Chapter 77 Returning to Old Ground

轉碼失敗！請您使用右上換源切換源站閱讀或者直接前往源網站進行閱讀！Volume 1: Smiling at the Prosperous World Chapter 77: Revisiting Old Grounds

No one expected Rong Jing to dismiss them from school so early. This was unprecedented since they started attending classes in the Imperial Study Hall. Everyone looked around, bewildered, and finally turned their gaze towards Crown Prince Ye Tianqing.

Ye Tianqing did not expect Rong Jing to dismiss class this early either. He looked up at the sky, only to see Yun Qianyue chasing after Rong Jing's figure as she ran out of the room. His expression immediately darkened.

"Sister Moon, wait for me!" Ye Tianyu was reading "The Pillow of Mandarins and Egrets" just when he reached an exciting part, only to be suddenly interrupted by Yun Qianyue snatching it away from him. He instantly got up and ran after her.

Ye Tianqing also stood up, about to leave, but Qin Yucing, who was sitting beside him, softly called out his name, "Crown Prince!"

Ye Tianqing's steps paused as he turned around to look at Yucing.

Yucing’s small face blanched; her beautiful eyes looked panicked and helpless as she stared at Ye Tianqing. The impact of Rong Jing's words was too great for her, and she couldn't think of any way to reverse the situation. She could foresee that this statement would be known throughout the land before tomorrow, which left her future uncertain.

Ye Tianqing saw Yucing in a fragile state for the first time; it made him feel uneasy. He briefly glanced at her with complex emotions, turned around, and stepped out of the room.

The pallor on Yucing's face dimmed further as she realized that even if Crown Prince Ye Tianqing intervened, he might not be able to reverse Rong Jing’s words.

"Miss Qin, I am heading back to my palace. Do you want a ride" As Ye Tianqing reached the door, he suddenly spoke to Qin Yucing.

Qin Yucing was startled; although Crown Prince Palace and Chancellor's Mansion were neighbors, Ye Tianqing had never casually said such words before. Her already pale face turned even whiter as her body trembled slightly again after having just stopped trembling.

"I have some state affairs to discuss with the chancellor. I will be passing by Chancellor's Mansion on my way," Ye Tianqing looked back at Yucing, seeing that she was still standing there, he explained.

Yucing nodded and followed after Ye Tianqing as they left the Imperial Study Hall one after another.

Rong Linglan watched Ye Tianqing leaving with Yucing; a cold smile curled at her lips as she gave a disdainful snort. Since that day when she had fought with Leng Shuli in Crown Prince Palace while Ye Tianqing looked on indifferently, she realized that this man was indeed heartless and merciless. At the same time, she also understood that such a man was not worth loving. Earlier, she mocked Yun Qianyue for being foolish for rejecting Night Rain傾's love because of his aloofness as Crown Prince, but now she thought it very wise. From then on, she would no longer entertain thoughts of marrying into the Crown Prince Palace.

The people who could enter the Imperial Study Hall were either princes or princesses, or children of influential ministers. They grew up in the center of power and were extremely sensitive to certain matters; upon hearing Rong Linglan’s cold laughter, they all looked at her.

Rong Linglan withdrew her gaze from them and packed up her books as she walked out.

"Second Miss Rong, wait!" The Seventh Princess called after Rong Linglan.

“What is it, Seventh Princess” Rong Linglan stopped, looking at the Seventh Princess. She naturally knew that the Seventh Princess and several other princesses in the palace all secretly liked her eldest brother, Lord Shizhi.

"I am bored staying in the palace. It's so early to dismiss class today. How about you invite me to your place What do you think" The Seventh Princess hesitated for a moment before making a request, blushing slightly after saying this.

Rong Linglan knew what she was thinking and nodded, "If the Seventh Princess is bored in the palace, then come visit my house. It's quite amusing there."

The Seventh Princess was delighted; she quickly walked to Rong Linglan’s side. The two of them left the Imperial Study Hall together.

After the important figures successively exited the Imperial Study Hall, those remaining did not immediately leave but gathered and started discussing the recent events: from Yun Qianyue's request for a royal marriage after winning the martial arts exam yesterday to her later alleged mistreatment of Lord Shizhi, then today’s near fall and Rong Jing's support of her in front of everyone, followed by Cold Shaoruo's broken hand, Night Qingran's protection of Yun Qianyue, and finally Rong Jing’s statement that "such a great talent is fit to be the mother of the nation"... All these events became topics for discussion. Everyone was extremely excited.

The capital city of Heavenly Saint had not been this lively in a long time; it seemed like each day in the past month was livelier than the last!

Outside the Imperial Study Hall, eunuchs serving there closely monitored every move inside and quickly informed their masters of important events. Particularly, Rong Jing's words to Qin Yucing about "such a great talent is fit to be the mother of the nation" spread throughout the entire palace within the time it took for a cup of tea to cool down. Not even half an hour later, all major officials and common people in the capital city knew about it. The speed at which news traveled was comparable to that of telegrams in the 21st century.

