Chapter 66
A few days after Qingzhi's disappearance, rumors circulated that the palace maid sought the Emperor's bed and was executed by Lady Song Jieyu.
Palace rumors never arose without reason. Song Qingying knew someone was using Qingzhi's story for their ends, but who? Lady Liu, the Empress, or another?
During a visit to Fengyi Palace, the Empress's gaze towards Song Qingying seemed colder than usual. Song Qingying, as always, behaved impeccably, showing no sign of distress and ignoring the Empress's animosity.
It was Lin Xiuyi, who had been relatively subdued since her reinstatement, who spoke up, "Empress, I've heard a troubling rumor that Lady Song Jieyu inexplicably killed a palace maid."
Song Qingying inwardly sneered, "Finally, it begins." She feigned surprise, "Your Majesty, indeed, a maid named Qingzhi has gone missing from my quarters, but talk of her being killed is unfounded. Normally, I wouldn't trouble you over a maid, but now that such rumors have emerged, I implore Your Majesty to help find her. She was a diligent worker, not seeking favor or attention, a truly valuable servant."
The Empress glanced at Song Qingying, "Our dynasty has always governed with benevolence and kindness. If a palace maid errs, there are established palace regulations for punishment. There's absolutely no justification for arbitrary execution." The Empress paused to look at Song Qingying again, who sat calmly without fear, neither defending herself nor responding.
Lin Xiuyi took over, "Exactly as Her Majesty the Empress Dowager has said, if everyone behaved as Consort Song does, it would lead to chaos."
"Why is Lin Xiuyi so eager to condemn the concubines? I've already mentioned that a maid has indeed gone missing from Qi Garden. Whether she's dead or alive, we do not know. How can Lin Xiuyi be so certain that it was the concubine who killed her? Is it based on rumors? I'm quite curious. Qingzhi was but a minor palace maid; how did her matter reach Lin Xiuyi? Could it be that Lin Xiuyi is acquainted with this Qingzhi?" Song Qingying asked calmly and slowly.
"Your Majesty, as the master of the harem, it falls upon you to investigate this matter. Since Consort Song claims 'no body, no crime,' I suggest we search Qi Garden first. Perhaps the person is buried there," Lin Xiuyi suggested.
Song Qingying eyed Lin Xiuyi, finding her behavior odd today, clinging to the accusation persistently. Whether it was her own initiative or someone else's instruction, it seemed likely. This matter, initially just about a missing maid, now escalated to discussing benevolent governance. It made one wonder how many of the ladies present were truly innocent of bloodshed.
"In that case, why doesn't Her Majesty the Empress Dowager order a search now? We'll wait here to bear witness for Consort Song," said the previously silent Consort De.
Song Qingying sneered inwardly. Indeed, everyone had shown up for this.
Consort Shu chuckled, "How peculiar today is, to search the palace over a mere maid. Is this maid someone of great importance? Which palace doesn't have its minor troubles? Consort Song, you seem too easy to bully in my eyes."
Song Qingying didn't expect Consort Shu to speak up for her and smiled in her direction.
However, Noble Consort Song retorted, "Consort Shu's comment is the real oddity. Since the person went missing in Qi Garden, it's only natural to start the search there. A human life is at stake; how can it be considered a trivial matter? Who knows what secrets might be lurking behind this."
Consort Shu's smile widened, "How amusing. Those in the know say Noble Consort Song is upholding palace rules and justice, severing kin for righteousness. Those out of the loop might think she's taking advantage of Consort Song's misfortune."
Noble Consort Song's face darkened, "I merely support what's right, not who's related. Your words, Consort Shu, are the ones sowing discord!"
"Oh, I too believe in supporting what's right over kinship. Since I see Consort Song in the right, naturally, I support her," Consort Shu laughed.
Noble Consort Song was left speechless by Consort Shu's retort, and the Empress looked even more displeased. She had intended to search Qi Garden but Consort Shu's interjection made it difficult to proceed, so she looked towards Lin Xiuyi for support. Lin Xiuyi understood the Empress's hint and added, "For fairness, I believe a search is necessary. If Consort Song believes she has done nothing wrong, she wouldn't fear a search, right?"
Song Qingying smiled faintly and bowed her head, "How strange that it's my palace's maid who is missing, yet Lin Xiuyi acts as if she's the victim. Since she insists it's my disregard for palace rules that led to the maid's disappearance, warranting a search of my Qi Garden, I, being of low status, have no choice but to comply."
The Empress relaxed upon hearing Song Qingying's agreement. Given Song Qingying's current favor, if she had resisted the search, escalating the matter to the Emperor would have been problematic. Now that she agreed, the blame couldn't fall on her.
"Since Consort Song has no objections, I will send someone to Qi Garden," the Empress declared.
Song Qingying knew the search for Qingzhi was a pretext to scrutinize her Qi Garden. Recently, due to Qingzhi's matter, she had already thoroughly inspected Qi Garden without finding anything amiss. She feared the Empress's people might tamper with evidence to frame her. It seemed the Empress had prepared well for this search, intending to find something incriminating. Song Qingying wondered why the Empress, who had never regarded her highly, would go to such lengths to target her now. It appeared that everything from Qingzhi to Consort Liu was orchestrated by the Empress.
"Then let me lead the search. It's not quite appropriate for subordinates to handle this," Consort Shu offered with a smile.
Song Qingying was surprised by Consort Shu's initiative, given that the matter was unrelated to her and considering her usual penchant for stirring trouble. Unexpectedly, due to her relationship with Changning, she had caught Consort Shu's favorable attention.
"Consort Shu has always been close to Consort Song. This might not be proper," Lin Xiuyi commented.
Song Qingying gave Lin Xiuyi a cold look, realizing that favoritism turns one into a target for others. She had no prior disputes with Lin Xiuyi, who now undermined her, undoubtedly at the Empress's behest, ultimately due to her favor with the Emperor.
Consort Shu laughed, "Lin Xiuyi used to stay out of affairs, like an ascetic, but now shows keen interest. Since she's so eager, let her join the search with Consort Song."
The Empress hadn't expected Consort Shu to participate in the search. Refusing her now would seem suspicious, as if she intended to tamper with the search, so she agreed, "Then, go together. With you both involved, I'll be more at ease."
