Volume 2 Chapter 12 - Fragrant Orchids, Enigmatic Ferns
Having had no sleep all night, Leng Jiu looked a bit tired. She applied a light layer of makeup, which made her appearance less disheveled.
Qing Ling entered to help adjust Leng Jiu’s attire. While doing so, she said, “News from outside: the Prime Minister’s injury is on his shoulder and has not affected the bones or tendons. His life is not in danger. Upon hearing this, the Emperor was enraged and sent a physician to the Prime Minister’s residence last night. The physician reported that there is no serious issue; he just needs to rest for half a month to recover.”
Leng Jiu lowered her gaze and responded faintly, “I see.”
Today, Leng Jiu was not in the mood to leave the palace or do anything. Although she should have visited Gong Yuwei, she was unsure whether she should go. His injury was because of her; what could she possibly say if she went?
While Leng Jiu was lost in thought, Lan Ze and Princess Lan Xiang arrived!
Leng Jiu was somewhat surprised by Lan Ze’s straightforward visit and asked, “Why have they come?”
Zi Yu explained, “It is Princess Lan Xiang. She mentioned that the Regent Prince once said that the Empress Dowager saved his life, but he did not have the chance to express his grat.i.tude at the time. She also wanted to thank the Empress Dowager for her great kindness, so they both came, and the Emperor approved it.”
Leng Jiu did not inquire further, saying, “Let them in.”
Today, Lan Ze wore a different outfit from yesterday, still in light blue but plain, with his hair tied back as usual, looking exceptionally handsome. Princess Lan Xiang’s outfit was similar to yesterday’s. Together, they made a very pleasing sight.
“Lan Ze pays his respects to the Empress Dowager!”
“Princess Lan Xiang greets the Empress Dowager!”
“Please rise,” Leng Jiu said with a slight wave of her hand. “Be seated.”
“Thank you, Empress Dowager!” Lan Ze sat to Leng Jiu’s right, while Lan Xiang took a seat on her left, very close to Leng Jiu, her eyes fixed on Leng Jiu without blinking.
Leng Jiu met Princess Lan Xiang’s gaze and smiled slightly, “Princess Lan Xiang, why are you staring at me? Do I have something on my face?”
Princess Lan Xiang was about to speak when Lan Ze whispered, “Lan Xiang! Mind your manners!”
Lan Xiang closed her mouth and gave Lan Ze an annoyed glance. Her expression was a mix of grievance and sulkiness, which made Leng Jiu raise an eyebrow; she did not dislike this woman.
Noticing Leng Jiu’s tired expression, Lan Ze expressed concern, “Empress Dowager, do you have something on your mind?”
Leng Jiu rubbed her brow and said, “Is it really that obvious?”
“As long as your eyes aren’t blind, it’s clear to see,” Princess Lan Xiang commented.
Lan Ze glanced at Princess Lan Xiang as if to say something, but Leng Jiu stopped him, “The Empress Dowager here does not adhere to many rules. If Princess Lan Xiang wishes to speak frankly, I don’t mind.”
Princess Lan Xiang blinked at Leng Jiu and suddenly brightened with a smile, “Just call me Lan Xiang. The t.i.tle ‘Princess Lan Xiang’ is for others.”
Leng Jiu raised an eyebrow slightly, “Am I not considered ‘someone’ to you?”
Ignoring Lan Ze’s disapproving look, Lan Xiang leaned closer to Leng Jiu and whispered conspiratorially, “Of course you are! After all, you are the one my brother has always cared about. And I heard you really like my brother’s music, so I brought him here to play for you!”
“Lan Xiang!” Lan Ze’s voice carried a hint of annoyance, though mostly embarra.s.sment.
Leng Jiu looked at Lan Ze with a smile, “It has indeed been a long time since I last heard him play.”
Lan Ze, upon hearing this, composed himself and said, “If the Empress Dowager wishes to listen, Lan Ze will be happy to play for you.”
Leng Jiu gestured to Zi Yu, “Didn’t you want to hear Prince Lan Ze play? Go and fetch the instrument.”
Zi Yu, excited, immediately went to retrieve the instrument.
