One
Xue Hengxiang slightly furrowed her brows and sat back in the armchair noncommittally
As usual, the palace attire remains unchanged until the transition between winter and summer. However, this time there has been an exceptional decree, and this batch of palace attire is no longer the old light gray or dark gray, but has been changed to a uniform initial snow white, reportedly by order of the Palace Bureau. The maids in the room were delighted for quite some time because of this
Shaoguang held the piece of moon-white satin silk, turned around, and saw the despondent figure in the vast embroidery hall.
Liu Yun finished speaking and suddenly knelt down on the ground
At this moment, Ning Shuang poked at Qing Mei and gestured with her chin towards the maid on the other side of Si Bao Fang.
Xue Hengxiang's question articulated what everyone present wanted to say but dared not express. Yan Jinxin and Bai Bi's gazes simultaneously fell upon Yu Xizi's face, and Cui Pei was also watching. In that moment, several piercing gazes seemed capable of burning a hole into her face.
The carved window opened up to a partition, with a gauzy curtain hanging in the middle. The glass curtains divided the space into different halos, swaying gently, creating a hazy atmosphere filled with the shadows of flowers and trees. Bai Bi sat in a large Huanghuali armchair, picked an apricot from the fruit plate, and placed it in her mouth
The ceremonial room is located on the southern side, separated by the palace wall, where the tall Huaxi Pavilion can be seen. Yan Jinxin is reclining on a brocade couch, attended by a palace maid in sky-blue silk holding a fruit platter on one side, while another slightly older maid, dressed in dark blue gauze, is bending over and speaking to her.
I do not know what that batch of materials was used for later
Yan Jinxin squinted her eyes, occasionally humming softly. The maid, Yan Bi, presented the hand report and bowed to her before taking her leave.
At this moment, Shaoguang gently raised her gaze—sunlight quietly poured down, scattering across the ground and enveloping her, making it difficult to open her eyes. The woman in palace attire stepped forward, holding her head high, standing resolutely under the blinding sunlight, her face filled with determination. ... Seeing this, Shaoguang couldn't help but recall that Qiluo had once mentioned the internal situation of the Si Bao Fang, which was said to be a web of connections, yet she never expected that the one stepping forward at this moment would be her
Cui Pei felt an unprecedented satisfaction, waving her hand to instruct the maids on either side to take the person away. "Since someone has come forward to confess, the matter of harming the maid can be considered resolved. As for the other charges presented by Zhong Siyi, this palace will conduct a thorough investigation. If it is confirmed to be true, severe punishment will be meted out to the Si Bao Fang."
Zhong Yilan finished speaking and turned to Xu Xiu. The latter curled her shoulders and nodded weakly.
Xue Hengxiang glanced at her and said, "What Zhong Siyi mentioned is ... ..."
Upon the conclusion of the speech, the embroidery hall was immediately in an uproar
Except for a batch of hanging satin from Linhua Palace that has yet to be woven and dyed, the workroom has been busy for several days and nights, finally completing the seasonal fabrics for each palace on time. Cui Pei and Zhong Yilan received rewards from the Crown Prince, and the palace attendants were also granted special permission, which delayed the progress of weaving and dyeing the hanging satin. Subsequently, Cui Pei instructed the Department of Decorations to create a new batch of ornaments and asked the Department of Clothing to take measurements and tailor a new set of palace garments.
Once a crime is established, one cannot escape the consequences of their actions. Zhong Yilan has calculated her moves well. Unfortunately, the most serious charges have been overturned, leaving only minor issues that warrant a slight reprimand, which is far from the original intent of the scheme. It is evident that Zhong Yilan is not yet ready to let the matter rest, but what about Yu Xizi? After suffering such a significant loss, will she now have to swallow her anger and endure?
Yes
Six months ago, a palace maid in the clothing room committed suicide by jumping into a well. At that time, Yu Xizi was still a dresser under my command. Zhong Yilan glanced over, a trace of disdain and contempt flickering in her eyes. Everyone in the room thought it was a suicide, until later a detailed ledger was found in her embroidery frame, revealing that this maid had evidence of Yu Xizi's embezzlement in the clothing room. Yu Xizi, harboring resentment, conspired to murder her.
