Chapter 7, Alliance

Na La Zhi Zhu's expression suddenly changed, looking at the green lotus on the ground in disbelief. She had no prior acquaintance with her, so how could she speak such unfounded words, fabricating something out of nothing?

Sister, this is a joke... she smiled slightly, her expression calm and indifferent.

It seems that once one enters the palace gates, it becomes quite difficult to maintain the initial state of affairs. The present time is no longer like the past; whether by compulsion or by choice, once she takes a step forward, there is no turning back.

What cooling medicine, what noble person, is merely an excuse for the Empress to eliminate her and her son. The deep palace is desolate, and the palace's heart is like poison. Seeing that the Empress is about to give birth, she knows that with her temperament, how could she possibly spare her child

The veiled and sharp words, however, hit the nail on the head. In the imperial harem, even the most favored consort or the highest-ranking palace maid cannot escape the blame of harming the prince. The so-called strategy of offense and cunning, with psychological manipulation as the foremost approach, requires a powerful tactic to make the usually composed Lady Hui yield. Although she does not understand military strategy, she has her own calculations and ingenious ideas that leave others defenseless.

The palace maid was startled by Jing Ning's piercing gaze, causing her to tremble and suddenly kneel down, "Miss, please spare my life, please spare my life... It was... it was Lady Hui's order for me to put this medicine in Lady Fu's usual meals. I deserve to die, I deserve to die..."

A faint and gentle sentence could hardly conceal the weariness in the tone. Jing Ning slightly raised her head to look at the handsome figure clad in bright yellow. With a face full of exhaustion and eyes lined with red veins, despite appearing extremely fatigued, he still forced himself to review one memorial after another.

Indeed, as a child respects their mother, how could she forget this point

The pale pink canopy gently droops, and in the cradle lies a frail and tiny life, wrapped in soft bright yellow garments, resembling tender buds and delicate flowers. Upon seeing Jing Ning, it had been crying softly just a moment ago, but now it has become exceptionally quiet.

Within the palace, it is ultimately a case of the mantis stalking the cicada, while the oriole is behind. Until the very last moment, anything can happen! Therefore, the words of the noble lady are perhaps a bit premature...

Jingning set down the tea cup, brought her index fingers together, rested her elbows on the sides of the chair, and smiled with her eyes, which were filled with an unpredictable mix of emotions. "It does not matter if my sister does not recognize me, but she certainly recognizes her sister!"

Jingning's smile was even more pronounced, and she naturally knew what was on her mind. With a slow, gentle laugh, she leaned closer, ready to enlighten her and provide clarity.

No, I do not know this palace maid at all... At this moment, she began to argue in a flustered manner, her originally calm and composed eyes now filled with panic and sorrow

She waved her hand to dismiss everyone else, leaving only Yingzhui in the chamber to assist her with changing clothes

The so-called promotion beyond the norm and the struggle for succession are merely illusory pretexts that drive those whose minds are clouded by desire to forge ahead, one after another... In the end, the greatest winner is the one who stands high above, enjoying the benefits equally, the supreme ruler.

As for me, you have passed the test, but how do you plan to deal with the Empress on her side

She asked with genuine concern, while Jing Ning stared at her unblinkingly, until she felt completely drained of confidence

In a haze of confusion, she was flustered and distracted, while he remained increasingly calm, wearing a smile that was neither fully a smile nor devoid of emotion. "Even someone as difficult as Granny Gui can be brought under your control; it seems I have underestimated your extraordinary abilities..."

She smiled gracefully, her eyes holding a hint of something profound.

What did she do wrong

In the sweltering summer weather, wherever one goes, it is a scene of intense heat. According to custom, at this moment, the Emperor should be taking the various consorts to the summer palace to escape the heat, but due to the pressing nature of the current military situation, there is no leisure time for such an escape. Now, in each of the palaces, the only means of cooling off is through the stored ice, which can be considered refreshing and pleasant, yet it is a hardship for the palace guards.

Na La Zhi Zhu's eyes flickered slightly, and she said softly: "But, regarding Her Majesty the Empress..."

"Your Majesty, are you saying that ... ... it was Your Majesty who sent you here?" Na La Zhi Zhu was once again taken aback

Jingning looked up and saw Nala Zhizhu suddenly blocking her way with a face full of panic

Regarding the matter of the cooling medicine, there indeed exists such a person, but they are simply not in the Changchun Palace. As for whether they are in other palaces, that is not something a mere palace maid like myself can determine. Sister, do you understand what I mean...

Jingning smiled lightly, turned her head, and waved her hand towards the green lotus on the ground, "The performance is over, you may leave now!"