The protagonist who caused this commotion, Rong Jing, was leisurely strolling towards the palace gate at a slow pace as usual.

He walked calmly and gracefully. The sunlight shone on his moon-white brocade robe like a white cloud descending from the sky. His expression was indifferent; it seemed that the words that would stir up a commotion throughout the land were just casual feathers he tossed away, so light they left no trace in his heart.

Yun Qianyue followed behind Rong Jing with her feet shuffling, constantly pouting as she watched him walk calmly ahead. After seven or eight times of pouting and seeing that the man did not even turn around to look at her, she couldn't help but quicken her steps to catch up to him and open her mouth mysteriously, "Hey, you're just going to push such a talented and beautiful woman into another’s arms Can you really be so heartless Don’t you know that little beauty has been pining for you all this time

Rong Jing didn't even glance at Yun Qianyue, as if he hadn't heard her.

Yun Qianyue continued to ask with interest, "With just one sentence of yours, you’ve pushed her into hell! If you don’t like someone, then simply say so. Why are you being so heartless That little beauty is probably crying bitterly now!

Rong Jing acted as if he hadn't heard and continued to walk slowly forward without even glancing at her.

Seeing Rong Jing's expression, Yun Qianyue immediately felt indignant. She angrily said, "Heartless and unfilial!"

Rong Jing stopped walking for a moment, turned his head to look at Yun Qianyue. His clear eyes revealed a tinge of darkness as he slightly raised an eyebrow with a cold voice, "The position of the Empress Dowager is not something everyone can do. Especially someone like you who’s foolish and lazy. If Qin Yuqing has talent but doesn't use it, isn’t that a waste I’m helping her. Why should she cry She should be happy."

“She would be happy” Yun Qianyue snorted. That woman clearly had her heart tied to this heartless man!

"I saw that she gets along better with Ye Tianqin, so it's possible," Rong Jing continued walking and said casually: "I didn't know you and Miss Qin were such good friends that you would stand up for her."

So he saw how well Qin Yuqing got on with Ye Tianqin! Does this mean he witnessed that scene Yun Qianyue blinked her eyes, then blinked again. Her lips involuntarily curled into a smile and then fell back down as she pursed them, continuing to walk forward with slightly quicker steps, ignoring his mockery and moving closer to him. She whispered mysteriously: "Now that you've made this statement, the old emperor won't let her off lightly. No one else would dare marry her, so she can only marry into the royal family. Even if she loves you, she definitely cannot enter your residence. Unless you become Emperor, then you could marry her. If it were like that…”

"No nonsense here! This is the imperial palace!" Rong Jing glanced at Yun Qianyue and warned her.

Yun Qianyue’s voice abruptly stopped as she heard footsteps chasing after her from behind. She immediately turned around to see that it was Ye Tianyu, and she irritably said, "Why are you running Is a ghost chasing you in the middle of the day"

Ye Tianyu didn’t expect to be scolded by Yun Qianyue when he caught up with her. He stopped walking and looked at her, utterly confused, “Sister Moon, I don't remember ever provoking you.”

Yun Qianyue huffed and said in an unreasonable tone, "You have provoked me! Stay away from me!”

Ye Tianyu was even more puzzled as to how this lady had provoked him. He thought carefully but couldn’t find any reason. Looking at Rong Jing, who continued walking ahead without turning his head, Ye Tianyu frowned and said, “Sister Moon, where did I offend you You have to tell me! I really don't know what I've done wrong.”

“You…you said I was lying. That made me unhappy. Do you want to read this book Forget it!” Yun Qianyue couldn’t find an excuse at the moment, but suddenly remembered Ye Tianyu’s words about her lying. She immediately used them and shook the topmost copy of "The Mandarin Ducks Pillow" in her basket to show him before walking forward again.

Ye Tianyu was now speechless with laughter and walked up to Yun Qianyue, saying, “Sister Moon, you're too petty!”

"Don't follow me, I’m still angry!" Yun Qianyue started shooing him away. At this point, she seemed like a capricious lady.

"Then show me that book and I won’t follow you anymore!" Ye Tianyu took the opportunity to demand. He added, "I promise never to say you’re lying again! How does that sound"

"Will you come to class tomorrow" Yun Qianyue stopped walking and asked Ye Tianyu.

“Yes!” Ye Tianyu nodded.

"Okay, then this basket is your responsibility from now on," Yun Qianyue immediately handed the flower basket she had been carrying over to Ye Tianyu. She found it tiresome to carry it daily, so why not let someone else help her What’s there not to like

Ye Tianyu was initially reluctant but upon seeing "The Mandarin Ducks Pillow" inside, he immediately agreed happily, "Okay! I promise to keep it safe for you." With that, fearing Yun Qianyue would change her mind, he took the basket and walked away quickly.

