Chapter 43
She wanted to be doted on exclusively?
Yun Xiu sneered. This was such an overreach.
The Manchus valued more children and more blessings, and so did the imperial family. Being the only one doted on had always been the most taboo thought in the palace, and it was also the thing that the great empress dowager hates the most.
Back when Empress Xiaoxian, Mrs. Dong'e was there, the late emperor did not even look at the other concubines. Mrs. Dong'e was the only favourite, and the rest of the palaces became desolate and cold palaces. With her death, the late emperor's heart also died. He was no longer diligent in government affairs and did not care about how the people viewed him. He was obsessed with Buddhism and wanted to become a monk. He did not hesitate to go against the great empress dowager…
The late emperor died of illness at a young age. It was difficult to say that it was not due to Mrs. Dong'e.
Decades had passed. Although the great empress dowager was old and no longer intervened in palace affairs, her prestige was still there. The emperor respected her, treated her filially, and did not allow others to disobey her.
If the great empress dowager and empress dowager remembered that incident of the late emperor and became angry and had bad feelings towards Yikun Palace, it would be difficult for Yun Xiu to please them.
She had just given birth, and she had just had her card drawn. It seemed that someone couldn't help it anymore?
"…How are We the only favourite?" Yun Xiu put down the teacup and said in a low voice, "We have little luck and courage, so We can't bear this kind of 'praise'."
Someone had already given her the title of the only favourite. In the next move, were they going to call her the evil consort who brought harm to the country?
"But that's not the case." Imperial Concubine Cheng nodded slowly and said softly, "In the past, the emperor was still thinking about the Consort's body as the Consort was pregnant and therefore could not sleep with the Consort. Now that you are well, you know what the future will be like. They are anxious and afraid!"
She was originally not loved by the emperor, but she was finally given some favours. She did not want that favour to die out so quickly. Those people couldn't wait to pour sewage, intending to reduce Consort Yi's standing.
In the past, when Imperial Concubine Cheng was still a concubine, she could often hear the young masters gathering together. They occasionally talked about Consort Yi with endless longing in their words.
Not to mention the children, but in terms of doting, Consort Yi was the most confident woman in the harem. In the past month, the emperor had rested in Yikun Palace for at least ten days. How many women were envious?!
Imperial Concubine Cheng watched. Now, the emperor increasingly loved Consort Yi.
During the ninth prince's one month ceremony, the emperor intercepted Imperial Concubine An's words in front of everyone which praised Consort Yi for her beauty. Almost all the concubines' expressions changed.
This clear preference had dug deep into their hearts!
Imperial Concubine Cheng observed the expressions of Imperial Concubine Ping and moved her fingers slightly.
With one consort seat vacant, the thoughts of the imperial concubines became more active. There was no returning to the peaceful past. There were also several noble ladies who had given birth to children, and also had the idea of suppressing Consort Yi's arrogance… It was a sensitive time. Sometimes, coupled with someone instigating them, their jealousy could no longer be contained.
Although they kept Xianfu Palace, where Imperial Concubine Cheng lived, in the dark, there was no impenetrable wall in the world. When dinner was approaching, Yinyou slipped into the imperial garden to play. When he went into the bushes to pick wild flowers, he heard the palace servants passing by whispering to each other, saying, "Please the great empress dowager…to deal with Consort Yi…"
Looking at their backs, they were heading towards Chuxiu Palace, where Imperial Concubine Ping was.
The seventh prince, Yinyou, had reached an age where he could remember things and knew his way around the harem. In recent months, Imperial Concubine Cheng often took him to Ningshou Palace to play. Imperial Concubine Cheng also told him many times that Consort Yi was kind to his mother and that he should get closer to Yikun Palace.
Yinyou nodded. He liked to play with the fifth prince.
Because of his lameness, he was naturally shy and somewhat inferior. However, he had exceptional observation skills and had a good memory. Yinyou could listen to his mother's words, and quietly memorised what the palace lady said. After returning to the palace, he worked hard to learn from Imperial Concubine Cheng.
Imperial Concubine Cheng was grateful for Yun Xiu's kindness in getting her promoted. She quickly came to pay her respects early the next morning. After briefly describing the situation, Imperial Concubine Cheng whispered, "I don't know if the imperial noble consort, Consort Hui, and others were involved. Fortunately, Yinyou heard a few words…"
Yun Xiu's eyes narrowed for a moment, then relaxed again. After a moment, her peach blossom eyes smiled. She turned to look at the seventh prince, who was lying beside the bed teasing Yintang, and said softly, "Little Seven has made a great contribution this time."
After saying that, she patted Imperial Concubine Cheng's hand and said softly, "I will remember this."
Imperial Concubine Cheng smiled warmly when she heard this and shook her head slightly. "It is I who should say this! It's just a message. It is not as good as the kindness the Consort gave me."
Over the years, the emperor had a father-son relationship with Yinyou, but he did not value him as much as other princes.
The 'virtuous' Consort De who once lived in Yonghe Palace deliberately downplayed the existence of Yinyou. She did not want him to take away the emperor's pity and favour from the sixth prince, so she resorted to some tricks.
Imperial Concubine Cheng had to endure this. She felt heartbroken and helpless. She had no favour or power, so what could she do? She had to accept her fate early on.
As long as Yinyou grew up safely, she didn't expect anything extravagant. But suddenly, the situation in the harem changed. Her and her son's situation improved greatly.
She became the head of Xianfu Palace, but Consort De was demoted to an imperial concubine…
According to Consort Yi's instruction, the fifth prince often played with Yinyou. With the crown prince's care from time to time, Yinyou gradually appeared in front of the emperor. Xianfu Palace also received several rewards.
For Imperial Concubine Cheng, Yinyou was her life. In addition to her promotion, the Guo Luoluo family's unique remedy for correcting foot issues that was sent by Consort Yi was enough to make her desperately want to repay her.
Yun Xiu pursed her lips and smiled, then nodded at her. "You…"
The next day in Yuqing Palace.
Today was a rare day for a break in the study. The crown prince got up a little later than usual, and laid out a copy of 'Sun Tzu's Art of War' on the table to study.
"Lure the enemy with profit, take them on with chaos1…" The crown prince thought about it, and after a while, he wrote quickly on the paper for a long time.
He Zhu'er entered quickly from outside. He poked his head in for a moment, and then stopped at the window. He did not dare to disturb his master, who was reading and practicing calligraphy.
"What's the matter?" The crown prince glanced out the window, put down his pen, and asked.
He Zhu'er whispered, "This servant reports to the Crown Prince that Master Suo has sent someone to deliver something."
The crown prince hummed and waved his hands, but his eyes still did not leave the page. "Bring it in."
…
"This servant, Su Mao, pays his respects to the Crown Prince." The visitor was slightly fat and looked shrewd and wealthy. His name was Suo Mao, and he was a member of the Civil Service Department in the court. He was also a confidant who travelled around doing things for Suo Etu.
