Chapter 3, Mistaken Melody of the Mandarin Ducks, Several Clusters of Lilac Knots

Jin Qi repeatedly agreed, while instructing someone to draft the decree, he smiled at me with a knowing look, clearly congratulating me

He spoke with great warmth, his phoenix-like eyes sparkling, seemingly filled with deep affection, his words overflowing with emotion. Shen Fengyi blushed as she expressed her gratitude, already overwhelmed with joy.

He lowered his head slightly, his smile froze, bent down to pat my face, and asked in confusion, "Silly girl, why are you crying like this?"

But I cannot help but think of Nanya Yi

Tang Tianzhong is not a fool; he will certainly connect Tang Tianxiao's recently favored concubine with the wife he mistakenly married. I can only think of being caught up in the power struggle between the brothers, which gives me a headache. Unless Tang Tianxiao comes, the gates of Yiqing Palace are usually tightly shut, and even the palace maids are not allowed to step out of the palace at will, maximizing the possibility of avoiding an encounter with Tang Tianzhong to prevent any unforeseen circumstances. I can only think of being caught up in the power struggle between the brothers, which gives me a headache. Unless Tang Tianxiao comes, the gates of Yiqing Palace are usually tightly shut, and even the palace maids are not allowed to step out of the palace at will, maximizing the possibility of avoiding an encounter with Tang Tianzhong to prevent any unforeseen circumstances

He surveyed the grand hall and smiled, saying: "Feng Yi, your palace is resplendent and opulent; there should be a harmonious blend of music and dance, celebrating the flourishing prosperity of the Great Zhou dynasty, to truly embody the majesty of a motherly figure ruling the world"

Tang Tianxiao casually threw a dagger to me and said, "Keep it, use it to harm others, just don't harm yourself! Remember to dress beautifully; I will make sure that everyone in the entire kingdom knows that I have a favored consort named Ning Qingwu, who is as beautiful as a national treasure, captivating the world and enchanting the city"

"Bilan... how do you know him?" I gasped, struggling to expel the breath that was trapped in my chest

He stood up with a smile, pacing back and forth in the room with his hands clasped behind his back, and slowly said: "There must be some undisclosed details regarding this matter. For such a significant act of rebellion, the palace attendants are surprisingly vague, and not a single person can even mention this young man's name. However, I have investigated, and Li Mingchang is incompetent and foolish; over the years, he has severed many capable generals. The only one with the character 'Bi' in his name is the son of General Zhuang Yao, who once defended the southern border, Zhuang Bilan."

Yet he smiles languidly almost every day, as if nothing matters, even when the woman he likes is taken away from him, he continues to smile in this lazy manner

The corners of his eyes curved with a sigh of sentiment, "In the blink of an eye, my daughter has come of age. Finally, I can bring her home in marriage"

Indeed, a woman was surrounded by several elegantly dressed ladies like stars surrounding the moon. She had her hair styled in a high bun, her features were striking, and she wore a bright red robe adorned with golden phoenixes and auspicious clouds, with wide sleeves. A flowing light gold gauze draped over her shoulders, further enhancing her radiant complexion, which was carefully adorned with rouge, exuding an air of opulence and beauty

If one does not possess a heart and soul at all, then one is like me, hiding it very deeply, very deeply

With a wry smile at Tang Tianxiao's mischievousness, I naturally did not dare to neglect this master of the six palaces and hurriedly approached to pay my respects.

I thought I had concealed my feelings well, yet my inner thoughts had never escaped the keen eyes of Nan Yayi. It is commendable of her, as she did not inquire about it directly, but quietly took care of everything behind my back, even risking her own life in the process

Thus, after Tang Tianxiao entered the sleeping quarters, I remained in my old robe, my face pale and haggard, silently sitting by the table drinking tea

In the following days, life became exceptionally noisy and chaotic

After such a long time, I have long understood that in this world, the most useless emotion is sadness, and the most futile action is shedding tears. Yet, with the jade flute in hand, I clearly find myself back in the Ning residence, at the age of fifteen or sixteen.

He was playing with his belt, suddenly pulling it tight, as straight as a string. "Just like a bowstring, if pulled too tight, it will snap at the slightest external force. Ya Yi said, if it weren't for you, when Zhou Bing invaded Ruidu, I might not even have been able to find her bones. She would not go so far as to seek death after leaving me, but if you are forced to marry, there is only one way out: death. She does not want you to die." She would not go so far as to seek death after leaving me, but if you are forced to marry, there is only one way out: death. She does not want you to die.

He is an emperor, and a very young one at that, who has not yet shed his childishness

I bit my lip tightly and coldly stared at Tang Tianxiao without saying a word

"I will think of a way to bring her back, to return to my side," he said, deftly manipulating the sharp dagger between his fingers, suddenly pointing the cold blade at me. "Zhuang Bilian gave you this dagger, is it to make you take your own life?"

He lowered his head, and his soft lips, trembling slightly, gently brushed against my forehead

Tang Tianxiao laughed heartily, "Indeed, Feng Yi, I have stumbled upon a treasure. I initially thought she was only skilled in cooking, but after our conversation last night, I discovered that this Ning Jieyu is also from a prestigious family in Jiangnan. She has knowledge in music, chess, calligraphy, and painting, as well as poetry and prose. She is truly a rare talent!"

