyes on her, Auntie Qi couldn't help but scold.

Eunuch Fu laughed foolishly, "Hehe, I don't have to act reserved in front of you."

The two of them sat and lifted their bowls.

This wasn't the first time they ate together, but this was the first time it had a different meaning.

The two didn't quite understand exactly what was different, but it didn't stop Auntie Qi's eyes from turning red and Eunuch Fu's nose from turning sour.

He grabbed some of Auntie Qi's favorite dish with his chopsticks and put it in her bowl, saying emotionally: "In the past I never understood why his majesty would always return to eat lunch with the empress. Now, I understand. Truly wonderful—–"

Auntie Qi wanted to smile and also wanted to cry. In the end she scolded: "Hurry and eat, why so fussy."

"Aye." Eunuch Fu responded crisply, and grabbed her some more food. "You like eating this. Have some more."

"En."

"In the future, I'll come eat with you whenever I'm free."

"Alright."