The crown prince looked up at him and saw that he was someone he knew. He smiled slightly and said, "Please rise."
"Thank you, Crown Prince." Suo Mao straightened up and said with a smile, "Just now in court, the Head Minister was summoned by the emperor and couldn't get away, so he called this servant to come to pay respects and present something."
As he spoke, he had people carry a huge screen inside.
The crown prince's attention finally shifted over. He put down the book and looked at it curiously.
The screen was exquisite and was made of fine yellow rosewood. A very lifelike blue peacock was embroidered on the gauze surface. Its head was raised and it appeared to be calling out, as if it was taking off with sparkling tail feathers and colourful lights. It was incredibly lifelike.
What was even more amazing was that this screen was embroidered on both sides. When one looked at the back, one could see several red plum trees in a courtyard, either budding or brightly blooming. They stood proudly.
Whether it was the workmanship or implications the piece held, they were all excellent. The crown prince fell in love with it at a glance.
"The Head Minister said that it took a lot of painstaking efforts to get this screen, and that if it was given to Your Highness, it would be given to the future crown princess consort." Suo Mao said, "Does Your Highness still like it?"
Hearing this, the crown prince was slightly uncomfortable.
Crown Princess Consort?
His uncle was really far-sighted. He was only in his early tens, and he didn't know when he would get married…
However, in all fairness, this screen was indeed beautiful.
The crown prince looked at it with joy in his heart. He smiled and nodded. "We like it a lot. We would like to thank Uncle."
Yesterday, he went to Yikun Palace to hug Little Nine, but Little Nine was very naughty. He turned his head to avoid his embrace, kicked and scratched, and even scratched the flower and bird screen that Consort Mother Yi liked.
Tsk, since scratching imperial father's dragon face, ninth younger brother had extended his evil hand towards Consort Mother Yi's beloved items. Afterwards, although ninth younger brother learned his lesson, Consort Mother Yi's screen was destroyed.
Uncle's gift had just the right timing! He would send it to Yikun Palace tomorrow. Consort Mother Yi would definitely like it.
The crown prince was thinking about it secretly. At this moment, Suo Mao bowed slightly, and said with a smile on his face, "As long as the crown prince likes it, then it was not in vain for Imperial Concubine Ping to put all her thought into it."
"…" The crown prince paused. "Imperial Concubine Ping?"
"That's right." Suo Mao said, "Imperial Concubine Ping embroidered a screen for Your Highness and sent it to the mansion a few days ago. She thought of adding it as a gift to the crown prince when the crown prince gets married. The Head Minister didn't think so! Things would get old with time, so it was better to send it to Yuqing Palace earlier so that His Highness can enjoy it, right?"
The rules of the harem were strict. Only with the permission of the emperor could a consort and above summon the wife of a minister. Imperial Concubines did not have this privilege. Imperial Concubine Ping, for example, did not have the right to deliver things to Yuqing Palace, so she had to go through her family.
—When one listened carefully, these words had a deep meaning.
The crown prince still smiled, and the curve of his mouth did not change. He just said, "We know… Thank Imperial Concubine Ping on Our behalf."
After Suo Mao left, the crown prince's smile faded. He paced back and forth with his hands behind his back, and glanced at the screen standing in the middle intermittently.
Imperial Concubine Ping was only seven years older than him. She was a concubine that his mother had never met. If they did not have the same mother, then she could not be regarded as his biological aunt. Therefore, what was the relationship between them?
…He shouldn't have thought this originally.
The imperial concubine's surname was Hesheli. If she improved her position, the Hesheli family would take a step forward, and her uncle would be more at ease in the court.
But she was scheming and plotting against the Imperial Household Department . She also schemed against his fifth younger brother. It was Consort Mother Yi who told him all of this.
"The emperor is disgusted with her. This imperial concubine thinks so highly of herself." Yun Xiu said softly, "Don't blame me for cutting off her escape. No one who attacks Little Five can escape."
At that time, the crown prince thought that Consort Mother Yi had done the right thing, but she was still a bit merciful.
If it were him, he would retaliate without mercy!
How vicious were those who attacked children?
The crown prince looked at the screen with mixed emotions and a hint of mocking. He couldn't tell what he was feeling at this time. Then, he suddenly said, "He Zhu'er, call Hu Ming and Hu Guang in."
Hu Ming and Hu Guang were the confidants Suo Etu sent to the palace. They worked around the crown prince. They helped maintain his relationship with his mother's family, and conveyed news to Suo Etu.
Upon hearing the summons, the two of them quickly crossed the threshold, knelt down and kowtowed. "This servant pays respects to the Crown Prince."
The crown prince stared at them, suddenly feeling a little irritable. He pursed his lips. Many inexplicable things appeared in his clear eyes.
"What did Uncle instruct you to do regarding Imperial Concubine Ping?" the crown prince asked calmly.
Hu Ming and Hu Guang were caught off guard. They were shocked and immediately confused: "Crown Prince, this servant, this servant…"
It was the same place and the same master. Last time, the crown prince also ordered them not to tell Suo Etu anything about Yikun Palace.
Hu Ming and Hu Guang faced the power of the crown prince. For the first time, they understood what it meant to a member of the imperial family. They had no intention of resisting at all. This feeling was mixed with the fear of dying, so they honestly followed the crown prince's words.
How could a ten-year-old child be so powerful? He was even more intimidating than Master Suo. In a few years, what would the situation be like?!
They gradually realised that there was only one master in Yuqing Palace, and that was His Highness, the Crown Prince.
This time, the crown prince asked directly. It was both a test and a means of coercion.
He forced them to make a choice – to choose Master Suo outside the palace, or to respectfully choose him as their master.
Now that they had entered Yuqing Palace, they had to serve His Highness for the rest of their lives. There was no way they could go back. But Master Suo was on the other side…
They were immediately in a dilemma.
Before they could figure it out, the crown prince narrowed his eyes and said, "Drag them…"
"Your Highness, please forgive this servant! This servant will speak!" Hu Ming kowtowed repeatedly and replied in a low voice as he trembled, "Master Suo ordered this servant to find an opportunity to persuade Your Highness and ask you to use some small tricks… to let His Majesty bestow Imperial Concubine Ping to be your princess consort."
The crown prince thought that seemed to be the case.
He lowered his eyes and asked without changing his expression, "Then what?"
"Then…" Hu Ming lost his voice and was stuck for a moment.
Regarding Imperial Concubine Ping, Master Suo just gave these instructions. He looked at Hu Guang for help. What else was there?
Hu Guang looked at him and racked his brains for a long time.
When Hu Guang saw that the Crown Prince was becoming increasingly more impatient, he became anxious. Suddenly, an idea came to his mind. He quickly said, "In addition to Imperial Concubine Ping, Master Suo also said that Imperial Concubine Wu was not a concern, just the imperial noble consort… He asked this servant to pass on the news about the imperial noble consort, the more detailed the better, and that she must not reach out to Yuqing Palace."