Yun Qianyue pursed her lips. She thought this guy must have been hanging out with Ye Qingran since childhood and picked up his lazy habits. Although he was more serious than Ye Qingran, somewhat shady and full of mischief, he wasn't entirely unpleasant to look at, at least not as much as Ye Tianqin. Just as she had pursed her lips, unexpectedly her arm felt heavier; looking down, she saw Rong Jing’s book box lying on her arm. She turned pale, looked up at Rong Jing and said, "Don’t you have hands"

Rong Jing glanced at her, “Since you ride in my carriage every day, shouldn't you offer to help with these small things”

Yun Qianyue huffed, then walked forward holding Rong Jing’s book box. She had forgotten that after dealing with one burden another was waiting for her. And this new burden wouldn’t go away—no one would want to get close to him. She felt rather indignant.

The two of them continued walking without speaking.

When they turned the corner, Yun Qianyue saw a nanny standing not far ahead. This nanny she recognized; it was Lady Sun, who served the Empress Dowager. On that day when Ye Tianyu had pulled her to the Scenic Garden, it was this Lady Sun who had come halfway to greet them. Seeing Lady Sun standing there looking in their direction as if waiting for a long time, Yun Qianyue’s eyes narrowed slightly.

Rong Jing stopped walking and said casually without turning around to Yun Qianyue, "Lady Sun is probably here by the Emperor's order to invite you. I'll wait for you at the palace gate."

Yun Qianyue frowned and firmly said, "No way! Just because she invited me, does that mean I have to run over" She didn't forget her so-called aunt's intention to lock her up in the Ministry of Punishment's prison. The initial shock when she first arrived would stay with her for life.

"You might not be able to avoid going. Refusing the Empress Dowager’s edict will give others an excuse against you." Rong Jing said.

"I'm scared of excuses" Yun Qianyue snorted, clearly unconvinced.

"Perhaps there could be benefits if you go," Rong Jing whispered so only the two of them could hear it.

“Hm” Yun Qianyue’s eyes lit up. “What kind of benefits”

“How would you know if you don’t go!” Rong Jing glanced at her.

If there were any benefits, Yun Qianyue would naturally attend. Seeing that Rong Jing ignored her again, she thought it over carefully but drew a blank and so asked him pointedly, "Hey, explain yourself clearly or else I won't go."

"If you don’t go then you’ll miss out on the benefits. What does that have to do with me" Rong Jing threw back at her.

Yun Qianyue rolled her eyes and thought back since last month when she saw her aunt once, she hadn't seen her again. She would like to probe into the woman's intentions for her as well as find out what the Empress Dowager’s attitude towards her was. Another point was that if she could see Princess Qingwan during this opportunity then it would be best. The incident where someone in Lingtai Temple had harmed her and made her fall in love with Wei Jie was given to the Chief Justice for a thorough investigation by the Emperor, but Yun Qianyue didn't have any hope of him solving anything since cases like these were usually left unsolved. This she knew from ten years ago when Wen Bohou Manor's entire family died and still remained a mystery.

With two intentions in mind, Yun Qianyue decided to visit the palace anyway. She waved at Rong Jing and said, "Then you go back first! I don't need your company. I'll return on my own."

"I’ll wait for you!" Rong Jing replied as he continued walking forward.

Yun Qianyue rolled her eyes. If he wanted to wait then fine, she wouldn’t argue with him and continued strolling forward as if nothing happened.

"Slave girl greets Lord Shi and Miss Yun! May Lord Shi have a safe return!" Lady Sun saw the two approaching and immediately greeted them respectfully.

Rong Jing remained silent.

Yun Qianyue exclaimed, "Eh Haven't I seen you for ages What are you doing here" She seemed to have just noticed her.

"Miss Yun, the Empress Dowager dispatched this slave girl to wait for Miss Yun after class. The Empress Dowager says she hasn’t seen Miss Yun in days and misses you terribly. Thus, she sent me to fetch you," Lady Sun immediately answered respectfully.

“But I still have to go home to manage the household! Yesterday a relative of my family moved into Cloud Manor. My aunt must know about it too, right I really don’t have time,” Yun Qianyue said in a mock polite way: "I actually miss Auntie but perhaps another day After I finish sorting out matters at home, I’ll come to see her."

"Miss Yun, the Empress Dowager knows that Miss Yun has been busy these days studying and handling affairs of Cloud Manor. However, it won’t take up too much time since you’re so close by. The Empresses are admiring flowers in the rear garden," Lady Sun said.

Yun Qianyue hesitated upon hearing that.

"Miss Yun, the Empress Dowager says this is a must visit. In a few days it will be Concubine Yun’s death anniversary and she personally made some gifts for her. She wants you to take them back and burn them at Concubine Yun’s grave. The Empress Dowager prepares something every year for Concubine Yun, don’t you know this" Lady Sun asked.

“Is that so Then okay!” Yun Qianyue thought about how Concubine Yun was her mother and nodded in agreement.

"Slave girl will lead the way!" Lady Sun quickly led the path ahead.

