(Chapter 21 begins)
"Let's start with Talent Chen. You've seen today how she acts more entitled than even the Noble Consort. Talent Chen indeed enjoyed favor for a few days, but for some reason, the Emperor began to neglect her. Despite this, she never felt out of favor, always prioritizing herself in the Autumn Flower Courtyard, even referring to herself as 'this palace' in private. Talent Li seems quite afraid of Talent Chen, always following her lead. It's said that on the rare occasion the Emperor visits her, she never forgets to invite Talent Chen. As for Talent Zhou, she's an odd one, never mingling with Talent Chen or Talent Li. Her maids are also strange, not speaking to anyone. They say Talent Zhou never smiles, not even during her service, which the Emperor dislikes. Her maids are always stern-faced; I didn't dare speak to them," Deep Green explained all in one breath.
Song Qingying nodded, her information aligning with what she knew, "Why did it take you so long? Did they give you a hard time?"
Deep Green chuckled, "It was easy to get them to talk. I spent the afternoon spinning yarn for them and even embroidered half a handkerchief."
Song Qingying, amused by Deep Green's adaptability, "Take this tray of pastries to eat."
"Talent, I took the initiative to inquire about Talent Qi's situation. Do you want to hear? I'm afraid it might scare you," Deep Green cautiously broached, ignoring the pastries.
"Let's hear it, I'm not afraid," Song Qingying reassured.
"Well, you don't have to be afraid with me around. Talent Qi was from Jiangnan, petite and slender, originally a palace attendant before being promoted to talent and moved into the Autumn Flower Courtyard. She wasn't supposed to live in this courtyard, but somehow Talent Chen managed to have her moved here. Whenever the Emperor visited the Autumn Flower Courtyard, he was likely intercepted by Talent Chen and Talent Li, and over time, he truly forgot about Talent Qi. Last winter, Talent Qi caught a cold that never fully healed, leading to her death last month," Deep Green recounted with regret.
Song Qingying sighed, "Alright, I understand. Take the pastries and eat them. Go call Shang Lin to guard the door and keep people out."
"Thank you for the reward, Talent," Deep Green said cheerfully, taking the pastries to share with Light Red. She wanted to show off to Light Red, who had received more reward money last time.
After Deep Green left, Song Qingying remained seated, waiting for Yu Shuangzhi to come. She had already made up her mind about Talent Qi's matter.
Song Qingying waited late, worrying about Yu Shuangzi's absence and the potential consequences of her being discovered. Just as she was about to succumb to sleep, Yu Shuangzi arrived.
Song Qingying sprang up, "Why have you just arrived? Are you alright?"
Yu Shuangzi, still in her night attire, had leaped down from the roof beam.
"I'm fine, what... have you decided?" Yu Shuangzi asked.
"If you agree to one condition, I'll agree to help you," Song Qingying stated.
"Tell me, as long as it's within my power," Yu Shuangzi stepped forward, her voice filled with anticipation.
Seeing her like this, Song Qingying felt she might be asking too much, but after some thought, she said, "I want you to stay in the palace and be one of mine."
Yu Shuangzi paused, surprised by Song Qingying's request. She was a protector from the Qi family, trained in martial arts from a young age to protect the Qi family's precious daughter, Miss Qi. She longed for freedom, unwilling to stay confined in the Qi family's estate, and left to experience the world after Miss Qi entered the palace. She had been reluctant to stay even with her own family, let alone the imperial palace.
Seeing her hesitation, Song Qingying thought it cruel to confine such a person within the palace walls, so she added, "How about this, three years. After three years, I'll let you go."
"Agreed! I accept!" Yu Shuangzi replied without hesitation.
Song Qingying smiled, thinking, in three years, perhaps she could leave with her.
"But, I'm not a palace maid, how can you keep me here? I can't keep hiding, especially these past few days with more people around Autumn Flower Court," Yu Shuangzi said.
"Don't worry, I'll figure something out," Song Qingying reassured.
Yu Shuangzi paused before saying, "Thank you."
"No need to thank me. I'm not helping you for nothing," Song Qingying said.
"So, what's your plan?" Yu Shuangzi asked.
"Start with the maids and eunuchs who looked after her. They were closest to her. If Miss Qi really was murdered, someone close to her must have betrayed her," Song Qingying explained.
Yu Shuangzi had also intended to seek them out, but being unfamiliar with the palace, she nearly got caught during her two attempts. Nodding, she said, "That's what I thought too. When I arrived here, she was utterly alone, not even water reached her lips!" Yu Shuangzi said, clenching her fists.
"Such a pitiable person," Song Qingying thought. Helping her avenge would be doing a good deed.
"Stop scaring them; just hide in my room. Leave the rest to me; I'll handle it," Song Qingying said.
Yu Shuangzi nodded. Song Qingying added, "Don't scare them, but you can scare the people in my court."
Yu Shuangzi paused, "Scare whom?"
"The maids and eunuchs in my court, and me. Do it like this…" Song Qingying gave her instructions and inquired about some matters until late into the night, after which Yu Shuangzi left.
Soon, the courtyard echoed with screams as a white shadow flew into Song Qingying's room.
"What do we do, Manager Shang? That thing flew into the lady's room!" Deeply scared by the "ghost," Deep Blue and a few others rushed to Song Qingying's room, with Deep Blue tremblingly saying.
"What are you waiting for? Go save the lady!" Light Red said, ready to dash inside.
Shang Lin quickly stopped Light Red, "The lady hasn't made a sound; maybe the ghost didn't scare her. Don't frighten the lady; I'll knock on the door."
Amidst their conversation, a piercing scream rang out, "Ah—"
Shang Lin, about to knock, immediately pushed open the door, with Qing Hong and Shen Bi following inside, only to see a white shadow flashing by.
"My lady! Are you alright?" Shang Lin said.
Song Qingying sat dazedly on the bed's edge, pointing outside the window, "Just now... what was that..."
Qing Hong stepped forward, "My lady, fear not, whatever it is, we are here with you!"
"Right! We are here accompanying my lady!" Shen Bi added, while Song Qingying looked at the others; Cui Xi held a stick at the door, Xin Qing clenched a long silver hairpin, and two others had run off unknown when.
Song Qingying had her suspicions, yet her face remained dazed.