Soon, Zi Yu brought the instrument, set it up, and Lan Ze took his place. After a brief pause, he began to play. The first note made Leng Jiu slightly dazed, as if she was transported back to a few months ago when she lay on the broken wall listening to his music. It was the pure, unblemished sound of the qin that captivated her, making her realize how beautiful and moving music could be.
Lan Ze’s expression was as it had been back then. He did not seem humbled by his status as a hostage nor arrogant as the Regent Prince. In his simple, elegant light blue attire, he remained as refined and detached as before.
As the soul-cleansing music flowed, Leng Jiu’s brows relaxed, and the frustration she had harbored all night dissipated, restoring her usual clarity.
Lan Ze played with great seriousness, and Leng Jiu listened intently. Princess Lan Xiang’s large eyes darted between the two, feeling like a voyeur discovering a secret. She edged closer to Leng Jiu, settling beside her un.o.btrusively.
Leng Jiu turned to look at her and smiled slightly, “It seems the princess’s words earlier were not quite accurate.”
“Of course not! That was definitely not me!” Lan Xiang leaned in and asked in a whisper, “Do you like my brother?”
Leng Jiu raised an eyebrow, “Princess, don’t you remember that I am the Empress Dowager? Such things should not be spoken carelessly.”
“If you truly considered yourself the Empress Dowager, you wouldn’t secretly go to hear my brother play!” Lan Xiang waved her hand and leaned in mysteriously, “My brother likes you!”
Leng Jiu lifted her eyelids, “Oh? What makes you say that?”
“Since returning from Feng Yu, my brother hasn’t played the qin again. Even when the Emperor begged him to play, he refused. He said he would only play for someone who understands him!” Lan Xiang said earnestly.
Leng Jiu lowered her gaze and turned to look at Lan Ze, who was still playing seriously, unaware of the conversation. She smiled and replied, “It’s merely a case of meeting a kindred spirit in wine and music. I’m hardly a true understanding companion. Please don’t speak of such things, Princess.”
Feeling uncomfortable with being repeatedly addressed as “Princess,” Lan Xiang returned to her seat, ignoring Leng Jiu.
When the music ended, Lan Ze ceased playing, looked at Leng Jiu, and then sat down again, “It has been a while since I played; I’ve grown rusty.”
Leng Jiu observed him and said with a light smile, “Time and years have pa.s.sed, yet your music remains as clear and ethereal as before. It was worth saving you.”
Lan Ze looked at Leng Jiu, remaining silent for a moment before finally speaking, “Lan Ze wishes to see Miss A Jiu. I wonder if I am worthy now?”
Leng Jiu paused, picked up her teacup, and said, “You have fulfilled your promise from before. When the time comes, you will see her.”
Lan Ze’s expression relaxed, though it was unclear whether it was relief or something else.
Not wanting to dwell on this topic, Leng Jiu shifted the conversation, “The Emperor intends to arrange a marriage for Princess Lan Xiang. What are your plans?”
Lan Ze glanced at Lan Xiang but remained silent.
Princess Lan Xiang squinted her large eyes, showing disdain before laughing lightly, “If he’s willing, let him grant it.”
Leng Jiu looked at Lan Xiang’s changing emotions and turned to Lan Ze with a puzzled expression. Lan Ze sighed and looked at the palace maids behind Leng Jiu, “Empress Dowager, could you dismiss the attendants?”
Leng Jiu waved her hand, “Let them all leave.”
Once the people had left, Lan Ze spoke, “I did not plan to bring anyone. She followed me halfway and spread the news on her own, so I had no choice but to bring her along. Though Lan Xiang and I are not of the same mother, she has always been raised by our mother and is my closest sister. In recent years, our mother was imprisoned by the eldest prince, and Lan Xiang endured humiliation to find our mother and help me rescue her. I originally wanted her to live peacefully, but after hearing from Ning Shu about the grievances I faced here, she insisted on coming along and even wants to marry the Emperor to get revenge. I tried to persuade her all the way but to no avail. Today, I came to ask for the Empress Dowager’s help in persuading her.”
Princess Lan Xiang no longer had the innocent demeanor she displayed while talking to Leng Jiu earlier. Instead, she showed a lifetime of indifference, “Brother, there is no need to say more. My mind is made up. How could I easily forgive him when he made you so humble?”