Nanya's words are indeed correct; he has diligently practiced martial arts and is extremely agile. Even though I exerted all my strength in despair, I only managed to tear a small hole in my front garment. In contrast, he disarmed me with his bare hands, and his fingers were cut by the sharp blade, now dripping with blood.

Tang Tianxiao stood up and laughed aloud: "Oh, it is not mine! The melody of this jade flute has always been difficult to grasp, especially for women; it always sounds somewhat sorrowful and should not be played in the Empress's palace"

Shen Fengyi smiled and said, "Your Majesty, is she the palace maid whom Your Majesty happened to encounter, who is skilled at making a delicious fish soup?"

The young man reached for a branch of jasmine by the pavilion, casually pinning it in the girl's hair. His smile was gentle and fresh, like a pool of clear water beneath a lotus flower, and his voice was as pure as the water: "When our fathers return from their expedition, we shall marry."

He harbors both fear and disdain for his cousin, showing no signs of concealment in my presence

After waiting through so many days and nights, both she and I have grown accustomed to solitude, and we will not take to heart the mockery of outsiders

In the evening, he also stayed overnight in the Yiqing Palace, but he only slept on a bamboo couch, conversing with me through a thin silk curtain, without any transgressions. Even after the night grew deep and quiet, he would sweep away the carefree demeanor of the day, silently leaning by the window, with melancholy and reluctance accompanied by repressed resentment, unfurling like the night, silently and without a sound.

I dare not think of Zhuang Bilian

The Regency Prince's residence did not cause much of a stir, but it was subtly rumored that Lord Kang, Tang Tianzhong, seemed to be quite dissatisfied with his newlywed wife. Although he entered the bridal chamber on the night of their wedding, he was found drunk on the floor beside the bed the following morning, while the bride remained neatly dressed, sitting at the edge of the bed.

Fear. I speak frankly. Who wouldn't be afraid of being cut for no reason?

My head is splitting with pain. Unfortunately, I do not have the right to utter even a single "no"

What should I do? I have lost my anger, I asked desolately

The name that had been sealed away for an unknown duration was suddenly mentioned by someone, causing my heart to feel as if it were being violently torn, flesh and blood alike. It was as if something had been overturned, flowing out in all directions like lava, scorching every part it touched to the point of unbearable pain, almost bringing forth my tears

Today, she is the first-ranked lady married to Lord Kang, and you are my concubine; both of you have attained great wealth and nobility that ordinary women can only dream of. How could you possibly feel wronged?

The consort Du Xian, standing to the side, smiled and said: "I told you so, Your Majesty. If you do not come to Xi Qing Palace to see Her Majesty the Empress for even a day, you will not be able to rest easy."

He plays the zither by the waterside, while I lean against the red railing and play the flute. The fragrance of the clear lotus blooms delicately in the air, intertwining with the harmonious sounds of the zither and flute. Even each petal of the lotus seems to be laughing softly, responding in laughter to the seemingly inexhaustible joy of the young man and woman.

In that moment, we suddenly heard the sound of each other's heartbeat resonating like a drum within our chests

At that moment, we were a perfect match, unparalleled in the world

I happily laughed and buried my blushing face in his embrace; he held me tighter, repeatedly calling my nickname, "Wuer, Wuer..."

Feeling somewhat guilty, help me massage my legs for a while! I walked a lot today and am tired...'' He yawned, half-smiling, and looked at me with a languid gaze, infused with youthful mischief and playfulness, ''If I am not asleep, you are not allowed to rest.''

Raising his head, Tang Tianxiao lazily shuffled over in his shoes, patted my shoulder, and then flopped down onto the soft couch to sleep, repeating once more: "You should sleep on the bed!"

I shivered involuntarily, truly unsure which was more terrifying, the boy emperor who was at times childish and at other times astute, or the young Lord Kang, who exuded a chilling and commanding presence under the moonlight

However, the hairpin adorned with the nine phoenixes heralding the sun and the eight treasures, symbolizing the queen's esteemed position, stands out amidst the dazzling colors, with its striking coral bead tassels. Coupled with her splendid attire, the only flaw is her slightly protruding full lips

It is only natural to toss and turn in sleeplessness. It seems that I only fell into a hazy sleep after catching a glimpse of a ray of light filtering in from outside the window

If I had not heard with my own ears Tang Tianxiao refer to his empress as "the big rooster," I would have certainly overlooked the mockery and narrow-mindedness in his eyes, truly believing that their imperial relationship was deep and harmonious.

That smile suddenly reminded me that Tang Tianxiao is the same age as I am, and he is even a few months younger than me. Ascending to the throne at the age of nine is undoubtedly the greatest turning point in his life; however, with powerful ministers in control, he holds the supreme position without any merit of his own. Whether this is a blessing or a curse, only heaven knows.

Subsequently, it was rumored that the bride had caught a chill and was sent to a villa outside the city for recuperation

When that bright moon in his eyes approached me again, the halo around it suddenly expanded, and amidst the pure radiance that enveloped the heavens and the earth, his fair and jade-like face emerged with a delicate blush reminiscent of a lotus flower.

As I thought of that person's cold, hard, and strong features, while I was curled up in the brocade quilt, trembling in fear, I heard the bamboo couch creaking softly. After a moment, there was another series of soft creaks.