Seeing Song Qingying's vacant stare, Shen Bi brought over a cup of hot water, "My lady, drink some hot water to calm down, don't be afraid. Even if it were a ghost, we're not scared. We've done nothing wrong, so we fear no ghostly knocks."
"Yes, not scared," Qing Hong, less articulate, echoed Shen Bi's words.
However, Song Qingying remained unresponsive, not drinking the water.
The group grew anxious until Xiang Qiao, who had been absent, shakily entered, asking, "Did you see a ghost?"
Xiang Qiao's comment scared Song Qingying further. Shen Bi quickly scolded, "Sister Xiang Qiao! Don't talk nonsense! Don't frighten my lady!"
Song Qingying thought to herself, Shen Bi was a good girl.
Chided, Xiang Qiao fell silent and approached Song Qingying to whisper, "What's wrong with my lady?"
"My lady is fine, she just needs to sleep it off," Shen Bi said, deciding she and Qing Hong would stay. "We should never have left my lady alone."
Qing Hong nodded, "My lady, have some hot water and go to sleep."
After a sip of water, Song Qingying laid down and slept soundly.
The next morning, the rumor that Lady Song had been scared silly by Qi Lady's ghost spread through Autumn Flower Court. When Emperor Zhao learned of it after court, his face darkened.
Zhao stared at the messenger, Shang Lin, who sweated profusely under his gaze.
"What's this about scaring someone silly? Are there really ghosts?" Emperor Zhao said coldly.
Shang Lin, wiping sweat, replied, "This servant... sent people to investigate, but nothing unusual was found."
"What do you mean, nothing unusual! One by one, all incompetent!" Emperor Zhao, his headache intensifying with anger, threw down a document, "Let's go see Lady Song ourselves. If Qi Lady has turned into a ghost, tell her to come to me."
Shang Lin dared not speak, following Emperor Zhao apprehensively.
Zhao Heng hadn't visited the Qiu Hua Courtyard for some days. When the eunuch came to report, Concubine Chen was in the midst of discussing last night's events with Concubine Li. Upon hearing that the Emperor was on his way, Concubine Chen hurriedly sent Concubine Li away and instructed her maids to dress her up in new clothes and do her makeup. Concubine Li also got dressed upon returning to her room. Thus, upon arriving at the entrance of Qiu Hua Courtyard, Zhao Heng was greeted by two beauties in meticulous attire. He frowned, feeling a wave of annoyance.
"This concubine greets Your Majesty with respect."
"Didn't you say there were ghosts? It seems they haven't frightened you," Zhao Heng said with a cold laugh. "Since you're not scared, I shall see those who were."
Lu Deli hurriedly led Zhao Heng to Song Qingying's small courtyard.
"She lives here?" It was Zhao Heng's first visit to this courtyard, unaware of its existence within Qiu Hua Courtyard.
Shang Lin, along with Shen Bi and others, kneeled on the ground.
"Rise, where is your mistress?" Zhao Heng asked.
"To reply to Your Majesty, the mistress was frightened and is lying in bed," Shang Lin responded.
It seemed she was so terrified that she couldn't even come out to greet him.
"Take me to see her," commanded Zhao Heng.
"Yes," Shang Lin stood and led Zhao Heng to Song Qingying's room.
Song Qingying hadn't expected Zhao Heng to arrive so soon. She had planned to escalate the situation to draw his attention, but he came unexpectedly.
Seeing Song Qingying lying there, her face deathly pale without a hint of color, brows slightly furrowed, and her usually rosy, enticing lips now lifeless, Zhao Heng observed.
"My love, I've come to see you," Emperor Zhao sat at the bed's edge.
Song Qingying weakly opened her eyes, "Your Majesty, you've come."
Zhao Heng was taken aback, this tone was not Song Qingying's usual way of speaking. It sounded familiar, yet he couldn't recall it at the moment.
"Hmm, I've come to see how you are. How are you feeling?" Zhao Heng felt Song Qingying's forehead, which was ice cold.
"I am fine, my Emperor. I never thought I'd have the chance to see you again. I've missed you so much," Song Qingying said, tears rolling down her cheeks.
Suddenly, Zhao Heng realized who Song Qingying's speaking manner reminded him of—it was like that of Consort Qi. Consort Qi was from the south, her speech soft and sweet, often ending her sentences with a soft 'ya'...
Chapter 22
Zhao Heng frowned deeply, staring at Song Qingying, who was gently touching her face with her fingers held daintily: "Why is the Emperor staring at me? Have I become ugly?"
"Who are you?" Zhao Heng asked, looking into Song Qingying's eyes.
Song Qingying touched her face again: "I must have become ugly indeed, for the Emperor to not recognize me."
Seeing Song Qingying like this confused Zhao Heng even more. The person was undoubtedly Song Qingying, but her tone and gestures were all too similar to Consort Qi's. Could it be that Consort Qi's spirit had possessed Song Qingying? Or was Song Qingying playing tricks?
"Are you frightened? Would you like me to take you back to the Song residence?" Zhao Heng ventured.
Song Qingying looked at Zhao Heng, tears falling like pearls: "My Emperor, do you no longer want me? Why should I return to the Song family?"
"Are you Consort Qi?" Zhao Heng pressed.
"My Emperor, what's wrong with you today? My surname is Song, didn't you just say you'd send me back to the Song residence?" Song Qingying looked at Zhao Heng in shock.
Zhao Heng was more confused than ever. What was going on?
Seeing Zhao Heng puzzled, Song Qingying almost burst into laughter. Serves you right, you old swine!
Unable to get a clear answer from Song Qingying, Zhao Heng turned to Shang Lin: "What's going on? How did Consort Song become so frightened?"
Shang Lin knelt down suddenly: "Your Majesty, last night, a white shadow was seen flying through our courtyard, and the consort saw it and was frightened."
"A white shadow?" Zhao Heng looked at Lu Deli, whose back was just starting to dry from sweat, now soaked again. It wasn't even his zodiac year; why was he so unlucky?
"Yes, all of us servants saw it too," said Shang Lin.
"I see. Take good care of the consort. Fulfill her requests as much as possible," Zhao Heng ordered, determined to catch whatever or whoever was behind this, ghost or not.
Shang Lin said hesitantly: "Your Majesty, the consort asked for Lan Fang and Xu Cao to serve her this morning..."
"Summon whoever she wants. Where are these two? Were they from the former Chaoyang Palace?" Zhao Heng inquired.