In comparison between the two, one should choose the lighter option... With Jingning being so astute, how could he not understand the balance of weight and importance...

Some things, when heard, may be illusory; yet some things, when seen, may not necessarily be real

Jingning smiled and fell silent.

Just as Na La Zhi Zhu was about to lose her composure, suddenly, from within the inner hall of the sleeping quarters, the sound of a baby's cry was heard

At first glance, he appears so charming and elegant, effortlessly clean, with eyebrows that arch gracefully and eyes that are deep and clear, resembling a cold pool shrouded in mist, like spring water shimmering with broken ice, calm and profound, as enduring as ink.

She stared intently into Jingning's eyes, each word deliberate and filled with hatred, "Who exactly sent you here? Who gave you the authority to question me?"

The spring breeze arrives at the courtyard in a single night, while the fragrance of locust flowers fills the air for ten miles.

Nala Zhizhu looked at her in disbelief, then glanced at the bottle, her senses hazy, as if she had just experienced a grand dream

With her hand slowly forming a fist, Na La Zhi Zhu handed the child in her arms to a nearby maid, gazing at Jing Ning with an expression that was difficult to read, "What do you mean by saying that?"

Na La Zhi Zhu did not stop any further; after a brief moment of hesitation, she quickly followed inside

One is a lowly palace servant, and the other is a sovereign of supreme authority. Two faces, yet a common mindset. ... It is merely a matter of exploitation and being exploited, unrelated to romance or love, but solely for mutual benefit ...

What does this mean, younger sister

"Your Majesty, please forgive this humble servant for her ignorance..."

Generous and magnanimous, diligently adhering to her duties, this is the evaluation given to Lady Hui by the women of the inner palace. Whether this assessment is accurate or not, Jingning does not know, but from the courteous attentions observed during their first meeting, she indeed appears to be a woman of great charm and adaptability

What does the emperor mean by this ... ... ? After hesitating for a while, a hint of calmness appeared amidst her previously anxious expression.

Having served him in bed, she lost her virtue; though her heart remains, it is already incomplete. Yet she cannot complain, nor can she harbor resentment, for ultimately, that night was merely her one-sided affection and her own cleverness. Had it not been for her deliberate seduction, would he have taken favor upon her

The myriad flowers wither, leaving only your solitary beauty; what an extraordinarily graceful and elegant demeanor you possess. I still remember the day I asked you, and you replied that you did not wish to fall to the ground like mud, but only to retain your fragrance as before... So today, what will you do

She took out an embroidered silk handkerchief, gently brought it closer, and then softly and carefully brushed it against his finger, as if cherishing the most precious treasure

Pushing open the palace door, he was indeed sitting at the desk, reviewing the memorials.

Just as Na La Zhi Zhu was about to lose her composure, suddenly, from within the inner hall of the sleeping quarters, the sound of a baby's cry broke out

"Why does my sister have time to come here today?" She slightly inclined her body in greeting, observing all the formalities, showing no signs of neglect.

Having changed her attire, she gracefully walked out of the sleeping quarters, without bringing anyone along. Taking a detour, she made her way to the Zhengshun Gate and headed towards the Dongnuan Pavilion in the eastern part of the Six Eastern Palaces

As long as the Suishou Hall remains undisturbed and the Eastern Palace is not intimidated, others may be dealt with as you see fit He gently crushed the petals in his palm, the thick flower juice a bright cherry red, spreading like blood through his fingers

No matter how powerful one’s hand may be, it cannot cover the sky. This world, after all, belongs to the Emperor, and this harem is also the Emperor's harem. Whether the Emperor wishes to protect someone or eliminate someone is merely a matter of thought... As long as sister remains at ease, everything will be fine with me and the Emperor here.

The beauty is a source of calamity, and the hen crows at dawn. Throughout history, it seems that all the mistakes made by rulers, regardless of their magnitude, ultimately fall upon the shoulders of women. Little do they know, among the three thousand beauties in the harem, how many women can truly receive the affection of all three thousand? Most are merely pitiful pawns.

Jing Ning fastened her shoulder strap and pulled her hand out to tap her on the head: "You girl, you listen to what you should and also to what you shouldn't. From now on, remember to speak less and listen more. The palace is not like it used to be; now there are four more people, and with more people, there are more voices, making it inevitable for rumors to arise!"

Within the palace, it is ultimately a case of the mantis stalking the cicada, while the yellow sparrow lies in wait behind. Until the very last moment, anything can happen! Therefore, the words of the esteemed elder sister may be somewhat premature...

Before she could speak, Jing Ning walked over, deftly picked up the porcelain bottle from the ground, held it in her hand, and examined it closely. "Sister, this medicine is called 'Cool Medicine'. It contains musk, a small amount of safflower, and mercury. It is not poison, but it is sufficient to prevent a woman from ever conceiving a child..."