This is quite strange, I like you, and what does it have to do with fulfilling or disappointing your noble intentions

To express dissatisfaction, it is probably about not continuing to stay at Xiqing Palace last night, which ultimately made her unable to suppress her young lady temperament, leaving me aside and allowing me to stand alone as they gradually shifted their conversation from jewelry and clothing to the wealth and power of their respective families.

Tang Tianxiao sighed with a tsk, walked up to me and sat down, chuckling: "What a pity for Tang Tianzhong, truly a heart devoted to flowing water! Fortunately, I have long known that your heart belongs to another, otherwise..."

No matter how dissatisfied I may feel, I am well aware that he is the supreme emperor of the Great Zhou, and also the only hope for a distant and happy future. Perhaps... he is also my hope.

Tang Tianzhong

I couldn't help but wonder, "What is regrettable? What is still good?"

Don't cry! Tang Tianxiao sat beside me, seemingly at a loss.

For a long time, he reached out and half-embraced me, using his sleeve to wipe my tears, and gently said: "I did not truly wish for you to serve me in bed; staying here is merely to annoy Tang Tianzhong! Rest assured, once I have overthrown Tang Tianzhong and brought back Ya Yi, I will have someone send you to Zhuang Bilian. Hmm... if you wish to accompany Ya Yi, I do not mind raising another light beauty! Hurry and wash your face, you look like a crying flower cat!"

He has already pointed out that I am the flute-playing woman encountered by Tang Tianzhong. I could not refuse, so I took the jade flute and was just about to casually play a tune when I heard Tang Tianxiao say: "Just play... the one you played that night by the lotus pond!"

To meet without reason is to meet in vain; no matter how hard one tries, it is ultimately futile

I boast of my consorts, what does it have to do with him, Tang Tian? Yet I insist on him losing his teeth and swallowing blood!" He slightly squinted his eyes, the slanting phoenix eyes held a hint of cold amusement, "If he cannot even endure this, and truly commits some outrageous act, then I shall have to reassess your value!"

I still cannot connect the Tang Tianxiao, who usually shares a deep and affectionate bond with Nanya, and who also engages in light-hearted banter with me, with the absurd emperor who abandoned Nanya and conferred upon me the title of concubine

Tang Tianxiao had already witnessed that I could even utter his name without hesitation; he did not seem to mind that I directly called out the name of Lord Kang. However, when he turned to look into my eyes, there was clearly a hint of embarrassment and anger.

It is difficult to discern whether he is joking or speaking the truth, and I cannot help but probe him: "What does it matter if Your Majesty does not know that Qing Wuxin has someone she cares for? Can Your Majesty bear to let down the heartfelt intentions of Sister Ya Yi?"

He is taking the tea offered by the maid, savoring it slowly. Although he wears his usual lazy smile and his eyes shine like bright pearls, there is a profound meaning in his gaze that only I can understand

"Are you crazy!" Tang Tianxiao shouted, swiftly striking my wrist with one palm, while his other hand seized the dagger from my face.

He spoke as he moved the sharp blade aside, holding a sharp dagger against his own finger, and swiftly made a cut.

He laughed easily, playfully scratching my nose and then ruffling my hair, affectionate yet not ambiguous, indeed resembling someone comforting an injured little kitten

"You are bold!" Tang Tianxiao suddenly shouted loudly, as he forcefully threw the handkerchief into the basin, splashing water all over the place

He had just settled himself on the throne when he called out: "Jin Qi!"

I suddenly understood what he meant, my face flushed with embarrassment, and I was at a loss for words.

After I had cleaned my hands and face, and calmed my emotions slightly, I walked back to the bed. Tang Tianxiao turned inward, half-embracing the brocade quilt, eyes closed, seemingly asleep

He is not as mediocre and incompetent as rumored outside; he has considerable accomplishments in poetry and song. The sound arises from the heart, and the melody can convey the spirit. He must have sensed from the flute's notes just now my deep love and profound longing for another man

I stood silently to the side, and although I could not discern his thoughts, it was evident that he had just wholeheartedly defended me. Otherwise, if he had denied my intention to assassinate him, given the sudden appearance of the sharp dagger and the wound on his hand, Empress Dowager or the regent would not have allowed me to live any longer

Having changed to a strange bedroom, and with a man sharing the same room, I thought I would certainly be unable to sleep soundly, and perhaps I would even have a series of nightmares. To my surprise, I actually slept until dawn. In a daze, I sensed something cold crawling over me, which startled me into opening my eyes, nearly causing me to jump out of bed.

According to the regulations, a pair of red silk palace lanterns must be hung in front of the gates of all the palaces where the concubines reside after nightfall. If the emperor designates a particular palace for his visit, a eunuch from the inner court responsible for administrative matters will come to remove the red silk lanterns, and will only notify the other palaces to extinguish their lanterns after the emperor has gone to bed

As I busied myself with tidying up, he had already taken the brocade quilt from the couch and placed it on the bed, then retrieved my dagger and waved to me, "Qingwu, come here!"

