Description
Ever since Yun Li entered the palace, she transformed into a treacherous woman. Duplicitous and insincere, she spends her days acting. When facing the emperor's favored concubines, she simultaneously taunts them until they're sick to their stomachs while clutching her chest in feigned distress, lamenting, "I am so envious that you can receive His Majesty's affection." In the face of schemes against her, she responds with a slap but then dissolves into tears, crying out, "Why treat a kind-hearted person like me this way?" When speaking with the Empress, she nods absentmindedly, proclaiming, "Her Majesty the Empress is my guiding light! I will always obey her."
Chapter 0001: The Harem
Yun Li woke up to find that the light rain had already stopped outside.
The palace maid Zhi Fu came over: "Has Bao Lin woken up? Would you like some tea?"
Yun Li shook her head and got up.
Zhi Fu hurried over to assist her: "It's just past the hour of Shen, and it's still hot outside."
Yun Li acknowledged and went to the cleansing room to wash her face: "Call Zhu Ding in."
"Okay." Zhi Fu replied and went out to call Zhu Ding, who was waiting in the corridor.
Zhu Ding, a eunuch assigned to Yun Li in the palace, was only in his twenties and looked clever.
"Greetings, Bao Lin."
"Did you complete the task I gave you?" Yun Li asked.
"In response to Bao Lin, everything has been brought back. When would you like to deal with it?" Zhu Ding inquired.
"Do it now, let's finish before it gets dark," Yun Li said, rising to head to the courtyard.
She currently resided in a small loft in Le An Palace, not having a place of her own. The advantage was that this place currently had no main occupant and was only inhabited by her.
It had been over two months since she entered the palace.
This shabby loft needed some changes, so in the morning, she paid out of her own pocket for Zhu Ding to go to the Nei Shi Province to get window screens and mosquito nets.
Naturally, these things varied in quality, and since she had paid, she naturally wanted the best.
Zhu Ding, along with the other eunuchs, began to work.
When Yun Li entered the palace, she was part of a group selected in a draft, the first major selection after the Emperor's mourning period ended. Naturally, there were many people, with twelve remaining in the end.
There were also seven or eight from the Crown Prince's residence.
After the selection, everyone was either a ninth rank or without rank.
Yun Li was fortunate to be ninth rank, serving as an Imperial Woman, but after serving in the Emperor's chamber, she became known as Bao Lin.
However, rising further in rank was difficult.
As she sat waiting in the corridor, she saw someone approaching from the main gate, wearing eunuch attire distinctly different from Zhu Ding's.
Though he entered with a smile, there was an air of superiority about him.
"Your servant greets Bao Lin."
"What brings you here, Eunuch Zhang?" Yun Li asked.
"In reply to Bao Lin, the Noble Consort invites you to visit," Zhang Maolin said with a forced smile.
"You can tell my sister that before entering the palace, my great uncle instructed me otherwise. I won't be going. When it's time to go, I shall," Yun Li said indifferently.
Zhang Maolin, not knowing the full story, didn't dare to argue.
He hesitated for a moment before saying, "Yes, then I shall relay your message to the Noble Consort," and left.
Yun Li lowered her gaze, concealing the mockery in her eyes.
She was not concerned about this matter.
About half an hour later, only half of the gauze window had been covered. Then, someone else arrived.
This time, it was someone from Zhengyang Palace, specifically the eunuch Li Mu from there.
"Greetings to Bao Lin."
Yun Li smiled as if genuinely delighted: "Eunuch Li's arrival must mean good news."
Li Mu chuckled, "Indeed, His Majesty has summoned you. Shall you get dressed and ready? I will wait for you."
"Thank you for the trouble. Come, quickly make tea for our brother Li," Yun Li said cheerily as she stood up to change and comb her hair in the inner chamber.
The attire was not overly complicated; it was mid-May, and she changed into a light pink, bead-embellished dress, simply tying her hair in a bun adorned with a gold pin and pearl flowers.
Naturally beautiful, in the prime of her sixteen years, she needed little embellishment.
She drew a delicate half-flower on her forehead, its pink hue charming. Dangling pearl earrings graced her ears, swaying gracefully.
Li Mu, watching her, thought it's no wonder the Emperor was weary of the Qi family's continuous attempts to send daughters to the palace, yet still favored Qi Bao Lin. She was indeed a rare beauty. Though the palace had many beauties, someone like her was uncommon.
Her cousin, the Noble Consort, was beautiful, but not in this way. No wonder, despite her high status, she had not captured the Emperor's heart…
Lost in thought, they left Le An Palace, where a sedan chair was waiting.
Yun Li boarded the sedan chair and soon arrived at Zhengyang Palace.
The sedan could only stop outside; after several twists and turns, they reached the back hall of Zhengyang Palace.
The current Emperor of the Great Jin was twenty-four and in the fourth year of his reign.
He was the legitimate son of the late Emperor, but not born of the Empress, rather he was the son of a succeeding Empress.
Back then, it was a fierce struggle to secure his position as the Crown Prince and ascend to the pinnacle.
As for the Emperor, aside from anything else, he indeed possessed a handsome appearance. Yun Li, confident in the lack of true feelings in the harem, did not entertain genuine emotions herself. But his attractive appearance was indeed pleasing to both himself and others.
Otherwise, all pretenses would be disgusting.
"Your concubine greets Your Majesty. May Your Majesty enjoy peace," Yun Li said sweetly.