This was unexpected.
The crown prince was stunned for a moment. Why was the imperial noble consort involved again?
The imperial noble consort lost her power and glory. She gradually kept a low profile. Why was his uncle so concerned about her?
Also, the phrase 'there was no need to worry about Imperial Concubine Wu'…
The crown prince turned around and looked at the lifelike double-sided embroidery. His heart suddenly felt cold, as if a big hole had formed to let in the wind from the cold night.
He slowly clenched his fists.
At the same time in Cining Palace…
"Revered Elder, four of the imperial concubines, Imperial Concubine An, Imperial Concubine Jing, Imperial Concubine Xi, and Imperial Concubine Ping have asked for an audience. They said they have something important to report and would like your advice," Sumalagu whispered as she tucked the brocade quilt on the couch for the great empress dowager.
"Is it important?" The great empress dowager opened her eyes, pondered for a moment, and asked the empress dowager next to her, "If they aren't looking for the emperor, then why are they looking for Us?"
The empress dowager smiled and replied in Mongolian, "Wouldn't empress mother know if empress mother asks?"
The great empress dowager sat up straight and waved her hands. "Let them in."
After Imperial Concubine An and the others entered the inner hall, they greeted the two softly and respectfully. They then took a seat one by one.
They looked at each other. Imperial Concubine Xi, who was the prettiest, could not hold back her composure, so she spoke first. "Revered Elder, this concubine shouldn't bother you, but…"
Before she finished speaking, the announcement of "Greetings to Consort Yi" came from outside the palace.
In an instant, Yun Xiu's laughing voice sounded out, cutting off Imperial Concubine Xi's words. "Revered Elder, they are here to complain about this concubine. They want to say that this concubine is the emperor's only favourite, so this concubine deserves to be severely punished—"
1.(利而誘之，亂而取之…) This is the start of an explanation on how to deal with your enemy in Sun Tzu's Art of War.
Chapter 44
When the imperial concubines heard the announcement of Consort Yi's arrival, their expressions suddenly changed. When they heard Yun Xiu's smiling voice, they felt as if their throats were being strangled. Their faces were green and white, and they were speechless for a moment.
As soon as the great empress dowager heard the words 'only favourite', she understood what was going on. She glanced at the slightly panicked four imperial concubines, shook her head slightly inwardly, twirled the beads, and then said harmoniously, "Suma, give Consort Yi a seat."
"This concubine is really reckless for coming over here." Yun Xiu blessed herself with a smile and sat down. "Thank you, Revered Elder, for your grace."
Compared to the great empress dowager who remained calm, the empress dowager's reaction was a bit louder. She leaned forward and asked a little faster, "Why does the emperor only favour her? We don't know anything about it. What kind of complaints or severe punishments would be involved… Consort Yi, speak."
If one listened carefully, one would find that the empress dowager's words were actually biased.
As for who she was partial to, anyone with a discerning eye knew that the fifth prince was still being raised by the empress dowager.
Imperial Concubine An's bluish-white face became a little ugly again, and Imperial Concubine Xi's chest was heaving with anger. If Consort Yi was allowed to speak first, didn't that mean she was allowed to quibble?!
The great empress dowager heard this, but didn't say anything. She nodded slightly and looked acquiescent.
That was not all. Consort Yi mentioned the word 'only favourite', and then the empress dowager asked questions harshly. Then, it was no longer taboo…
After three dynasties, the great empress dowager had an open mind and had finally tasted the bitter pill of Consort Dong'e. The great empress dowager might be furious because of the late emperor's example and blame Consort Yi, but now they had been disturbed like this, the solemn atmosphere was completely gone, and their purpose of tearing down Consort Yi was uncertain.
Imperial Concubine Ping pinched her handkerchief tightly and took a deep breath. Mrs. Guo Luoluo…
Which bitch leaked this information and disrupted their arrangement?
After taking in everyone's reactions, Yun Xiu retracted her smile, sighed, and said in a low voice, with sadness evident on her face, "This concubine will answer the empress dowager. This concubine really doesn't know how this concubine has the reputation of being the 'only favourite'. As you know, this concubine has just given birth, and the emperor only just turned over my card the day before yesterday… When all is said and done, this is the first time in several months. How can this concubine be called the emperor's exclusive favourite?"
There were records in the Respectability Room and they could not be falsified, this statement was reasonable and well-founded, and anyone could hear Yun Xiu's grievances.
The empress dowager was slightly surprised. After a long while, she said, "This…is this slander, right?"
Everything must be based on factual evidence. Who would believe those who made empty claims? With the records of the Respectability Room as a basis, their words suddenly became unverifiable.
Hearing this, Imperial Concubine Xi suddenly became anxious.
She was angry. She gritted her teeth and said, "This concubine asks the Empress Dowager to have a clear judgment. These concubines would never dare to slander Consort Yi! In addition to the bedroom activities, the emperor goes to Yikun Palace every day and stays for four hours at a time, only leaving after dinner. In the harem, who can stop the emperor from reviewing official documents or summoning ministers? Is this not favouritism?"
After saying that, Imperial Concubine Xi's eyes turned red. "It doesn't matter if this concubine is not favoured, but there should not be delays in the emperor's political affairs!"
Yun Xiu countered with the number of times she had slept with him, but Imperial Concubine Xi mentioned the time they spent together. She was implying that being the emperor's favourite was not enough and that she was obstructing government affairs. She wanted to sound like she had good intentions.
'The emperor goes to Yikun Palace every day and stays for four hours each time.' Mere exaggeration was not enough to describe this sentence.
The emperor had many things to do every day and his whereabouts were unpredictable. After all, was Yun Xiu a ginseng doll?
In order to suppress her, the women in the harem had gone to the extent of confusing right and wrong and had done everything they possibly could.
Why bother?
Yun Xiu wanted to laugh, so she did. She burst into laughter and shook her head while Imperial Concubine Xi stared in disbelief.
Yun Xiu finally stopped smiling. She covered the corners of her mouth and said softly with sparkling eyes: "It turned out that Imperial Concubine Xi's gaze is on the plaque of Yikun Palace all this time. She knows clearly when the emperor will come and go, and you even know if the emperor will stay the night. The imperial harem is really unworthy of your talents. How about moving your eyes away from Yikun Palace and to the top of the Forbidden City where you can be the chime clock for everyone?"
…
As soon as those words left Yun Xiu's lips, the great empress dowager stopped twisting her beads. There was a moment of silence in Cining Palace.
Imperial Concubine Xi's face was stiff. She couldn't believe that Consort Yi had directly slapped her face!
Her spiel was nothing but sarcastic, and the words were so poisonous and sharp that they made people tremble with so much anger that their minds went blank. All she could think about was fighting her to the death.