In the past, although many of the palace attendants in the residence of Empress Dowager Du of Southern Chu had either died or scattered, it was difficult to ascertain the details of the events. However, the older palace attendants still remembered the beautiful and favored girl in Ning Shou Palace, who was not named Ning Bi, but there was indeed a Miss Ning Er, the niece of the Empress Dowager, who was deeply cherished by her. This Miss Ning Er was initially extraordinarily beautiful, so much so that the son of a famous general was willing to conspire and rebel for her, ultimately leading to the execution of his entire family, with only that young man and his father escaping from Rui Du. After this incident, Miss Ning Er may have been too heartbroken, as she became increasingly haggard day by day, and within a year or two, she lost her original flower-like beauty, becoming indistinguishable from the crowd.

"You dead girl, shut up!" Tang Tianxiao was exasperated, her pair of phoenix eyes completely lost their usual elegance and calmness, densely veined with blood, and for a moment it was hard to tell whether it was due to sadness or anger

I smiled and said, "If heaven permits, we shall grow old together at the banks of the mandarin ducks; if heaven does not permit, there is still a pond of fragrant twin lotus blossoms."

He sighed with regret: "What a pity, what a pity! Fortunately, fortunately!"

I was thinking that the fabrics prepared in the palace may not be to your liking, so I found some alternatives. After all, the Great Zhou has just moved to Ruido, and the various storages in the inner court are still being organized and replenished. A pile was sent over, but I found very few items suitable for you. I can only ask them to keep an eye out, and next time, any beautiful ones must be reserved for my empress.

All that can be seen is a smile.

After a moment of confrontation, just as I was regretting whether I had gone too far and had blocked off the last retreat I could rely on, he suddenly turned over and sat up, joining me on the edge of the bed. In a low voice, he said: "Qingwu, you are not wrong. I sacrificed my feelings for you, more so to take revenge on Tang Tianzhong, wanting to coldly watch his joke. Ya Yi... full of grievances, could still think of you, yet I never thought much of her..."

It seems that, as I expected, the agate bracelet on her wrist and the nine phoenix hairpin on her head were both bestowed by Tang Tianxiao. It appears that although Tang Tianxiao was in a bad mood and nearly abandoned the new queen on her wedding night, he still put in considerable effort afterward to make amends, and Shen Fengyi is extremely satisfied with her supreme husband

A notification was sent over, and soon a young eunuch arrived to lead the way to the main hall of Xiqing Palace

While engaged in cheerful conversation, a eunuch outside announced: "The Emperor has arrived"

That sound of moaning and chanting, trailing off with a long tone, was deeply choked in the depths of the throat, barely discernible, and in fact, it was merely two words: "elegant intention"

His intentions are not focused on the wine, yet I find myself helpless

The feeling of playing the flute has become quite unfamiliar, yet as the cool jade touches my lips, the first note seems to drift in from a distant place, the melody, however, resonates with a familiar intensity that stirs my heart, like a delicate thread of silver, silently wrapping around me.

"The true emperor..." Tang Tianxiao repeated, his chin slightly raised. In the light filtering through the curtains from the candlelight, his face, filled with resentment and frustration, appeared strangely cold yet fragile. "I will definitely achieve it, to become the true emperor! Even if I cannot do it for the time being, I will make Tang Tian feel the emptiness of a bamboo basket fetching water, to taste what it feels like to have someone dear taken away!"

His smile has completely vanished, like a child who has committed a wrongdoing and is ruthlessly exposed, with a face full of crimson, a pair of black eyes revealing a hint of moisture, yet seemingly ignited by two flames, leaping vigorously.

Gently touching the tassel woven by Nanya, I can faintly sense her laughter and tenderness from the day she crafted it. I sigh in melancholy, softly placing the jade pendant beside Tang Tianxiao's pillow, then covering him with a brocade quilt, before returning to my own bed to continue lying down.

I have heard and am quite pleased. As for Nanya Yi, she must be eager to stay far away from Tang Tianzhong.

Tang Tianxiao's gaze condensed into a fine line, looking at me deeply and quietly, yet he did not utter another word before turning to leave

The other few individuals were indeed the recently promoted Consort De, Consort Xian, Lady Zhao, and Xiu Rong, all of whom held relatively high ranks. Unfortunately, it seemed that Tang Tianxiao only sought to win over Empress Shen, without extending the same favor to the others.

"Of course. I have matters to attend to today, I shall come to see you again tomorrow," said Tang Tianxiao, as he took my hand and walked out. Along the way, he loudly commanded, "Issue an edict: Ning Jieyu is quick-witted, skilled in singing and painting. Her rendition of 'Bu Suan Zi' is elegant and profound, subtle and exquisite, greatly pleasing to me. I hereby promote her to the rank of Second-Class Zhaoyi!"

If there was no fate in the previous life, let us wait to reconnect in the next life

I once thought I was strong enough, at least to wear a mask-like smile in front of others. However, a familiar melody and lyrics can make me lose my composure in public.

The disturbances within the room have alarmed the palace servants outside, with an eunuch calling out "Your Majesty". Suddenly, the door was forcefully flung open, and someone rushed in.

As the crimson droplets of blood were about to fall, he had already lifted the brocade blanket, carefully letting the blood droplets fall in the center of the bedding, kneading it a couple of times, and said with regret: "I wounded you yesterday, but I didn't expect this; today you have suffered an unnecessary pain."