He Jinglei raised an eyebrow: "My beloved, no need for formalities."
Yun Li stood up and thanked He Jinglei, then tilted her head: "Your Majesty, it has been over ten days since I last saw you."
"In the harem, there are many who haven't seen me for months. Are you complaining, my beloved?" He Jinglei asked with a smile.
His question was gentle, but Yun Li knew this man was neither gentle nor kind.
So, she pouted: "Your Majesty is so mean. I was merely expressing my longing for you, and you say this. What if I, not knowing better, actually complained? Would I not be in the wrong?"
He Jinglei smiled: "Considering your young age, I won't blame you."
"Your Majesty is the best," Yun Li smiled again.
Her beauty was striking, with long, enchanting eyes that were especially captivating when she smiled.
He Jinglei raised his hand, lifting her chin: "What have you been doing these days without seeing me?"
"I've been very good lately, hardly going out. Aside from paying respects to the Empress daily, I've just been in my loft," Yun Li replied.
"Really? Didn't you visit the Noble Consort?" He Jinglei asked.
"I didn't want to go," Yun Li frowned.
"Oh? The Noble Consort is your biological cousin. What, are you angry with her?" He Jinglei sat down and pulled her onto his lap.
Yun Li inwardly sneered, 'Cunning man, trying to test me?'
"I'm not angry. I just find her tedious..." She paused, then added, "I didn't say my sister was bad..."
It was a classic case of letting something slip, then feeling obliged to retract anything negative about her sister.
She resembled a child who had misspoken but then caught herself.
He Jinglei pinched her nose in response.
He thought to himself that this woman was indeed good at pretending.
"Go on, what do you find tedious? I won't mind," He Jinglei said.
"It's nothing much, just that she's always nagging. There are already so many palace rules which I diligently learn and remember. But... she still interferes too much."
Yun Li sighed.
He Jinglei smiled, "The Noble Consort is dignified and virtuous, a model of propriety."
Yun Li nodded outwardly, but inwardly, she scoffed.
'Ah, Qi Qingluan, Qi Qingluan, should I say it's tragic or funny? As a Noble Consort, your situation is really...'
'You, a Noble Consort, why strive for dignity and virtue? You're taking over all the Empress's duties, so what's left for the Empress to do?'
"Would my beloved like to learn from the Noble Consort? As sisters, you should have some similarities, right?"
He Jinglei looked down at her.
He was much taller than her; even with her sitting on his lap, she was still shorter.
"Your Majesty is so wicked, I wouldn't want to be that rigid... It's exhausting," Yun Li collapsed into his embrace, "You're just wicked. Utterly wicked."
Chapter 0002: Empress Xie
He Jinglei lightly raised an eyebrow again but said nothing more.
When she arrived, it was already almost the hour of Shen, and after talking for a while, it was time for the meal to be served.
When He Jinglei indicated, she joined him for the meal. Although as a concubine of her rank, she wasn't entitled to sit and dine with the Emperor and had to stand and serve.
To be honest, the Emperor wasn't so petty. Generally, the junior concubines he summoned to Zhengyang Palace were allowed to sit and eat.
Of course, the Emperor's leniency was a favor in itself.
Yun Li had dined with the Emperor before, so she wasn't overly cautious. When she found something tasty, she would help herself to more.
This, to He Jinglei, seemed like she was at ease.
Although he was the Emperor, he didn't necessarily enjoy dining with people who were trembling with fear or overly formal, as if reciting a script.
Qi's demeanor was quite to his liking.
After dinner, the Emperor couldn't rest yet; he had many memorials to review.
So, he went to the eastern hall of the Zhengyang Palace to his imperial study.
Yun Li waited for instructions, and the Emperor glanced at her: "Stay and attend."
Yun Li acknowledged and followed him to the imperial study.
She served only a cup of tea and then stood by, fortunately able to sit down.
The Emperor required nothing else of her.
She casually picked up a book and started reading.
Time flies; after sixteen years in ancient times, Yun Li had grown accustomed to the vertical arrangement of text and books here.
This book happened to be a travelogue, which was somewhat interesting.
However, the author likely hadn't actually visited those famous mountains and rivers; most of it seemed to be fabricated based on other travelogues.
The descriptions of the scenery were almost as fanciful as in a fantasy novel about a sacred land.
Yun Li almost laughed out loud.
Thankfully, she remembered she was in the imperial study.
During a break in He Jinglei's reviewing of memorials, he caught sight of her stifling a laugh while reading a book.
He didn't say anything at the time, just glanced at the head eunuch Meng Chang, who quickly nodded.
After another half hour, when He Jinglei finished reading the documents and stood up, Yun Li also quickly got up: "Has Your Majesty finished your work?"
"Yes, my beloved has worked hard, let's go."
Yun Li responded and came over: "Your Majesty has been busy for so long, your hands must be sore. Shall I call someone to massage them?"
He Jinglei looked at her and smiled: "You certainly know how to give orders."
Others would have offered to massage his hands themselves or to fetch hot water for a soak, but she knew how to delegate.
Yun Li feigned ignorance: "I was wrong."
He Jinglei glanced at her a few more times: "Let's go."
The two returned to the inner hall, where it was time for their nightly ablutions.
Yun Li shyly glanced at He Jinglei before heading to the cleansing room. When she returned, she was dressed in a light beige undergarment, her hair loosely draped down.