No! Liu Yun bit her lip and said, "Cui Shangfu, the death of Liu Ying was caused solely by this servant and has nothing to do with Yu Sibao. Please investigate carefully, Shangfu!"
Dressed like this, one cannot tell whether it is a comparison of embroidery skills or looks! Ning Shuang shot a displeased glance.
The palace embroidery crafted by first-class maidservants is comparable to tribute goods, worth a fortune. However, if it is made in violation of regulations, it will cause trouble whether used in the palace or taken outside. Yan Jinxin cast a glance at Bai Bi, who stiffened and fell silent with an awkward smile.
The palace maids in silken snowy garments stepped across the threshold, and the hall was instantly enveloped in silence
On the fragrant agarwood and green jade table lay three types of fruits, yet Yan Jinxin did not even glance at them. "The court is gathered, and the Department of Guards has also put in considerable effort. Did she not offer you any reward?"
At that moment, the sunlight slanted into the inner hall, casting a dazzling shadow of the embroidery frame. In the haze of smoke, the newly set up moon-white satin fabric appeared as pure as snow, with the edges cut by a knife still bearing tiny threads. In the swirling smoke, Shaoguang held the embroidery needle, and in that instant, Yu Xizi's face suddenly turned pale, while Chunyu's eyes widened in disbelief, revealing an overwhelming sense of fear
Xue Hengxiang represents His Royal Highness the Prince of Jin, which was within Cui Pei's expectations. However, Xu Xiu... At that moment, Zhong Yilan had already personally picked up the hall gong and struck a clear sound.
Leading the way were Jin Se and Tao Zhi, dressed in elegant moon-white satin high-waisted long skirts. Jin Se possessed impeccable features, with a clean and crisp complexion that accentuated her cold and alluring temperament, surpassing even the frost and snow, making her the most eye-catching person in the embroidery hall
The sudden change left those present exchanging glances in confusion. Cui Pei thoughtfully looked at Liu Yun, while Chun Yu took the opportunity to lean closer to Yu Xizi, speaking softly with her head slightly lowered
Only Cui Pei raised both hands, resting her elbows on the armrest of the chair, "Where is the booklet?"
In front of the embroidery frame, a striking figure in lake blue stands out remarkably. Though young, her makeup is exquisitely done. Blessed with beauty, the same palace dress worn by her appears more delicate on her than on the other maidens, standing gracefully like a slender willow, as charming as the peach blossoms of March
Time returns with a smile
Cui Pei looked at the two with some surprise, and only after they bowed in greeting did she react by instructing the maid to bring over the armchair
Several people in the hall simultaneously let out a sigh of relief
Regarding the matter of the material, this old servant can testify
The entire Sibao House is shrouded in a veil of gloom
At this moment, two embroidery frames had already been set up in the center of the inner hall, complete with all the necessary items: stretchers, silk threads, embroidery needles, and wrapped wood. Cui Pei took her seat and gestured to the maid in charge of verification. The maid nodded and had just picked up the hall gong when she was stopped by Zhong Yilan from the side, "Wait a moment. Cui Shangfu, there are still two people who have not arrived."
Qingmei smiled as she sent her off, then turned around and saw Xiuer, who was obsessively caressing the waist token in the tray
After preparing for half a month and practicing for another half month, my needlework has only reached a proficient level. ... Meanwhile, not far to the right, a charming young girl in a lake-blue silk gauze skirt sits gracefully in front of the embroidery frame, her delicate hands, resembling tender green shoots, skillfully threading the needle, taking stitches, and weaving back ... . ... She is embroidering a scene of butterflies flitting among flowers, intricate and expertly done. It is evident that she has put in a great deal of effort.
Catching a thief and seizing the stolen goods certainly does not require half a month; however, what she desires is a decisive strike. Which household is free from corruption and misconduct? Merely selling palace silk is not particularly significant. Yet, when combined with various other crimes such as embezzlement, selling inferior goods as if they were of high quality, and plotting against palace maids, the situation becomes grave. The Inner Court has spent this half month gathering evidence of the violations and embezzlement committed by the Treasury Department, the number of which is unknown. If this reaches the Palace Justice Department, it will alarm the Empress Dowager, and it may not simply result in losing one's position.