He... actually did not fall asleep

The immortal crane spreads its wings, as if it is letting out a high-pitched cry, yet it is suddenly pierced by this sharp dagger, precisely at its slender neck, instantly severing all its lofty spirit. The posture of the immortal crane flapping its wings appears as if its neck has been twisted, struggling in its death throes.

In fact, I do not wish to be sorrowful, as it would disrupt the harmony and joy that has recently enveloped the Xi Qing Palace wedding.

After I lay down quietly, his restless state lasted for a full half hour. Then, he got up, walked towards me, and gently lifted the silk curtain.

I did not dare to be ostentatious, and my attire was quite simple. I wore a high-waisted skirt made of fine silk in a bean green color, with only the collar embroidered in dark purple with a design of branching roses, which did not appear overly plain; my hairstyle was also ordinary, but I added a brilliant golden phoenix hairpin, indicating that I was a consort of some rank, not comparable to an ordinary palace maid. However, among the many women in the Xi Qing Palace, adorned in luxurious garments and heavy makeup, my outfit indeed seemed rather shabby; coupled with my constant downcast eyes and submissive demeanor, it was to be expected that Shen Fengyi would look down on me.

Are you suggesting that I should dismiss the harem and treat only her well? Is that even possible?

Tang Tianxiao, seeing that I was silent, hesitated for a moment and asked, "Girl, what is your understanding of love between men and women? Is it to be devoted to one person for a lifetime?"

That is a scar I no longer dare to touch, every time it is torn open, even if it is just a small corner, I have to endure the piercing pain and repeatedly strive to bury the memories that emerge like spring bamboo shoots breaking through the soil

In his eyes, there seemed to be a clear spring, quietly and profoundly reflecting my smile

I smiled faintly and, with a swift motion, drove the sharp dagger into my own chest

I have been under strict surveillance since our last separation. I have faintly heard about his whereabouts, but I have not received a single piece of news from him. Even though I managed to send out this poem I personally composed through someone, I have not received any response.

I had thought that he would toss and turn for a long time without being able to sleep, but to my surprise, after I had only helped him with a half cup of tea, I could hear his faint snoring.

Unfortunately, Tang Tianxiao deliberately created such an atmosphere, and no matter how hard I try, it is destined to be unavoidable. On this day, Tang Tianxiao sent someone to deliver several fresh fish, "Please prepare a few simple home-cooked dishes and cook some delicious fish soup, as Lord Kang will be coming over at noon to taste the culinary skills of Ning Zhaoyi."

The tears that I thought had dried up have not truly dried; they are merely stored in the deepest recesses of my heart. At this moment, like a skin that has been accidentally punctured, all the love, hatred, and sorrow that I have suppressed for three years surge forth like a spring, leaving me unable to hold back my tears. Habitually, I press them down in my throat, unwilling to lose my composure too much. I simply bury my face in the arms that grip the curtain tightly, trying my best to prevent my body from trembling too violently.

You are an ordinary palace maid, lacking talent and beauty, so unremarkable that no one cares to inquire about your origins or past. Unfortunately, after some time of interaction, certain things cannot be hidden, no matter how deeply you bury them. You often wake in fright throughout the night, and sometimes you even cry out in your dreams; when you are alone, your gaze drifts, and your thoughts seem absent, making it so that you sometimes cannot even hear when I call you. When I discuss chess and poetry with Ya Yi, you wear a foolish smile, appearing to understand nothing, yet your eyes are particularly bright, clearly focused on listening... Even I have sensed that your ordinariness is too extraordinary, let alone Ya Yi.

My throat is very dry, yet my eyes are quite moist. When I finally manage to speak, I realize that my voice is also hazy and unclear, "Your Majesty, did you marry me to take revenge on Tang Tianzhong?"

Thus, she chose to give up her happiness, which was within her reach, for the sake of my life, even though it was something she had longed for over the years

The carving depicts the longevity of the pine and crane.

The secret potion on my face, while it can resist water to a certain extent, will also blend into a mess if exposed to tears for too long. Now I can only imagine the chaos on my face.

Unwilling to relent is Tang Tianxiao

Oh? I have never found his smile so displeasing; it pierces me like a nail, causing unbearable pain. I had thought that His Majesty preferred to see elegance and beauty.

Tang Tianxiao was momentarily taken aback, released my hand, and muttered, "Yesterday you were so fierce that you weren't afraid of death, yet today you are actually afraid of pain?"

"It was Ya Yi herself who said that marrying Tang Tianzhong is better than you marrying him"

Once everyone had left, Tang Tianxiao finally tossed aside the pretense of binding my clothes, sat on the edge of the bed, lazily reclined back, and sighed: "Yayi said you are clever, but she truly has misjudged. There is probably no other woman in this palace who is more foolish and dim-witted than you."

I held my breath, "When did she say that?"

Tang Tianxiao appeared to be even more anxious than I was, immediately sheathing the dagger and hastily pulling his injured hand into his sleeve, calming his panic. He then turned to the eunuchs and shouted, "Who allowed you to come in? I was just playing with the concubine, get out now!"