She was well-proportioned, neither too thin nor too plump.
Any more would appear clumsy, any less overly delicate. Now, with her narrow, beautiful eyes, lightly colored but well-shaped eyebrows, a small, pert nose, and thin, beautifully shaped lips on a sharp oval face, she was just perfect. Her beauty was not only striking but also exuded an effortless, natural elegance.
He Jinglei always marveled at her, feeling the wonder of creation.
Even though he had been raised in the palace and seen countless beauties, he had to admit, Qi Yun Li was truly exceptional.
And just as he admired her, she admired him in almost the same way.
She particularly loved looking at his sword-like eyebrows.
His face was angular with a defined jawline, his eyes sharp yet captivating. His nose was straight, lips neither too thick nor too thin, but with faint smile lines at the corners.
For Yun Li, the most enchanting aspect of this man wasn't just his appearance, although he was undeniably attractive.
What she liked most was his aura. Not the aura of his imperial status.
But a sense of pride.
A pride that seemed to say, no matter what you do, I am beyond caring. In other words, indifferent to the world.
Yun Li didn't think much about it, but conquering such a man would indeed be quite entertaining.
When He Jinli pressed down on her, Yun Li reached up to embrace his neck, "Your Majesty is truly handsome."
He Jinli just looked at her without speaking, reaching out to undo her clothes.
Yun Li, not to be outdone, did the same to He Jinli.
The Emperor slightly raised his eyebrows and completely pressed down.
In Fengyi Palace, Empress Xie looked at her freshly manicured nails, her hands coated in bright red nail polish, complementing her slender and beautiful hands beautifully.
"Has Lady Xiao been serving in the Emperor's chamber several times now?"
"Back to Your Majesty, it's the fifth time," said Ruyi, the maid in front of the Empress.
"Ever since Lady Xiao entered the palace, our Emperor hasn't visited Yuzhi Palace, right? Alas, it also affects Xu Baolin." Yuzhi Palace is the palace of the noble consort, Qi Qingluan.
Xu Baolin is another person who entered the palace with Yun Li. She was assigned to Yuzhi Palace.
"What does Your Majesty imply?" Ruyi asked.
"I imply nothing. A mere Lady Xiao, if she really has the ability to stand firm, then it's not our palace that should worry. Ultimately, it's the Hua family that's the real threat," said the Empress.
"Yes," Ruyi nodded.
At that moment, another maid, Rulan, came in, "Your Majesty."
"What's the matter?"
"Your Majesty, I just heard from the head maid of Furong Pavilion that Lady Wu has been feeling unwell lately, suffering from stomach troubles," Rulan reported.
The Empress frowned slightly: "Stomach troubles?"
"I believe... she is with child," Rulan said.
The Empress's brow furrowed deeper.
The Emperor was twenty-four this year, yet the harem had produced only one son and one daughter. The Empress had only a daughter, the eldest princess, now seven years old.
The eldest prince was born to the Virtuous Consort.
Now, with an unexpected pregnancy, the Empress couldn't help but be cautious.
Though the recent years were a mourning period without children, which was normal, both children were conceived when His Majesty was still the Crown Prince.
Though the Dowager Empress hadn't said anything, the Empress couldn't afford to be complacent.
But this child wasn't in her womb, and she truly didn't know what to say.
"Keep a close watch, and have the imperial physician check tomorrow. Do the dates match?" the Empress asked.
"I have checked; they do match. Imperial Woman Wu was the second to serve in the Emperor's bedchamber. Now, she's just over two months pregnant. I've also asked her attendants, and it seems unlikely to be mistaken," Rulan said.
The Empress took a deep breath: "I understand."
"Your Majesty, don't worry, these things are inevitable. It's late now; why not rest early and inquire tomorrow morning?" Ruyi suggested.
The Empress nodded: "Let's sleep then."
The worry was real, but the Empress couldn't resolve it all at once.
As the lights in Fengyi Palace went out, the entire harem quieted down. Who could sleep peacefully, however, remained unknown.
Chapter 0003: Paying Respects
The next morning, Yun Li was awakened to find the Emperor had already gotten up and changed.
She got up, rubbed her eyes, and put on her undergarments: "Shall I assist Your Majesty?"
She didn't kneel to report her wakefulness; surely, the Emperor wasn't so petty?
"Did my beloved do such tasks at home?" He Jinglei asked.
"Your Majesty hasn't yet awakened, and you're already attending court, which must be tiring. Who could I have served at home? Father had mother, and my brother had his nanny," Yun Li said, not rushing to take over the maids' duties, but calmly handing over the items one by one.
Seeing her like this, He Jinglei smiled: "No need to attend to me, go and freshen up yourself."
"Yes." Hearing this, Yun Li went to the other side. She needed to visit Fengyi Palace.
Once both were dressed, He Jinglei looked at her.
When Zhi Fu arrived, she brought a lake green dress and new jewelry.
"I'll gift you some jewelry," He Jinglei said.
"I'll wear them next time to show you. Thank you, Your Majesty." Yun Li was not overly excited, but clearly eager to show off.
He Jinglei lifted her chin with a finger: "You are indeed beautiful."
"With Your Majesty's golden words, I can only become more beautiful for Your Majesty," Yun Li said with a smile, gently moving the Emperor's hand away.
He Jinglei also smiled: "Go on, I must attend court."
In the Great Jin, there were major court assemblies every ten days and minor ones every three days. Today was a minor assembly, so there was no need to rise too early.