What did it mean to have her gaze on the plaque of Yikun Palace? What did it mean to be the chime clock of the Forbidden City?!
Imperial Concubine Xi was so angry that her eyes turned red and she almost fainted.
Imperial Concubine An's expression changed and she sighed inwardly. Imperial Concubine Jing's expression was very strange; she wanted to laugh but couldn't. Her expression finally changed into a look of deep regret. She shouldn't have listened to Imperial Concubine An and Imperial Concubine Ping and gotten involved.
Imperial Concubine Ping was stunned and her heart sank.
Consort Yi's skill with words was getting better. She not only insinuated that Imperial Concubine Xi was nosy and watched other people's daily life, but also refuted her words effectively, which made people suddenly realise—
Yes, what Imperial Concubine Xi said did not hold water and that Consort Yi was right. If her eyes were not on Yikun Palace, how could she know the specific time when the emperor went to Yikun Palace, and how long he stayed there for?
It was not possible unless someone was sent every three days to find out the news, or spies were planted in Yikun Palace.
Even if this was the case, you couldn't mention this!
The palace maids and eunuchs all lowered their heads. Their shoulders shook slightly after the shocking words.
The empress dowager coughed softly, suppressing her smile. The smile broke out briefly before quickly disappearing. She then said lightly, "Okay. You are also a mother. Yes, speak more calmly."
"Yes." Yun Xiu smiled softly and said warmly, "This concubine will follow the teachings of the revered elders."
Her expression and tone were relaxed. In an instant, Imperial Concubine Xi was overcome with emotions again, and her nails dug deeply into her flesh.
Seeing that her remarks were of no use, Imperial Concubine Ping lowered her eyes and secretly scolded Imperial Concubine Xi for being so brainless. She forced a gentle smile and was about to say something.
"We know that the recent rumors are stirring up a commotion." Yun Xiu interrupted her words and spoke lightly. "It is really disrespectful to say that We are the only one favoured by the emperor, as well as saying that We relied on his favour to scratch the emperor's cheek."
After saying that, Yun Xiu smiled slightly and looked at the great empress dowager. "The heavens know that, upon hearing the rumors, this concubine felt that this was very unjust. It was Little Nine who did it. What does it have to do with this concubine? Steward Liang also has red marks on his face. Should this also be blamed on this concubine?"
As soon as she finished speaking, even the great empress dowager's expression became strange.
Liang Jiugong's face was scratched by Consort Yi? Who dared to say such a thing?
Yun Xiu glanced at Imperial Concubine Ping, who was smiling reluctantly, and said apologetically, "We have already taught Yintang a lesson. It is reasonable for younger sister to worry about the emperor. It is just that the rumours are false. If such falsehoods are spread, the imperial family will lose face…"
The unfinished words made the empress dowager feel a little sad. "That's right. Unfounded rumours can be fierce like tigers."
Imperial Concubine Ping could no longer maintain her indifferent expression. Her smile dropped off her face.
What Consort Yi said was as if she was accusing her of not caring about the overall situation and having no compassion. Consort Yi was implying that she was the one behind spreading the rumours!
"Revered Elder, Empress Dowager, and all the concubines, please don't speculate!" Imperial Concubine Ping stood up and knelt on the ground, bowing deeply. "Making up such rumours is groundless…"
"Okay, okay." The great empress dowager waved her hand. Her old face looked a little tired.
The emperor liked Consort Yi and the great empress dowager knew it, but she didn't know how much he liked her.
He was a wise ruler and had a strong sense of balance in his heart. He had not yet reached the point of being confused!
After listening to this for a long time, she realised that she couldn't be called the only favourite, and that they were just plotting against Consort Yi out of jealousy.
The old madam felt a little unhappy.
She was rambling without any evidence. Was she trying to take advantage of the great empress dowager's dislike of someone being an 'only favourite' to get her to issue an edict to punish Yikun Palace?
Look, Imperial Concubine Xi and Imperial Concubine Ping were not as refreshing and sharp as Consort Yi. They could not speak clearly and did not have much to say, which made one feel upset.
"All of you…" She looked at the four imperial concubines with indifference. Her tone was stern. "All of you need to be careful in your words and deeds in the future. You must not make false claims from rumours. The rumour of being an only favourite is ridiculous! Our Cining Palace is not a place for you to be jealous!"
Imperial Concubine An and the others quickly stood up and paid their respects. Their faces turned pale, "Revered Elder…"
The great empress dowager closed her eyes and said, "We are tired. Please leave."
No matter how unwilling or angry Imperial Concubine Ping was, there was nothing she could do. She responded in a low voice, gripped her handkerchief tightly, and slowly withdrew.
At this point, the issue of being the only favourite had come to an end.
After leaving Cining Palace, the four imperial concubines kept walking. Imperial Concubine Xi, who had lowered her head and had cold sweat on her forehead, walked away as if there was a ghost chasing her.
They finally remembered Consort Yi's reputation for being arrogant and domineering and their raging anger faded away. Their expressions became even stiffer.
Imperial Concubine Jing had been so excited, but now she regretted it even more. All that effort had gone to waste and now she had offended Consort Yi for no reason. What should she do in the future?
If Mrs. Guo Luoluo pillow talked the emperor…
The more she thought about it, the more she regretted it. Suddenly, she stopped—
Yun Xiu followed behind with a smile and said in a loud voice, "Wait a minute."
When Yun Xiu saw them frozen there, she smiled even more gently. She then walked around behind them, and stopped directly in front of Imperial Concubine Xi.
Imperial Concubine Ping felt Imperial Concubine Xi tremble. She lowered her eyes and asked in a low voice, "What does the Consort want?"
"What do We want?" Yun Xiu glanced at her and said calmly, "We have something to say."
She ignored Imperial Concubine An and Imperial Concubine Jing. She looked at Imperial Concubine Ping, and then said with a half-smile, "The noble daughter of the Hesheli family is jumping up and down like a shrew in the market. She never has a moment of peace."
She then lowered her voice. "Are you tired? You're not tired, but We are tired of watching the monkey show."
Imperial Concubine Ping suddenly raised her head. Her eyes were dark and she almost bit her lower lip.
Yun Xiu didn't care at all. Her gaze was on Imperial Concubine Xi.
"Rui Zhu, according to the rules of the harem, what should one do when there are those who disrespect their elders?"
Rui Zhu hid her smile and said sternly, "Consort is one of the four consorts in the harem, and Imperial Concubine Xi is no more than an imperial concubine. They were disrespectful and will be slapped many times! As the Consort has a high position, so naturally Consort has the power to discipline Imperial Concubine Xi."
…
Imperial Concubine Xi's eyes suddenly widened and she trembled with anger. "Consort Yi, don't bully others too much!"
Yun Xiu smiled, leaned down, and whispered into her ear, "We can just bully you. What can you do?"