Leng Jiu now understood the meaning behind her expression last night. Although she did not agree with Lan Xiang’s actions, she found that her character suited her taste. She picked up the cup and asked, “What do you plan to do?”
Lan Xiang clearly had this planned for a long time. Upon hearing this, she immediately said, “Let him bring disaster to his country and chaos to his empire, and bear a thousand-year infamy!”
Leng Jiu’s gaze swept over her face and figure. She had the capital to say such things, but Leng Jiu shook his head slightly: “The most foolish revenge in the world is to use your most precious thing to retaliate against the enemy. I thought you at least had some brains, but it turns out you’re just another big-breasted, brainless person!”
Lan Xiang’s anger flared: “What do you mean?”
Leng Jiu raised his hand, pulling at her face veil with his bright red nails. With a slight force, the veil slipped away, revealing a breathtakingly beautiful face with a delicate nose, lovely cherry lips, and a pointed chin—like a meticulously crafted masterpiece, impossibly beautiful.
“Tsk tsk! Such a beautiful face, such prime years, and you’re willingly sending yourself to your enemy’s bed. Isn’t that stupid?”
Lan Xiang pressed her lips together: “But it can’t be that easy for him!”
“If you did that, it would actually be benefiting him!”
Lan Xiang furrowed her brows, seemingly at a loss. Yet, the hatred in her heart did not dissipate. She thought of her beloved elder brother, the emperor, kneeling and playing the zither in a submissive and humiliating posture, like the lowest slave. The shame was a thousand times worse in her heart. She was only thinking of revenge, and the most cruel revenge for an emperor was to ruin his reputation and overthrow his empire. She was confident she had the ability and came with a determination to break the pot and sink the boat!
Leng Jiu actually understood Lan Xiang’s feelings. When she first saw Lan Ze, she was also very surprised and upset. However, when she saw him walking away with indifference, she was relieved. A momentary posture does not determine a person’s whole life, and a temporary insult does not mean that person will be insulted forever. As long as his pride remains, insults are nothing!
Lan Ze was very worried about Lan Xiang. He tried to persuade her in vain, moving out their mother or forcibly sending her back. She even threatened him with starvation and self-harm. Thus, he had no choice but to pin his hopes on Leng Jiu, this special woman. So, he looked at Leng Jiu with a pleading gaze, hoping she would help him!
At this moment, Eunuch Qu came in: “Greetings to the Empress Dowager! His Majesty has sent this servant to invite the Regent to the Imperial Study!”
Lan Ze stood up and gave a slight bow to Leng Jiu: “Lan Ze takes his leave. Please take care of Lan Xiang, Empress Dowager!”
“Go ahead!”
Lan Ze turned and left, his back straight and proud. Leng Jiu watched him leave before she smiled faintly: “You might not know, but when I first saw him, he was bowing, crawling on the ground in a submissive manner. At that time, I was shocked and felt it was an insult. But later, I saw another side of him. Even though he acted lowly and dusty at the banquet, when he left, his back was straight and proud as before. At that moment, all my emotions dissipated, only admiration remained!”
“A person’s head can bow, their back can bend, and their knees can kneel, but as long as their pride remains, nothing can insult them. To him, it’s not an insult but a test of fate; the eagle needs to endure many broken wings to soar high. That process is painful, but only through that cruel and painful broken wing can it spread its wings and fly. He has experienced another kind of rebirth. Look at him now. Is there still a trace of humility?”
Lan Xiang was slightly stunned, looking at Leng Jiu with surprise.
“He endured those insults, and no one noticed his talents, so he could wait for the opportunity to return safely. Otherwise, he would have perished in the palace long ago! Between these two outcomes, which do you think is better?”
One is to become the current Regent, the other is to die quietly and obscurely. Even a fool knows which to choose!
Leng Jiu watched her eyes gradually clear up, took a sip of tea, and continued: “The humiliation he endured back then—did it hurt him less than you? Yet he endured it. Now, why do you remind him of those past humiliations every day? He treats you like a sister and loves you dearly, but you want to offer yourself to those who once insulted him. Don’t you think that is the greatest insult to him? Not being able to protect even his own family is the real breaking of his bones and digging out his heart!”