The one who stands out is the flowing cloud
Yu Sibao should not be unfamiliar! I still remember that three months ago, Cui Shangfu instructed the Si Yi Fang and Si Bao Fang to create a batch of materials together. Later, due to a mismatch in the patterns, they were ordered by the Palace Bureau to be taken to the violent room to be destroyed by Mama Xu. This is indeed the case, isn't it?
Cui Pei was momentarily taken aback, staring at Xu Xiu, unsure of how to respond. At that moment, Xue Hengxiang, who had remained silent, stood up and asked: "What is Yu Sibao's defense regarding the matter of plotting against the palace maid?"
After Cui Pei finished speaking, she looked towards Xue Hengxiang, who nodded in agreement
Zhong Yilan stared at her fiercely, "You must understand that according to the regulations of the bureau, any female official involved in conspiracy to harm will be dismissed from their position and permanently banned from the palace; for those who cause death, they will be detained by the Dali Temple and punished according to the severity of their crime. The Palace Justice Department and the Dali Temple are not easy to deal with! You need to think this through and not joke with your own life"
Bai Bi picked up a shallow green-glazed tea bowl, adorned with intricate silk patterns, which was exceedingly exquisite
"So you admit to having conspired to murder the palace maid Liu Ying, resulting in her death, rather than Yu Sibao?" Cui Pei raised her eyes, staring unblinkingly at the woman below.
Zhong Yilan raised the corners of her lips, walked up to Cui Pei, and said loudly: "Regarding the attire and appearance, during my tenure as the supervisor of the treasures, I have repeatedly colluded with external weavers to smuggle silk threads; I have also incited the head maid of the violent chamber to privately sell satin that should have been destroyed, filling her own pockets. Within the palace, I have persecuted subordinate palace maids, leading to their wrongful deaths within the palace."
It has been a long time since I have seen the works of Zhong Yilan. This move of cutting off the source is truly ruthless! Bai Bi, after reading the reports collected by Qing Ping, couldn't help but sigh.
The drifting clouds bow in reverence, "I, the servant, am fully aware that I cannot escape my sins and do not wish to implicate others."
Bai Bi touched his nose and said, "It's just a few pieces of palace embroidery silk, how can it compare to what I send you"
Before others could say much, the smile on Zhong Yilan's face suddenly vanished. She turned around and scolded sharply: "You bold servant girl, this is a place of great importance; how dare you speak so recklessly!"
Indeed, after practicing for a full half month, it should be no problem compared to a newly arrived maidservant. " Qingmei said, warmly handing over the pendant.
In the imperial palace, white is not permitted, and the wardrobe department is no exception. The initial layer of white satin is adorned with subtle lotus patterns, while the collar and cuffs are trimmed with light pink. The chest band flows gracefully, creating a delightful contrast that appears charming and lovely.
At this moment, Cui Pei steeled herself and got up
"The competition with Si Baofang is tomorrow, and this ornament may just be a good omen," Xiuer said joyfully
Having said that, he lifted the lid of the copper-top charcoal stove and unhesitatingly threw his hand into it
Zhong Yilan slightly raised her chin and said, "Cui Shangfu, the palace maid who was persecuted to death because of me, is named Liu Ying."
The arrangement of clothing in the palace, from the emperor and empress down to the eunuchs and palace servants, is entirely the responsibility of the Bureau of Imperial Garments. However, when the princes return to the capital to report on their duties, coinciding with the seasonal change in the palace, the maids of the Clothing Department are busy making palace attire for themselves.
Cui Pei gradually regained her composure from the shock, gazing at Zhong Yilan
The other official attire of the Si Bao Fang.
The first ray of sunlight in the morning casts in, outlining the shadows of the window on the ground
Zhong Yilan, unwilling to give up, wanted to say something more but was stopped by Cui Pei's wave of her hand. Cui Pei then personally instructed Bai Bi and Yan Jinxin to escort Xue Hengxiang out of the inner chamber. As Yan Jinxin was leaving, she glanced at Jin Se, who was standing aside and waiting, revealing a hint of mockery. Yu Xizi also left with the support of Chunyu. In the vast embroidery hall, only Zhong Yilan remained, sitting dazedly in the open chair.