Tang Tianxiao seemed to sense my disappointment. After a moment of hesitation, he smiled and said, "Well, I meant to test your value in Tang Tian's heart and then devise a countermeasure. Rest assured, I will not harm you, nor will I allow him to harm you. You should go meet that big rooster first"

At that time, my smile was as bright as a full moon

Regardless of whether it is for myself or for Nanya Yi, I can only assist him, even though I am fully aware that I am merely a pawn, a tool, or even a bait

Therefore, I would rather interrupt three years of waiting to fulfill her wishes, even if it means marrying that wolf-like, savage, and terrifying man

Shen Fengyi looked up in confusion and asked, "Is that so?"

Although the layout of this palace is small, it is not far from Empress Dowager Xuan's De Shou Palace and Tang Tianxiao's daily residence, Qian Yuan Palace. It is generally prepared for favored concubines to reside in. However, Tang Tianxiao does not focus on women, and there are not many concubines. The rank of the Jieyu is not low, clearly indicating that I am the master of Yi Qing Palace.

Jin Qi complied and hurriedly took a lacquered and painted tray from the hands of a young eunuch, presenting it to Shen Fengyi. Inside were several pieces of brocade and silk, indeed in shades of gold and red, vibrant in color, luxurious and dazzling

Nanya Yi did not misjudge the person; Tang Tianxiao can at least be considered of good character. As long as she remains cautious at all times, my future days will not be too difficult; but what about herself

A piercing cold light flashed by, and the sharp dagger in his hand slipped from his grasp, trailing a straight shard of light like a snow chain, deeply embedding itself into the intricately carved door panel

I can't help but feel that she resembles a large rooster

Tang Tianxiao looked up at me and smiled, saying, "Has Ning Jieyu not returned to the palace yet?"

Nanya Yi

His words caught in his throat, and he hurriedly turned his head away. The young man's handsome profile was like a sculpture of solid jade, yet his trembling eyelashes were distinctly soft, dampened by tears, reflecting a brilliant hue in the candlelight

"If Ya Yi is wholeheartedly devoted to the Emperor, shouldn't the Emperor also be wholeheartedly devoted to Ya Yi?"

I turned my face away and remained silent

And I, until I reached the front of the Xiqing Palace, was still thinking, who is the big rooster

Zhuang Bilian

I quietly approached and gently pulled half of the brocade quilt over him. Then I took another brocade quilt and spread it on a soft couch on the other side. Just as I was about to lie down, I heard Tang Tianxiao say: "Girl, come sleep here!"

The young girl inhaled the fragrance of the lotus leaves that clung to the front of the young man's collar, giggling: "Bilan, when will you marry me?"

The Xi Qing Palace, being the residence of the Empress, is undoubtedly grand and magnificent. Turning past the vermilion glazed tile screen adorned with intertwined lotus flowers, and following the newly paved colorful stone path, even before reaching the main hall, one can already hear bursts of laughter, indicating that there is more than one person present.

However, the news that Tang Tianxiao received was that Nan Yayi was completely free from illness and disaster. It seems that Tang Tianzhong could not constantly keep an eye on her, and facing the fact that he had married the wrong person every day, he chose to send her far away, so that out of sight would mean out of mind

He is exceedingly affectionate towards me, openly so. During the day, he often visits the Queen's Palace, while other concubines find it difficult to even catch a glimpse of him. Whenever he has free time, he almost always stays in the Yiqing Palace, listening to me play the piano and engaging in conversation and laughter. He deliberately spreads an atmosphere of joy beyond the palace walls, making it widely known that the most favored concubine in the imperial palace is Ning Zhaoyi from Yiqing Palace, who has gained favor through her culinary skills and is cherished for her talents.

I have long been unable to cry out loud

The melody played by Tang Tianzhong on the night we first met was an ordinary tune, "Bu Suan Zi." The reason I remember it so clearly is that on that day, I had just found the opportunity to have someone deliver a self-composed "Bu Suan Zi" to Zhuang Bilan.

Aren't you getting up to tidy up? I already said that I won't attend court today, but you should at least go and see the Empress, right?

"Lady Ning, you have worked hard serving His Majesty last night, please do not stand on ceremony!" Without even raising her eyes, Shen Fengyi casually uttered this remark, continuing to admire the agate bracelets on her wrist with the other concubines, speculating about their origin and quality.

As the music comes to an end, my hands and feet feel numb, and I can only hold tightly to the jade flute, lowering my moist eyelashes to gaze at the clear golden bricks at my feet, rendered speechless and choked with emotion

Tang Tianxiao's face gradually broke into a light, carefree smile, "What’s the matter? Is it that even this kind of thing, I need your assistance?"

This was also the first time he completely laid aside the supreme armor of the emperor, addressing you and me as equals, and candidly expressing his innermost thoughts

Initially extending a helping hand to her was partly due to the anticipation of the downfall of Nan Chu, hoping to secure a way out for oneself, which led to a deliberate effort to cultivate the relationship. Having supported each other through adversity for so long, although they are not biological sisters, their bond is hardly less profound than that of true sisters.

Tang Tianxiao laughed with delight, "Bi, Tang Tianzhong always thought that was your name. He probably never dreamed that it was actually the name of your beloved, right? What a pity that you don't have even a fraction of him in your heart!"

The words fell like a hammer, accompanied by a heavy punch that struck the bedding with a dull thud. Tang Tianxiao could not hide his anger and had completely lost his previous composure and playful smile

Upon hearing this, the palace maid immediately took the jade flute and presented it.