"Let's go, Lin Xiuyi," Consort Shu said, rising to her feet.
Lin Xiuyi looked at the Empress, who nodded slightly. Consort Shu and Lin Xiuyi, accompanied by the Empress's people, headed to Qi Garden.
Left behind, Song Qingying pondered the Empress's next moves, almost forgetting the complexities of palace life after a period of tranquility.
After the departure of Consort Shu and Lin Xiuyi, the Empress was called away, leaving the hall in complete silence. Song Qingying kept her head down, adhering to her principle of avoiding trouble as long as others did not provoke her, a stance increasingly difficult to maintain in the palace.
With the Empress away, a figure hurriedly approached, revealed to be Consort Liu.
"Your Majesty, is everything in order?" Consort Liu inquired.
"Yes, I've dispatched someone. You better not disappoint me! Qingzhi's death will not be in vain," the Empress spoke coldly.
"Rest assured, Your Majesty. Before her death, Qingzhi confided in me that she had securely hidden that item," Consort Liu assured.
The Empress nodded, convinced by Consort Liu's words, especially since the details about the Grand Tutor's accidental fall into the lotus pond on the tenth of July,
The Empress had no initial intention of targeting Song Qingying, aware that her previous illness had compromised her fertility. She would rather the Emperor favor only Song Qingying, ensuring no new princes would be born to threaten the Crown Prince's position.
However, Consort Liu insisted that Song Qingying must have also experienced prophetic dreams, for she should have died otherwise. Given her ability to alter her fate and secure the Emperor's undivided affection, her cunning and strategies should not be underestimated. The Empress, persuaded by Consort Liu's logic, contemplated eliminating Song Qingying, leading to the events of today.
Unaware of the Empress and Consort Liu's scheming, Song Qingying sat outside the palace, understanding that the Empress's move against her would not simply pass. She had no choice but to counter every move.
Chapter 67
Noble Consort Shu and Lin Xiuyi, accompanied by eight people sent by the Empress, made their way to Qi Garden in a grand manner. Song Qingying was followed by Qinghong, with only Shen Bi and Shang Lin, her trusted attendants, present in Qi Garden.
Shang Lin, seeing Noble Consort Shu and Lin Xiuyi arrive without Song Qingying, sensed trouble. Shen Bi, already feeling guilty for not keeping a close eye on Qingzhi, was terrified by the sight before her, resigned to a grim fate.
Shang Lin and Shen Bi, along with the servants of Qi Garden, knelt together in the courtyard.
With a smile, Noble Consort Shu said, "Fear not, Consort Song is safe and sound with the Empress. We are here by the Empress's command, merely to search for Qingzhi. Speak up if you know anything."
Hearing his mistress was unharmed, Shang Lin was somewhat relieved. Knowing Noble Consort Shu had no ill will towards Song Qingying, he felt hopeful and said, "To answer Your Highness, Qingzhi disappeared days ago. Despite our efforts, we have been unable to find her."
"I've heard that Consort Song murdered Qingzhi," Lin Xiuyi said coldly.
"Impossible!" Shen Bi panicked, realizing the trouble was her doing yet Consort Song was implicated. She felt she had made a grave mistake.
"Silence!" Lin Xiuyi shouted in anger.
Shen Bi quickly kowtowed, "Your Highness, please hear me out. It was a moment of desperation. Our Consort has never harmed a maid, let alone execute one. Even for mistakes, she never resorts to harsh punishment. Qingzhi, being a low-ranking maid, seldom came near our Consort. How could our Consort possibly harm her? I beseech Your Highness for discernment."
"Is that so?" Noble Consort Shu took over, "Then, on what day did Qingzhi disappear? Who last saw her?"
"I remember it was the thirteenth of July. I saw Qingzhi that morning, and then she was gone," Shen Bi replied.
"Given the rumors of Consort Song harming a maid, there must be some basis. Noble Consort Shu, since we are here by the Empress's command to search the palace, let's proceed quickly. If nothing is found, we should clear Consort Song's name sooner," Lin Xiuyi suggested.
Noble Consort Shu smiled, "Everyone in Qi Garden, listen. Accompany the Empress's men in the search, and be careful not to damage any of the Emperor's gifts."
Shang Lin, understanding Noble Consort Shu's hint, was immensely grateful.
Noble Consort Shu then advised the Empress's servants, "Follow them in the search, but be cautious not to leave any of your belongings behind."
Hearing this, Shen Bi also understood Noble Consort Shu's intention. They couldn't afford to be framed.
Shang Lin and Shen Bi, accompanied by the queen's servants, searched from room to room. The Noble Consort and Lin Xiuyi sat in the main hall, sipping tea. The Noble Consort's face was adorned with a light smile, while Lin Xiuyi remained stern, occasionally glancing at the maids.
Sipping her tea, the Noble Consort chuckled, "Lin Xiuyi, rest assured, whatever should be found will eventually be uncovered."
Lin Xiuyi was momentarily stunned, "Noble Consort jests, we are here to find a person, not some object."
The Noble Consort simply smiled and continued to drink her tea without uttering another word.
Shang Lin and Shen Bi, along with their team, proceeded cautiously, fearing they might intentionally plant something to frame Song Qingying. After searching room by room without success, they finally reached the last one - Song Qingying's bedroom.
Shang Lin and Shen Bi exchanged a glance, their hearts racing.
Shang Lin spoke first, "This is the Concubine's chamber, please search carefully, ladies."
The maids ignored Shang Lin, searching on their own, as if eager to dismantle every brick in the chamber for inspection.
In Fengyi Palace, Qinghong attempted to seek the Emperor's help but was stopped by the queen's servants. However, Song Qingying remained unfazed, knowing the queen's search was unlikely to end empty-handed.
Indeed, the search party returned to the Qi Garden's main hall to report to the Noble Consort, "Your Highness, we found this item in Concubine Song's bedroom."
The Noble Consort's expression shifted slightly as she received the item from the maid, then smiled, "Where was this found?"
"In a sachet in front of Concubine Song's bed," replied the maid.
The Noble Consort glanced at Shang Lin and Shen Bi, noticing their pale faces devoid of color, realizing the item was indeed found by them and not planted.