Lan Xiang looked at Leng Jiu, and suddenly tears fell silently. The hatred she had been suppressing in her heart dissipated after Leng Jiu spoke, leaving only guilt towards Lan Ze. It turned out that for so many days, she wasn’t thinking about her brother’s best interests, but rather stabbing him in the heart with a knife!
Leng Jiu handed over her handkerchief: “Although a beautiful woman’s tears are pleasing to the eye, I don’t like seeing people cry. Quickly wipe them away!”
Lan Xiang, embarra.s.sed, took it, quickly wiping away her tears, and forced a smile: “So you are the true one who understands my brother. No wonder he considers you a confidant!”
Leng Jiu didn’t accept her compliment: “It’s not about understanding or not; it’s just seeing things more clearly than others!”
Lan Xiang looked at her quietly, sighed after a while: “Even though you’ve cleared things up, I’m still somewhat unwilling!”
Leng Jiu lazily lifted her eyelids: “The more you focus on something, the more it hurts. If you view it lightly, it becomes nothing. Lan Ze is now the Regent of Snow Country, and when people speak of him, they certainly won’t say he is a zither-playing palace slave. That is his success. Don’t let past shadows overshadow him; that is the true disrespect and insult!”
Lan Xiang nodded heavily, stood up, and deeply bowed to Leng Jiu: “Lan Xiang thanks the Empress Dowager for the advice!”
“Now you remember I’m the Empress Dowager?” Leng Jiu said coldly.
Lan Xiang smiled awkwardly: “I know my brother holds you in high regard and has always wanted to meet and have a good talk with you. I heard from Uncle Ning that you don’t seem to have romantic feelings for my brother, so I thought I’d help matchmake, but it seems I ended up with a cold shoulder!”
“You have some nerve to try matchmaking with the current Empress Dowager!”
Lan Xiang, seeing her warm and no longer formal, returned to her true self: “Mother said my brother’s nature is aloof, and he might never meet a woman who moves his heart in this lifetime. So, if he does, he must hold on to her. I’ve always remembered this, and since I know the Empress Dowager is still young, though there’s a big difference in status, I wanted to give it a try!”
Leng Jiu was speechless—what kind of theory is that! Suddenly, Leng Jiu thought of something, her eyes turned, and she grabbed Lan Xiang, placing her hand on her shoulder: “I’ve resolved your heart’s troubles, so shouldn’t you properly repay me?”
Lan Xiang, at that moment a naive and easy-to-deceive girl, nodded sincerely: “You say it, and I will definitely do it if I can!”
“You will definitely manage!” Leng Jiu said with a mischievous smile: “I want you to help me seduce someone!”
Lan Xiang’s eyes widened: “Who?”
“Xuan w.a.n.g Long Yue Li!”
“Hah?” Lan Xiang looked at Leng Jiu in disbelief: “You mean that prince who is more like a monster?”
“Any problem?”
Lan Xiang shrank her neck: “I looked at him a few times last night. Although he is very handsome, it seems almost excessive. My face might not compare, isn’t that self-humiliation? Besides, didn’t you say such methods are not allowed?”
“You’re a woman, and he’s a man. What’s there to compare? Moreover, I’m only asking you to seduce him, whether you succeed or not is uncertain. But if you do, I would be very happy to support it!”
Lan Xiang shook her head: “No way! You must be joking with me!”
Leng Jiu was speechless: “You just said you agreed. Are you breaking your word?”
“But I really can’t do something like this!”
“Where did the determination to seduce Long Yi go?”
“That’s different, okay? One is a pervert, and the other is a monster. How can they compare?”
Leng Jiu laughed. Although the comparison was a bit amusing, it was quite fitting! “Anyway, I don’t care. You have to help with this. Whether it succeeds or not is not my concern. It’s settled. If you keep arguing, I’ll be angry!”
Lan Xiang pouted, feeling as if she was being bullied!
Leng Jiu, seeing her like this, thought of Mo Yina. If the two of them got together, they’d definitely be a perfect match!
Just then, Zi Yu lifted the beaded curtain and walked in: “Empress Dowager! n.o.ble Consort Hua has sent someone to invite Princess Lan Xiang to the Imperial Garden for a feast!”