Yun Qianyue saw Rong Jing had already walked towards the palace gate far away. She picked up the book box in her hand, wondering why she forgot to give him this book box just now! Oh well, she would take it with her. After a few steps, she asked casually: "How many days until my mother’s anniversary I've been tortured these past days and have forgotten."

"Concubine Yun's death anniversary is on the first day of the seventh month every year, only five more days left. Miss Yun has been too busy and exhausted recently; Concubine Yun won’t blame you," Lady Sun said soothingly.

Yun Qianyue chuckled: "Yes, my mom must be worried about me being tortured right now in heaven! Why would she blame me"

"The Emperor and the Old King are also thinking of your best interests. The Empress Dowager has advised you to study many times before but unfortunately you didn’t like it. She sighed countless times when she was behind your back, however, now that you’re studying diligently, she’s so happy," Lady Sun said.

“Auntie is very thoughtful!” Yun Qianyue sighed sarcastically.

Madam Sun's steps faltered, and after a moment of silence, she lowered her voice and said, "Miss Shanyue, Empress Dowager has actually been suffering greatly in the palace all these years. She never speaks about it though; I've served by her side for so long that I understand this somewhat. Your Excellency..."

"Madam Sun, are you taking Moonie to Mother" Night Tianqing's voice suddenly came from behind.

Madam Sun was startled and quickly stopped talking, turned around to give a bow to Night Tianqing, and respectfully replied, "Old servant greets Prince Tai Zi! To answer Your Highness, the Empress Dowager hasn't seen Miss Shanyue in court for these days and has been missing her greatly. She sent me here to invite Miss Shanyue over."

Cloud Qianyue also turned around at this moment; she saw Night Tianqing and Jade Ning coming from behind. Night Tianqing walked ahead, while Jade Ning kept her head low as she followed him closely. Even though there was a distance between them, it didn't hinder their conversation. She gave a cold snort—this Night Tianqing was truly swift in his actions; right after Rong Jing praised Qin Yuning's talents and suitability for being the empress, did he immediately think of bringing her into his fold

"Moonie hasn't visited Mother Empress in over a month! Before, Moonie would visit her every three to five days." Night Tianqing nodded with his gaze falling on Cloud Qianyue. He saw her elegant and graceful figure, and the feeling he had before returned; his eyes softened as he walked towards her while saying gently, "If that's so, you should hurry over! Don't let Mother Empress wait anxiously. She has always cared for you very much; don't be at odds with her because of last time!"

Cloud Qianyue didn't even have the mood to vomit anymore and was too lazy to talk to this person, turning around and walking forward.

"Moonie!" Qin Yuning called out.

The steps of Cloud Qianyue paused; she turned slowly, looking at Qin Yuning who had her complexion back to normal but with a pair of eyes that seemed different from usual. She smiled and asked, "What do you want, Little Sister Qin"

Qin Yuning looked at Cloud Qianyue with a complex expression; there was deep resentment hidden within.

Cloud Qianyue had met countless people in her life, including one who scored full marks for psychology. She could clearly see the hatred in Qin Yuning's eyes, which came from her unrequited love for Rong Jing and being pushed away by the man she longed for; it turned into resentment towards Cloud Qianyue. This amused her a bit—people often say women should not make life difficult for other women, but some just enjoy playing such tricks. She didn't mind it and pretended to be oblivious to Qin Yuning's hatred, smiling at her while waiting for her to speak.

"I just feel that Prince Rong treats you very well indeed; I envy your ability to gain his favor. So I'm puzzled how did you win the heart of Prince Rong Do you mind telling me a little about it" Qin Yuning looked at Cloud Qianyue, not knowing why she suddenly called out when seeing her leaving—she felt hatred and anger bubbling up inside her that she needed to release somehow. Therefore, this was the first time she spoke without hesitation or restraint.

Cloud Qianyue didn't expect Qin Yuning to become bold so quickly; she noticed Night Tianqing's gaze on her as well while Madam Sun immediately lowered her head and stepped back. Cloud Qianyue's eyes flashed with a smile, "He treats me specially Little Sister Qin, you're joking! He treats you specially instead! I'm just like a pile of manure in his sight; how could he praise someone like you Didn't you hear him say that you are talented and fit to be an empress while saying I'm born foolish and wasteful with no hope of catching up with your talents"

Qin Yuning's heart was stabbed again by those words "Little Sister Qin is talented, fit to be an Empress." She looked at Cloud Qianyue's bright smile, feeling more hatred and anger; while others might not know, she believed that Rong Jing would protect her but he pushed her away because of this.

Cloud Qianyue blinked her eyes, smiling at Qin Yuning, then teased further, "Little Sister Qin, when you become the Empress one day, remember our relationship and take care of me more. Especially those good things—gold, jewels, jade, emeralds—think about sending a portion to me! After marrying that poor boy Rong Feng, I'll definitely be less affluent than you; I’ll need your help!"

Night Tianqing's face changed unexpectedly as he hadn't expected Cloud Qianyue still wanted to marry Rong Feng.