Lin Xiuyi's face showed a smug satisfaction, "So, Concubine Song resorted to such despicable means to gain favor. Noble Consort, now that we've found something, we should quickly return and report to the queen."
The Noble Consort smiled, "See, Lin Xiuyi, was I not right? Something was bound to be found. But you, too, seemed quite certain we'd find something!"
Ignoring the Noble Consort, Lin Xiuyi ordered, "Stay here and watch over everyone in Qi Garden. No one leaves."
The Noble Consort placed the found item into her sleeve and was the first to leave. This matter likely had further implications from the queen. Intriguing! She smiled subtly.
The Noble Consort and Lin Xiuyi returned to Fengyi Palace with only their personal maids. As the Noble Consort passed by Song Qingying, she subtly showed the item in her sleeve. Song Qingying saw it but had no idea what it was. Despite her time here, she had never seen such a thing.
The queen was confident, after all, she had orchestrated the entire affair.
"Noble Consort, Lin Xiuyi, speak," commanded the queen.
The Noble Consort, now seated, took the item from her sleeve and examined it repeatedly. Song Qingying watched intently, still clueless about its nature. It resembled a piece of jade or stone, carved in an odd shape, neither resembling any auspicious beast nor flora, but rather something malevolent. Without guessing, it was clear it wasn't anything benign.
"Your Majesty, although we didn't find Qingzhi in Qi Garden, we did find a charm demon in a sachet in front of Consort Song's tent, which is now in Noble Consort's possession," Lin Xiuyi reported.
Pretending to be shocked, the Empress exclaimed, "What? A charm demon? How could such an evil thing exist!"
Noble Consort nodded, "It is indeed a charm demon, crudely carved."
"Bring it here!" the Empress commanded with a frown.
A charm demon? Song Qingying was hearing of such a thing for the first time; it wasn't mentioned in the original story. But the name suggested it was a creature that bewitched people. She realized it must have been planted by Qingzhi, who was then silenced to cover it up. The Empress had indeed gone to great lengths.
Noble Consort handed the charm demon to a palace maid, who then presented it to the Empress.
The Empress looked at the charm demon with disdain before saying, "Take it away."
However, Song Qingying was unwilling to let it go so easily. It was evidence, after all. She hadn't had a chance to examine it closely…
As the palace maid took the charm demon away, the Empress sternly asked, "Consort Song, what do you have to say for yourself?"
Song Qingying looked bewildered, "Your Majesty, this is my first time seeing this object. It has nothing to do with me."
"The item was found in your quarters, and you still claim it's unrelated to you? No wonder the Emperor has recently favored visiting your Qi Garden. It seems this thing was causing mischief!" the Empress accused angrily.
With a look of grievance, Song Qingying responded, "I truly have never seen this object before, Your Majesty. Please investigate thoroughly." So, this thing could bewitch men? Was there any evidence? Song Qingying dared not say more, fearing to give herself away. Everyone present seemed to recognize this object, and her ignorance of it would seem suspicious.
"Your Majesty, I find Consort Song truly despicable for using such a demonic object to bewitch the Emperor. This matter must be brought to the Emperor's attention, so he can see clearly who he has favored!" Lin Xiuyi was the speaker.
Upon hearing Lin Xiuyi mention Zhao Heng, Song Qingying felt a sense of calm. She didn't believe Zhao Heng would trust the object over her.
The Empress sighed, "Given the Emperor's deep affection for Consort Song, it's not my place to intervene rashly, lest it harms their marital harmony. Well, let's summon the Emperor."
Song Qingying was somewhat surprised the Empress agreed to involve Zhao Heng. Could it be that this object was indeed malevolent, and seeing it would anger Zhao Heng against her? She suddenly felt uneasy. This plot twist was not in the original story, and with the introduction of this unfamiliar object, she was at a loss.
The Empress sent a young eunuch to find Zhao Heng. He had just finished his court session, and news from the harem had not yet reached him. The eunuch located Lu Deli, mentioning only that the Empress urgently needed the Emperor.
After hearing the eunuch's message, Zhao Heng, thinking well of the Crown Prince's recent conduct, decided to show face for the Empress and went to the Fengyi Palace with Lu Deli.
Upon arriving, Zhao Heng saw Song Qingying kneeling on the ground, head bowed, tears streaming down her face, looking pitiful. He felt an immediate surge of compassion, his expression darkening as he quickly helped her to her feet.
"Empress, what wrong has Consort Song committed?" Zhao Heng asked, standing by Song Qingying's side.
Seeing Zhao Heng's tender concern for Song Qingying only made the Empress find her more repulsive. "Present the object to the Emperor for his review."
A palace maid placed the charm demon on a tray and presented it to Zhao Heng. Upon seeing the item, Zhao Heng's face showed disgust, turning away and gesturing for it to be taken down, "How can such a thing be in the palace!"
"It was found in Qi Garden," said the Empress.
Zhao Heng turned to Song Qingying, surprised, "What's this about?"
Song Qingying, seeing Zhao Heng's lingering disgust, felt unjustly wronged and said, "I do not know, I have never seen this thing before!"
The Empress added, "This object was discovered in a sachet in front of Consort Song's tent, clear evidence, yet Consort Song insists she has never seen it."
Gaining some courage from Zhao Heng's presence, Song Qingying said, "That sachet was delivered by the Internal Affairs Department, passed through many hands, and I have never touched it, much less seen that object."
"If it didn't pass through your hands, how do you explain the Emperor's exclusive favor towards you?" Lin Xiuyi challenged.
"This…" Song Qingying looked pitifully at Zhao Heng, only to see confusion on his face. Her heart sank, realizing the sinister nature of the object and Zhao Heng's apparent suspicion...
Chapter 68
Seeing Zhao Heng's doubtful expression and feeling his suspicion, Song Qingying, disappointed, abandoned her usual meek demeanor. Standing tall and with a cold expression, she declared, "I have never seen this object, nor have I used it to bewitch the Emperor. As for why the Emperor favors me, I hardly see it as exclusive. In the half-year since I entered the palace, the Emperor has only visited my garden more frequently in the past month. I'm not the first to be favored by the Emperor; were all those concubines before me favored because of this object?"
The Empress, noting the shift in Song Qingying's demeanor, her expression also changed, "The object was found in your Qi Garden, yet you still dare to argue!"