Upon returning to the Chengxi Hall, before the two of them could step through the courtyard gate, they noticed that four palace maids were already waiting inside.

The wooden barrel filled with hot water is still steaming, yet the water has already turned into a murky dark red. Within it lies the trace of her transformation from a girl into a woman.

"Dear sister, please do not be upset. Before I clarify things, you might as well take a look at this letter from home. It was personally handed to me by Aunt Gui..." She smiled charmingly and skillfully changed the subject, taking out the slightly crumpled gold-embellished letter from her sleeve.

"So what exactly do you want..." she said hysterically, her nerves already on the brink of collapse

Na La Zhi Zhu murmured Jing Ning's words, and in an instant, a glimmer of brightness suddenly burst forth from her originally obscure eyes, her gaze sparkling like stars, her cheeks flushed, and even her spirit seemed to soar.

Nowadays, the princess's child is robust, and as long as he can grow up healthy, he is luckier than those princes who died young. Moreover, according to our Manchu customs, it is not only the case that a mother is honored by her son, but a son can also honor his mother... As long as one survives, there will always be opportunities

That jade bracelet, she recognizes it. In the past, only two pieces were offered as tribute; one was bestowed upon the Empress Dowager, and the other was for the Empress herself. Last year during the Lantern Festival, the Empress even specially brought it out for these newly elevated noble ladies to admire. Who would have thought that such a precious item would be given to someone else!

What is it to be a motherly figure, but merely a beautiful dream concocted by her to gain the trust of the favored one, compelling her to submit

Yingzhui had been waiting in the courtyard for quite some time. Upon seeing her come out, he did not ask any further questions and followed her closely as they both left.

Na La Zhi Zhu's eyelids twitched slightly, three parts astonishment and seven parts unease. Without suspicion, she took it over to have a look, and the handwriting on the letter was indeed her cousin's own.

"It's nothing, it will pass after a while..." She weakly raised her hand to touch her tear-streaked cheek and forehead, where beads of sweat the size of soybeans had already soaked the handkerchief.

Should I ask? She is uncertain and does not dare to be certain

Jingning remained noncommittal, lightly curling her lips, "It was merely yesterday that His Majesty specifically instructed me to carefully observe the Crown Prince, to see if he is still as healthy as before. However, I did not expect my sister to be so unwilling. I can only go against the imperial command..."

Outside the Yangxin Hall, Li Dequan sat in the corridor, fanning himself while dozing off in a daze. Hearing faint footsteps, he slightly opened his squinting eyes and, upon seeing Jingning, closed his eyes again, pretending to be asleep

With skin as smooth as ice and bones as pure as jade, she remains cool and sweat-free. On her delicate, fair wrist, she wears a string of lustrous jade bracelets, cold and translucent, exquisite as fat, clearly a premium offering presented to the imperial court.

Your Majesty, this humble servant is compelled by circumstances beyond her control, and I hope that Your Majesty can show understanding and compassion... She gritted her teeth, feeling a thousand unwillingness in her heart, yet she could not afford to give up completely. Softening her voice, she attempted to move him with her plea for mercy

Looking across the world, such a handsome and unparalleled man must be rare indeed! No wonder the three thousand concubines in the harem are all infatuated with him; even she, after just one brief encounter, could not help but indulge in fanciful thoughts.

She hesitated to speak, yet her hands moved incessantly, as if his true pain had struck her deeply

The scene directed just now was merely intended to remind the esteemed elder sister that the inner palace is intricate; there is nothing that cannot be accomplished, only things that one may not think of. In the days to come, one must exercise greater caution in daily matters

"... is ... is the Empress..." Na La Zhi Zhu suddenly stumbled, a slight sweat appearing on her forehead, and she fell into the chair.

Because some hope for his death, while others hope for his life, and there is no need for any reason at all

Empress Hesheli caused her harm, yet the Emperor wanted her to protect her

Seeing her slightly relaxed expression, Jing Ning smiled knowingly, turned around, and walked out of the palace, leaving Hui Guiren alone to open the envelope.

If we consider Changchun Palace as a small chessboard, then the two players engaged in the game are the most esteemed couple in the world

The southern frontier has been divided for more than ten years. The garrison ministers have gradually become overbearing, arrogant, and fierce, which has long been a concern for the imperial authority. Lord Nalan, commanding a strong military presence, is not only an informant placed by the court but also a means to ensure that the southern frontier does not rebel.