Chapter 45
Imperial Concubine Xi's lips trembled, her face turned red and blue, her eyes filled with disbelief, and her long nails dug into her palms tightly, causing her to feel bursts of sharp stinging pain.
She couldn't believe that Consort Yi was so domineering!
Imperial Concubine Xi was an old woman in the palace. She was from a side branch of the Hesheli family. She entered the palace earlier than Yun Xiu. Although her mother's family is not prominent, when she was promoted to Noble Lady, she was favoured for a long time because of her good looks.
Her parents had been very indulgent of her since she was young, which resulted in her spirit and outspoken temperament.
Unlike Yun Xiu, Imperial Concubine Xi was truly 'arrogant due to favour'. Because of her flamboyance and tendency to be outspoken regardless of the occasion, she offended many concubines, including the then Empress Xiaozhao.
After being accused of disrespecting the empress, and the words from Noble Consort Tong and others, Kangxi's love for her waned.
She was grounded and made to copy the palace rules… After being punished, Imperial Concubine Xi seemed to have woken up and curbed her inappropriate behaviour. She was busy regaining her favour all day long, but it was futile.
When she delivered soup, she was sent back by Qianqing Palace. She pretended to meet the emperor by chance, but got a scolding, which made her blush and fall into a dejected silence.
It was well known to everyone that Imperial Concubine Xi was brainless, and it almost became a joke in the palace. Yun Xiu also heard about this.
She thought that Imperial Concubine Xi would settle down after losing face, but she didn't know that Imperial Concubine Xi was still jumping up and down. Imperial Concubine Xi even jumped in front of her!
With regards to the matter of spreading rumours about being the 'only favourite', only Imperial Concubine Xi and Imperial Concubine Ping would dance the most joyfully. Imperial Concubine Ping secretly fanned the flames and Imperial Concubine Xi ostensibly led the charge, while Imperial Concubine An and Imperial Concubine Jing just added fuel to the flames and followed behind to take advantage of the situation.
Imperial Concubine An and Imperial Concubine Jing had plenty of time to clean up, and Imperial Concubine Ping would not be proud for long. She had the Hesheli family behind her, she had Suo Etu, and one had to take into account the crown prince's face… Everything would be settled later.
As for Imperial Concubine Xi, it was like picking on the weak. Her family was weak, she had no favour, and she had no children. Even if she was slapped, what would happen?
Yun Xiu just wanted to let the whole harem know the consequences of offending her.
After being kind for too long, they thought she was easy to bully. Were they dreaming?
…
Now that the centre palace was vacant, the imperial noble consort had no right to take care of the affairs. The noble consort was about to give birth. Consort Hui and Consort Rong were both assisting her in handling the palace affairs. Even if Imperial Concubine Xi wanted to file a complaint, she had nowhere to go. Therefore, she had no choice but to 'air her grievances' to the emperor.
Yun Xiu had planned everything. When she thought of this, her smile became more amiable and gentle.
"For the sake of Little Five and Little Nine, will the emperor punish Us? How can your father, Laishan, compare with my father?" Yun Xiu pinched Imperial Concubine Xi's chin gently as she muttered softly. She then let go and raised her eyebrows, "Wet Nurse Dong, slap her mouth five times."
It was only five slaps to her mouth, which was not really a severe punishment, but for Imperial Concubine Xi, it was undoubtedly like peeling off her face and pressing her to the ground.
How could she behave in the future if her dignity was ruined?!
Wet Nurse Dong responded with a serious face. With a wave of her hand, Imperial Concubine Xi was controlled.
The palace servant serving Imperial Concubine Xi was also restrained. She frantically struggled to break away, but it was no use. Under the shocked and frightened eyes of the other three imperial concubines, Wet Nurse Dong rolled up her sleeves and raised her hand—
'Smack', 'smack', 'smack'…
There were exactly 5 crisp slaps, no more, and no less.
When Imperial Concubine Xi was being punished, Yun Xiu tilted her head slightly. She looked at Imperial Concubine An and Imperial Concubine Jing with cold eyes. She also looked at Imperial Concubine Ping, who was breathing with barely restrained anger. She looked away casually, with a slight smile on her lips.
That glance made Imperial Concubine An and the others feel as if they had fallen into icy water.
Consort Yi was trying to scare them. She was warning them…
After a long while, Wet Nurse Dong finished slapping. She asked the servant to let go of Imperial Concubine Xi and to step aside.
Imperial Concubine Xi covered her face in a daze and was speechless. Her eyes were bloodshot and she was about to shed tears.
"Look at this pitiful thing. She will gain wisdom after a hard time. Next time, take your brain with you when you go out. Go back to the palace and apply the powder to your cheeks. It will be bad if you delay." Yun Xiu warned. She then held the palace maid's hand and left the crowd.
The news that Imperial Concubine Xi was slapped spread like a wildfire. The entire harem was shaken by this.
When Consort Hui heard this, she put down her warm tea. Her expression changed slightly, and she frowned. "Imperial Concubine Xi and the rest are really asking for trouble. Can the crime of being the only favourite be dismissed so casually? If one steals a chicken, it will result in losing the rice. Nowadays, no one can control Consort Yi."
Ying'er massaged her back and said in a low voice, "Consort, Consort Yi is too domineering just because she is favoured! Imperial Concubine Xi is just a small thing…"
Yes, she was so domineering. Consort Hui felt a little unhappy.
Although she intended to win over Mrs. Guo Luoluo to pave the way for Yinti, if Consort Yi's arrogance was not suppressed, it was really uncertain who would be the leader of the three consorts in the future.
"What did the great empress dowager say when they left Cining Palace? What did the empress dowager say?" The two empress dowagers did not issue an edict to reprimand Consort Yi, which was equivalent to acquiescing to Consort Yi's actions.
As Consort Hui spoke, her frowning increased. "Now the Imperial Noble Consort and the Noble Consort are not doing anything, We share the same consort position as her. We want to take care of it but can't. We can only hope that the emperor will punish her!"
"Go and do some work and spread the word to the emperor's ears." Unsure, Consort Hui said calmly, "Just say that although Imperial Concubine Xi had transgressed, she should not have been slapped. After she returned to the palace, she washed her face and vomited her meal…"
When Consort Hui saw that Ying'er agreed, she sighed softly. The corner of her mouth twitched. "Consort Yi is very resourceful and scheming."
She took advantage of the current leaderless harem situation, she pinched the softest persimmon among the four imperial concubines. She vented her anger and established her authority. She was unlike the stupid Imperial Concubine Xi.
Consort Hui had a premonition that the emperor would definitely not convict her, and that Ying'er's arrangements were in vain.
If one was an enemy of such a person…
Her face darkened, and she said with a hint of urgency, "Send a message to Mingzhu. The plan to win over Mrs. Guo Luoluo cannot be delayed any longer."