Qin Yuning’s pale complexion turned white again upon hearing "Little Sister Qin is talented and fit to be an Empress." She only heard the first part, not paying attention to what followed.

Seeming oblivious to their expressions, Cloud Qianyue continued smiling, saying, "But you and Prince Tai Zi suit each other well! I hope Emperor Uncle will give his blessing for your wedding soon so that I can fetch a cup of wedding wine!"

Qin Yuning's face couldn't be described as pale anymore; she trembled slightly and took a step back.

"Oh, Little Sister Qin, are you ill You should rest quickly! Although it’s summer now, yesterday's heavy rain made many people sick. Night Qingran, the Southern Liang Rui Prince, the grand scholar of the imperial study hall, and even Rong Jing had to struggle today to attend class—didn't he have to leave first because he couldn’t take it anymore If you get sick too, everyone will fall ill together; I'll need to visit each household. But I’m busy recently so please hurry and invite a doctor!" Cloud Qianyue looked worried at Qin Yuning, her face showing genuine care while inwardly snorting coldly—wouldn’t anyone be better at pretending As for being ruthless, she was an expert; if this little beauty dared to provoke her, she would taste her strength.

"Thank you, Moonie!" Qin Yuning took a deep breath and didn't faint. She told herself to calm down quickly, which worked as she processed Cloud Qianyue's words clearly in her mind, saying with surprise, "You want to marry Rong Feng"

“Yes, it’s Rong Feng. Not Rong Jing; Little Sister Qin heard me correctly.” Cloud Qianyue thought this woman was indeed formidable—she underestimated her before but didn't wish to engage further. “If you're fine, I should go see my aunt now who's waiting for me!”

Qin Yuning suddenly recalled hearing that Cloud Qianyue asked Emperor for permission to marry Rong Feng the day before in the martial examination; her hatred was momentarily halted by this thought—since Cloud Qianyue wanted to marry Rong Feng, she truly didn't have any feelings left for Prince Rong. Even if he protected her, there wouldn’t be a result anyway. Her face improved and her smile grew sincere as she quickly said, "Moonie, you should hurry! It's my rudeness that held up your time; don't blame me!"

“No problem. I'm off then!” Cloud Qianyue waved and walked forward.

Madam Sun bowed to Night Tianqing and Qin Yuning before quickly following Cloud Qianyue, having learned what not to listen to in the palace after so long.

After they left, Qin Yuning glanced at Night Tianqing then lowered her head slowly.

"Let's go!" Night Tianqing turned his gaze away from Qin Yuning and walked forward with a cooler tone.

Cloud Qianyue listened intently to what Madam Sun had said earlier, but as she stopped talking now, Cloud Qianyue lost her interest in probing further. Women in the palace were all suffering, each with their own bitter tears; yet this didn't justify victimizing others. She was an orphan since childhood and although she yearned for family ties, if they weren’t there for her, she wouldn't seek them out either. The Empress's aunt Better not provoke her again.

The two of them encountered no further obstacles on their way and arrived smoothly at the mandarin duck pond in the imperial garden, which was where Cloud Shallowmoon had woken up that day.

Visting this place again brought back memories of that day's confusion and danger. Cloud Shallowmoon couldn't help but sigh.

Several women as well as eunuchs and palace maids were seated around the mandarin duck pond, dressed in bright and vibrant colors. The empress sat in the center, with an elderly woman wearing a purple gold robe sitting on her left side; two women of similar age to the empress sat on her right side. The empress wore a golden phoenix hairpin with nine tails, while the elderly woman and the other two women each had one with eight tails. Cloud Shallowmoon guessed that there was no empress dowager in the palace according to rumors. This elderly woman must be some kind of imperial concubine or consort, while the other two women of a similar age as the empress were likely ranked as noble consorts.

Below and slightly behind the empress sat several younger women who didn't seem to have high ranks.

As Cloud Shallowmoon was contemplating whether she should bow, she heard the empress's gentle voice calling out: "Moonie! No need for you to bow. Come over here so I can take a look at you and see if you really suffered."

Cloud Shallowmoon was too lazy to perform a formal bow but moved toward the empress after hearing this, walking past the envious gazes of other ladies-in-waiting directly to her side. With her lips pursed, she glared at the empress: "Auntie! You were so heartless as to want me sent to the imperial prison on that day. I thought you no longer liked me!"

The empress's face turned stiff momentarily before she laughed and sighed: "I knew you would hold a grudge against me. That day, it was Auntie who wanted to give those hurt at Spring Welcoming Pavilion an explanation, but later on, I felt very guilty about it. After learning yesterday that Prince Jing had found evidence proving that someone deliberately framed you for something you didn't do, I realized I had wronged you and felt bad since you're a brash young lady who isn’t heartless and ruthless. Auntie was mistaken to think ill of you. Please don't be upset with me"

As she spoke, the empress grabbed Cloud Shallowmoon's hand; her warm hands enveloped Cloud Shallowmoon’s cool fingers.

