For nearly three months, Emperor Xuande had exclusively favored Consort Song, summoning her only to court. This sparked widespread discussion. Those in favor advocated for making Consort Song empress, arguing that the Song clan of Yuanning was weakened and unlikely to pose a threat, especially since, despite having a favored consort, she remained discreet. Those against argued that His Majesty's excessive favoritism was detrimental to the continuation of the imperial line. They pointed out that His Majesty was in his prime, with only two sons and three daughters, and should recruit daughters of powerful and influential families to enrich the harem. The Zhou faction, though severely weakened by the death of the emperor's brother-in-law, remained stubbornly persistent, vehemently accusing His Majesty of favoring Consort Song and repeatedly breaking with convention, predicting that if this continued, Consort Song would seize power and bring calamity to the court. Zhou, who had been watching with a cold eye for Wei Yu's fall from favor, could no longer sit still. In the past, when Sima and Xue were favored, she did not care much. Emperor Xuande had never summoned her for three consecutive days. But now, not only did the emperor stay overnight in Chengqian Palace, but he also summoned Song to stay overnight in Qianqing Palace. This was a privilege reserved for the empress. So, once Song Wei Yu became pregnant, the empress's position would be hers for the taking. Zhou could not tolerate anyone related to the Ji family ascending to the empress's throne. The empress must come from her Zhou family lineage.
"Mother, Mother, what are you thinking about?" Consort De interrupted her thoughts. Consort De, who had been plump in the past three months, had lost a lot of weight. Jealousy and panic made her unable to eat or sleep. "Mother, you have to make a decision. If this continues, what hope will Jinghao and I have when that man has a child?" Jinghao was the eldest son of the Emperor. "The Emperor has always disliked us, mother and son, and has been delaying in granting Jinghao a title and establishing his own residence. I don't care about anything else, but Jinghao's matter cannot be delayed any longer."
Madam Zhou glanced at Consort De with surprise, finding it rare that she could come up with a reasonable explanation. She nodded and said, "Let's get the matter of Jinghao establishing his own residence settled tonight. It's the Mid-Autumn Festival, and His Majesty has no reason to refuse." It was customary in the palace that the Empress or Empress Dowager could offer advice on several important holidays, and under normal circumstances, the Emperor would not reject it.
"Then she..." Consort De said, "Can't you think of a way?"
"Don't push your luck, or things will get even more difficult," Zhou sighed. She had certainly considered various methods, but she was wary of Emperor Xuande. In the past three months, every time she summoned Song, before she could even reprimand her, Emperor Xuande would arrive immediately, or someone from the Qianqing Palace would come to fetch her. She had also considered causing some kind of accident to Weiyu, but the people around her were all very capable and alert, especially Liu Chuang and the two maids around Song, who protected her perfectly. She dared not act rashly, fearing the consequences. She dared not break ties with the emperor. Her son was ruthless, and she had already learned that lesson once.
Hearing the tinkling of jade pendants not far away, Madam Zhou looked up and saw Consort Hua and Xue Ruyao walking hand in hand towards her. She put on a kind expression and said to Consort De, "Don't worry, someone will deal with her. There's a lot of resentment boiling over in this palace!"
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The bells and drums resounded, the silk and bamboo instruments played softly, and the pearls shone brightly in the main hall of the Daming Palace. The octagonal tassel palace lanterns shone brilliantly, illuminating the area as if it were daytime. Light songs and graceful dances filled the air, creating a scene of peace and prosperity. However, the concubines' eyes were not on the graceful dances or the delicacies before them. Instead, they stole glances at Emperor Xuande, who sat on the throne on the right side of the center. Some struck poses, while others sat upright, hoping that the emperor would see their most charming side, which was no less than that of the Noble Consort on the east side of the steps below.
Under the spotlight, Wei Yu glanced at Emperor Xuande with some curiosity. It was the first time she had seen his expression in public. His face was slightly hard, completely different from his usual relaxed demeanor. His gentleness had vanished, as if he were a different person. A chill ran down Wei Yu's spine, and she shivered. Looking around, she saw only gentle and respectful smiles on everyone's faces. She sighed inwardly, wondering how much turmoil lay beneath these seemingly calm facades. She must be the target of everyone's ire.