“I’m not going!” Lan Xiang immediately shook her head: “Last night, that woman looked at me as if she wanted to skin me alive. I’m definitely not going!”
Leng Jiu shook her head and stood up: “Let’s go! With me accompanying you, it won’t diminish your status as a princess!”
Lan Xiang was puzzled: “Don’t you dislike that woman? Why are you still going?”
“You know how to endure humiliation and bear burdens; how can you not understand the thoughts of women?” Leng Jiu raised her hand, letting Zi Yu adjust her sleeve, and smiled slightly. “I haven’t visited the harem for a while. Hmm, let’s go see. It should be quite interesting!”
Lan Xiang was used to the scheming among women. Her earlier words were merely because it was Leng Jiu speaking. In fact, she was quite wary, but for some reason, she couldn’t bring herself to be cautious around the person in front of her. She put on her veil, returning to her princess demeanor. “In that case, I’ll accompany the Empress Dowager!”
Leng Jiu smiled lightly, took her hand, and the two of them headed towards the Imperial Garden together.
n.o.ble Consort Hua hosted the banquet, and all the concubines and n.o.ble ladies of the palace were present. Even the long-absent Li Fei made an appearance. Her belly was now over seven months along, swollen. Although she was somewhat bloated and less attractive now, that belly alone made many people envious!
Leng Jiu glanced around and suddenly asked Zi Yu, “I remember another n.o.ble lady was pregnant. Why don’t I see her?”
Zi Yu replied, “Three days ago, n.o.ble Lady Yang went to the lake to admire the chrysanthemums and accidentally fell in. Not only did she lose the child, but she also contracted a serious illness. The Emperor was enraged and sent only one imperial physician. We don’t know the situation now.”
“An accidental fall into the lake!” Lan Xiang sneered upon hearing this.
Leng Jiu’s lips curled slightly. “Have a good physician go over and take some restorative medicines. Make sure she is treated properly!”
Zi Yu nodded in understanding. “This servant understands!”
Lan Xiang’s eyes flickered slightly, and she smiled. “I thought you wouldn’t involve yourself in the palace struggles.”
Leng Jiu looked at the pavilion crowded with people, her gaze sweeping over the concubines, and finally settling on Hua Yuxuan. “If one faction dominates the harem, it becomes too dull! Let’s go over.”
“The Empress Dowager has arrived! Princess Lan Xiang has arrived!”
The concubines were surprised to see the Empress Dowager and quickly stood to pay their respects. “Welcome, Empress Dowager!”
Leng Jiu’s magnificent gown swept past everyone. She looked at Hua Yuxuan at the highest position, her lips curling into a slight smile. “I came without an invitation. n.o.ble Consort Hua wouldn’t be unwelcoming, would she?”
Hua Yuxuan forced a smile. “The Empress Dowager’s presence is my honor!” She stepped aside, giving up the central position that originally belonged to her.
Leng Jiu walked up and sat down. “No need for formalities!”
Once everyone was seated, Leng Jiu turned her attention to Li Fei, who was sitting with her protruding belly supported by palace maids. She appeared concerned. “I haven’t seen Li Fei for some time. Your belly is growing larger. You must be close to delivering, right?”
Li Fei, protecting her belly, smiled as she replied, “Replying to the Empress Dowager, I still have three months to go. It was quite troublesome earlier, but it has been somewhat better recently.”
Nearby, Zhao Yan’s eyes swept over Li Fei’s belly, filled with jealousy and a hint of gloom. She said with a forced smile, “A few days ago, n.o.ble Lady Yang accidentally fell and lost her dragon seed. Such a pity. Li Fei, you should be more careful!”
Li Fei gave her a cold glance and replied fearlessly, “Yes, it is a pity. The Emperor could have had another heir, but it was lost in the end. Consort Hui has been in the palace for many years and still hasn’t conceived. She should try harder!”
Zhao Yan’s expression stiffened, and her smile faded. “That’s not for you to remind me of. It’s better to take care of your own belly!”
Li Fei lightly caressed her belly, her expression full of pride. “Consort Hui has been serving the Emperor for a long time and still has no news. It would be good to have the imperial physician check it out, so as not to miss any illness!”