"A thing small enough to fit in the palm of one's hand could be secretly placed by anyone. This hardly constitutes evidence of a crime. Instead, the concubine feels she's been framed. Presumably, someone bribed Qingzhi to place the item in the sachet and then silenced her. Isn't today's palace search conducted under the pretense of looking for Qingzhi? The disappearance of an inconspicuous palace maid from Qi Garden has somehow escalated to involve the Empress herself. Isn't that strange?" Song Qingying said.
Zhao Heng had already taken his seat beside the Empress. As Song Qingying watched Zhao Heng and the Empress, she found them increasingly irritating. She looked straight ahead, neither at the Empress nor at Zhao Heng, her eyes seemingly empty.
The Empress, seeing that Song Qingying's every word was directed at her, looked increasingly displeased and said, "Concubine Song, what are you implying? Are you suggesting that I framed you?"
"This concubine dares not. I merely spoke my mind," Song Qingying replied calmly, noticing out of the corner of her eye that Zhao Heng was looking at her. Feeling even more aggrieved, she refused to give Zhao Heng as much as a glance. She wanted to see if he would stand by and watch her be humiliated by the Empress today.
Zhao Heng asked, "What about Qingzhi?"
Song Qingying scoffed, "Has Your Majesty not heard? The palace is abuzz with rumors that Qingzhi sought to ascend to the imperial bed and was killed by me. The Empress mobilized a search in Qi Garden under the guise of looking for Qingzhi, only to find that item. I suspect this is all a trap."
Zhao Heng, feeling unjustly blamed by Song Qingying's indiscriminate accusation, was inevitably annoyed. He had merely asked out of irritation at the item, yet she took offense, perhaps too easily angered. Yet, seeing her expression of detached calm, he couldn't bear to be upset with her and patiently said, "I've never heard such rumors, nor have you mentioned them. This matter is indeed strange; don't worry just yet."
Hearing Zhao Heng's words, Song Qingying felt somewhat relieved. If he doubted her over such a trifle, it would only prove her own folly. She graced Zhao Heng with a glance, seeing reproach and grievance in her eyes, his irritation dissipated instantly.
Seeing Zhao Heng's protective stance towards Song Qingying, the Empress seethed with jealousy. Indeed, Concubine Song had skillfully won the Emperor's favor, seemingly rivaling even the most enchanting spirits.
"Your Majesty, with such evil objects appearing in Qi Garden, this matter should not be overlooked. I understand you value Concubine Song not for those supernatural reasons, but it will sound unsavory if word spreads. The former dynasty's officials would surely criticize Your Majesty," the Empress said slowly.
Song Qingying also said, "The Empress is correct! We must investigate where that evil object came from and who placed it in my sachet. And Qingzhi, we must find her alive or confirm her death. I have conducted myself with integrity and have nothing to fear from an investigation. Being accused based solely on the object found in my sachet is unacceptable."
"I remember personally selecting those who serve Concubine Song. Let me personally handle this investigation," Zhao Heng said, giving Song Qingying a reassuring look.
Song Qingying thought to herself, at least you have some conscience.
The Empress, unable to object to Zhao Heng's personal involvement, nodded in agreement. However, she wasn't so easily appeased and added, "With such an object found in Qi Garden, Concubine Song cannot escape responsibility for oversight. Your Majesty, until the matter is resolved, it would be best to avoid visiting Qi Garden."
Zhao Heng, displeased by these words, responded, "I am not the lamentable Emperor of the previous dynasty. Rest assured, Empress, I am not bewitched."
Song Qingying began to understand the connection to the previous dynasty. The unfortunate Emperor must have been misled by a spirit into making decisions that led to the downfall of his nation. No wonder Zhao Heng was displeased by the object.
The Empress knew when to advance and when to retreat. Aware of Zhao Heng's fondness for Song Qingying and his unlikely belief in the tales of spirits, she chose not to press further.
"It's getting late; let's conclude for today. I will visit Qi Garden to see what's truly happening," Zhao Heng declared.
Upon hearing this, the Empress's face turned green, and she said, "I have already sent people to guard Qi Garden. Your Majesty can inquire with them."
With a grunt, Zhao Heng rose to leave, while the Empress silently retreated to the inner palace.
Approaching Song Qingying, Zhao Heng said, "Come, show me the way. With me present, you will not be wronged."
Song Qingying followed behind Zhao Heng like a cat retracting its claws, obediently.
As soon as they left Fengyi Palace, Zhao Heng asked, "Were you upset with me just now?"
Song Qingying wouldn't admit it at that moment, "I wasn't. I was just a bit hasty in my rebuttal. I believe His Majesty can distinguish right from wrong and will certainly grant me justice."
Zhao Heng snorted and whispered in Song Qingying's ear, "You speak sweetly now, but don't think I didn't see you puffing up in anger, not even sparing me a glance, as if I had wronged you."
Song Qingying murmured softly, "After all, it was your woman who wronged and wanted to harm me."
"What are you muttering?" Zhao Heng asked.
Song Qingying smiled at Zhao Heng, "Nothing, nothing at all."
Upon arriving at Qi Garden, the Empress's attendants were still there. Shang Lin was alright, but Shen Bi had collapsed on the ground, filled with regret and fear. The people of Qi Garden were relieved to see the Emperor and their master arriving together.
Ignoring the Empress's attendants, Song Qingying summoned Shang Lin into the inner chamber for questioning. The Empress's attendants were called to Zhao Heng.
"Shang Lin, what exactly happened today? Why was that thing found in my room?" Song Qingying asked, "What was the situation at that time?"
"To answer the Noble Consort, I was watching closely. The item was indeed taken out from the sachet in front of the curtain," Shang Lin said.
Song Qingying nodded, "I understand. Don't worry, the item isn't mine. It was Qingzhi who planted it to frame me."
Shen Bi had been kneeling on the side, occasionally glancing at Song Qingying with guilt and fear in her eyes. Song Qingying had noticed Shen Bi early on; after Qingzhi disappeared, she had already severely punished Shen Bi. Now, she didn't want to vent her anger on her anymore, so she asked Qianhong to help her up.
Approaching Song Qingying, Shen Bi cried incessantly, "It's all my fault, Noble Consort. I failed to watch Qingzhi, leading to a grave mistake. I deserve to die. Please, send me away, I deserve to die."