Xue Ruyao smiled, casually glancing at Wei Yu. She saw that Wei Yu was simply holding back her jet-black hair with a shimmering jade hairpin, wearing a jade-colored silk blouse with ink-splashed patterns, over which was a silver-red gossamer-feathered gauze, and a jade-colored long skirt embroidered with butterflies and flowers. Her eyes, so captivating, outshone the entire palace. It had to be admitted that this Imperial Concubine was becoming increasingly beautiful and outstanding, with an added touch of allure. These women, adorned with their flamboyant attire and jewels, were likely to be disappointed once again. Xue Ruyao looked at the throne. She was the fifth seat on the west side, quite far from the Emperor. He sipped his wine, not even glancing at her. She gritted her teeth inwardly. Two months ago, she had been promoted beyond her rank, dreaming tonight of sitting on the east side and standing shoulder to shoulder with Consort Zhou. Who would have thought that Song Wei Yu would suddenly appear, subjecting her to endless ridicule? Lin Yuzhen laughed at her, saying she had suddenly fallen out of favor, even worse off than those of them who were never truly favored to begin with. When she saw Weiyu that day, a glimmer of hope rekindled, but it turned out to be nothing but an empty dream. She waited anxiously, only to hear the sound of the eunuchs announcing the use of the spoon. She couldn't help but glare at them with resentment.
Emperor Xuande watched the song and dance with utter boredom. Apart from the moment he appeared with Weiyu, he hadn't given Weiyu another second glance, as if he had never shown her any favor. He only glanced at Gao Qing, who had her hand slightly lowered and outstretched. Emperor Xuande surveyed the concubines below the steps, a hint of mockery appearing on his lips.
Empress Zhou, seated on the left throne, was also observing Emperor Xuande's expression. She felt relieved, thinking he must be in a good mood. Just then, a dance ended, and Empress Zhou waved her hand, dismissing the female musicians. She composed herself and said, "Your Majesty, it has been half a year since the eldest prince Jinghao's coming-of-age ceremony. It is time to establish a residence and arrange a marriage for him. You are his age and have already become a father. Our royal family should expand its branches and have many descendants as soon as possible."
Emperor Xuande nodded. "What Mother says makes sense." Zhou was taken aback. She hadn't expected Emperor Xuande to be so easy to talk to. Consort De and Jinghao beside her both had happy expressions on their faces. Today was a family banquet, and everyone, regardless of rank, could bring their children to sit together. The second prince, Jingyuan, was also sitting next to his mother and Consort Chong. He was only eleven years old.
"However, establishing a government is a major event and cannot be done casually. Jinghao and Jingyuan will come to the Southern Study tomorrow. I will test their knowledge of the Four Books and Five Classics. I will also ask Jinghao for his proposals to see what progress he has made. I will consider it carefully." Emperor Xuande looked at his two sons, his face ashen.
The two men stood up respectfully and said "Yes." Jinghao was already frowning, as he had always been terrified of his father. Consort De glared at him and thought to herself, "He only knows how to hang out with the palace maids all day long, and he's such a good-for-nothing. He makes me lose face."
Seeing that Emperor Xuande casually brushed it off, Madam Zhou was secretly annoyed, but she smiled and said, "Jinghao is spoiled by me. The Emperor only has these two sons, so it's understandable that I favor him. As the saying goes, jade is not a gem if it is not carved. Let him get married and be assigned a job. With someone at home and outside to keep him in check, his temper will be tamed."
Emperor Xuande pondered for a moment, then said, “Mother, you can decide on the marriage. I’ll have the Imperial Observatory choose a date, and the betrothal and engagement should be conducted according to the rites for a prince. I’ll have the Ministry of Rites prepare a list for you to review.” The last few sentences were addressed to Gao Qing, who nodded in agreement.
Wei Yu listened to the conversation between the mother and son, a slight smile on her face. Emperor Xuande quickly glared at her, his expression turning displeased as he finished speaking. Seeing his impatience, Zhou Shi didn't dare to press the matter of bestowing a title upon Jing Hao. She then thought that it was better to settle down first, as it would be difficult for Emperor Xuande to delay any longer. It was only a matter of time, so there was no need to rush.
"Alright, let's do as the Emperor wishes. It's the daughter of the Wu family. She just turned thirteen this year and already has a reputation for virtue. Consort De and I are very satisfied." The Wu family is Zhou's maternal family.