Zhao Yan’s face grew darker. The two high-ranking consorts were confronting each other sharply in front of everyone. The other concubines watched with wide eyes. In the end, Hua Yuxuan, with a displeased expression, intervened, “Today’s banquet is to welcome Princess Lan Xiang. Please don’t make a spectacle for her!”
Lan Xiang, sitting beside Leng Jiu, had her back straight and chin slightly raised, exuding the demeanor of a princess.
Hua Yuxuan then turned to Lan Xiang and smiled, “How did you rest last night, Princess?”
Lan Xiang nodded slightly. “Thank you for your concern, n.o.ble Consort. I am quite accustomed.”
“There are many beautiful sights in the capital. Since Princess Lan Xiang is here rarely, you should take the opportunity to see them!”
“Lan Xiang has heard about the beautiful scenes in the capital. The maple leaves in Nanshan are currently at their peak. In another month, the plum blossoms in Beishan will be in bloom. I plan to go see them then!”
Hua Yuxuan glanced at Leng Jiu and smiled. “That’s right! However, the Regent may not have much time to accompany the princess. My younger brother has some free time these days. I will have him take you around so that the princess’s visit will not be in vain!”
Leng Jiu raised an eyebrow. Hua Yi wanted her to matchmake Long Yue Li and Lan Xiang, but now she wanted to pair the princess with Hua Jin Zhi. How interesting!
Lan Xiang understood immediately that Hua Yuxuan was setting up a match. Even though she hadn’t met Hua Yuxuan’s brother, she wouldn’t accept the suggestion just because she disliked it. “Thank you for your good intentions, n.o.ble Consort. However, Lan Xiang has already promised the Empress Dowager to go see the plum blossoms in Beishan together. If my brother hasn’t returned to the country, he will accompany us!”
Leng Jiu glanced at Lan Xiang and saw her looking at herself. She smiled slightly. “You can stay until the plum blossoms bloom.”
Lan Xiang affirmed, “Since Lan Xiang rarely comes to Fengyu, I will definitely stay a little longer and accompany the Empress Dowager to see the plum blossoms. Moreover, my brother is also eager to see them!”
Leng Jiu didn’t believe Lan Ze would be very interested in the plum blossoms, but she didn’t say anything further!
Hua Yuxuan, feeling rejected, was somewhat embarra.s.sed. She suddenly said, “I almost forgot that the Empress Dowager and the Regent have a good relationship!”
Leng Jiu tilted her head and looked over. “If I remember correctly, when the Regent left here as a prince, n.o.ble Consort Hua wasn’t in the palace yet. How would you know of the Empress Dowager’s good relationship with the Regent? Could it be that someone in the harem is gossiping? It seems n.o.ble Consort Hua should clean up the harem properly and ensure that those who gossip know what should and shouldn’t be said, and remember their place!”
Hua Yuxuan was sharply rebuked by Leng Jiu’s words, as if receiving a hard slap to the face. She dared not speak disrespectfully, suppressing her anger and lowering her head. “The Empress Dowager is right!”
While the subtle jabs between Li Fei and Hui Fei surprised the concubines, the exchange between the Empress Dowager and Hua Yuxuan was even more satisfying. Hua Yuxuan, though appearing gracious on the surface, always maintained an air of superiority in front of them. They could tolerate it no longer, especially after the previous incident at the Imperial Garden and Weiyang Palace. Seeing Hua Yuxuan being put in her place by Leng Jiu, they were secretly delighted, despite Leng Jiu rarely appearing among the concubines or summoning them. They felt that Leng Jiu was preferable to Hua Yuxuan!
“His Majesty is here!” A sudden shout startled the concubines in the Imperial Garden. They quickly tidied their appearance and stood up, watching as the Emperor in bright yellow walked over, promptly bowing. “Greetings, Your Majesty!”
“Dismiss the formalities!”
Long Yi strode in, followed by Lan Ze in light blue. Their presence immediately brightened everyone’s eyes. Although they were all concubines of Long Yi, they couldn’t help but steal glances at Lan Ze, whose mere presence was captivating!
“The concubine pays her respects to His Majesty!”
“Princess Lan Xiang greets His Majesty!”