"I respectfully see Your Majesty off," Yun Li joined others in bidding farewell.
After seeing off the Emperor, Yun Li, accompanied by Zhi Fu, headed to Fengyi Palace.
The journey from Zhengyang Palace to Fengyi Palace was somewhat long, but still closer than from her residence at Le An Palace.
Passing through the corridor between Linzhi Palace and Changning Palace, they approached Fengyi Palace, the residence of the Empress.
At the entrance of Fengyi Palace, people were arriving continuously.
Yun Li happened to meet two Imperial Women who had entered the palace with her.
Being of lower rank than Bao Lin, the two Imperial Women greeted her with a certain envy.
Without encountering anyone else, the three of them entered Fengyi Palace together. The Empress had not yet appeared, so they waited outside.
Inside, Virtuous Consort Jin was already seated, as she always arrived early.
Virtuous Consort Jin was the mother of the current and only prince, the eldest prince, now five years old.
Originally a favored lady in the Eastern Palace, she had risen in rank due to bearing the first son and, favored by the Emperor, entered the palace as a first-rank consort with the title Jin, symbolizing fine jade.
During a lull in the conversation, a chorus outside announced the arrival of the Noble Consort.
Everyone hurriedly turned to welcome her.
Noble Consort Qi Qingluan, Yun Li's elder cousin, had entered the Eastern Palace the same year as the Crown Princess, becoming a favored consort to the Crown Prince. After entering the palace, she was conferred the title of Noble Consort Rong, enjoying unparalleled glory for a time.
However, within the Qi family, it was known that the Noble Consort lacked favor and had no children; she was merely a figurehead. This was the real reason the family had pushed so hard for Yun Li to enter the palace.
It was simply to have Yun Li vie for favor and bear children on her behalf, paving the way as a pawn.
Unfortunately, Yun Li was no fool. Though she entered the palace, she never intended to be someone else's pawn.
Bearing memories from her past life, Yun Li knew well what kind of place the ostentatious Qi family truly was. Tragic as her fate as a woman might be, she would never be a pawn for anyone.
Everyone greeted the Noble Consort, who raised her hand: "No need for formalities."
She was not given to smiling, yet she was affable.
The Noble Consort was known for her gentle, virtuous demeanor, kindness to her subordinates, and her reputation for wisdom.
Even when she was still in her boudoir, Qi Qingluan's name was synonymous with virtue, beauty, and filial piety.
The entire Marquis of Dongchang's household had pinned their hopes on her becoming the Crown Princess, but fate had other plans. The late Emperor ultimately chose a daughter from the Xie family as the Crown Princess, leaving Qi Qingluan to be only a favored consort.
Qingluan, Qingluan, even from her name, one could see the importance the Qi family placed on this daughter. Among the six girls in the Qi family, whether legitimate or not, she was the only one with a unique name, different from the others who all had 'Yun' in theirs.
Unfortunately, things in this world don't always go as one wishes.
Yun Li lowered her eyes, concealing the mockery in them, and bowed along with everyone else before rising again.
"Qi Baolin must have had a tiring night serving in the bedchamber," the Noble Consort remarked, glancing at Yun Li.
Yun Li knew very well that her elder sister's words were not sincerely virtuous, carrying a hint of sourness.
Before Yun Li could respond, Consort Lan laughed, "As sisters, Noble Consort is always so generous. Surely, it can't be jealousy, right?"
"Oh, I've always said Qi Baolin is beautiful, look, she even surpasses the Noble Consort," Consort Lan was always outspoken.
The Noble Consort smiled, "You jest, sister. I only fear she doesn't understand the rules, not jealousy. As for beauty, if I were to be jealous, it would be of you first, as you're the one praised by His Majesty for your beauty."
The two joked and entered together, followed by everyone else; now, everyone had arrived.
Virtuous Consort Jin stood to greet the Noble Consort, and then everyone greeted Virtuous Consort Jin.
Once everyone was seated, there was movement from the Empress's side.
A eunuch announced the Empress's arrival, and everyone hurriedly stood up to wait, greeting the Empress together as she appeared.
The Empress waved her hand: "Please sit, my sisters, sorry to keep you waiting."
"It is our duty to wait, Your Majesty is too kind," the Noble Consort said.
The Empress was generally allergic to the Noble Consort, feeling irritable at the sound of her voice.
But there was no choice but to endure, so she smiled at her, then turned to the others: "Virtuous Consort, you're early again today, aren't you? Your residence isn't close, what's the harm in being a little late?"
The Virtuous Consort smiled gently: "I'm rather simple-minded, always wondering whether it's genuine respect for Your Majesty or just lip service. True respect doesn't require much talk; actions speak for themselves, don't they?"
This was practically a direct jab at the Noble Consort, suggesting her words were empty compared to her actions.
The Empress also smiled: "I think the Virtuous Consort understands best. Otherwise, why would His Majesty call you the Virtuous Consort? You truly embody the virtue in your title."
However, the Noble Consort, the subject of the mockery, remained unperturbed.
After the higher-ups had spoken for a while, those below dared to speak.
"Yesterday it was Qi Baolin serving in the bedchamber, I always say, like the Noble Consort, she too is blessed with beauty," Lady Li said with a smile.
Lady Li also came from the Eastern Palace, originally a Zhaoxun, and was promoted to a Lady due to favor.