Bai Bi Dao: "This matter has nothing to do with you, but other matters are indeed related to you. After this incident, the Department of Clothing has gained significant prestige and has been promoted within the organization. Our Department of Armaments has not been affected much, but the newly appointed head of the Department of Clothing, Jin Se, is said to have established strong connections upon her return. You had a feud with her back then; now that she is back, how can she treat your Department of Decoration kindly?"
If Xu Xiu's arrival had already made her vaguely anticipate something, then Zhong Yilan's subsequent words left her in a dilemma. Liuying is a name that is deeply taboo in the Shangfu Bureau and even the entire palace, yet it was so easily uttered. Cui Pei instinctively clenched her hands tightly on the chair, her whole being on the verge of fury
The door curtain was lifted, and the willow catkins fluttered in softly into the embroidery hall
Zhong Yilan lifted the corners of her mouth in a smile, "Do not be anxious, Your Excellency, look, they have arrived."
Xu Xiu clenched his fist, his palms drenched in sweat. Gritting his teeth, he said: "Cui Shangfu, it was an impulsive moment for this old servant, agreeing to sell the fabric outside the palace to Yu Sibao. I have no face to see you."
Over a thousand maids were present, incredulously whispering to each other. Yingluo stood there in a daze, holding a needle, unsure whether to continue embroidering or to step back. At that moment, Yan Jinxin and Bai Bi, who had originally been mere spectators, exchanged astonished glances and stood on either side of Cui Pei.
Zhong Yilan observed and raised an eyebrow, saying: "Do you still remember the palace maid who committed suicide by jumping into the well six months ago?"
As the words fell, a thunderous roar erupted within the hall
I glanced sideways at Jin Xin and asked, "What does this matter have to do with me?"
Yu Xizi raised her eyes, smiled with a hint of despair, shook her head, and shook her head again
Yan Jinxin lifted the teacup and took a sip, "Liu Yun is an elder from the Zhao Dezheng era, yet Yu Xizi has shown her kindness. Not long ago, Liu Yun was granted leave from the palace to attend her parents' funeral, which was also a special pardon from Yu Xizi. It is said that a substantial sum was allocated for her resettlement expenses"
Zhong Siyi, do you have any evidence to support this statement
The competition ended in an unhappy manner.
On the embroidery frame that belongs solely to the passage of time, there are no palace patterns, no embroidery threads, only a piece of moon-white satin silk, of superior quality, yet it is the finished product of embroidery—every plan, every wait, every endurance seems to be solely for this moment
"Yu Sibao, doesn't the fabric look familiar to you?"
Two Dianbao took the blame, and Yu Xizi can be considered fortunate this time. But what is the situation with that one called Liuyun? Among the many palace servants in the Sibao Room, Chunyu is Yu Xizi's trusted aide. Unexpectedly, it was another inconspicuous female official who ultimately repaid with her life.
Four jade butterflies were placed on the red satin, their entire bodies a pure white, with cherry-red silk tassels hanging below, even more exquisite than the green bamboo waist token of the Imperial Palace. Xiu'er picked one up and carefully tied it around her waist, the pendant jingling melodiously, extremely pleasing to the ear
Qianqian playfully pinched the arm of Qingmei and said, "You little brat, for every word I say to you, there are ten waiting for me!"
Within half a month, too many events have transpired. After the rewards from the Linhua Palace, Zhong Yilan's public promise has captured the attention of all the palace servants. Ning Shuang and a few others have devoted themselves to rigorous training. The flattery and ingratiation from the palace staff are almost overwhelming. However, Shaoguang is more aware than anyone else that regardless of whether one can succeed or be promoted out of turn, this competition harbors deep-seated intentions. The skills of embroidery, palace styles, and dyeing have been practiced repeatedly, and the next crucial individuals and items must be laid out one by one.
Why speak out now
What do you plan to do in the future
Cui Pei was also taken aback, "You?"
The floor paved with black marble is wiped clean without a speck of dust, with dark patterns crisscrossing, carved into the shape of a lotus. The square flower gates are adorned with apricot-colored gauze, and the glazed eight-treasure lanterns hang from above, illuminating the luxurious coffered ceiling in the center
Gently caressing the exquisitely carved gold filigree patterns, a water-red ribbon was tied into a knot. In the sunlight, the slightly cool jade quality revealed a hint of enchanting water ripples
Cui Pei stared at Xu Xiu for a while and said softly, "Xu Mama, you are an elder of the violent room, how can you be so confused?"