“Dispense with the formalities!” Long Yi waved his hand, his gaze sweeping over Hua Yuxuan, then lingering on Lanxiang for a while before finally settling back on Leng Jiu. “I didn’t expect the Empress Dowager to come!”
Leng Jiu, still seated, looked up at him in confusion and said, “I haven’t been out of the palace for some time. It’s rare for the Imperial Concubine to hold a banquet, so I came out to join the fun!”
Long Yi gave her a meaningful glance. “If the Empress Dowager is willing, it’s best to come out and become more familiar with the inner palace.”
Leng Jiu smiled lightly and lowered her eyes. “I don’t like the noise. It’s very pleasant to stay in the Weiyang Palace.”
Chairs were moved, and Long Yi and Lan Ze took their seats. Hua Yuxuan, seeing Long Yi’s expression improve a little, instructed people to set up the banquet. Though it was a feast, it wasn’t a full meal—only some wine, snacks, and fruits were served.
Leng Jiu had already achieved her purpose for coming out. With Long Yi and Hua Yuxuan present, she didn’t wish to stay longer. Less than half an hour into the banquet, she got up to leave, with Lanxiang naturally following. Only Lan Ze had to stay behind and accompany Long Yi.
Long Yi watched Leng Jiu’s retreating figure, then glanced at Lanxiang, lowering his head without speaking.
It was only after they had walked a good distance that Lanxiang spoke to Leng Jiu. “The Emperor looked at you strangely, and his words were odd. Lanxiang doesn’t quite understand.”
Leng Jiu continued to look ahead. “There’s no need for you to understand these matters. Just pretend you didn’t see anything.”
Seeing she didn’t want to discuss further, Lanxiang said no more and accompanied her back to the Weiyang Palace. Leng Jiu had a meal prepared, and she and Lanxiang dined together. To lighten the mood, Lanxiang talked about interesting events from the Snow Country, how Lan Ze had recaptured the princes, and how he had seized power. She spoke with a flushed face, full of pride as if she had won the battle herself.
When Lan Ze came to fetch Lanxiang, he saw the two engaged in lively conversation. Seeing Lanxiang’s relaxed expression, he knew she had been cheered up by Leng Jiu. He smiled gratefully at Leng Jiu. “I’ve seen the Empress Dowager.”
Leng Jiu glanced at him. “Have you had your meal?”
Lan Ze, having just returned from the garden, had not eaten. Although he should have politely declined, the words that came out were, “Not yet!”
Leng Jiu looked to the side. “Du Heng! Bring another portion of lunch.”
“Yes!” Du Heng went out to fulfill the order.
Lan Ze smiled slightly and sat down next to Leng Jiu. “Thank you for the feast, Empress Dowager.”
Lanxiang looked at Lan Ze and continued her lively talk. Leng Jiu occasionally made comments when her interest was piqued. Lan Ze sat quietly, giving Lanxiang a warning glance when she spoke about him, but Lanxiang ignored it and continued. Leng Jiu seemed quite interested. Lan Ze smiled wryly and began eating as the food was served.
Lan Ze had never imagined such a quiet interaction with Leng Jiu, and he was now sitting at the same table with her, feeling a mix of emotions he couldn’t quite express.
After lunch, Lan Ze left, taking the silent Lanxiang with him. Leng Jiu believed she would come to terms with things eventually.
After Lan Ze and Lanxiang left, Leng Jiu stood up. “Zi Yu! Accompany me to visit Concubine Yang. I haven’t been to the inner palace for a while; it’s time to show some concern.”
“Yes!” Zi Yu brought Leng Jiu’s cloak and the prepared supplements, following her.
Du Heng led Leng Jiu to Concubine Yang’s quarters. Upon seeing the desolate place, Leng Jiu coldly laughed. “Having lost favor, not even a visitor remains?”
Du Heng responded, “Replying to the Empress Dowager, this place was bustling when Concubine Yang was pregnant. Many concubines and beauties came to curry favor. However, since she lost the child three days ago and the Emperor showed no concern, hardly anyone has visited. Only two close acquaintances came once and then left.”
The nature of people—elevating and then abandoning others—is nothing new. Leng Jiu walked in and immediately detected a strong smell of blood and an unpleasant odor. Inside, she saw a young maid boiling medicine, with no other attendants present.