"Lady Li is right, but I wonder if Qi Baolin is as virtuous as the Noble Consort?" Zhang Baolin's comment was clearly meant to stir trouble.
Yun Li had been silent until now, seizing this opportunity to speak.
She bluntly said: "Being virtuous is for the Empress, what need do I have for such virtue!"
Having spoken, Yun Li's face showed shock: "I... your servant... my sister..."
It was a perfect display of having misspoken and worrying about her sister's anger.
Yet, the Empress's lips curled into a smile.
"In the palace, you must know your place. What's all this 'you' and 'I'?" the Noble Consort said, frowning slightly.
Chapter 0004: Betrayal Means Death
"Yes, Noble Consort," Yun Li quickly curtsied: "I shall remember."
"Qi Baolin is straightforward and perceptive. What do you think, Your Majesty?" Virtuous Consort Jin said with a smile.
The Empress really looked over, observing for a moment: "Indeed. Although she's a sister from the same family as the Noble Consort, she seems quite different."
"Thank you, Empress, and thank you, Virtuous Consort, for your compliments," Yun Li said, happily curtsying again.
Consort Lan covertly hid her expression behind her tea cup.
The looks that Yun Li received from the others were mixed, some appearing as if they were watching a fool.
The Empress did not rush to discuss whether Imperial Woman Wu was pregnant, instead making some small talk before dismissing everyone.
Virtuous Consort Jin stayed behind, using the excuse of needing advice about the eldest prince.
As everyone left Fengyi Palace, the Noble Consort wanted to call Yun Li to her side, but they were too far apart.
Deliberately avoiding her gaze, Yun Li made it difficult for the Noble Consort to call out to her in front of everyone, so she left first.
Yun Li, accompanied by Zhi Fu, leisurely walked away.
Inside Fengyi Palace, the Empress and Virtuous Consort moved to the small floral hall.
"Your Majesty, what do you think of Qi Baolin?"
"She's only been here for a little over two months; it's hard to say much. However, she doesn't seem to be the same type as the Noble Consort," the Empress said.
"How many are there like her?" scoffed the Virtuous Consort.
"Indeed, but this Qi Baolin is certainly beautiful. Do you have any thoughts, sister?" the Empress inquired.
"I haven't thought much, just that... let the sisters fight it out," the Virtuous Consort said.
The Empress laughed: "Say what you will, Qi Baolin doesn't seem taken with the Noble Consort's airs."
"Even the newly arrived Baolin knows that true virtue is valued by Your Majesty. Doesn't the Noble Consort understand? It's merely ambition. The power of the Marquis of Dongchang's household is significant," the Virtuous Consort shook her head.
The marquisate itself isn't much. The title of marquis was granted for services rendered to the late Emperor by the old marquis.
But the Noble Consort's father is the current Chancellor, a first-rank official heavily relied upon by the Emperor.
He holds significant power.
It's impossible for the Qi family's women not to have a place in the harem, but the Noble Consort is indeed a great concern for the Empress.
The Empress comes from a military family; her father also holds military power but is stationed far in the south. Moreover, his command isn't at a frontier, nor is it of a kind to make the Emperor overly wary.
His official rank is only third-rank, and the title of Duke was only granted after she became the Empress. Plus, she is well aware of why the Noble Consort has been childless for so many years.
Should the Noble Consort bear a child, the Empress's position might be in jeopardy...
Therefore, she had to be cautious.
As for Consort Jinde, she had made an enemy of the Noble Consort early on during her time in the Eastern Palace. Born of lower status, she had no choice but to rely on the Empress. Without this alliance, her eldest son might not have been born.
However, though she now defers to the Empress in all things, it doesn't necessarily mean her heart is truly submissive.
It's just like someone forced to bow their head under a low roof.
After all, the Empress has a father who is a general, whereas Consort Jinde's father is just a minor official from the provinces.
Yun Li returned to Le'an Palace, where Zhu Ding and others came up to greet her.
The gauze screens changed yesterday were naturally fine.
"Baolin, look, everything has been replaced. If it's not to your liking, I can change them again," Zhu Ding said with a smile.
"Hmm, it's all very good," Yun Li observed after a look around.
"Baolin, your meal is ready. Where would you like to eat?" Zhuyu came over to ask.
"Let's eat in the outer room," Yun Li said.
They didn't speak during breakfast.
After the meal was cleared away, Yun Li said, "Go about your tasks; I'm going to take a nap."
The attendants agreed, and Zhifu helped her lie down in the inner chamber.
Yun Li didn't bring any attendants with her when she entered the palace.
She had never intended to enter the palace; the eldest daughter of the Qi family being there was enough, she thought.
But then, things changed…
She had two conditions at that time; the first was not to bring any attendants. She'd rather come alone than have unreliable people arranged by her family.
As for those who had served her since childhood, their temperaments were not suitable.
The second condition was to have some money for her expenses in the palace. Naturally, the senior branch of the family should provide this.
Yun Li wasn't very sleepy at the moment, just a bit tired, lying there thinking about palace affairs.
She knew about the complexities of the harem early on. She wasn't afraid, but being involved did bring some annoyance.
On the Empress's side, after Consort De left, she had the imperial physician check on Lady Wu. Not just Consort De had to bow her head, even the Empress couldn't fully trust Consort De, who bore the only prince.
This was the nature of alliances in the harem.
Indeed, the physician confirmed it after examination; it happened during Lady Wu's first night serving the Emperor.