…
Compared to Consort Hui, Consort Rong from Zhongcui Palace remained silent and did not express any opinions.
Imperial Concubine Cheng felt happy, and her devotion to Yun Xiu became more sincere. Imperial Concubine Duan, who was watching, breathed a sigh of relief. Fortunately, she had not listened to Imperial Concubine Xi's advice and had gotten involved, otherwise she would have been the one who suffered.
The ones below the rank of Noble Lady remained silent and looked at Yikun Palace with a hint of awe. The remaining few who had ulterior motives were horrified when they heard about Imperial Concubine Xi's punishment, and feared that Consort Yi would notice them.
After all, things could only be hidden for so long. At noon, Wet Nurse Dong went to Zhangchun Palace while holding a tray.
Changchun Palace was Imperial Concubine An's and Imperial Concubine Jing's residence. They shared the same power and controlled the same palace. When they heard the announcement from the servants, Imperial Concubine An and Imperial Concubine Jing's expressions changed drastically. They stood up suddenly. What was Consort Yi doing?
Wet Nurse Dong had enough of seeing their livid faces. She then said with a smile, "Our Consort has sent a gift to Noble Lady Bu."
As she spoke, she unwrapped the red cloth on the tray and revealed several thick volumes of Buddhist scriptures. "The Consort said that Noble Lady Bu has been living in the palace for a long time and has a lot of free time. It is better to copy ten volumes of Buddhist scriptures to pass the time. This could be considered as accumulating good fortune for the third princess, isn't that right?"
Noble Lady Bu was the biological mother of the third princess, and Consort Yi was the adoptive mother of the fourth princess. Because of Yun Xiu, Yi'erha often saw her imperial father. Among the several princesses, Kangxi favoured her the most.
The emperor's favour was limited. If it was given to one, there would be less for the others. Noble Lady Bu thought very simply. As long as she suppressed Consort Yi, her third princess would be more valued by the emperor. Therefore, she had a role in the complaint.
Imperial Concubine An and Imperial Concubine Jing had ugly expressions, but they finally breathed a sigh of relief.
However, if Noble Lady Bu lived in the side hall of Changchun Palace, and Consort Yi directly intervened to punish them, wasn't this a slap to the face of Changchun Palace?
But there was nothing they could do. Consort Yi had the decree from the Great Empress Dowager and was ordered to assist in managing the Six Palaces, therefore she had the power to discipline Noble Lady Bu. This move was indeed justified…
They could only watch helplessly as the Noble Lady Bu took the tray cautiously. Her lips trembled and she thanked Wet Nurse Dong with a pale face.
…
Consort Hui's guess was correct. The emperor had no intention of punishing Consort Yi.
In Qianqing Palace, Kangxi summoned ministers to discuss matters after leaving court. Lunch was also served in the imperial study. After the ministers dispersed, he rubbed his brows, opened a folder, lowered his head, and started reviewing.
After a while, the emperor felt a little thirsty and reached out habitually. The tea cup he usually kept on his right side was missing.
Liang Jiugong had said he would go to make tea, but he was nowhere to be seen for a long time. The emperor frowned and asked Liu Qin, the deputy general manager of Qianqing Palace, who was standing a little further away, "Where did Liang Jiugong go?"
"Your Majesty, Steward Liang was caught up by urgent matters," Liu Qin answered cautiously. When he saw that Kangxi looked a little worried, he rolled his eyes and said hesitantly, "He will be back soon. Just now, this servant heard something important…"
Kangxi glanced at him, lowered his head again, and waved his hand. "Speak."
"Imperial Concubine Xi has suffered…"
Liu Qin only just said these few words before Liang Jiugong quickly walked into the hall holding a tea cup. He interrupted Liu Qin's unfinished words. "Your Majesty, this morning, Imperial Concubine An, Imperial Concubine Jing, Imperial Concubine Xi, and Imperial Concubine Ping went to Cining Palace and asked to see the Great Empress Dowager. They said -"
The corners of Liu Qin's mouth straightened immediately, and he bowed and stepped aside.
Kangxi's eyes narrowed. "What did they say?"
"They said that Consort Yi is the only one favoured by Your Majesty. They wanted to ask the Revered Elder to make a decision for them." Liang Jiugong saw that Liu Qin was quite sensible. He snorted internally, took a look at Kangxi's face, and whispered, "Master Yi confronted them on the spot and disproved the rumor. After, the Consort became so angry that she slapped Imperial Concubine Xi."
Kangxi's face gradually turned cold, but when he heard the last words, he was unusually dazed.
He suddenly asked, "How many times did she slap her mouth?"
Liang Jiugong gestured with his hands. "Five times."
The emperor was silent for a long time, chuckled, then shook his head. "That is too few. It's not like her previous style."
Liang Jiugong: "…"
The corners of Liang Jiugong's mouth twitched.
After Kangxi finished speaking, he turned to look at Liu Qin beside him and asked calmly, "Why do you think that Imperial Concubine Xi suffered?"
Liu Qin's eyes widened and he lowered his head to suppress the turmoil in his heart. When he heard this, he quickly stepped forward and said with a smile, "This servant was just about to report this matter. When this servant heard that Imperial Concubine Xi returned to the palace, she washed her face and vomited her meal shortly after. Consort Yi gave Noble Lady Bu several volumes of Buddhist scriptures, saying that she wanted her to calm her heart…"
When Liu Qin saw the emperor's slightly scrutinizing eyes, his heart skipped a beat and he quickly added, "Consort Yi has been greatly wronged, so she acted like this."
Kangxi looked back and said expressionlessly, "She washed her face and vomited her meal… You are right, Consort Yi should be aggrieved, but why should Imperial Concubine Xi feel aggrieved? She deserves such a punishment."
As he spoke, his phoenix eyes were filled with coldness. "They are the ones who spread rumors. We think they have too much free time. Go and order Imperial Concubine An and the other Noble Ladies to copy the Buddhist scriptures together twenty times each. If they can't finish copying, they are not allowed to leave."
Liang Jiugong was speechless.
Consort Yi only punished them with writing ten times, but the emperor suddenly doubled the punishment… Why did the four imperial concubines and others have to suffer?
He glanced at the stunned Liu Qin with a smile, straightened his back. He thought to himself that if Liu Qin wanted to take his place, he needed to practice for a few more decades.
Who couldn't see the emperor's favouritism clearly? And he still wanted to try and bring down Consort Yi!
Even though she was mentally prepared, Consort Hui was still angered by Liu Qin's reply.
"Consort Yi was wronged?" Consort Hui repeated in disbelief. She was so angry that she paced in her bedroom. She swallowed the disrespectful words she was about to blurt out.
Was there something wrong with the emperor?!
This obvious partiality frightened Consort Hui even more.
At this moment, Ying'er quickly lifted the curtain and whispered, "Consort, the noble consort is giving birth!"