Song Qingying sighed, "What are you saying? What good would handing you over do? You are my servant; even if it were said you did it, it would be as if I had commanded it. If anyone asks, you must never admit to it. Admitting it would truly harm me."
Deep Green, upon hearing this, realized she had been too simplistic in her thinking and hurriedly responded, "This servant understands now."
Light Red reassured her, "The Noble Consort need not worry too much. Now that His Majesty is personally investigating, he will surely clear the Noble Consort's name."
However, Song Qingying felt a vague unease in her heart, suspecting that the Empress wouldn't let the matter rest so easily and that there were still moves to be made against her.
Song Qingying asked, "Have any of you ever seen that enchanting ghost?"
"This servant has not seen it, only heard of it," Deep Green replied.
Curious about the entity, Song Qingying inquired, "How did such a thing make its way into the palace? Aren't such things banned here? Do you all know the origin and dangers of this thing?"
Light Red explained, "We've heard from the elders in the palace that the previous Emperor, Emperor Ai, was deeply enamored with Concubine Yan, neglecting all other concubines and even his duties, leading to a neglected government and suffering among the people. It was then that [Name Redacted] rose up to save the people from disaster. It's said that Concubine Yan used an enchanting ghost to bewitch Emperor Ai, who remained obsessed with her even as the nation fell."
Song Qingying nodded, her suspicions confirmed. She thought it was just an excuse for the Emperor's neglect and failure, blaming it on bewitchment. This excuse was likely also used by the Emperor of Da Liang to justify rebellion. No wonder the Empress said it would be bad if the former dynasty's officials found out. If they did, they would surely condemn her as a calamitous consort.
"Such a grand scheme by the Empress, pinning such a grave accusation on me, as if wishing for my death," Song Qingying thought. The question of why the Empress suddenly wanted her dead puzzled her the most.
After finishing his inquiry, Zhao Heng sent the Empress's people away. Indeed, the item had been found in Song Qingying's quarters, complicating the matter.
Entering the inner chamber and seeing everyone's distressed faces, Zhao Heng approached Song Qingying, asking, "What's the matter? Are you afraid?"
Leaning on Zhao Heng, Song Qingying admitted, "Yes, I'm scared."
"I'm here to stand up for you, yet you're still afraid?" Zhao Heng said, stroking her hair.
"Still scared. I'm helpless and without any means. I always hid before, and after you favored me, I relied on you. If you ever tire of me, I'll have nowhere to turn," Song Qingying earnestly confessed.
"Alright, I assure you, you'll be safe," Zhao Heng comforted her, holding her close.
"What about the person who harmed me?" Song Qingying inquired, "Will Your Majesty deal with them?"
"Of course, action will be taken," Zhao Heng said.
"What if it was the Empress?" Song Qingying asked again.
Zhao Heng sighed, "Rest assured, I will keep the promise I made to you." In his heart, Zhao Heng still found it hard to believe that the Empress was behind this. The Empress valued the Crown Prince above all, and since Song Qingying had no offspring and he had even intentionally leaked to the Empress that Song Qingying was barren, there should be no reason for the Empress to harm her.
Song Qingying remained silent, convinced in her heart that only the Empress could be responsible, unless there was an accomplice, namely Consort Liu.
Chapter 69
Early the next morning, Song Qingying was preparing to pay her respects at the Fengyi Palace as usual, but a maid from Fengyi Palace came with a message. It stated that regardless of whether Song Consort was responsible for the malicious entity in her palace, she was deemed negligent and, by the Empress's order, Song Consort and everyone in Qi Garden were confined and forbidden to leave Qi Garden starting immediately.
Song Qingying was confined.
"Consort, what should we do?" Light Red asked after the maid from Fengyi Palace had left.
Seeing the usually composed Light Red panicking, Song Qingying smiled and said, "Isn't the Emperor here for us? Don't you trust the Emperor?"
"Of course we trust him, Consort. Do you?" Light Red whispered.
Song Qingying looked at Light Red, "What difference does it make whether I trust him or not at this moment? I have trusted all along until now, and now, I have no choice but to continue trusting."
Light Red opened her mouth but said nothing more, knowing her mistress did not fully trust the Emperor.
Indeed, Song Qingying had her reservations, such as never revealing the existence of a secret passage in Zhao Heng's sleeping quarters. As long as he was the Emperor, she could never fully trust him. Song Qingying wasn't sure if this was a tragedy for Zhao Heng or for herself.
With Song Qingying confined to Qi Garden and the Empress forbidding other consorts from visiting, she felt the Empress must be plotting further against her. Now, unable to leave, her only hope lay with Zhao Heng. Yet, despite her explicit words yesterday, Zhao Heng still did not suspect the Empress, which worried Song Qingying. If the Empress played her next move against Zhao Heng, it was uncertain whether he would continue to believe in her.
She couldn't just wait passively for doom. Sitting at her desk, Song Qingying listed all the suspicious points of this incident on paper, finally circling the name of Consort Liu. The problem must lie with Consort Liu. Although Lin Xiuyi was persistent in accusing her yesterday, Lin Xiuyi was at most the Empress's tool, whereas Consort Liu was different. She had once deceived her to the Lotus Garden using Qingzhi.
The question returned to the beginning: why did Consort Liu scheme to lure her to the Lotus Garden? Song Qingying carefully reviewed the events of that day in her mind, noting down everything said and done. Consort Liu had mentioned, "Walked before the gates of hell and returned." What did that mean? Could it be that she too had traveled through time?
"Consort, you suspect Consort Liu?" Light Red noticed the focus on Consort Liu's name and asked.
"Do you not find her suspicious?" Song Qingying nodded as she wrote down the name "Liú Měirén" again.
"Indeed, it's suspicious. Have you not mentioned Liú Měirén's matters to His Majesty?" Qīng Hóng asked.
Song Qingying sighed softly and shook her head, "No, after all, these are just suspicions. And now, with Qīngzhī missing, perhaps even dead, there's no proof."
Qīng Hóng smiled, "Why not just share your suspicions with His Majesty? You should trust in the Emperor. I've seen how well His Majesty treats you. Forgive my forwardness, but it seems like you've always kept a barrier between yourself and His Majesty."