No one knew that at that time, the Emperor had chosen her casually.
After that, she wasn't favored again; she was only a servant before, and was promoted to Lady only because of that night.
And so, this woman was fortunate enough to conceive on her first encounter.
On the Empress's side, now that she knew, she didn't keep it a secret. Mainly because there was no need to.
Being just a low-ranking consort without much favor, she knew her survival was just a matter of fate. Losing it would be the same.
Thus, she directly informed the entire harem and distributed the bestowed gifts.
In the Cian Palace, the Empress Dowager remained indifferent. After all, the pregnancy of a mere consort, even if valued by the Empress Dowager for the child, wouldn't elicit much attention.
However, the rest of the harem couldn't help feeling envious.
The Emperor's lack of offspring made any pregnancy within the harem significant.
Over the years, there had been several pregnancies in the Eastern Palace, but none had been successful.
Ye Xiuyi gave birth to a princess the year she entered the palace, but tragically, the child died three days after birth and didn't even receive a proper ranking. At that time, it was the late Emperor's mourning period, and she was still in her family's residence. It was chaotic then, and surprisingly, the matter wasn't thoroughly investigated afterwards.
Since then, no one in the harem has been pregnant.
Now, if Imperial Woman Wu can give birth to a prince, imagine the glory and wealth that would follow.
Such a fortunate event is something many would not want to see happen, so it really depends on her own ability.
In the afternoon, the Emperor also instructed his eunuchs to gift Imperial Woman Wu some items, though he did not visit her personally.
Some went to see her, but Yun Li did not.
Yun Li called her attendants.
Le An Palace was staffed with many, the main hall was locked, but there were several assigned to clean and maintain the place. However, they were of no concern to her.
In her quarters, she had eight attendants: four eunuchs and four palace maids.
"I've been here for over two months and haven't yet had a proper talk with you all."
Everyone quickly agreed.
"There's nothing special to discuss today. Imperial Woman Wu's pregnancy is a happy event, but I am lazy by nature, don't enjoy flattering, nor do I like getting involved. My point is, let's keep our distance from Furongxuan. You all should understand what I mean. If anyone gets entangled with them, inform me early."
They looked at each other, all hastily asserting they were not involved.
Of course, they could only deny any involvement.
Yun Li just gave a very faint smile, one that revealed nothing. None of the servants could read any expression from her face.
Chapter 0005: The Meeting
"It's good that there's no involvement now," Yun Li smiled again, glancing over them: "I know that although you serve me, in this imperial palace, eunuchs and palace maids have their own ways. Sometimes, they have more connections than we low-ranked concubines. You all are capable. Do you know why I didn't bring my own people when I came here?"
They all shook their heads.
"Unknown people are better not involved. Where you all come from, I don't know, and now I don't need to know," Yun Li said indifferently.
"But you must understand, I didn't enter the palace to be a stepping stone for others. Under the Empress, should I serve those of lower or higher rank? Should I be ordered around or give orders? Consider this well. Whatever you think, do, or believe, in my service, betrayal leads only to death. So, if you are a skilled agent sent by someone, weigh your chances. Even if you succeed in bringing me down, consider whether you can avoid dying with me, and whether my family, the Dongchang Marquis House, can annihilate yours. Once you understand this, you'll know how to behave."
The servants hastily knelt down: "We dare not!"
"Alright, rise. I've made my point clear. Zhifu, distribute the rewards, and don't just listen to my scolding. You may leave now," Yunli waved her hand.
The servants thanked her and then withdrew.
Regardless, Yunli's words, though not fiercely spoken, were not to be taken lightly.
Those with a guilty conscience couldn't bear to hear them.
After saying this, Yunli never brought it up again.
In the Furong Pavilion, Consort Wu felt both joy and fear. She wasn't foolish; she clearly understood whether the Emperor's fondness for her was genuine or indifferent. Now that she was suddenly pregnant, happiness was inevitable. This was the Emperor's child, a potential heir to the throne.
But she also knew, with so many in the harem, including those from the Eastern Palace, the competition was fierce.
"All the favored ones are there, and even the Empress doesn't have a son yet."
"Can I really bring this child to term?"
Lacking an illustrious family background, her pregnancy put her ahead, a cause for joy, but what if she couldn't keep it?
Lady Wu gently touched her belly, biting her lip, unsure of what to do.
What should she do? How could she ensure the safety of her child and herself?
Lady Wu tossed and turned, unable to sleep, while many in the harem speculated about her pregnancy.
The next day, May 15th, the Empress was to visit the Dowager Empress to pay her respects.
The courtiers went early to Fengyi Palace to pay respects to the Empress. After a brief exchange, the Empress stood up, "Let's go with me to pay respects to the Dowager Empress."
Not everyone had the privilege.
Only those of the third rank or higher were eligible to visit the Dowager Empress on the first and fifteenth of each month; others could only go on festivals or special occasions.
Those currently qualified included only Noble Consort Rong, Consort Jinde, Consort Lan, Ye Xiuyi, and Wu Xiurong.
The others could only watch enviously. Being able to visit the Dowager Empress in Cian Palace was indeed a blessing.
After watching these few leave, the rest prepared to disperse.
Some had already gathered around Lady Wu, chatting and laughing.
Yun Li slightly raised her eyebrows and turned towards the Imperial Garden.