—-
The author has something to say: [Small Theatre]
Question: Say a little secret about your master.
Liang Jiugong: The emperor has a serious illness that cannot be cured. Not only does he like to make up scenarios in his mind, he is also blind!
Wet Nurse Dong: If there is something that the Consort loves most in this life, it is not the emperor or the princes, but Buddhist scriptures…
Chapter 46
After hearing Ying'er's report, Consort Hui stopped walking and her expression changed. She no longer cared about Kangxi's favouritism or Consort Yi's behaviour.
"The noble consort has been pregnant for ten months, so she should have given birth…" Consort Hui said slowly, "Hurry up and get your cloak. Follow me to Yongshou Palace and wait there. You must not fall behind the others."
When she spoke, the corners of her eyes drooped slightly. She was obviously unhappy, but her tone was impatient.
Ying'er knew her thoughts very well. Compared to Consort Yi, Noble Consort Niu Gulu was the one the Consort needed to be more wary of.
Mrs. Niu Gulu, whose family was from the Yellow Banner, was wealthy. The noble consort directly belonged to the lineage who made great contributions to the founding of the country, and whose dynasty also produced an empress. In terms of glory and heritage, Mrs. Nala couldn't compare.
Even though Ming Zhu was there to help the Consort, the noble consort had lost the support of E'bilong and the clan gradually declined. However, her status was higher than that of the Consort and she still had the power to command the Six Palaces…
Due to the dispute between Young Master Kuixu and Aling'a, her master and the noble consort were at odds. Mrs. Niu Gulu had taken a hidden loss and would not let it go. Once she was out of confinement, the noble consort would truly be the number one person in the harem. By then, the Consort would not be able to avoid being suppressed.
It would be even worse if the noble consort gave birth to a prince!
Except for the crown prince, the little prince's background would be the most noble one, and the eldest prince would not be able to compare to him.
The Consort originally wanted to put an end to future troubles, but after the emperor ordered people to rectify the Imperial Household Department, the power of the Nala family was considerably reduced. Yongshou Palace was tightly controlled by the noble consort. She could not find an opening, so she had to give up.
…
Consort Hui held onto Ying'er's hand and got into the sedan chair. After she regained her composure, she put on a dignified smile. Her eyes were lowered and her lips twitched slightly.
God bless her. She must give birth to a princess.
Yun Xiu felt a lot more relaxed after having solved one problem on her mind. After returning to the palace, she had a faint smile and gave a few instructions to Wet Nurse Dong. Then, she took off her shoes and socks, leaned on the chair, ate her meal, and prepared to take a nap.
The news of slapping Imperial Concubine Xi would eventually reach Qianqing Palace. It might even increase her reputation of being domineering, but Yun Xiu was not worried at all.
If the emperor came to charge her that night, she was 90% sure that she would be able to coax him. Due to the emperor's enthusiasm towards her, she was not sure that he would even reprimand her.
Consort Yi fell asleep with relief.
After she woke up, she heard some unclear shouting. She opened her eyes and saw that nanny came to greet her with Yintang in her arms.
"The ninth prince has been kicking after drinking milk. He is no longer sleepy." The nanny smiled and paid her respects to Consort Yi. "This servant just said something about going to the front hall, and the ninth prince responded in kind. He must be missing the Consort a lot."
Yun Xiu sat up straight and looked at the baby after hearing this. She then smiled softly and said, "Give him to Us."
Because she had just woken up from a nap, her voice was slightly hoarse. This caused the baby's ears to move and his feet to kick more energetically.
Yintang got his wish and landed in his mother's fragrant arms. He looked around and he opened his mouth to shout, "Ah."
He calmed down. His shouts were soft and coquettish, which made Yun Xiu soften her beautiful eyebrows.
The ninth prince, who was pretending to be young and stupid, didn't know about his mother's 'feat' that morning, otherwise he wouldn't have behaved so sweetly.
This was also due to the flower and bird screen that he destroyed.
Ever since he got into trouble and was given a gentle lesson by Yun Xiu, Yintang had restrained his urges to be naughty. He opened his mouth and smiled sweetly all the time, which made people's hearts melt like butter. Even Kangxi was generous and didn't worry about the scratch marks.
Ignorance was bliss. The ninth prince felt happy that he had not witnessed his mother's 'arrogant and domineering' attitude and 'tongue-in-cheek' style with his own eyes. At this moment, Rui Zhu, who was well-informed, walked in quickly and said eagerly, "Consort, the noble consort is giving birth."
Yun Xiu was stunned, and so was Yintang. When they came to their senses, the faces of mother and son were filled with the same surprise, mixed with excitement and many other emotions.
Yintang kicked his legs and almost burst into tears.
Old Ten was finally here.
They enjoyed blessings and endured misfortune together. He couldn't bear the feeling of being by the crown prince and the others, so he would ask his younger brother to share this burden with him.
The ninth prince has had a hard time waiting for him!
His black eyes were astonishingly bright, and the word happiness was written all over his face.
"Quickly, get some medicinal materials to replenish her body, as well as the wild ginseng sent by the emperor, just in case the noble consort loses her strength…" Yun Xiu ordered quickly.
Wen Yuan solemnly agreed.
After giving the order, Yun Xiu looked at the sky and said with a smile, "She really knows how to choose the right time. After her confinement period, it will be the middle of winter, so she doesn't have to suffer from the heat. That is really good."
As she said that, she looked at the fat boy in her arms with emotion. She pinched his tender cheeks, chuckled, and pretended to have a regret. "It's a pity that your mother can't take you, otherwise, you would be able to see the tenth prince just after he was born."
Yintang didn't discover his mother's ulterior motives, nor did he think there was anything wrong with the 'tenth prince'.
He immediately fell into regret and unknowingly bit the fleshy pit on his hand. After the excitement passed, he felt a little sad.
When would he see the monkey-like Old Ten?
Yongshou Palace.
When Yun Xiu came, the imperial noble consort leaned her head on her hands and had a pale face. Consort Hui was sitting below. Consort Rong must have been on her way too.
Imperial Concubine Wu had not yet been released from the house arrest, and the only remaining principal positions were Imperial Concubine Duan and Imperial Concubine Cheng. When they saw the one who entered the palace, the imperial noble consort smiled and nodded. Consort Hui said kindly, "Sit down." Imperial Concubine Duan averted her eyes a little. When the other noble ladies and young masters paid their respects, they showed a hint of fear.
Yun Xiu didn't care how they reacted. After paying her respects, she listened intently with a tense look on her face. "How is noble consort's condition? Is it going smoothly?"
"Everything is fine. There are no signs of a difficult labour." After hearing this, the imperial noble consort replied with a smile, "The imperial doctor said that the noble consort is in good health and will not suffer for too long."
Yun Xiu breathed a sigh of relief and then took a seat.