"If the Empress Dowager is pleased, then let the Empress Dowager issue the imperial edict." Emperor Xuande was both angry and amused to see that Wei Yu seemed to be watching the show.
The music resumed, and the palace dancers performed the famous Scattering Flowers Dance, light and bright. The atmosphere in the hall relaxed, and whispers began to circulate. Zhou Shi glanced at Wei Yu and called out affectionately, "My son." Emperor Xuande knew that calling her "my son" meant they had something to say privately. Several concubines on the steps pricked up their ears, but only Wei Yu appreciated this rare, exquisite, and high-level dance.
"It's fine that you favor the Imperial Concubine, but there are other concubines in the harem. You are the emperor of the country and also their husband. Don't neglect them too much."
"Oh," Emperor Xuande glanced down, and everyone awkwardly avoided his eyes. "Has anyone complained to the Empress Dowager?"
"No, no, they were all carefully selected, and only those with outstanding virtue and appearance entered the palace. They have read 'Instructions for Women' and know that they should not have a possessive or jealous heart. It's just that Mother Empress has been through it all and knows their suffering. Besides, the Consort has been in the palace for three months and there has been no news yet, which is detrimental to the Emperor's offspring. Those upright officials in the court will use the Emperor's virtue as a pretext to criticize him." Madam Zhou spoke slowly and deliberately, with the expression of a loving mother.
Emperor Xuande frowned: "Does Mother mean that I have lost my virtue?" Lady Zhou hurriedly said, "My son, please don't misunderstand, but excessive favoritism is ultimately not a blessing for the harem. It's a fact that you are in your prime and your offspring are few." Emperor Xuande coldly said, "The mother of a prince must be intelligent and virtuous; otherwise, it's better to have none than a bad one." Lady Zhou paused, knowing he was referring to Jinghao and Consort De's foolishness, and pretended not to hear. Thinking it over, she realized the opportunity was rare, "Speaking of offspring, Mother is going to be nosy again. According to the rules of past dynasties..." "Your Majesty, it's time to establish an heir. Establishing the foundation of the nation is crucial, as the people look up to you. Your Majesty's reign will last for generations; this is a momentous matter. I wonder if Your Majesty has any plans?" Emperor Xuande's sharp gaze fixed on Lady Zhou. Lady Zhou hurriedly replied, "Oh, Mother is just concerned. It's nothing serious, just a private conversation with Your Majesty." Emperor Xuande's lips curled slightly: "I see. So Mother is worried about my long life and is concerned for me." Lady Zhou gave a dry laugh, about to offer a few words of explanation, when suddenly a commotion arose below the steps.
The dance and music stopped abruptly. Zi Yi helped Wei Yu up. Wei Yu's brows were furrowed, one hand pressed against her stomach, cold sweat beaded on her forehead, and her expression was strange, seemingly both shy and in pain. Emperor Xuande had already stepped down from his throne and took Wei Yu from Zi Yi's arms. "What's wrong, my beloved concubine?" He took Wei Yu's pulse and frowned. "Gao Qing, summon the imperial physician to Qianqing Palace."
The concubines, their faces stinging with envy and jealousy, wished they were the ones suffering. Zhou, stunned, was overwhelmed by the Xuande Emperor's overflowing affection. "Mother," the Xuande Emperor called her. She jolted, "What?" "Please, Mother, continue enjoying the moon. Don't let my absence spoil your enjoyment."
The concubines respectfully saw Emperor Xuande off as he carried the Imperial Concubine onto the magnificent dragon palanquin, which was flanked by a curved nine-dragon canopy and adorned with dragon banners and phoenix fans. They all felt uneasy, and when they suddenly remembered the spot where the Imperial Concubine had been holding onto, a sense of foreboding arose in everyone, and they couldn't help but look at each other in bewilderment.
In the still of the night, the lamplight in the Pear Fragrance Pavilion, a side hall of Yonghe Palace, was dim. Xue Ruyao sat on a carved rosewood armchair like an old monk in meditation. After a long while, the carved door creaked open, which was particularly clear in the night. The bright moonlight shone in and shone on Xue Ruyao's pale face with a somewhat sinister look.
Her trusted maidservant hurriedly entered and whispered a few words to her. Xue Ruyao breathed a sigh of relief and waved for the maidservant to leave.
As night deepened, Xue Ruyao stood by the window, gazing at the main hall with its flying eaves and bracket sets.