It was mid-May, and the flowers were in full bloom. The Imperial City of Daijin was located in the north-central part of its territory.
Daijin's north was cold, its south humid and hot, bordered by the sea on one side and mountains on the other.
It was a splendid location, with the palace geographically in the north, yet not in the extreme north.
Fires were lit during winter, but the summers were not too hot.
Yun Li admired the scenery, choosing a pavilion to rest in.
She gently waved her fan, lost in thoughts about the palace affairs.
Emperor He Jinxi currently doesn't have any particularly outstanding favorite concubines.
Consort Jin De is favored largely because she bore the Crown Prince, which is always special.
Lady Lan is favored because His Majesty once said she has the grace and heart of an orchid, thus bestowing her the title of Lady Lan, praising her as being as lovely as a secluded orchid.
However, in Yunli's eyes, Lady Lan, with her straightforwardness, doesn't quite resemble an orchid.
Song Jiyu also has favor, known for her quiet demeanor and scholarly aura.
Beauty Li is a fiery beauty, also quite favored. Originally a teaching assistant in the Eastern Palace, she entered the palace and directly became a sixth-rank beauty. After the mourning period, her rapid promotion to the rank of a beauty indicates that her favor may not be less than Lady Lan's.
Among the newcomers, the ones leading the way are Hua Baolin and Sun Baolin.
Hua Baolin, as the personal granddaughter of the current Imperial Teacher, whose grandfather, though retired, had taught the Emperor, and with her father being a key official in court, naturally stands out.
As Yunli was pondering, she heard someone approaching from behind and turned to see Zhang Maolin.
"Greetings to Baolin," Zhang Maolin said with a smile.
"Sister went to pay respects to the Empress Dowager, why didn't you go with her to serve?" Yunli asked.
"Responding to Baolin, the Consort specially sent me to find you. She said that no matter what, we should meet," Zhang Maolin's tone was somewhat more serious today.
"Alright, then I'll stay here a bit longer, waiting for sister to come to the Imperial Garden. It's not that I refuse to meet her; it's just not appropriate for me to go all the time," Yunli responded.
"Indeed, the Consort didn't specify meeting at the Jade Zhi Palace."
Zhang Maolin responded with a smile and went to convey the message, confident that Yunli wouldn't run away.
Yunli remained seated, lazily waving her fan, without speaking.
Cautiously, Zhifu suggested, "If Baolin doesn't want to meet, perhaps we should return? It wouldn't be appropriate for the Consort's servant to come looking for you again."
Yunli shook her head: "Why should I hide? I simply don't want to properly meet her."
Yun Li's lips curled into a mocking smile.
Zhifu, unsure whether she understood or not, replied, "I understand."
"Zhifu, look," Yun Li lifted her head and pointed with her fan, "Do you think those nine heavens are high? Can I reach them?"
Zhifu glanced up and said, "Baolin is blessed; naturally, you can achieve your wish."
"Good. If that day comes, it will be your moment to shine as well," Yun Li said.
Zhifu bowed deeply, "I understand your intentions, Baolin, and will serve you diligently."
Yun Li and Zhifu waited for a while longer, estimating it had been quite some time, when finally there was some movement.
Soon, they saw the Noble Consort and her entourage approaching.
Behind her followed Zhang Maolin and two maids, the very ones who had entered the palace with her.
Upon seeing her, Yun Li stood up, "Big sister!"
"Hua Baolin, be respectful. You should address her as the Noble Consort," Ban Yue reminded.
"Oh, my respects to Noble Consort Rong," Yun Li hurriedly said.
"No need for formalities among sisters," the Noble Consort glanced at her, "Come."
The two walked back into the pavilion.
The Noble Consort's attendants didn't follow, and neither did Zhifu dare to; they all stood below the pavilion.
"Since entering the palace, you've changed, Sixth Sister. Now, it's hard even to see you," Noble Consort Rong said indifferently.
Yun Li had only visited Yuzhi Palace once in her first few days in the palace and had since refused to go.
Chapter 0006: A Slap
"Big sister wishes to see me; is there something you need?" Yun Li asked calmly, devoid of her earlier demeanor.
"What do you think? Hua Yunli, have you forgotten your duties upon entering the palace?" Qi Qingluan looked at Yun Li's face and suddenly burst out angrily.
Qi Qingluan was only twenty-three this year.
Yun Li was sixteen. The sisters were seven years apart.
However, Qi Qingluan was not close to Yun Li before entering the palace.
When she entered the Eastern Palace at fifteen, Yun Li was merely eight, albeit exceptional.
Which girl in their Hua family wasn't exceptional?
Little did she know, she would grow to be so beautiful. Qi Qingluan knew that her entering the palace was to vie for favor and bear children.
This was their father's arrangement.
But now, Yunli didn't seem the least bit submissive.
"How could big sister say such a thing? Aren't we both working for the honor of the Qi family?" Yunli smiled.
That was indeed the case.
Even if her uncle blatantly wanted her to be a pawn for the Consort, such things couldn't be openly acknowledged.
It was simply put as, "You sisters should support each other for the glory of the Qi family."
"Little sister, it seems you've developed ambitions," the Consort remarked with a frown, her voice cold.
"Big sister, which woman in the harem doesn't have ambitions?" Yunli smiled, "You, as the Consort, are second only to the Empress and still not satisfied. Should I be content as a mere eighth-rank Baolin?"