"No, I asked the people from Qiu Hua Court, and they said..." Shang Lin had been uneasy since last night, feeling that Song Qingying was behaving strangely, and now feared a bleak future.
"Stop beating around the bush!" Zhao Heng commanded loudly.
"Lan Fang and Xu Cao used to serve Consort Qi," Shang Lin said quietly.
"What?" Zhao Heng looked at Song Qingying again, "Why would my beloved want them to serve her?"
Song Qingying pondered, saying, "Your Majesty, I don't know why, but suddenly these two names popped into my mind, and I felt the urge to have them serve me."
What does this mean? Could it be that both Lady Qi and Lady Song are within Lady Song's body? Zhao Heng thought for a moment and then said to Lu Deli, "Go, bring those two maids here."
Tasked with the errand, Lu Deli personally took care of it.
"Everyone, leave us. I wish to speak with Lady Song alone," Zhao Heng said.
Shang Lin and the others then left the room, leaving only Zhao Heng and Song Qingying. Song Qingying felt somewhat uneasy, fearing the crime of deceiving the emperor! Initially, she wanted to pretend to be Lady Qi to scare the people in Qiuhua Courtyard, but unexpectedly... it seemed that Zhao Heng did genuinely care about her a bit, didn't he?
"Were you frightened by the ghost?" Zhao Heng took Song Qingying's hand, caressing it in his palm.
Song Qingying nodded, "I don't know what happened, making Your Majesty worry."
"Don't worry, I will stay with you tonight. I want to see if it's a human or a ghost," Zhao Heng said, bringing Song Qingying's hand to his lips for a kiss. Zhao Heng felt bitter inside; finally, a beautiful woman to his taste arrived, yet before he could enjoy her company, one thing after another kept happening.
"Thank you, Your Majesty," Song Qingying inwardly lamented, thinking what a predicament she had gotten herself into, unwittingly inviting trouble!
"How are you feeling now?" Zhao Heng asked.
Song Qingying frowned, "A bit confused, as if someone is speaking in my mind. I can't make out what is being said, and thinking too much gives me a headache."
Seeing her pitiful state softened Zhao Heng's heart, thinking that once she recovers, she might be even less willing to stay in the palace.
Lu Deli took nearly half an hour to return, and he came back alone. Lu Deli feared his days as the chief steward were numbered...
Lu Deli stopped at the door, hesitant to enter. Zhao Heng noticed him and called out, "Lu Deli! What are you doing? Come in at once!"
With a heavy heart, Lu Deli entered and knelt on the floor, something he hadn't done for years while serving the emperor. Seeing Lu Deli kneel, Zhao Heng's expression darkened: "What happened! Where are the people I sent you to find?"
"Gone... they're gone..." Lu Deli bowed deeply twice, "I deserve to die!"
"Gone? Dead?" asked Zhao Heng.
"Yes... they're dead," Lu Deli said, "Not just them, everyone who had served Lady Qi before... they're all dead..."
"What?" Zhao Heng felt an even greater headache.
"What happened..." Song Qingying was genuinely shocked; she had not anticipated this turn of events. She looked at Zhao Heng, saw his furrowed brows and eyes full of rage, and thought, now Zhao Heng would surely investigate thoroughly, leaving no need for her. All her carefully thought-out schemes were for naught. Song Qingying felt a wave of dizziness and collapsed to the side, fainting...
Seeing Song Qingying faint, Zhao Heng momentarily forgot her history of feigning unconsciousness and urgently called out, "Quick, summon the Imperial Physician."
Lu Deli scrambled away, and as the Emperor shouted for the physician, Deep Green, Light Red, and others rushed in, causing chaos in the courtyard, while Xiangqiao sneakily slipped out.
Lu Deli dragged the physician back, who was so elderly that upon arriving at Qiu Hua Court, he could hardly stand straight, gasping for breath with his back bent.
"Come in at once," Zhao Heng commanded angrily.
The trembling physician entered and took Song Qingying's pulse.
"What's wrong with her?" Zhao Heng, now suffering from a severe headache and increasingly irritable, asked through clenched teeth.
"To answer Your Majesty, the lady's pulse is erratic, suggesting she has suffered a great shock," the physician replied, still catching his breath.
Stirred by the incident, Zhao Heng pondered the imperial physician's words. The death of Lady Qi had shocked her deeply.
"Is she alright?" Zhao Heng inquired.
"She's not in grave danger. She'll wake once she's over the shock. If I administer an acupuncture treatment, she could wake up immediately," the imperial physician explained.
Zhao Heng waved his hand dismissively, "You may leave; there's no need for the treatment."
Gently caressing Song Qingying's face, Zhao Heng carefully tucked her in, then turned to instruct Shen Bi and Qing Hong, "Stay here with her, and don't leave her side."
"Yes," Shen Bi and Qing Hong stepped forward, one by the head and the other by the foot of the bed, taking their positions.
Lu Deli, having knelt down again at some unknown point, received a kick from Zhao Heng, "Get up!"
The Emperor hadn't kicked hard, still holding onto past affections, which nearly moved Lu Deli to tears. He thought of himself, Lu the Chief Steward, who had managed the harem's miscellaneous affairs for years without as many oversights as in these recent years…
Lu Deli got up and followed Zhao Heng out of the courtyard. Just as they left, he saw Chen Cairen emerging from her own quarters. Zhao Heng gave her a cold glance and left Qiu Hua Court without a word.
Back in the Imperial Study, Zhao Heng fixed his gaze on Lu Deli, who was so frightened that he was about to kneel again.
"Enough! No need to kneel! Just tell me, what happened?" Zhao Heng said, pressing his temples, clearly agitated.
"Your Majesty, Lady Qi had three maids and one eunuch serving her. After her death, they were assigned to remote quarters to perform menial tasks and somehow, all ended up dead. Since they were separated and stationed far apart, I overlooked this matter…" Lu Deli explained.
"Why were so few attending her?" Zhao Heng questioned. "As a favored concubine, she should have had more attendants."
"These were the attendants who had been with Lady Qi since her days as a palace maiden. Later attempts to assign others were dismissed by her, as she preferred not to be surrounded by many people," Lu Deli replied.
Pressing his temples hard, Zhao Heng sighed, "It seems Lady Qi's death is shrouded in mystery."
Lu Deli dared not speak; he knew he was at fault and deserved death.