I, the concubine Jieyu Ning, pay my respects to Her Majesty the Empress

I have no desire to get involved in matters that have nothing to do with me. Sitting aside, I poured myself some tea and after a moment, my mind had calmed down, and I chose not to respond

The eunuchs exchanged glances, hesitating and daring not to leave

Uncertain how much time had passed, he shook the flask and discovered it was already empty, letting out a low moan.

Indeed, not long after nightfall, a supervising eunuch came to inspect the daily necessities of the Emperor and extinguished a pair of red gauze octagonal palace lanterns outside the palace gate

I grew increasingly indignant, stood up and glared at him, and said with a cold smile: "But do you not know what Sister Yayi is doing now? Will Tang Tianzhong have the leisure to adorn her with hairpins and flowers? Or has he already impatiently taken her to bed? Tang Tianxiao, did you not hear her crying?"

All present fell into a moment of silence

The Second Rank Imperial Concubine, the foremost among the nine concubines, currently holds a position in the palace that is surpassed only by Empress Shen Fengyi, and also by the De Fei, the Xie clan, and the Xian Fei, the Du clan

Jin Qi, after making the arrangements, left in a hurry after dropping two sentences. He said, "If Ning Jieyu has any questions, she can ask the Emperor tonight. I believe the Emperor will certainly visit the Yiqing Palace this evening"

The water beneath the lotus is as clear as a mirror, reflecting a pair of individuals in plain garments holding hands amidst the gentle ripples. The young man is graceful and affectionate, while the young woman smiles like a blooming flower, their garments fluttering among the lotus flowers, as if they were beings from a celestial realm

Although I have only met Tang Tianzhong twice, I can already conclude that he is a person of strong methods and violent temperament. For reasons unknown, he has developed a fondness for me and has stubbornly searched for so many years, expending so much effort. If he were to find out in the end that he has married the wrong person, how would he treat Nan Yayi

It was only the day after the mistake was discovered that I insisted on seeing her one last time, and only then did my mother reluctantly agree. Qingwu, do you know? Yayi is very perceptive; she had already guessed that you are the one Tang Tianzhong has feelings for. However, she told me that you have suppressed yourself too deeply and painfully, and you are unable to accept any changes at all

Tang Tianxiao unexpectedly accompanied me all the way back to Yiqing Palace. He stood with his hands behind his back in the bedroom for quite a while before turning around and smiling, saying: "I finally understand why Tang Tianzhong is so infatuated with you, haunted by dreams of you! The heart-wrenching look on your face when you play the flute would make any man feel pain, let alone a man as proud as Tang Tianzhong! Moreover, you foolishly took the risk to save his life!"

In the evening, I had already settled into Yiqing Palace

Tang Tianxiao was drinking, pouring cup after cup, swiftly tilting them into his mouth. Behind the silk curtain, his features appeared somewhat blurred, yet it was generally discernible that there was a sense of loss and sadness between his brows, and even his gaze had become frozen, no longer possessing its original lively and playful spirit

I am to meet Queen Shen Fengyi, who is said to have a delicate face and beautiful eyebrows, with a beauty as stunning as a flower, captivating and enchanting. It is truly unreasonable for Tang Tianxiao to refer to her as a "rooster".

The eunuchs were immediately embarrassed, no longer daring to say another word, and hurriedly rushed out of the room, tightly closing the door behind them

I could not help but feel anxious, exclaiming: "Your Majesty, it is not permissible..."

Tang Tianxiao let out a startled cry, and the outstretched palm quickly retracted.

Suddenly, Shen Fengyi frowned, "What kind of tune is this? It sounds so mournful. You, an obscure palace maid, have overnight become a third-rank concubine. What more could you possibly be dissatisfied with? If you are to play, it should be something joyful and celebratory!"

I did not understand as he walked over, grasped my wrist, and held a sharp blade against my fingers, smiling as he asked, "Are you afraid of pain?"

Rising several levels is by no means a fortunate event

I have long since closed my eyes in silence, as if I were in a deep sleep. Since he wishes for me to believe that he is asleep, I can only pretend not to know that he is awake

Moments later, the footsteps gently receded, and the faint sound of porcelain clinking gradually emerged, allowing me to dare to open my eyes once more

I took two steps back and immediately laughed at myself, "My courage has never been small. If being timid could ensure that Sister Ya Yi and I live in peace, I would willingly spend my entire life as a humble and lowly palace maid. But... what about now?"

Tang Tianxiao, upon hearing Shen Fengyi's praise, seemed even more delighted and said with a smile: "Ning Jieyu, didn't you say that you play the flute well? The weather is fine and sunny now, why not play a tune for us to enjoy? The Empress and the other beloved consorts are all from distinguished families, it would be perfect for them to appreciate it."

I closed my mouth, regretting that I should not have spoken of devotion with the emperor, who was destined for the three palaces and six courtyards since his ascension. Even if she had her own intentions, she only hoped to secure a place for herself in the harem in the future, never considering the notion of true devotion.

And how did I become a pawn to be used, caught between these two terrifying men, unable to advance or retreat?

I actually cannot agree, and cautiously advised: "Your Majesty, wouldn't this be openly provoking Lord Kang?"