Everyone in attendance watched Cloud Shallowmoon as they had heard rumors about her since the poetry recital event. Of course, she was already well-known in the Heavenly Capital for being a wastrel and brat, but now most of what people said about her were related to Prince Jing and Young Nobleman Ran. Everyone present, including the empress, was curious as to how she suddenly garnered such favorable treatment from them.

"Humph! Auntie doesn’t support me yet helps Night Tianqiong bully me. I nearly ended up in prison. Is an apology all you have to offer" Cloud Shallowmoon pursed her lips and glared at the empress.

The Empress didn't mind Cloud Shallowmoon's rudeness; she handed over a brocade box from one of her maidservants with a smile, offering it as compensation. "How about this Would that be suitable for an apology"

Cloud Shallowmoon immediately took the gift and opened it in front of the empress. Upon seeing two sets of exquisite jewelry inside made of high-quality jade, she was secretly delighted but didn't show her delight on her face. She thought to herself that Rong Jing had been right; there were indeed benefits to be reaped from coming here. "Auntie knows very well how to placate me with trinkets!"

As soon as she spoke, several gasps could clearly be heard in the vicinity.

"You silly girl! You should study and learn more about things like this. These are not ordinary pieces of jewelry; they are emerald jade imported from Southern Liang five years ago. It’s said that only one such stone exists in the world, which was crafted into these two sets of jewelry. A single hairpin is worth a fortune; how could I possibly offer something so insignificant as compensation" The Empress chided her with a smile.

"I don’t know anything about it anyway! You didn't tell me at first!" Cloud Shallowmoon immediately hugged the box to herself and grinned, looking back up at the empress. "Auntie just said that this is mine, so you can't take it back now."

"It’s yours then!" The Empress laughed as she patted her head gently. "Even His Majesty was right; you’re a little monkey." She asked kindly: “Are you still angry"

“No, no! How could I be mad at Auntie” Cloud Shallowmoon waved her hand casually. If only she had known there would be such good things here to take!

"I heard that Miss Shallowmoon broke the Sea of South jade bangles passed down from Emperor Ancestor and Empress, but didn’t believe it until now; seeing no bracelet on your hands confirms that it’s true," a woman sitting next to the empress spoke up.

The empress's face slightly changed upon hearing this.

Cloud Shallowmoon looked at her and recognized her as Cold Suliyi's aunt, Noble Consort Cold. She had paid special attention when she read about the regulations for women in the palace and their origins; besides the two daughters of Duke Rong and Duke De, all other officials’ daughters above third rank were admitted into the palace. At the time when Cloud Shallowmoon’s aunt became empress, this woman was already a consort; later on, she rose to become Noble Consort Cold, one of the four consorts.

The current four consorts included Chen Concubine, who had been young Emperor Tian's concubine and mother to Prince Night Tianyu. Sadly, she passed away early but was posthumously granted the title of Noble Consort Chen. Another was Blue Consort, a notorious woman five years ago who caused trouble in the palace and suffered severe punishment; her entire family was implicated. The emperor killed her nine generations and even though he had given her poison wine to kill himself, he kept her title as Blue Consort and exiled her only son to the Northern Frontier, Prince Night Tianyi, now a hero with many merits but who refused to return to the capital despite the emperor's permission. Then there was Ming Concubine, an ordinary woman from the countryside whom the old emperor brought back when disguised as a commoner twenty years ago and favored deeply; she had three daughters—Princess Qingwan, Sixth Princess, and Seventh Princess—but no sons. After that, no more consorts were promoted to higher ranks.

Now there are only two of the original four consorts left: Noble Consort Cold and Ming Concubine.

Cloud Shallowmoon thought for a moment and realized who this woman next to Noble Consort Cold must be—Ming Concubine!

The Empress Dowager was said to have died when the emperor was still young. Other empress dowagers either passed away of old age or lost favor and were banished to the cold palace, where only one elderly empress dowager remained. Since Chancellor Qin’s family had been two generations in power as chancellors, Empress Dowager Qin could rely on their influence to safely retire in the palace; she was highly respected by the previous emperor for helping him ascend the throne even though her own childlessness prevented her from being granted the title of Empress Dowager. Thus, she enjoyed imperial treatment and privileges befitting an Empress Dowager.

That elderly woman must undoubtedly be Empress Dowager Qin, who was also Qin Yuceng's great-aunt.

Apart from these three significant figures, the other women were all ladies-in-waiting with low ranks and little favor. Cloud Shallowmoon ignored them and glared at Noble Consort Cold: "That bracelet protected me from harm and met its end in doing so. Knowing that I was lucky to survive as it is, would you be rubbing salt into my wounds by bringing up this topic Even the emperor didn't blame me about it, yet here you are trying to overstep your authority"

Noble Consort Cold initially wanted to bring up her nephew’s injury to warn the empress that there was no need to favor a woman who couldn’t even enter the palace. She had been furious upon learning that the empress had obtained two sets of green jade jewelry, which she had tried for years in vain to get from the emperor but was given to Miss Shallowmoon instead. Her anger escalated when she heard Cloud Shallowmoon hurt her nephew further; she was ready to humiliate her until she saw the latter open the box and receive the precious gifts without hesitation, leaving her speechless.