Dian Shi Qingping visited the Palace Justice Department, but the officials there informed her that Liu Yun had already been sent to the Dali Temple, awaiting trial for her crimes, and would soon face the death penalty. Meanwhile, the palace servants of the Si Bao Fang were interrogated one by one, and some maids were found to have hidden contraband, facing severe punishment. Dian Bao Chunyu was dismissed from her position and transferred to the Yeting Bureau. Yu Xizi was penalized for dereliction of duty, receiving a two-year salary reduction and demoted to the sixth rank of Dian Bao.
This matter was caused by this servant, please exercise your discernment.
After days of preparation, a force like a tidal wave surged forth. An unknown maid gently extended her hand, and with a snap of her fingers, the masts and sails were reduced to ashes. The sudden reversal of the situation was so swift that it was hard to accept.
Then she set down the needle and stretched another piece of plain dark-patterned fabric on the frame
Xu Xiu swallowed and said, "Sold... sold."
Yu Xizi's crimes are heinous; how could a servant dare to speak recklessly?
The satin fabric has long been set up on the frame
Your dressing room is still bright and spacious, with various accessories that are even more exquisite. Oh, is that a new gauze curtain? Zhong Yilan is indeed generous; tomorrow, I should ask her to get me a couple of pieces as well
Yan Jinxin finished speaking and caught a glimpse of Bai Bi's dismissive smile. Naturally, in her view, there was nothing worth risking her life to repay.
The embroidery hall has already descended into chaos
The palace maid from the wardrobe department walked around with a tray, and when she reached Ning Shuang's room, Qian Qian and Qing Mei, who were familiar with each other, exchanged a smile. Then, pouting, she said: "Everyone says that the lives of servants are cheap, but only you in the wardrobe department have been blessed. Look, they have asked you to redo the waist tags, which means you have to put down your current tasks and work day and night, almost delaying the seasonal changes in the palace."
If only four palace maids were present, Cui Pei would be very willing to mediate the situation, but unfortunately, there is also Xue Hengxiang. Following the principle of sacrificing a pawn to protect the king, Cui Pei would bear the responsibility of misjudging people and making inappropriate recommendations. However, unexpectedly, when Zhong Yilan approached with an old, tattered booklet, a female voice suddenly rang out among the palace maids of the Si Bao room
This ornament, paired with the newly made palace attire, is simply a source of great pride. Ning Shuang was particularly excited and also took one to wear.
Time gently sifts through the basket, lifting its head, where Zhong Yilan is smiling in the hall
Yu Xizi stared intently at the piece of silk, and after much effort, finally turned her face to meet the flower-like smile of Zhong Yilan's eyes, "Zhong Siyi, what does this mean?"
Yan Jinxin and Bai Bize exchanged a glance of suspicion at each other
Qingmei held her hand and laughed, saying: "It's not just our room this time; it's the entire clothing department that is affected. If you are in a hurry, you can take it up with our head of the clothing department, Zhong Siyi!"
Cui Pei was taken aback, "Is it possible that the competition involves more than just the two of them?"
The flowing clouds bowed once more, yet remained silent.
Yan Jinxin smiled even more broadly upon hearing this, saying, "If one does not treat well, what can be done? A little sparrow is just a little sparrow; it was incapable before, and what great waves can it stir up now! On the other hand, Yu Xizi is reselling palace silk; it is impressive that she could think of that. Cui Shangfu seizes upon this mistake, and yet does not go to flatter the Empress Dowager? You and I must weigh our actions carefully, lest we inadvertently leave any handles for others to grasp, without even realizing it"
Cui Pei felt a great shock, "Is what you said—really true?"
The first to step over the threshold was an elderly palace maid, dressed in a dark crimson palace gown, experienced and composed; she was none other than Xu Xiu, one of the key managers of the Violent Chamber. Following her was a graceful woman, clad in a wisteria-colored silk dress adorned with floral patterns, her hair styled high in a cloud-like bun, resembling a peach blossom in comparison to a plum; she was Xue Hengxiang, the chief maid of the Linhua Palace.