"Summon the Empress… Never mind, I will investigate this myself," Zhao Heng sighed. "I wonder how many secrets are hidden from me in this palace. I thought the harem was a place of peace. It seems, just like the outer court, beneath the surface calm, there are undercurrents at play."
"I deserve to die for not being able to alleviate Your Majesty's worries," Lu Deli felt genuinely remorseful seeing Zhao Heng's distress.
Shaking his head, Zhao Heng said, "Everyone makes mistakes. What's happening with Meng Changhuai? Has the divine physician not been found yet? I have tasks waiting for him!"
"Doctor Xue mentioned that the divine physician is quite eccentric, which might complicate matters for Lord Meng," Lu Deli feared Meng Changhuai would also face misfortune upon his return.
"Enough, enough…" Zhao Heng waved dismissively, "I must first resolve the issues within the harem. With unrest here, my mind cannot be at peace. Let's start by summoning the physician who treated Lady Qi."
What Zhao Heng hadn't anticipated was that even the physician who treated Lady Qi was dead! This deepened his confusion. Lady Qi was a minor concubine, not particularly favored; who would go to such lengths to harm her, even killing those associated with her before her death? He had suspected those within Qiu Hua Court, but such a grand scheme, even targeting a physician, likely exceeded their capabilities. This seemed beyond mere rivalry for favor; what then was the motive…?
Song Qingying had initially pretended to faint, but eventually fell asleep for real. Waking up at dusk, she saw Shen Bi and Qing Hong, one at the head and the other at the foot of her bed, standing guard. "Such faithful maids," Song Qingying thought to herself.
"Lady, are you awake?" Shen Bi approached with joy.
Qing Hong also stepped forward: "Lady, do you feel any discomfort?"
Song Qingying smiled at them both: "I'm fine, thank you for your hard work."
"Serving you is our duty, Lady. There's no trouble at all! We're just glad you're well!" Shen Bi said with a smile.
"Yes, I'm feeling better now. I don't know what happened this morning that worried you. Has anything happened in the courtyard?" Song Qingying asked.
Qing Hong poured a cup of tea for Song Qingying: "Lady, please have some warm tea. There's been no trouble in the courtyard."
"No trouble? Lady, you fainted, and we were all so worried. Meanwhile, Sister Xiangqiao took the chance to slip out!" Shen Bi said indignantly.
Taking a sip of tea, Song Qingying replied: "Don't bother with her. I only trust you two and consider you as my own. Let her be. Just stay alert."
Hearing Song Qingying consider them as her own made them very happy. Shen Bi smiled: "Rest assured, Lady, both I and Steward Shang have already dealt with her upon her return."
"Good, you've done well. Just don't overdo it," Song Qingying said with a smile.
"By the way, Lady, the Emperor will dine here tonight and stay over. Steward Lu has already personally informed us," Shen Bi added.
Chapter 23
While Shen Bi was speaking, Zhao Heng had already arrived at Qiu Hua Court, only to be stopped at the entrance by Lady Chen. Seizing the opportunity to inquire about Lady Qi, he followed Lady Chen into her quarters.
"Your Majesty, shall we serve the meal?" Lady Chen, feeling smug upon Zhao Heng's return with her, thought to herself that Lady Song must have seen a ghost, allowing her to gain an unexpected advantage. Zhao Heng sat down as soon as he entered, with Lady Chen standing by his side.
"No need, I have something to ask you." Zhao Heng had already planned to dine with Song Qingying and was not about to change his mind.
Lady Chen's face slightly changed, her hands tightly clasped within her sleeves as she cautiously asked, "What does Your Majesty wish to inquire about?"
"There are rumors of hauntings in Qiu Hua Court. Have you witnessed anything of the sort?" Zhao Heng asked.
Lady Chen awkwardly chuckled, "Yes... there have been... incidents."
"You seem quite brave, not scared at all?" Zhao Heng observed Lady Chen, noting how well-nourished she appeared despite the humble setting of Qiu Hua Court.
"I am of a stout heart, not so easily frightened. In the palace, with Your Majesty present and the imperial dragon aura protecting us, I fear nothing," Lady Chen responded.
Zhao Heng smiled faintly, "How was your relationship with Lady Qi?"
"To Your Majesty, we were all sisters here, living in harmony. It's such a pity... how she passed..." Lady Chen seemed genuinely regretful about Lady Qi's death.
Zhao Heng looked at Lady Chen and said coldly, "All the maids and eunuchs who served Lady Qi are dead, even the physician who treated her. Don't you find that peculiar?"
Hearing this from Zhao Heng, Lady Chen's face turned deathly pale, "What... how could this be? Why?"
"I too wish to know why. Living in the same courtyard as her, do you really claim to know nothing about how she died?" Zhao Heng demanded sternly.
Startled by his words, Lady Chen quickly knelt at Zhao Heng's feet: "She... she died of illness, did she not?"
"Died of illness, yet why does her spirit cause disturbances! And why would those maids and the physician die one after another?" Zhao Heng glared at Lady Chen, who was shaking like a leaf.
"This servant... this servant does not know," Lady Chen said, touching her forehead to the ground, too frightened to rise.
"You don't know? Let me make this clear: regarding Lady Qi's death, no one in Qiu Hua Court can escape responsibility! Speak now if you remember anything!" Seeing Lady Chen tremble without speaking, Zhao Heng stood up, flung his sleeve, and departed.
After Zhao Heng left, Lady Chen collapsed on the ground, drenched in cold sweat... They're all dead... How could this be... But since they're all dead, there are no witnesses, it should not trace back to me...
In the courtyard, Song Qingying had already risen, dressed, and refreshed herself, no longer looking as she did in the morning, which reassured everyone. Xiangqiao, feeling guilty and noticing Song Qingying intentionally avoiding her, cautiously approached: "Lady, I erred today. Without your permission, I went to Chaoyang Palace."
Song Qingying offered a faint smile: "And what did you do at Chaoyang Palace?"
"I was worried about you, Lady. After all, the Noble Consort is your sister, and the only person I could turn to was her." Xiangqiao spoke softly, though her real purpose was not to seek help but to inform. The Noble Consort, having received the news, even rewarded her with a silver tael.
"You have my thanks," said Song Qingying, her tone detached.
"The Noble Consort sent some bird's nest for you, Lady..." Xiangqiao added, only to be interrupted by Song Qingying: "Give it to Shen Bi."