She was filled with resentment. When she finally entered the palace, she was showered with the Emperor's favor. Back then, she smiled humbly, inwardly looking down on everyone in the harem, believing that no one could rival her in terms of looks, family background, or intelligence. But who knew that this favor would be so fleeting? For three months, the tolling of the imperial bells and drums had been slow, and she had long, sleepless nights. Every day, she heard the Emperor staying overnight in Chengqian Palace and summoning the Imperial Concubine to spend the night in Qianqing Palace. Her heart was being gnawed at. Every morning, she would look in the mirror and see her haggard face. She would go to Xingqing Palace to pay her respects, carefully dressing up, hoping to see the Emperor. But she was repeatedly mocked by Lin Yuzhen, the Empress Dowager's niece. She dared not retaliate.
She remembered the sudden decree appointing her as Consort De, and the sweltering day under the Chengqian Gate when she stood with the other concubines, waiting to pay her respects. She endured the gloating glances of the crowd, only to be dismissed with a single imperial edict saying, "Consort De is tired." Tonight, she had to leave halfway through her meal because Consort De was menstruating and suffering from menstrual cramps. It was pitiful that they had been busy all day, dressed up more beautifully than flowers, only to watch helplessly as the Emperor carried Consort De away in his imperial carriage. Who had ever ridden in an imperial carriage before? Her heart was boiling and twisting violently. She could not wait any longer. She could not rely on the Empress Dowager. From what she had heard, the Emperor and the Empress Dowager were, as rumored, almost like oil and water. Not only could she not rely on the Empress Dowager, but she also had to keep her distance from Xingqing Palace. Wasn't the Emperor's dislike of Consort De simply because she was the Empress Dowager's nephew? She had originally hoped that the foolish and belligerent Consort De would rush in first, so she could watch from the sidelines. Unfortunately, this time Consort De remained calm.
She was unwilling to accept her fate, knowing she would spend the rest of her life in the desolate palace, counting beans under the lamp every night—a chilling thought. She went to her dressing table and took out a beautifully embroidered sachet. Inside was Ice Soul, given to her by her father and brothers the night before she entered the palace. They repeatedly warned her not to break the contents of the sachet carelessly. Ice Soul had a faint fragrance, and once broken, it would become addictive. Over time, it could turn a strong, vigorous man into a skeletal figure. If ingested, it would be an incurable poison. Her father and brothers had specially obtained it from a secret cult in Zhu Zi at great expense. Because its effects were only temporary, it should never be used unless absolutely necessary. She understood her father and brothers' intentions. The Xue family's wealth and glory rested on her shoulders, and she planned to use it on the lustful Jinghao. Although Jinghao was not favored by the Emperor, he was the eldest son, and his mother was Consort De. If the Emperor had no other sons, he could still be made Crown Prince. With Jinghao gone, the Emperor would surely have an heir, and someone as favored as her would be the birth mother of a prince.
Since Song Weiyu had blocked her path to a bright future, and the Emperor had repeatedly summoned imperial physicians, it was presumably to help Song Weiyu conceive a royal heir as soon as possible. Soon it would be the Double Ninth Festival, when dogwood would be planted throughout the palace and concubines would be required to present sachets. Her opportunity would soon arrive. Xue Ruyao's face was contorted with rage. Even if it was a desperate measure, she would give it a try. A determined light shone in her eyes. Yue Niang'er cowered and hid in a dark cloud.
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The air was damp and sultry in the morning. A light rain had fallen the night before, and raindrops still occasionally fell from the dragon mouths on the eaves of the palace. Emperor Xuande had something on his mind, so he went to the East Warm Pavilion early to read the memorials. Gao Qing saw that it was almost time and, seeing that Emperor Xuande did not intend to get up, said, "Your Majesty, it is almost time for the court session."
"Oh, I won't go today. Tell them to leave the memorial behind and ask the Three Departments to consider it first. Call her again this afternoon." Emperor Xuande put down the memorial. "Also, tell the Palace Attendant of Chengqian Palace that she must make sure the Consort takes her medicine on time every day." Last night, he took Weiyu's pulse, which was still weak. The physician also said that the Consort's poor health was due to congenital deficiency and blood deficiency. After nearly two months of treatment, Weiyu's health had not improved much. Emperor Xuande suspected that he might have been neglecting her.