"You should read more books and learn your etiquette," the empress chided her. "These aren’t ordinary decorations but green jade jewelry from a tribute by the Southern Liang five years ago; each hairpin is priceless. How could you say I’m offering something too small You don't even know what it's worth!"

“I really don’t know anything about it!” Cloud Shallowmoon held onto the box, grinning at her aunt. "You just said this was mine; there’s no taking it back now."

"It is yours then! You’re a little monkey!" The empress chuckled and asked gently: “Are you still angry"

“No, I’m not mad at Auntie,” Cloud Shallowmoon waved her hand dismissively. If only she had known about these treasures earlier!

The woman next to the Empress said suddenly, "I heard that Miss Shallowmoon broke the Sea of South jade bracelet passed down from Emperor Ancestor and Empress."

Empress's expression changed slightly.

Cloud Shallowmoon turned her head and saw Noble Consort Cold. She recognized this woman as Cold Suliyi's aunt, Noble Consort Cold, whose sister was the empress. Cloud Shallowmoon guessed that the other woman next to Noble Consort Cold must be Ming Concubine.

Noble Consort Cold had intended to bring up her nephew’s injury to remind the Empress not to favor Miss Shallowmoon further. She was furious when she learned that the Empress had given Cloud Shallowmoon two sets of green jade jewelry, which were priceless and hard for even herself to obtain from the Emperor. Her anger escalated when she heard that Cloud Shallowmoon had injured her nephew further; she was ready to insult her until she saw the latter casually open the box and receive the gifts without a second thought.

"You should know better," Empress said, smiling but with a hint of chiding. "These aren't ordinary decorations but green jade jewelry from a Southern Liang tribute five years ago; each hairpin is priceless. How could you say I'm offering something too small You don’t even know what it’s worth!"

"I really am ignorant," Cloud Shallowmoon hugged the box and grinned at Empress, "You said this was mine earlier, so there's no taking it back."

"It's yours then! Even His Majesty was right; you are a little monkey." The empress laughed gently. "Are you still angry"

“No, I wouldn't be mad at Auntie,” Cloud Shallowmoon waved her hand dismissively.

"I heard that Miss Shallowmoon broke the Sea of South jade bangle passed down from Emperor Ancestor and Empress," a woman seated next to the empress suddenly said.

The empress's expression changed slightly.

Cloud Shallowmoon turned her head and saw Noble Consort Cold. She recognized this woman as Cold Suliyi's aunt, Noble Consort Cold. Cloud Shallowmoon guessed that the other lady next to Noble Consort Cold must be Ming Concubine.

Noble Consort Cold had intended to bring up her nephew’s injury to remind the empress not to favor Miss Shallowmoon any further. She was furious when she learned that the empress had given Cloud Shallowmoon two sets of green jade jewelry, which were priceless and hard for even herself to obtain from the emperor. Her anger escalated when she heard that Cloud Shallowmoon injured her nephew; she was ready to humiliate her until she saw the latter casually open the box and receive the gifts without hesitation.

"You should know better," Empress said, smiling but with a hint of chiding. "These aren't ordinary decorations but green jade jewelry from a Southern Liang tribute five years ago; each hairpin is priceless. How could you say I'm offering something too small You don’t even know what it’s worth!"

"I really am ignorant," Cloud Shallowmoon hugged the box and grinned at Empress, "You said this was mine earlier, so there's no taking it back."

Empress smiled gently. "It is yours then! You're truly a little monkey." She asked softly, “Are you still angry"

"No, I wouldn't be mad at Auntie," Cloud Shallowmoon waved her hand dismissively.

Noble Consort Cold's face turned cold as she replied, "That bracelet protected Miss Shallowmoon from disaster. Given my nephew was injured by you, it’s only natural to mention it." She paused for a moment and continued, "Empress Auntie, could I please see the items that were prepared for Miss Shallowmoon’s mother"

Cloud Shallowmoon didn't look at Noble Consort Cold and turned to Empress. "Auntie, give me what you prepared for my mother." She said, “I need to hurry back to the estate.”

"Why are you in such a hurry You've just arrived and haven't even spoken to Aunt yet!" the Empress asked softly.

"Prince Jǐng is waiting for me at the palace gate, I came here by his carriage," Yun Qianyue said.

"Huh You're saying Prince Jǐng was waiting for you at the palace gate" The empress was surprised.

"Yes! Grandpa told him to keep an eye on me while I study!" Yun Qianyue said with a frown. "He listens to my grandpa, keeping me under strict surveillance even in his carriage. He made me recite lessons during the ride."