"Yes." That was all Xiangqiao could say, her standing in the courtyard diminishing further. Yet, on the other hand, there was the Noble Consort... Xiangqiao sighed. The tasks given by the Noble Consort were not to be neglected.
Zhao Heng entered the courtyard, and this time, Song Qingying came out to greet him.
Dressed in a water-blue palace attire, Song Qingying looked fresh and elegant under the lantern light, adding a touch of allure. Seeing Song Qingying appearing normal and no longer as haggard as in the morning, Zhao Heng's anger subsided slightly.
"This concubine greets Your Majesty," Song Qingying curtsied gracefully.
Zhao Heng hurried forward to help her up: "Please, rise. How are you feeling now?"
"Thank you for your concern, Your Majesty. I am well now," Song Qingying said, lowering her head.
Zhao Heng smiled: "Let's go inside for the meal."
Holding Song Qingying's hand, Zhao Heng led her to the main hall. Although the table was large, he insisted on sitting closely beside her, still holding her hand and asked softly, "Are you truly well?"
Song Qingying nodded: "Your Majesty, I did not mean to cause worry. I am indeed well."
"Hmm, I was indeed worried. So, how will you make it up to me?" Zhao Heng held both of Song Qingying's hands tightly, smiling as he looked at her.
Feeling his gaze, Song Qingying turned her face away, a natural blush spreading across her cheeks.
"Your Majesty... about Lady Qi..." Song Qingying murmured softly.
Upon hearing this, Zhao Heng released Song Qingying's hand and felt a chill down his spine, instinctively glancing over his shoulder.
"What about Lady Qi?" Zhao Heng coughed, asking.
"Your Majesty, do you believe that the dead can become ghosts?" Song Qingying asked.
Zhao Heng paused and said, "What are you trying to say? Did Lady Qi turn into a ghost?"
Song Qingying gave a bitter smile, "I don't know if it's Lady Qi's spirit or her lingering attachment, but ever since I moved into this courtyard, I've felt as if she's been by my side. Sometimes, it feels like she's in my mind, even though I've never met Lady Qi..." She glanced at Zhao Heng and added, "Your Majesty, could it be that Lady Qi has some unfulfilled wishes or unresolved grievances that keep her from leaving this world? Maybe she wants to achieve something through me..."
Zhao Heng looked at Song Qingying and slowly said, "You mentioned she's in your mind, did she say anything?"
Song Qingying glanced at Zhao Heng and whispered, "Yes, she said someone harmed her..."
"Who?" Zhao Heng asked.
Song Qingying shook her head, "She doesn't know. I think if she did, she would have sought out the person who harmed her instead of coming to me."
"What do you think about this?" Zhao Heng had his doubts about Song Qingying's behavior today, but he couldn't find a motive for her to fabricate such a story, so he was inclined to believe her.
As they were speaking, the eunuch serving the meal arrived, bringing dish after dish. Song Qingying covertly swallowed her saliva. The palace meals were distributed according to rank, and Song Qingying, being of a lower rank, had not had such fine food these past days.
Seeing Song Qingying's longing look, Zhao Heng smiled, "Let's eat first."
Song Qingying nodded eagerly.
"Remember what you like and have the Imperial Kitchen prepare it for you," Zhao Heng said with a smile.
Song Qingying shook her head, "I thank Your Majesty, but I'd rather not. I am but a concubine and should not surpass others. There are four of us concubines living in this courtyard."
Zhao Heng ladled a bowl of soup for Song Qingying and smiled, "What, you think your status is too low?"
Song Qingying took a sip of soup: "Not at all, not at all."
Zhao Heng whispered into Song Qingying's ear: "If you wish to rise in rank, serve me well tonight."
Song Qingying had just picked up her spoon when Zhao Heng startled her, causing the spoon to drop into the soup bowl with a clatter.
Zhao Heng was taken aback, realizing she was still unwilling to share his bed after all this time. Could merely mentioning it frighten her so? Song Qingying hurriedly whispered to Zhao Heng: "Your Majesty... I felt as if someone slapped my hand just now..."
"What? Stop this superstitious nonsense!" Zhao Heng was unnerved by Song Qingying's words.
Song Qingying shook her head vigorously: "Not at all, I wouldn't dare. Your Majesty, could it be Lady Qi... perhaps she doesn't want me to be close to you?"
Zhao Heng frowned deeply, pondering the possibility of Song Qingying's words. If Lady Qi had indeed become a ghost, it wasn't beyond the realm of possibility. Zhao Heng said: "Why wouldn't she come directly to me! If she has grievances or unfulfilled wishes, I could resolve them for her!"
"You are the Emperor, the supreme ruler, the one with the strongest yang energy in the world. Perhaps she dares not, or cannot approach you," Song Qingying said, edging closer to Zhao Heng.
Zhao Heng gave Song Qingying a helpless look, unsure whether her words were true or fabricated.
"Eat up. Didn't you say she wouldn't dare with me here? Don't be afraid. Until we uncover the truth, I will stay here," Zhao Heng declared.
Ah? She had indeed brought trouble upon herself! Song Qingying lamented inwardly.
"What? Are you not welcoming me?" Zhao Heng, noticing Song Qingying's dazed expression, spoke displeasedly.
"Not at all, how could that be... I am very pleased," Song Qingying said, picking up a piece of food for Zhao Heng with her chopsticks.
"Good, then," Zhao Heng nodded and continued eating.
Song Qingying realized there was no turning back now and decided to take things one step at a time. Fortunately, with Lady Qi as a shield, Zhao Heng probably wouldn't do anything to her for now.
After dinner, the two took a stroll in the small courtyard under the perfect moonlight, deliberately avoiding their earlier conversation.
"Your Majesty, how come there is such a small courtyard in the palace? Did you know there's even a vegetable garden behind it?" Song Qingying voiced her curiosity.
Zhao Heng was momentarily stumped by the question. It was his first visit to this courtyard, and he too was unaware of its existence. The palace had been standing for over a hundred years, and he had no knowledge of when this courtyard came to be. Although he had visited Qiu Hua Court several times before, no one had ever mentioned this particular courtyard.
"I truly do not know," Zhao Heng admitted.
"Would you like to see the vegetable garden? There seems to be a chicken coop too. I bet you've never seen a vegetable garden or a chicken coop," Song Qingying said with a laugh.