Song Qingying looked at Qīng Hóng, realizing the clarity of an outsider's perspective. She still had reservations about Zhao Heng, which even Qīng Hóng could see. Song Qingying said, "And what about His Majesty's stance towards me? Is it completely without reserve?"
Qīng Hóng thought for a moment before responding, "But that's the Emperor."
Understanding Qīng Hóng's point, Song Qingying smiled and said no more.
Trapped within Qí Yuán, Song Qingying was cut off from the outside world, knowing nothing of it.
Guards loyal to the Empress prevented entry to Qí Yuán, but one person, whom nobody dared nor could stop, was Princess Chángníng.
In the afternoon, Princess Chángníng brushed past the guards and entered Qí Yuán. Song Qingying felt a special warmth upon seeing her. Princess Chángníng, pouting with a box in her hands, complained, "There are annoying guards at the entrance. Did you do something wrong? Did Father Emperor lock you up?"
Mimicking Princess Chángníng's pout, Song Qingying nodded, "Yes, I've been locked up and can't get out."
"Hmph, they even tried to stop me from entering. I insisted on coming in. Let's see if Father Emperor dares to lock me up too," Princess Chángníng declared proudly, settling into a soft chair.
Song Qingying thanked the princess for her visit but advised against coming again, worrying about causing trouble for the Empress Dowager.
"Don't worry, Father won't lock up my mother. What exactly did you do to get locked up by Father Emperor?" asked Princess Chángníng.
"Actually, it wasn't your Father Emperor who locked me up; it was the Empress Dowager," Song Qingying explained.
"I see..." Princess Chángníng nodded like an adult, "I thought so. Mother said Father Emperor likes you the most, so he wouldn't lock you up. Don't worry, Father Emperor will definitely release you."
"Yes, so before your Father Emperor releases me, it's better if you don't come here," Song Qingying advised.
"Here, this is for you," Princess Chángníng said as she handed over the box.
Song Qingying opened the box, finding it filled with books. She paused for a moment, "Did the Noble Consort send these over through the princess?"
"Yes, Mother Consort said you might find them useful," Changning replied.
As Song Qingying flipped through the stack of books and found nothing but ordinary novels, she asked Changning, "Did the Noble Consort say anything else?"
"Mother Consort mentioned you love reading and instructed me to deliver these to you; nothing more. Are all the stories you tell from these books? Why haven't I seen them in any book?" Princess Changning inquired.
Song Qingying felt that the Noble Consort wouldn't send books over without a reason. There must be a deeper meaning behind it. Could it be that the Noble Consort thought she would lose? Or did she think Song Qingying wouldn't be released from confinement soon and sent the books to relieve her boredom? Lost in thought, Song Qingying didn't even notice Changning's question.
Seeing everyone in Qi Garden looking gloomy and Song Qingying not as lively as usual, Changning pouted and ran off.
Song Qingying went through the books again and again, finding no notes or messages hidden within. What exactly was the Noble Consort implying? Was it really just to relieve her boredom? Song Qingying tossed the books aside, wondering why Zhao Heng hadn't come to see her or sent someone, knowing she was confined by the Empress.
Song Qingying sat by the window, watching the sky gradually darken until it was completely black, yet Zhao Heng did not come, leaving her completely unaware of the situation outside.
"Concubine Ji, it's time for dinner." Qinghong had called out three times already.
Song Qingying responded with a hum, "Hmm, let's eat. Eating is a priority."
Qinghong didn't dare to say more, setting the meal before her. Song Qingying ate her dinner earnestly, thinking to herself that this was just a confinement, wondering what awaited her next.
At this moment, Zhao Heng was in Fengyi Palace, well aware of Song Qingying's confinement by the Empress, which is why he came when the Empress said she had important matters to discuss with him.
Zhao Heng, worried about Song Qingying, looked visibly upset, which the Empress completely ignored. The Empress's favor had been bolstered by her people saving the Crown Prince's tutor, who praised the Crown Prince highly and mentioned the Emperor's great favor towards him. With the Crown Prince's position secure, the Empress felt more confident.
"What matters did the Empress wish to discuss with Us?" Zhao Heng asked coldly.
The Empress smiled gracefully, "Your Majesty, do you remember Lady Liu from the Dragon Boat Festival banquet?"
Zhao Heng glanced at the Empress, "What does the Empress imply?"
"Your Majesty, do you recall the incident on the tenth day of the seventh month when the Crown Prince's tutor fell into the water at the Eastern Palace?" the Empress asked slowly.
Emperor Zhao Heng frowned at the Empress's indirect approach, "If there is something you wish to say, Your Majesty, please speak plainly."
The Empress offered a smile, "Well, Your Majesty, it was in early July that Lady Liu came to me, claiming she had a dream. She dreamed that the Grand Tutor would fall into water on the tenth, and although I was initially skeptical, considering the Grand Tutor's noble status, I dispatched someone to watch over the Eastern Palace. Surprisingly, the Grand Tutor did indeed fall into the water exactly as Lady Liu had dreamed. Isn't that strange and remarkable?"
Zhao Heng frowned: "What is this mess?"
"Your Majesty, every word I say is true. If you do not believe me, you can summon Lady Liu to confront her," the Empress said.
"Even if what you say is true, it's merely a coincidence. What is the real reason you summoned me here today, Empress?" Zhao Heng's tone was filled with anger.
"Your Majesty, in Lady Liu's dream, Consort Song..." the Empress stuttered and paused to look at Zhao Heng.
Seeing the Empress behave this way, Zhao Heng angrily said: "Speak your mind directly, Empress. Why hesitate? It's just a dream, after all. Go on."
"Your Majesty, in Lady Liu's dream, Consort Song... Consort Song has long been dead..." The Empress spoke while observing Zhao Heng's expression, noticing his increasingly furrowed brows and displeasure, feeling a vague sense of satisfaction in her heart.
"So what? Are you suggesting that Consort Song is a ghost?" Zhao Heng exclaimed angrily, "You are the Empress, the mother of the nation, and yet you can't distinguish between dreams and reality!"