"Are you challenging me? Don't forget who is in charge of the Qi family. Do you no longer care about your parents?" Qi Qingluan exclaimed angrily.
"Ah, my parents?" Yunli suddenly burst into laughter, shaking with mirth: "Do you know, another candidate to enter the palace was our cousin. She's closer to you, isn't she? But my parents were eager to push me forward, telling our uncle and aunt that I was more beautiful. Do you think I should be angry?"
"Of course, I won't neglect them, but what can the Qi family really do to them? Qi Qingluan, you, sitting in a high position, have made countless enemies. Do you expect me to follow suit and rely solely on you?"
Yunli sneered, "You're mistaken. I never thought you were all that formidable as a Consort. In your exalted position, you still needed another daughter from the Qi family to aid you. Doesn't that scream failure? Tragic, isn't it?"
'Slap'
Yunli turned her face, revealing a palm print on her cheek.
"Thank you for your reward, Consort," Yunli said lightly, bowing as if she had received a great honor.
The Consort frowned deeply, watching her.
She just smiled and said, "Is this your true nature, big sister? The dignified and virtuous Noble Consort, always gentle and never angry with her subordinates? Have you been trapped in this facade for too long, unable to shed it? Sister advises you to restrain yourself. Today it's family, but if you can't control this fury with others, wouldn't it mar your reputation?"
Yun Li scoffed again and turned to leave the pavilion.
Zhifu bowed towards the pavilion and then followed Yun Li.
As they walked away, Zhi Fu whispered, "Shall I send someone to the Imperial Medical Bureau for medicine?"
"No need. Just use a warm cloth to cover it," Yun Li responded indifferently.
She was expressionless, her face still marked as she returned to Le An Palace.
She didn't cry or show any unhappiness, but returning with such a face, everyone in the palace was perceptive.
Especially with people specifically watching the meeting between the Noble Consort and Qi Baolin, could such an incident be kept secret?
Naturally, the news spread quickly.
Meanwhile, Noble Consort Rong sat in the pavilion, seething.
Her maid Ban Yue said, "Your Majesty, you were too hasty. She's young, just entered the palace, and doesn't know the hardships of the harem. Without you, what kind of life would she have? Just temper her character gradually."
"I was impatient, but her words are truly infuriating," the Noble Consort frowned.
"Your Majesty, calm yourself. Now, with Imperial Woman Wu pregnant, the outcome is uncertain. If the Emperor continues to favor Qi Baolin and she becomes pregnant, it could be your opportunity. If she's disobedient, you can discipline her later. There's always a way to control her," Ban Yue said.
"Hmm. Let's return," the Noble Consort stood up.
That evening, Yun Li felt the 'care' of the Noble Consort.
Looking at the dishes served, Yun Li ate without changing her expression.
Zhu Yu, unaware of what had happened, asked Zhi Fu after Yun Li went to bed.
Zhi Fu explained the day's events.
Zhu Yu clenched her teeth: "The Noble Consort can't just hit people. Isn't she afraid that Bao Lin might serve in the bedchamber tonight?"
Zhi Fu sighed: "I don't know what was said. Our Bao Lin should understand, right? But this incident, it might have already spread. Who knows what will happen at tomorrow's greeting."
"Whatever happens, our Bao Lin was the one hit. How can Bao Lin be blamed?" Zhu Yu said.
Both sighed.
But the other party was a Noble Consort; what could they possibly do?
However, these two maids, having served for over two months, knew that Bao Lin was not as naive as she appeared.
Serving such a master, perhaps they really did have a promising future ahead?
With this thought, they naturally became more diligent in their service.
That night, the Emperor didn't summon anyone to the bedchamber and stayed in Zhengyang Palace himself.
The next morning at the greeting in Fengyi Palace, it didn't take long before someone asked.
The question came from a newcomer, and Yun Li simply answered impatiently without elaborating.
But when Li Xiaoyi, who was of a higher rank than her, asked, Yun Li couldn't avoid it.
"I heard that sister came out of the Imperial Garden yesterday with a red face. Was there an incident?"
"Xiaoyi misunderstood, it was just the heat," Yun Li replied, looking down.
"Oh my, it's only May. I was still feeling cold the other afternoon. Besides, why would only one side of your face be hot?" Wu Xiurong joked.
"Sister Wu, let's not ask anymore. It might be difficult for Qi Baolin to explain," Ye Xiuyi said.
At this point, the Empress spoke up: "What happened? If it was just the heat, that's fine. But if there was an incident, Qi Baolin should speak up. In the palace, if something truly happened, wouldn't it mean that I, as the Empress, am not doing my job well?"
Yun Li stood up, "Empress Mother..."
She paused after uttering four words.
Noble Consort Rong's hand, holding her tea, paused.
Yun Li continued, "To report to the Empress Mother, I'm fine, just overheated. It's my fault."
"Well then, as long as you're fine. Please, take a seat," the Empress glanced at Noble Consort Rong and gestured to Yun Li.
Yun Li sat down and fell silent.
With the Empress deeming the matter closed, everyone refrained from discussing it further, turning to other topics.
After the morning greetings dispersed, Yun Li didn't hurry to leave, deliberately dawdling as if avoiding something.
Wu Xiurong smiled at her meaningfully.
Wu Xiurong had once been favored when she first entered the palace, but after losing two pregnancies in two years, she gradually fell out of favor.
Though still young, she couldn't compare with the newcomers. To live well, one must strategize.