Zhao Heng, charmed by Song Qingying's enthusiastic presentation, replied tenderly, "Alright."
Song Qingying led Zhao Heng to the vegetable garden, which was bare. Zhao Heng chuckled, "Is this what you wanted to show me?"
Song Qingying responded, "It hasn't been planted yet! I've already asked Eunuch Qian for seeds, and I'll plant them soon. This shouldn't violate any palace rules, right?"
"Plant if you wish, and you may also keep chickens," Zhao Heng laughed, amused by the notion of a lady from the Song family being interested in gardening and poultry.
"Really! Thank you, Your Majesty! I'll cook one for you when they're grown! And I'll give you the eggs too!" Song Qingying exclaimed joyfully.
Seeing her happiness, Zhao Heng couldn't resist ruffling her hair, "So, you plan to stay here often?"
"This place is lovely!" Song Qingying said, looking at the barren vegetable garden.
"Good, if you say it's good, then it's settled, my love. It's time to retire for the night," Zhao Heng drew Song Qingying close, his chin resting on her head, speaking softly.
Chapter 24
Song Qingying stiffened, managing a hoarse "Hmm." With Zhao Heng staying over, Yu Shuangzi would have no chance to visit. She wondered where Yu Shuangzi was hiding and if she would be caught.
Zhao Heng, holding Song Qingying's hand as they walked back, cast long shadows under the moonlight. Song Qingying grew increasingly anxious, hoping Zhao Heng wouldn't take advantage of the situation.
Just a few steps out, they saw Lu Deli hurrying over from outside. Zhao Heng had sent him on an errand, and his anxious return suggested something urgent had come up.
Zhao Heng turned to Song Qingying, "Go inside first."
Song Qingying nodded and proceeded to the inner chamber, hoping that some noble lady was summoning Zhao Heng away, giving her a chance to speak with Yu Shuangzi. She felt unsafe hiding in the palace.
Zhao Heng walked a few steps forward and stopped by the begonia flowers, with Lu Deli approaching.
"Your Majesty, the Noble Consort is unwell!" Lu Deli reported breathlessly.
Zhao Heng was shocked: "What? Let's go, I need to see her!"
At the entrance of the small courtyard, Zhao Heng paused to instruct Shang Lin, guarding the gate, "Secure the courtyard well and have the concubines rest. If that white shadow appears again tonight, ensure it does not get close to Lady Song."
"As you command!" Shang Lin, hearing the Emperor's concern for his master, resolved to protect the courtyard diligently.
Inside, hearing that Zhao Heng had indeed left, Song Qingying managed to keep her composure, but her heart leaped with relief, having dodged another encounter.
Shen Bi, concerned that Song Qingying might be upset, comforted her, "My lady, the Emperor wasn't called away by any of the noble ladies; the Noble Consort suddenly felt ill, and he went to check on her."
Song Qingying didn't care why Zhao Heng left; as long as he was gone, that was enough. His presence required her to act, so his absence, especially if he didn't return tonight, was preferable. However, she remembered she hadn't finished copying the "Lotus Sutra." Having slept all day, she wasn't tired, so she decided to copy the scripture.
"Qing Hong, prepare the ink and my scriptures. I want to finish copying the sutra early to offer it in front of the Buddha for the Noble Consort's blessing," Song Qingying instructed.
"My lady, won't you rest?" Shen Bi asked, puzzled.
Song Qingying smiled, "It's still early, and I slept too much during the day to feel sleepy now. Go on, Qing Hong."
Shen Bi said no more, and Qing Hong quickly prepared the ink and scriptures.
"One must be calm to copy scriptures; you needn't stay here," Song Qingying suggested, hoping to send them away so Yu Shuangzi could enter.
Shen Bi insisted, "My lady, I cannot leave. His Majesty ordered us to protect you, and I dare not disobey." If a real ghost were to scare her mistress, her own life might be at risk.
Song Qingying, already seated at the desk, blocked Shen Bi from grinding the ink. Shen Bi, opening her mouth to protest, then stepped aside, saying, "I'll be silent and won't disturb you."
Song Qingying sighed internally, blaming them was not just. Whether as a master or servant, everyone was striving for a better future, which first required safeguarding their lives. Given the extensive implications of current events, any mishap to her could endanger everyone in the courtyard. With this in mind, she no longer insisted they leave.
Copying scriptures required meticulous care, especially for the Noble Consort, leaving no room for errors. Song Qingying warmed up by writing a poem on a blank sheet. Positioned by the window under the moonlight, she penned: "As the Big Dipper turns, hanging over the western chamber, the golden house empty, fireflies flow. The moonlight nears Changmen Palace, let it not deepen the sorrows of the secluded palace." Shen Bi, watching from afar, was curious about Song Qingying's writing. After finishing, Song Qingying, dissatisfied, crumpled the paper and tossed it aside. Seeing this, Shen Bi quickly looked away.
Zhao Heng, accompanied by Lu Deli, left Qiu Hua Court and headed straight to the Noble Consort's residence, Qiongjing Palace. As they walked, Lu Deli reported the Noble Consort's condition: like Zhao Heng, she suddenly suffered a headache. Zhao Heng, being younger, could endure it, but the Noble Consort, advanced in years and with chronic ailments, fainted from the pain. Hearing this, Zhao Heng grew increasingly worried and quickened his pace.
Upon arriving at Qiongjing Palace, Zhao Heng saw a line of imperial physicians arguing in front of the Noble Consort's bed, displeasing him greatly. He demanded, "What are you doing!"
The physicians, seeing the Emperor, dared not argue any longer and all knelt down.
Approaching, Zhao Heng first checked on the Noble Consort, whose face was pale, eyes closed, barely distinguishable from a corpse. Feeling both shocked and regretful, he suppressed his anger and asked in a lowered voice, "What has happened to the Noble Consort!"
Deputy Chief Physician Lin spoke first, "The Noble Consort has a history of dizziness, which today led to a sudden headache and fainting. The combination of both conditions overwhelmed her, causing her to lose consciousness."
"Is the Consort in grave danger? When will she wake up!" Zhao Heng pressed on.
Deputy Chief Physician Lin continued, "I believe acupuncture is necessary for the Noble Consort. Remaining unconscious like this is harmful to her health."
"Then why haven't you administered acupuncture instead of arguing here!" Zhao Heng said coldly, wishing he could dismiss all the physicians on the spot.