The Empress, unfazed by Zhao Heng's anger, lowered her head with a slight look of grievance: "Your Majesty, I cannot help but believe it, for Lady Liu's dream felt too real. Every word I say about the Grand Tutor's matter is true. This situation requires my careful consideration. Lady Liu also mentioned she has something important to discuss with Your Majesty personally. If you doubt her, you may test her yourself. Should she dare to lie or speak inaccurately, you may punish her severely. I am only looking out for your best interest, as there is indeed something unsettling about Consort Song..."
Zhao Heng naturally did not believe the Empress, instead recalling Consort Qing's accusation that the Empress intended to harm her. If this were the case, then Lady Liu could not be exempt from involvement. Zhao Heng then said: "In that case, summon her. I suspect she is the one causing trouble, daring to spread superstitions within the palace!"
The Empress signaled to a palace maid: "Go, bring Lady Liu here."
Zhao Heng sat still, pondering over Consort Qing. If the Empress was indeed behind this, it would be a difficult situation for him. After all, he had to consider the Crown Prince's dignity. Had Zhao Heng not valued the Crown Prince as he does now, things might have been different. The Crown Prince, with his excellent qualities and years of guidance from the Grand Tutor, had grown into someone truly exceptional. The Great Liang Dynasty needed a good Emperor, and he needed a worthy successor. The Crown Prince was the best choice.
Chapter 70
Zhao Heng and the Empress, each preoccupied with their thoughts, sat in silence. Zhao Heng wore a gloomy expression, while the Empress's gaze flickered with schemes. Soon, Lady Liu was brought over by a palace maid. She appeared in a light blue palace dress, her eyebrows lightly brushed, lips tinted red, her hair done in a simple single coil held by a jade pin, giving off an air of modest beauty.
Zhao Heng, however, had a vague impression of her.
"This servant pays respects to Your Majesty and the Empress," Lady Liu said, performing a proper curtsey.
"Rise. So, you are Lady Liu?" Zhao Heng asked coldly. The women of the harem are all actors, and Lady Liu, appearing so innocent and harmless, who knew what schemes lay beneath? Even the Empress was bewitched by her.
"Yes." Lady Liu stood up, her smile polite and reserved. This opportunity had been won through a mix of threats and persuasion with the Empress, and she was determined to make the Emperor see her worth. If Consort Qing, who died so early, could do it, why couldn't she? She had lived longer than Consort Qing and knew many important matters. She intended to use this to gain the Emperor's trust and favor.
"The Empress mentioned you had something to tell me. What is it?" Zhao Heng asked, his expression cold, not believing Lady Liu could say anything of substance, seeing it merely as a tactic to vie for favor.
Lady Liu glanced at the Empress and then lowered her head: "Your Majesty, may I speak with you in private?"
The Empress was furious, only relenting to Lady Liu's demands because she claimed to have important information about the Crown Prince that she hadn't shared. One day, she would make sure Lady Liu paid for her insolence.
Zhao Heng, unfazed, simply stated, "Speak if you have something to say, or leave it if not."
Lady Liu was taken aback by Zhao Heng's refusal, having deliberately mimicked Yang Ningyu's style from her previous life, thinking it would please Zhao Heng. She glanced at the Empress, hoping for support, but the Empress, content with Zhao Heng's reaction, pretended not to notice Lady Liu's plea and chose not to intervene.
Seeing Zhao Heng's cold demeanor and realizing she wouldn't even get a chance for a private audience, Lady Liu blamed Song Qingying, thinking if not for her capturing the Emperor's heart first, there would be no reason for him to ignore her.
"Your Majesty, this matter I speak of is of great importance and must be known only to you. If you find me lying or harboring any ulterior motives, you are free to execute me," Lady Liu knelt down firmly. This was a one-time opportunity she couldn't miss and had to seize!
Zhao Heng glanced at the Empress disapprovingly, as if to say, "You're still recommending her even now?" The Empress felt helpless, given the matter concerned the Crown Prince, and reluctantly suggested, "Your Majesty, since Lady Liu insists so, perhaps you could hear her out. If she is merely vying for favor, I will not spare her either."
Zhao Heng looked from the Empress to Lady Liu and conceded, "Since the Empress has spoken thus, I will grant your request."
A hint of a smile flashed across Lady Liu's face, recalling her past life where she remained passive, hoping the Emperor would notice her eventually. Her failure to serve the Emperor due to her frail health led to her being bullied and dying early from an untreated cold. Reborn, she vowed not to repeat the same mistakes. Without fighting or scheming in the harem, favor was impossible to gain. She had taken care of her health and seized this opportunity by pledging her loyalty to the Empress, all for this day.
"Let's go to the side hall," the Empress directed.
Without a word, Zhao Heng stood and headed to the side hall. Lady Liu approached the Empress, subtly bowing, "Rest assured, Your Highness, I will certainly inform you about the matter concerning the Crown Prince."
The Empress scoffed, "Hurry along, Lady Liu. Don't keep His Majesty waiting."
Lady Liu smiled at the Empress and gracefully made her way to the side hall.
After Lady Liu's departure, a palace maid commented, "Your Highness, why do you support her so? Even after His Majesty refused a private audience, you still indulged her."
"Today's events have been noted. It won't be long before I teach her the extent of my methods," the Empress said with a hint of fierceness, then asked, "Is everything arranged in the side hall?"
"Yes, whatever Lady Liu and His Majesty discuss or do will be observed," the maid replied.
Satisfied, the Empress smiled, "That's enough then. His Majesty won't do anything with her. If she dares speak against the Crown Prince, I will take her life!"
The maid fell silent, admiring the Empress's dedication to the Crown Prince.
Zhao Heng entered the side hall, followed closely by Lady Liu.
Lady Liu was alone, while Zhao Heng was accompanied by Lu Deli. Lady Liu suggested, "Your Majesty, please have this eunuch wait outside."
Lu Deli looked at Zhao Heng, feeling wronged. As the chief steward and the Emperor's closest confidant, he had never been excluded, even from the most confidential matters. With a nod from Zhao Heng, who had already agreed to meet her, it wouldn't hurt to comply, prompting Lu Deli to reluctantly leave. Only Zhao Heng and Lady Liu remained in the side hall.
Zhao Heng, not wanting to prolong the conversation, stated, "Speak then. I have other matters to attend to!"
Lady Liu smiled charmingly, "Your Majesty is concerned about Consort Song's confinement, aren't you?"