She glanced around briefly and raised her eyebrows slightly. "Why aren't Imperial Concubine An and Imperial Concubine Xi here? This is considered rude."
Her expression was one of genuine confusion, with a hint of displeasure.
…
As soon as she finished speaking, everyone's expressions became a little strange.
Someone coughed lowly, and the imperial noble consort had to force herself not to laugh. Consort Yi was probably still on the sedan chair when Liang Jiugong passed the order.
She covered her mouth and her face turned a little rosy. "Ahem… Older Sister Consort Yi doesn't know… Just now, the emperor issued an order to punish them each to copy Buddhist scriptures twenty times. They are not allowed to go out until they finish copying… so they can't come to Yongshou Palace."
Consort Hui was about to speak, but when she saw the imperial noble consort speaking first, she lowered her eyes.
Was Mrs. Tongjia afraid that people would forget her existence, and finally couldn't help it anymore?
"So that is how it is." Yun Xiu smiled and her eyes were full of colour.
After saying that, she shook her head and sighed softly. "The emperor's punishment is understandable, but twenty times is too much… A small punishment but a big warning is enough, and this concubine doesn't want to cause such a dispute."
The imperial noble consort's smile faltered and Consort Hui's face became stiff. Consort Rong, who had just stepped into the palace door, almost tripped over the threshold.
Hey, what was she saying?!
…
In the delivery room, the eldest palace maid hurriedly held the wooden box and whispered to Wet Nurse Qi, who was guarding the bed, "This is a medicine sent by Wen Yuan from Consort Yi…"
The noble consort was sweating. In order to accumulate some strength, she bit the brocade quilt to prevent herself from shouting loudly. When the palace maid made her report, she listened in a daze. There was warmth in her eyes.
She pulled away the quilt, opened her mouth, and asked in a hoarse voice. "Consort Yi… what else did you say?"
The eldest maid hesitated for a while, but finally did not dare to disobey the order. She quickly recounted the conversation between Yun Xiu and the imperial noble consort.
The noble consort choked, curled her lips and smiled, then frowned in pain and sucked in the cool air with a hiss.
The midwives looked at each other. Wet Nurse Qi's face was as black as the bottom of a pot. She whispered, "Noble Consort, there is a time and place for everything, and yet you are still thinking about these things!"
During these days when the noble consort was living in seclusion and concentrating on raising her foetus, she most liked to hear people talk about Consort Yi.
Hearing her deal with Consort De and Imperial Concubine Ping was extremely satisfying. Her eyes were brighter and her appetite was a little better. Her usual dignity and poise were all gone.
This was not over yet!
At noon that day, the news that Consort Yi had slapped Imperial Concubine Xi outside Cining Palace swept through the Six Palaces like the wind. This included the remarks that Imperial Concubine Xi's eyes Yikun Palace's plaque…
After hearing this, the noble consort burst into laughter. In the next moment, her amniotic fluid broke.
Yongshou Palace suddenly fell into chaos.
Now, the noble consort was still like this. It was really, really… Wet Nurse Qi was speechless and worried at the same time. How could the noble consort laugh at this time?!
…
Yun Xiu never expected that it was due to such a reason.
She waited and became more anxious and restless. When the Empress Dowager and Kangxi arrived, everyone could see the concern under her frown.
At this moment, Kangxi couldn't hold her hand. He felt more pity for her in his heart.
Compared with Xiuxiu, the others' worried expressions were too fake. They obviously wished that the noble consort would have a difficult childbirth. They still dared to behave like this, thinking that he couldn't see anything?
Kangxi ignored the concubine who came up to him and asked directly, "How is the Noble Consort?"
The imperial noble consort stood up and paid her respects. She lowered her eyes slightly, and smiled weakly. "Your Majesty, the imperial doctor said that everything is going well and that it should be done soon…"
Before she finished speaking, a loud cry pierced the sky.
"It's a little prince!"
Consort Hui was stunned. Her smile widened a bit, and the hand holding the handkerchief tightened suddenly.
When the imperial noble consort returned to Chengqian Palace in a sedan chair, the lanterns were already on.
The cold wind in late autumn was very uncomfortable and gave her a headache. Her face was white and her hands and feet were cold. It took her a while to calm down before she walked away.
Wet Nurse Zhen quickly asked someone to make ginger soup and carefully supported her. "Imperial Noble Consort…"
"My body is no longer useful." The imperial noble consort smiled bitterly, remembering the happy event of the birth of the tenth prince. Her eyes darkened, "It's Mrs. Niu Gulu. The emperor actually allowed her to give birth to a prince!"
No matter how one said it, the noble consort's own son was more noble than Yinzhen, the imperial noble consort's adopted son.
In addition to the crown prince, another prince was born… The matter of Suo Etu could not be delayed any longer.
This had to be solved one by one.
She suddenly felt an unprecedented sense of urgency. She grabbed Wet Nurse Zhen's hand, and asked quickly, "It's been so long, why hasn't father sent any news?" Suo Etu was still flourishing!
He told her to be careful and not to mention changing the jade record for the fourth prince. The imperial noble consort was silent for a long time, but finally listened.
But Suo Etu was different, and Mrs. Hesheli was different. It was a blood feud, a hatred that could not be eliminated! The imperial noble consort was still full of energy, not only for Yinzhen, but also for revenge.
Wet Nurse Zhen's heart skipped a beat. She lowered her eyes and forced a smile. "Imperial Noble Consort, please don't be anxious. The Master must be busy with business, so he can't send a message…"
The imperial noble consort stared at Wet Nurse Zhen closely. Then, it was as if she noticed something. She coughed a few times, then grabbed Wet Nurse Zhen's collar and said sternly, "Speak!"
Wet Nurse Zhen's collar was pulled harshly. She took a few breaths with difficulty and called out 'Imperial Noble Consort' intermittently.
When Wet Nurse Zhen looked into the eyes of the imperial noble consort, they were already turning blood red. Wet Nurse Zhen didn't hold any resentment at all. It was just the tip of her nose that was sore. "Master said… the time has not come yet, and to please endure it a little longer…"
The imperial noble consort pushed her away, staggered for a few steps. She was at a loss for a long time, then suddenly laughed softly.
"Endure it for longer?" She murmured, "Why? Haven't I endured enough?"
It would be fine if he didn't plan for Yinzhen's matter, but he wouldn't even avenge her.
The Tong family was severely damaged and their face was completely lost, but her father didn't care at all!
"We never imagined that one day We would become abandoned by the family." The imperial noble consort closed her eyes. "Okay, great. The next step is to send Ru Yue into the palace?"
Ru Yue was the second daughter of the Tong family and the biological sister of the imperial noble consort. She was now thirteen.
Wet Nurse Zhen trembled in disbelief. The imperial noble consort laughed sarcastically and swallowed the taste of blood in her mouth.
After a while, she said expressionlessly, "The time has come. They will not succeed."
—