"Your Majesty, I fear the Noble Consort's frail condition might not withstand the strain of forceful acupuncture," the Chief Physician explained.
"Does the Chief Physician know when the Noble Consort will awaken? If we end up needing to administer acupuncture after a long delay, it would be better to do so sooner rather than later, with ginseng soup ready as a precaution," Deputy Chief Physician Lin argued.
Zhao Heng glanced at Deputy Chief Physician Lin, noting that unlike the typically cautious and inactive physicians, he was daring and proactive. Zhao Heng asked, "Is there a risk with the acupuncture?"
"Your Majesty, there are risks whether we administer acupuncture or not, but the risks are lesser with acupuncture," Deputy Chief Physician Lin added.
After a moment's thought, Zhao Heng concluded that waiting was not beneficial. If it were him, he would prefer to receive acupuncture sooner rather than later. He decided, "Then proceed with the acupuncture. Should anything happen to the Noble Consort, none of you shall be spared."
Zhao Heng coldly finished speaking and stepped aside. With the imperial command given, the physicians, now facing a life-or-death situation together, began to work collectively.
Watching the Noble Consort, Zhao Heng reminisced about the past. His birth mother had a low status, and he was often bullied by other princes and princesses in the palace. Without the Noble Consort's care, his life might have been lost early on. After his mother's death, the Noble Consort took him under her wing as her own son, and her support was crucial in his ascension to the throne. In Zhao Heng's heart, the Noble Consort was like his birth mother.
After his ascension, he showed great respect and favor towards the Noble Consort and her family, the Duke of Chengguo's residence. Perhaps due to excessive favor or the inevitability of having unworthy descendants, a censor impeached the Duke's second son for abducting a woman and seizing farmland, leading to death. The evidence was conclusive, and Zhao Heng ordered an immediate execution. The Noble Consort's plea for mercy was denied, leading to her prolonged sadness. With numerous duties and frequent headaches, Zhao Heng seldom visited her, regretting now how gravely ill she had become.
The physicians had agreed on a plan, with Deputy Chief Physician Lin administering the acupuncture, assisted by the Chief Physician and two experts in gold needle technique, ensuring no mistakes.
Zhao Heng nodded after hearing their plan, having already issued a stern warning, he said, "The Noble Consort's care is in your hands," and then stepped back.
Deputy Chief Physician Lin took out a packet of gold needles from his medicine box, but the Noble Consort suddenly awoke with a groan, startling him and causing the Chief Physician to push him aside.
"The Noble Consort has awakened; what need is there for needles now!"
Deputy Chief Physician Lin looked puzzledly at the Noble Consort, remained silent, packed away the needles, and stepped aside, his eyes flickering with an indeterminate meaning.
Zhao Heng, not noticing Lin's expression, hurried forward, asking, "Mother, how do you feel?"
The Noble Consort weakly murmured, "Has the Emperor come? It's... hard on you to still remember... an old woman like me..."
Hearing this, Zhao Heng felt even more remorseful, thinking the Noble Consort was of advanced age, and pacifying her now mattered little; once she passed away, if the Duke's family disobeyed, he could easily deal with them.
"How could I ever forget you, Mother," Zhao Heng said softly.
The Noble Consort closed her eyes and said no more, causing Zhao Heng to panic and urgently call for the physicians to check on her.
The Chief Physician hurried forward to take the Noble Consort's pulse.
"Your Majesty, the Consort's pulse is weak but stable, and there is no serious concern. She will recover with some days of rest," the Chief Physician reported.
Zhao Heng felt relieved. With so many issues arising in the harem lately, he feared he couldn't manage them all.
Leaving one physician behind and sending the others away, Zhao Heng sat beside the Noble Consort's bed, hoping to talk with her, but she kept her eyes closed and ignored him. Resigned, he stayed another hour before leaving.
It was late when Zhao Heng left Qiongjing Palace, heaving a long sigh, momentarily unsure where to go.
Sensing the Emperor's discontent, Lu Deli quietly asked, "Your Majesty, where would you like to rest?"
"Let's return to Qiu Hua Court," Zhao Heng decided after a moment, "It's a good opportunity for a walk."
Qiongjing Palace was the farthest from Qiu Hua Court, and Zhao Heng walked slowly, passing numerous palaces along the way.
In Qiu Hua Court, Song Qingying, having not waited for Yu Shuangzi, had gone to bed under Shen Bi's urging.
Zhao Heng entered the small courtyard and the inner chamber quietly, finding Song Qingying deeply asleep. Seeing her peaceful sleeping face calmed him considerably, and he smiled gently. After removing his outer garment, he lay down beside her, drawing her into his embrace, the troubles of the day melting away.
Song Qingying had awakened upon his entry, her heart racing at the sound of his movements. When he pulled her into his embrace, she couldn't help but gasp and attempted to wriggle free.
Zhao Heng held her tightly, whispering in her ear, "Don't move, let me hold you."
Chapter 25
A tingling sensation spread through Song Qingying at his whisper, her body quivering lightly. She ceased her struggles, leaning her head back to avoid her lips touching Zhao Heng's neck.
"Close your eyes and relax," Song Qingying felt a warm breath by her ear, and Zhao Heng's deep voice made her more anxious.
Zhao Heng, sensing Song Qingying's stiffness, chuckled softly and slightly loosened his embrace. Song Qingying tried to turn away, creating a small distance between them. Zhao Heng pulled her close again, making it impossible for her to sleep, feeling the increasing warmth where they touched.
Initially restraining himself, Zhao Heng couldn't resist when he heard Song Qingying's gentle voice, promptly taking action that left her startled.
Song Qingying, shocked by the suddenness, resisted.
Overwhelmed by his desires and the scent of her, Zhao Heng decided to act on his impulses.
"Stay still. Let me care for you..." Zhao Heng hurriedly spoke, attempting to continue, but was interrupted by a sudden scream from outside, claiming there was a ghost.
Zhao Heng paused, and Song Qingying quickly added about the ghost's presence.
Zhao Heng felt intense frustration, wishing he could confront the disturbance directly.
Covering Song Qingying with the blanket, he got out of bed, calling for Lu Deli in a roar.
Song Qingying felt a mix of relief and amusement at the interruption.
Lu Deli, initially busy with a task, hurried to Zhao Heng upon being summoned.
"Find that ghost. If you can't, prepare to join them," Zhao Heng commanded angrily.