Tang Tianxiao had clearly heard this story, yet he may not fully understand such emotions

Shen Fengyi then scrutinized me closely and remarked, "Hmm... the Emperor indeed has good taste. This Ning Jiyu is truly beautiful."

With both hands tightly gripping the hanging curtain, I slowly knead the disordered lines, yet I cannot rub away the sweat in my palms, nor the unease in my heart

Shen Fengyi's face flushed with a rosy hue, and as she stood up with a smile, Tang Tianxiao had already strode in, disregarding the courtesans kneeling in the hall. He personally helped Shen Fengyi up and then said: "Everyone, please rise and let us speak while seated"

Several years ago, a pair of young lovers from the Jiangnan region fell in love. However, the young woman was forced to marry another, prompting the two to secretly agree to leave home and ultimately take their own lives by drowning. That year, the lotus flowers bloomed abundantly in this area, each pair growing together, exquisite and unparalleled, their fragrance wafting for miles. Scholars and poets were moved by this tale, composing countless poems and verses, lamenting that they could not live and die together like mandarin ducks, growing old side by side.

Surprised by his drowsiness, I tucked him in, quietly returned to my bed, closed my eyes, and silently pondered my thoughts

Turning his head, through the light and thin bright yellow silk curtain, Tang Tianxiao's restless figure on the couch came into view

"Do you need to wait for me to wash your face?" Tang Tianxiao seemed not to hear and continued to smile, wetting a silk handkerchief and preparing to wipe my cheek

Tang Tianxiao remained lying on his back, his lips tightly pressed together, and his eyelashes drooping. If it were not for his unusually heavy breathing, one might think he was asleep

He frowned slightly, but did not blame me for my rudeness. Casually, he took off his outer garment and tossed it to the palace maid, instructing her to bring a basin of hot water and place it on the table. With a bright smile at the corner of his lips, he said: "You little girl, do you intend for me to help you wash up? Hurry and tidy up, I like to see you looking beautiful."

The breeze blowing through the lotus pond is warm yet not cloying, and the lotus flowers sway shyly, rustling as they convey a tempting sweetness.

As I saw him rush forward, reaching out as if to pull me, my already tense body instinctively recoiled, and without a moment's hesitation, I drew the sharp dagger hidden in my sleeve and swiftly slashed it towards him

It was actually Tang Tianxiao who took a silver hairpin, with the pearl tassel hanging from the pin rolling back and forth on my cheek, a mischievous smile on his face, completely different from the man who had drunkenly indulged in the late night. He was also quite different from the ordinary emperor who concealed his brilliance.

I had no intention of intervening, quietly standing by and watching the prosperity and bustle of others, and I was not concerned about Shen Fengyi's neglect

It roughly felt that I no longer harbored hostility, and a trace of relief passed over Tang Tianxiao's lips, but his voice lowered, "However, there is a saying that Yayi spoke correctly. If it were you who were sent to the Regent's Palace, what Tang Tian would marry again would definitely just be a corpse"

Tears fall in countless streams, further deepening one's sorrow and heartache

He spoke as he revealed his hands, which had magically concealed the dagger and the bloodstains. While dragging me towards the edge of the bed, he untied the belt of his robe to bind my hands.

He spoke casually and opened the door, allowing others to prepare for washing and changing clothes

My eyes felt warm and heavy, and I could barely stand on my soft feet. I leaned against the carved bed railing and whispered, "How could she know that I would be seeking death? I... I am just an ordinary palace maid!"

The longing is as deep as the sea, and the past is as distant as the sky

The palace had long prepared the garments and jeweled crown of a third-rank concubine, with rouge and powder all brand new and exquisite. Several maidservants came to assist me in dressing and preparing for the night, but I drove them out, and they did not dare to make a sound

As I tiptoed over and picked up the brocade quilt, a jade pendant featuring a pair of orange-yellow mandarin ducks playing in the water fell down.

I nodded, "Therefore, the one who has been wronged is the Emperor. In order to take revenge on his cousin who threatens his throne, he not only gave his beloved woman to another as a wife, but also reluctantly accepted a woman he finds utterly unappealing as a concubine"

I believe that Empress Dowager Xuan must already be aware of Tang Tianxiao's ulterior motives. She has been co-ruling the Great Zhou Dynasty with the regent for ten years, and her strategies and vigilance are far beyond those of an ordinary woman. However, when she saw me, she merely glanced at me a few times and did not raise any objections regarding Tang Tianxiao's "exclusive favor".

I do not even know whether this poem has reached his hands

The wine jug was returned to its original place, and he heavily sat back down on the couch, then lay down heavily again, no longer restless. Soon, even breaths of snoring could be heard.

The brocade quilt that was supposed to cover him has already fallen to the ground, its bright sapphire blue dragon and phoenix patterned silk surface radiating a chilling faint glow

Tang Tianxiao did not look at me, lost in thought as he gazed at the top of the bed, his eyes having grown exceedingly dim. "Girl, do you know? I actually wish to use you to bring back my beloved. We have known each other since childhood; she has always been waiting for me, first for me to grow up; then to be sent to a foreign land, waiting for me to conquer the capital and reunite. Now, she is still waiting, crying as she tells me, waiting for me to become a true emperor and take her out of the Kang Marquis's residence.