Gao Qing hesitated. The palace walls are the most leaky. If this gets out, people will criticize it harshly. They won't dare to attack the emperor directly, but will instead point the finger at the Consort, accusing her of bewitching the emperor and harming the country and its people.
"Please go to court." A clear, slightly soft voice rang out, and Gao Qing breathed a sigh of relief. The beaded curtain was lifted, and Wei Yu, dressed in an autumn-colored cloak, emerged gracefully, accompanied by Zi Yi and Cheng Yi. Gone was yesterday's pallor; her lips and face had a thin blush. Clearly, she had overheard the conversation between the emperor and his ministers. She had indeed intentionally reduced her herbal medicine; she dared not become pregnant, nor could she.
Emperor Xuande stood up, stepped forward, and embraced her slender shoulders, scoldingly asking, "Why didn't you sleep a little longer?"
Wei Yu felt somewhat uneasy. "The court officials are all waiting. Your Majesty cannot treat them casually. I should go back." She was still not used to Emperor Xuande's intimacy, and even more uncomfortable addressing him as "Your Majesty" or "Your Majesty's concubine." It reminded her that she was now someone else's concubine, which made her feel very awkward.
Wei Yu was usually quiet, and Emperor Xuande especially loved listening to her sweet, soft voice. It was rare for her to speak up today, so Emperor Xuande helped her sit on a soft rosewood couch beside him. "It's just a routine court assembly, to see the officials in the capital. There's nothing important. Even if there were something, they wouldn't say it at the court assembly; they would submit their memorials by hand." He explained carefully, finding it quite interesting for the first time.
“You’re mistaken.” Wei Yu put on a stern face, with a hint of provocation, but Emperor Xuande smiled strangely. “My dear consort, do you have some brilliant idea?”
"I dare not. I think most of my ministers are only able to catch a glimpse of you sitting high on the throne today. Next time they will have to wait another month. I imagine they will come to you with trepidation and respect, shouting 'Long live the Emperor!' and working hard to serve you and share your burdens. Yet you treat them as if they are dispensable. Is that fair and reasonable?"
Emperor Xuande initially smiled gently, but his expression gradually turned cold. He scrutinized Wei Yu with an unprecedented sternness. Gao Qing inwardly groaned, "My dear aunt, why is she making such a dramatic entrance today? I know the Emperor hates women interfering in politics the most." Thinking he was about to change his attitude, her heart leaped into her throat. Had she misjudged him all along? Was the Consort about to be punished?
Wei Yu stood up. "If I have been disrespectful, please punish me," she said earnestly, perhaps she could use her indifference to suppress her restless heart.
Emperor Xuande suddenly laughed heartily, and embraced her warmly without saying a word, "How fortunate I am to have such a beautiful woman by my side." Such a lovely person, he released her and suppressed his smile, "I should reflect on myself. The officials and people of the world regard me as their sovereign and father, and I should regard them as my own people. I must not be negligent."
A hint of admiration crossed Wei Yu's mind. After living with him for three months, Wei Yu had to admit that Emperor Xuande was indeed a diligent and benevolent emperor. He was autocratic but not unreasonable, he took advice very seriously, he was decisive but not reckless, and he considered all opinions carefully. Every month, he frequently issued edicts to be close to the people and to instruct and admonish officials in various places to support agriculture and commerce, creating a prosperous and wealthy era. How could she not be moved by such an excellent man? If it weren't for her concerns, she might have already gone for it without hesitation. Thinking of this, Wei Yu's heart felt heavy.
Sitting in the imperial carriage, Wei Yu regretted her earlier outburst. She had suggested that the ministers say she had bewitched the emperor, causing him to neglect his morning court sessions. She feared this would create unrest and force Emperor Xuande to distance himself from her. She reasoned that emperors always find new favorites and might forget her altogether. But the idea seemed far-fetched; he was so domineering, how could anyone else control him? Was she perhaps already hoping for a long-lasting relationship? Wei Yu was startled and couldn't help but smile bitterly. Her response to this affection was contradictory. Subconsciously, she didn't want Emperor Xuande's wisdom to be burdened by her; yet, there was also a hint of provocation. During her time in the palace, Emperor Xuande was most averse to women interfering in politics. She had deliberately said those things to test his limits, but the result was the opposite; she felt even more burdened and conflicted.