Lu Deli hurried off to comply with the order.
The sounds of pursuit and conflict worried Song Qingying about Yu Shuangzi's safety, fearing she might get caught despite warnings to be cautious.
Frustrated and trying to calm himself with a drink of water, Zhao Heng's attention was caught by a crumpled paper. Song Qingying, concerned for Yu Shuangzi, noticed Zhao Heng's interest in the paper and panicked, trying to retrieve it from him.
"That's mine! You can't look!" Song Qingying became frantic, her words tumbling out in her haste.
Zhao Heng had already glanced over the note and knew its contents, teasingly holding it high out of her reach. As Song Qingying jumped to grab it, he playfully switched hands, amused by her efforts.
Realizing Zhao Heng's gaze was on her, Song Qingying stopped and covered herself, glaring at him. She thought to herself about his untimely focus, labeling him in frustration.
Seeing Song Qingying's reaction melted Zhao Heng's heart, making him forget all his worries. He then carried her to the bed, despite her protests and grasp on his robe.
After placing Song Qingying on the bed, she quickly rolled away to the other side, trying to hide. Zhao Heng chuckled, knowing there wasn't much space to hide on such a large bed and reached for her under the blanket, catching her foot.
Buried under the blanket, Song Qingying tried to stay still, especially sensitive to tickles, especially on her feet, which Zhao Heng was now holding.
"See, your feet are indeed cold," Zhao Heng said with a light laugh, warming her feet with his hands. Song Qingying felt her heart race with his gesture, pondering over his unusual care towards her, comparing it to the stories she knew.
Suddenly, footsteps approached, and Lu Deli announced from outside, "Your Majesty, the ghost has been caught!"
Hearing that a ghost had been captured, Song Qingying sat up in alarm, worried for Yu Shuangzi.
Zhao Heng reassured her, telling her to stay in bed and not to worry, as he would check on the situation.
After Zhao Heng left, Song Qingying, unable to calm her concerns about Yu Shuangzi, decided to investigate herself and quickly got dressed to go outside.
Outside, Qing Hong was standing guard. Seeing Song Qingying emerge, she reminded her of the Emperor's orders to stay inside.
Song Qingying explained she wanted to see the captured "ghost" herself.
Qing Hong scoffed, revealing it was not a ghost but Qiu Fang, a maid from Chen Cairen's service, causing trouble.
Relieved it wasn't Yu Shuangzi, Song Qingying felt a weight lift off her shoulders.
"Please go back inside, my lady. It's better not to look. Even knowing it's a person, the disguise was quite unsettling," Qing Hong advised with distaste.
Knowing the person was not Yu Shuangzi, Song Qingying no longer insisted on going out and nodded before entering the inner chamber. Once inside, she asked, "Where are they interrogating? Why can't I hear anything?"
"I heard from Eunuch Shang that the person was found in Qiu Hua Court and chased here, and now they've been taken back to Qiu Hua Court," Qing Hong replied.
Song Qingying didn't say anything more, understanding that since the person was taken back, it was even less appropriate for her to be there.
In Qiu Hua Court, Chen Cairen and Qiu Fang were kneeling together. Chen Cairen tried several times to cling to Zhao Heng's legs but was kicked away each time.
"Your Majesty, I truly didn't know. It was her idea to scare me; why would I have someone scare myself!" Chen Cairen cried as she spoke.
"Your Majesty, it was Chen Cairen who ordered me to dress as a ghost! It's not my fault! Chen Cairen was jealous of Lady Song and had me dress up as a ghost to pretend to be scared, all to deceive you! Everything I say is true!" Qiu Fang said, kowtowing, her hair disheveled, dressed in white, her face painted pale, looking more ghostly than human.
"I didn't, Your Majesty!" Chen Cairen crawled a few steps, prostrating at Zhao Heng's feet.
Zhao Heng coldly kicked Chen Cairen away, turning his gaze to Qiu Fang on the ground, "Was it also you who pretended to be the ghost at Qiu Hua Court before?"
"No! No! I only did it this time! Your Majesty, please see the truth!" Qiu Fang kowtowed vigorously, blood from her forehead dripping down, making her look even more like a ghost.
"Your Majesty! I truly didn't do it! If I wanted to pretend to be scared, I would have just acted scared myself; there's no need to have someone dress up as a ghost! Though there were rumors of a ghost in Qiu Hua Court, no one has actually seen what it looks like! I truly didn't! I don't know why this lowly maid would say such things, Your Majesty! I really didn't! Please believe me!" Chen Cairen cried pitifully, but Zhao Heng did not even glance at her.
Zhao Heng closed his eyes in disgust, having sent Lu Deli to search the palace, merely waiting for his return. This night had indeed been eventful, and he felt exceedingly tired.
After about the time it takes an incense stick to burn, Lu Deli returned with his team and the items they had found.
"Your Majesty, we found a set of night clothes and a ghost costume in Qiu Fang's room," Lu Deli reported, gesturing for the items to be presented.
Zhao Heng was furious, incredulous that a mere concubine and a palace maid dared to manipulate him.
Slowly opening his eyes, a cold light flashed within them: "Everyone in Qiu Hua Court, listen. Speak now if you know anything. If I find out you knew and didn't report, your entire families will be executed."
"Chen, I'm giving you one last chance. The death of Lady Qi and the haunting of Qiu Hua Court, do they have anything to do with you?" Zhao Heng asked coldly.
Chen Cairen had never seen the Emperor like this; he was usually smiling. Now, over Lady Qi, he was this upset. Would he care this much if it were her who had died? She had been in the palace for six years, briefly favored upon her arrival when the Emperor had called her frank and charming. Somehow, he had forgotten about her, and as new faces entered the palace, he remembered her even less. Chen Cairen wanted to ask if he still remembered that frank and charming girl, but she knew he didn't. She hardly remembered that version of herself either.
"It was all me. Everything was my doing. If you must kill, then kill only me. My family knows nothing of my actions. I beg for your mercy," Chen Cairen said, rising to kneel upright, a stark contrast to her earlier demeanor.
"Everything was done by you alone? Was there no one else directing you?" Zhao Heng believed she might have harmed Lady Qi but doubted she acted elsewhere or against the physician alone.
"Yes! It was all my doing! No one else instructed me," Chen Cairen confessed, as if she had come to a sudden realization, readily admitting to her crimes.