"What, must I report everything I do to you?" Zhao Heng did not appreciate the pretentious demeanor of Lady Liu.
"This servant dares not. I have tried every means to see Your Majesty because there is something of utmost importance to inform you about, concerning the very foundation of the Great Liang Dynasty." Lady Liu knew nothing mattered more to the Emperor than the realm itself.
However, Zhao Heng was skeptical. He had thought Lady Liu was merely seeking favor, believing that if he resisted her seduction and humiliated her a bit, she would give up. But her claim was unexpected, and how could Zhao Heng believe it?
Seeing the scorn on Zhao Heng's face, Lady Liu said, "Your Majesty, I know you do not believe me, but I have a way to make you believe."
"Oh? Let's hear it then! Don't think you can deceive me just because you've fooled the Empress!" Zhao Heng sneered.
"Your Majesty, I have never deceived the Empress. When I first told her, she did not believe me either. It was only after what I said came true that she believed me," Lady Liu explained.
"Enough, no need to say more. The Empress mentioned you had a dream that could predict the future, which I don't believe. Tell me, how will you make me believe? And what does this have to do with Consort Song?" Zhao Heng's interest was actually in matters concerning Song Qingying.
Seeing that Zhao Heng's thoughts were still on Song Qingying, Lady Liu, consumed by jealousy, resolvedly said, "Your Majesty! It was not a dream! I have truly lived through another life!"
Zhao Heng was startled upon hearing this, never expecting Lady Liu to make such an incredible claim: "What did you say? Lived through another life? What does that mean?"
"Your Majesty, every word I speak is true. If there is any falsehood, may I meet a terrible end! I indeed have lived again; I had died but then returned to a year ago," Lady Liu asserted, desperate to prove her unique value and usefulness.
"The more you speak, the more absurd it gets. Why should I believe you?" Zhao Heng could never have anticipated such a claim from Lady Liu; it was utterly bizarre.
"Your Majesty, would you like to hear what happened to you in the previous life?" Lady Liu asked.
Indeed, Zhao Heng was curious to hear what tale Lady Liu could weave, so he scoffed, "Go ahead."
"Your Majesty, did you suffer from a headache before? I wonder if it has gotten better now," Lady Liu inquired.
"I have had a headache; that is known throughout the palace," Zhao Heng responded with a sneer.
"Does everyone in the palace know about Your Majesty being poisoned?" Lady Liu's lips curled with a hint of triumph.
Emperor Zhao remained composed, "Oh? You claim I've been poisoned. Then, what poison have I been afflicted with?"
Lady Liu replied, "It's the Heart-Eating Poison. Moreover, I know that you've already been cured, thanks to Yang Ningyu's intervention in the palace."
Upon hearing this, Emperor Zhao was taken aback, wondering what Yang Ningyu had to do with this. Seeing his reaction, Lady Liu continued, "Your Majesty, in my previous life, you were poisoned as well. The poison was administered by Prince Gong, and it was Yang Ningyu who discovered and cured you of it."
"You do have a knack for storytelling," Emperor Zhao scoffed, though a sliver of doubt crept into his heart. After all, the matter of him being poisoned with Heart-Eating Poison and Prince Gong's involvement were things Lady Liu should not be aware of.
"Every word I speak is the truth, not a single one fabricated. I've merely been troubled by the lack of opportunity to see Your Majesty. Had I had the chance earlier, I would have informed you of all this long ago," Lady Liu asserted.
Emperor Zhao snorted in response and remained silent. Lady Liu added, "In my previous life, Your Majesty did not cancel this year's selection of consorts. Yang Ningyu entered the palace as a candidate and was later appointed as a talented lady. Due to her medical knowledge, she discovered the poison in you, and later on, Your Majesty... grew very fond of her."
After finishing, Lady Liu glanced at Emperor Zhao, who had recently been preoccupied with Yang Ningyu's entry into the palace. She had hoped for renewed favor, only to be thwarted by Song Qingying. Lady Liu suspected Song Qingying's involvement in Yang Ningyu's departure, aware that the Emperor favored Yang Ningyu yet expelled her for Song Qingying.
At this moment, Emperor Zhao felt a stir in his heart, recalling a strange familiarity upon meeting Yang Ningyu, who had once called out his childhood nickname in her sleep... What was the meaning of this? His expression changed as he said, "Continue."
Seeing Emperor Zhao possibly swayed, Lady Liu pressed on, "Your Majesty, do you believe what I've told you?"
"Just speak. Whether I believe it or not is my concern," Emperor Zhao replied coldly, intrigued yet wary of her claims.
Lady Liu persisted, "Your Majesty will believe me. Heaven has given me a second life precisely to assist you! Do you realize the mistake you've made? You should not have released Yang Ningyu from the palace. She is destined to bear you a prince who will inherit the throne!" Lady Liu had spent a considerable sum to learn that Yang Ningyu had already married. Otherwise, she wouldn't have thought to use this tactic against Song Qingying, especially since Yang Ningyu had only recently gained favor before Lady Liu's death, without yet bearing any children. To avoid suspicion from the Emperor, she focused her narrative on Yang Ningyu.
The person hiding in the cabinet, shocked by the conversation, made a noise, catching Emperor Zhao's attention.
Emperor Zhao, already startled by Lady Liu's revelations and now hearing the noise from the cabinet, suspected it was the Empress's spy. Knowing the Empress might act against Yang Ningyu upon hearing Lady Liu's words, regardless of their truth, he approached the cabinet, "Come out, whoever is inside."
Lady Liu broke out in a cold sweat, fearing for her life if the Empress heard her words.
The person inside, trembling, emerged and knelt on the ground, pleading, "Your Majesty, please spare my life. I have heard nothing."
Zhao Heng paid no heed to his explanations, summoning Lude Li, who had been vigilantly standing by the door. Hearing Zhao Heng's call, Lude Li promptly pushed the door open and entered.
Pointing at the man kneeling on the ground, Zhao Heng commanded, "Take him away. From this moment forth, do not let him utter a single word. Kill him if he speaks even a syllable."
Lude Li hurriedly dragged the man away, who was so frightened that he dared not speak a word. Zhao Heng glanced at Madame Liu, his face smoothing from suspicion to a smile, "And what about you? In our past life, what transpired between us?"