The maid didn’t recognize Leng Jiu but knew Du Heng. She looked at them with some surprise. “Du Gonggong?”
Du Heng glared at her. “Why haven’t you paid respects to the Empress Dowager yet?”
The maid was startled and quickly knelt. “This servant greets the Empress Dowager and begs for forgiveness!”
“Not knowing is not a crime. Get up!” Leng Jiu signaled her to stand and looked around the room. “Where is your mistress?”
“Replying to the Empress Dowager, the Concubine is lying down in bed, and this servant is preparing medicine for her.”
“Is there no one else here?”
The maid’s face showed some sadness. “Those elder sisters have all been taken away by other concubines these past few days. Only this servant and an elderly wet nurse remain in this courtyard.”
Leng Jiu sneered. “In the palace, people are a.s.signed by the Bureau of Internal Affairs. Since when do they get to choose where they want to go? Du Heng!”
“Yes, Your Highness.”
“Send for all the palace staff who went to other courtyards back here. Give each thirty lashes. Remember, drag them to the center of the Imperial Garden for punishment!”
“Understood!”
Du Heng left to carry out the order. The maid, in tears, knelt down. “Please, Empress Dowager, have mercy!”
Zi Yu stepped forward to support her. “Stop crying. The Empress Dowager dislikes tears. Quickly lead her to see your mistress.”
The maid hurriedly wiped her tears. “Empress Dowager, please follow me!”
As soon as Leng Jiu entered, her brow furrowed. Was the person lying there with a pale, zombie-like face the same Concubine Yang from that day?
“Where is the Imperial Physician?”
“Replying to the Empress Dowager, this servant has already sent for them, but they are busy and said they will come later.”
“Later?” Leng Jiu sneered. At that moment, the so-called ‘busy’ Imperial Physician, Shanshan, arrived, walking calmly and showing no signs of urgency. Seeing the people in the room, he was momentarily stunned, and upon recognizing Leng Jiu as the young and regal Empress Dowager, he hurriedly bowed. “I greet the Empress Dowager!”
Leng Jiu found a seat and raised an eyebrow with a light smile. “I heard that the Imperial Physicians are very busy?”
“Replying to Your Highness, I have been sorting through the year’s records and have been somewhat occupied.”
“Too busy even to see the Concubine?”
“That is indeed the case. Please, Your Highness, understand.”
“Ha!” Leng Jiu’s gaze suddenly turned sharp, carrying an undeniable pressure. “I’ve just learned today that the lives of the concubines and imperial consorts are less important than organizing records. In such a large Imperial Medical Bureau, not even one person is available for a consultation? Are all the doctors dead?”
Realizing the speaker was the current youngest Empress Dowager, the physician was immediately terrified and knelt. “Empress Dowager, forgive me! I will do my utmost to treat Concubine Yang!”
Leng Jiu casually examined her nails and said indifferently, “It’s been a while since I’ve killed someone. Should I give you a choice between being torn apart by horses or having your entire family executed?”
The physician, terrified, repeatedly bowed, his back damp with sweat. “Empress Dowager, forgive me! I was wrong!”
Leng Jiu stopped looking at him and stood up. “If you want to live, treat Concubine Yang properly. If she doesn’t recover, don’t just worry about yourself; even your entire family will face the consequences!”
“I will obey! I will definitely cure Concubine Yang!”
“I’ll be waiting. Don’t forget to inform your superiors about the crime of disrespecting the royal family!” With that, she swept her sleeve and left.
As she pa.s.sed the Imperial Garden, she heard the sounds of punishment and groans of pain. It was clear that Du Heng was carrying out the punishment. Leng Jiu didn’t even look and continued on her way.
Some concubines saw Leng Jiu but dared not plead for mercy. Last time, Hua Yuxuan was slapped in the face publicly for pleading on behalf of a maid. They knew that any attempt to plead now would likely result in being cast into cold storage immediately. So, they kept their distance, avoiding her as much as possible.
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This princess is not a scheming woman, she’s actually quite lovable! By the way, there will probably be more palace drama during this period. I wonder if everyone is interested in seeing it?