The empress immediately laughed and looked closely at Yun Qianyue's little pained face before scolding her: "Having Prince Jǐng supervise your studies is something many people would envy, yet you don't seem to like it." She then instructed Lady Sun, "Tell Prince Jǐng outside the palace gate that he can head back home first. I'll have a carriage sent later to take her home."

"Aunt, I'm afraid that won’t work, I’m still holding his book box!" Yun Qianyue shook the box. She didn't want to stay here any longer; she was grateful to Róng Jǐng for being so thoughtful and carrying this heavy box.

"You said this is Prince Jǐng's book box" The empress was surprised again.

"Yes! It's made of agarwood, who else would use such a precious material except him!" Yun Qianyue pointed at the box with her finger and wanted to add that no one was as extravagant as he was.

The empress’s gaze changed when she saw the book box in Yun Qianyue's hand. All the concubines sitting around the Lotus Pool turned pale-faced.

"If this is the case, then I won't detain you any longer." The empress quickly regained her composure and reached out to Lady Sun: "Take the charm I made for my sister-in-law and give it to her."

"Your Excellency, the charm is in your palace. I forgot to bring it; please forgive me!" said Lady Sun.

“Shall I go fetch it now”

"If so, then forget about it." The empress didn’t blame her and told Yun Qianyue: "Let’s not make Prince Jǐng wait too long. You’ll be coming to the Imperial Study tomorrow anyway, after class you can come here to get it."

“Alright!” Yun Qianyue answered promptly. She thought that this lady probably forgot to bring the charm and was looking for an opportunity to talk privately with her. If she hadn’t mentioned the book box and the carriage earlier, Lady Sun would have likely suggested she follow her to retrieve it, perhaps adding some private words or actions along the way. However, Yun Qianyue didn't want to stay here any longer as she had yet to meet Qingwan Princess whom she wanted to see.

"There’s a rumor that Prince Jǐng has taken a special interest in Miss Yun, but I didn’t believe it until now," said the Cold Noble Consort. She was determined not to let Yun Qianyue off easily today without giving her a lesson.

"Yes! He has been entrusted by Emperor Uncle and Grandpa, plus I have good personal qualities. As such, he treats me differently." Yun Qianyue thought the Cold Noble Consort was just as annoying as her nephew; she turned to smile at her sweetly. "Compared to you or your niece, Prince Jǐng wouldn’t even give them a glance."

The Cold Noble Consort’s face froze and her beautiful eyes filled with anger: "Does this mean Miss Yun has developed feelings for Prince Jǐng Does she want to marry into the Honorable王府 (Royal Manor) Is she cold towards Crown Prince and refuses to enter the palace"

"Your Excellency is partly right. I do plan to marry into the Honorable Royal Manor, but not Róng Jǐng; it’s actually Róng Fēng. He's a collateral branch of the Royal Manor and lives in the Jade Splendor Pavilion there now. As for Crown Prince, I've been cold towards him since eight hundred years ago. Yesterday at the martial champion conference, I found out that Róng Fēng is very nice to me; I fell in love with him on sight and decided to marry him. Unfortunately, Emperor Uncle doesn't agree and wants to think about it some more."

"Yesterday I also heard about this matter. Moon兒 (Moon child), you’re too reckless! How can you joke around with your life’s most important matters" The empress scolded Yun Qianyue.

"Aunt, please wait until tomorrow to give me a lecture! Prince Jǐng is still waiting for me at the palace gate right now. Even Emperor Uncle doesn’t dare make him wait too long; if my grandpa found out about this, he would break both my legs." Yun Qianyue said looking at the empress.

"Alright then! You better hurry up and leave!" The empress gave in knowing that this wasn't a place for scolding.

The Cold Noble Consort looked displeased but didn’t speak again to stop her.

Neither did the other noble ladies such as Empress Dowager Qin, Lady Ming, or any of the present concubines.

Holding the brocade box and carrying Róng Jǐng’s book box, Yun Qianyue turned and left the Imperial Garden with big strides.

There are still some of you who have reserved votes; it's time to use them! At the end of this month, unused votes will be reset. I would feel heartbroken if they were wasted... (⊙_⊙)

Thanks for the following diamond and flower support!

hua3389818 (1000 donation 10 diamonds 10 flowers), Aunt Lu (10 diamonds 500 donation), chenjing8828 (500 donation), boa琪琪86921 (2 diamond), 桑天藍 (2 diamond), qigai123 (2 diamond), jsmary (100 donation), 15875989145 (100 donation), 轉交的貓貓 (1 diamond), qigai123 (1 diamond), raindew521 (1 diamond), mooloveyou (5 flowers), 悠悠我心賢 (3 flowers), 落寒汀 (1 flower), 雨蕁溪 (1 flower), 蝴蝶心結 (1 flower), 幻舞憐月 (1 flower), melon123 (1 flower)The Imperial Tutor had left her with four words, but her grandfather refused to talk about it. It appeared that what happened in those days must have been something extremely covert; concealed by some...