Jingning smiled respectfully, then bowed and turned to leave

But who is he, having seen a thousand sails, how could he not understand her little thoughts. He sees it all but does not expose it, only lightly laughing like the wind, leisurely and graceful, "You may rise, I now rely on you to balance the six palaces, how could I not protect you, what was said that day in the Hall of Supreme Harmony will always hold true..."

Sister is coming today, and surely, elder sister knows the reason for it!" Jing Ning casually took a seat, picked up the teacup, and spat, displaying an attitude that completely disregarded those around her

"The prince really likes you..." Na La Zhi Zhu walked over, picked her up from the cradle, and held her in her arms, her face filled with love and tenderness

As she spoke, her eyes glistened with tears, resembling a pear blossom drenched in rain, which inevitably added a touch of delicate charm to her otherwise ordinary beauty, evoking a sense of pity in me

Her slender eyes flickered lightly as she bowed her head in silence

This time, Jingning chuckled softly, no longer responding, and simply walked towards the inner hall of the sleeping quarters.

Grandma Gui

Sister, you are exceptionally wise; there are some things that I believe do not need to be spoken by me, as you must already understand. The position in the Eastern Palace is lofty and exalted. Every consort who has borne a prince must have thought of squeezing in, even if they are magnanimous, who could resist such temptation

That Gui Mama is merely a servant; if she were not a third-generation family retainer of the Nalan family, perhaps no one would pay attention to a minor bannered servant of the Plain White Banner... Yet he made it clear, does this not indicate his suspicion

Na La Zhi Zhu moved emotionally forward, taking her hand, "Sister, do not worry, I understand everything..."

In the eighth year of the Kangxi reign, the shocking capture of Aobai occurred when he was merely sixteen years old. At such a young age, this boy already understood the virtues of patience and retreat, temporarily avoiding the spotlight. Ultimately, this allowed him to numb his enemies, restore power to the court, and seize great authority. What desire is there for the splendor of a dream, born into the heartless family of emperors

The fragrant smoke swirled around, resembling the slender strands of a woman's hair, rising in a way that made one feel drowsy. Jing Ning walked over lightly and bowed down.

Regarding the matter of the cooling medicine, someone must step forward to take the blame. However, that person will not be Lady Hui, at least not for now

After the announcement, Huigui, the daughter of the Nala family, Zhi Zhu, came out to greet them, dressed in a simple and elegant floral qipao. She was tall and slender, and although her features were not conventionally beautiful, she possessed a quiet grace and virtue, her demeanor as picturesque as a painting

The Crown Prince is very handsome, Jing Ning sincerely remarked

Having dismissed all the palace attendants who came to visit, Jingning isolated herself in the sleeping quarters of the Chengxi Hall

"Having received the Emperor's commendation, being able to alleviate His Majesty's worries is a blessing that this servant has earned over three lifetimes..." She gracefully curtsied, bowing elegantly.

A magnetic yet slightly indifferent voice came through, as if it were ice, sweeping away the heat within the hall. "Is there any response?"

Nara Zhizhu's elder brother is Lord Nalan Mingzhu, who currently guards the southern frontier. Although Jingning lacks connections in the court, he has a rough understanding of the current situation

Then the younger sister took her leave, saying that in the future, all matters would be taken care of, and that the elder sister only needed to focus on taking care of the Crown Prince. Additionally, she should also reassure those outside the palace, as everything would be fine with the Emperor present, and the noble elder sister would certainly not be wronged... After she finished speaking, she raised her head to look at her, her eyes slightly glimmering, revealing a hint of shrewdness

As she spoke, she returned to her seat, picked up the porcelain bottle containing the cooling medicine, opened the cork, and a rich fragrance of a hundred flowers wafted out.

You must not think of harming my child, I will not allow it, I will not allow it

Jingning was momentarily taken aback, a sudden sense of unease rising within her, unsure whether it was due to being overwhelmed by unexpected favor or truly unworthy of such attention. Seeing such a grand display, she initially thought it was some royal figure arriving, only to realize that these individuals were actually servants sent by the Emperor and Empress to attend to her.

It is merely a bottle of ordinary flower wine; how could the younger sister and elder sister's playful banter be taken so seriously?

He needs her to balance the six palaces and to prevent minor issues from escalating; she needs him to observe from the sidelines and provide protection.

Such a person, despite holding the esteemed position of the Emperor, possesses the deepest cunning, the most formidable strategies, and the most inscrutable intentions. Like a sword that conceals its brilliance, it remains sheathed and does not reveal its sharpness, yet it strikes at the most imperceptible moments, taking lives without a trace

After being immersed in the harem for seven years, Na La Zhi Zhu should have been clear-eyed and perceptive, yet she insists on putting on an act of ignorance and naivety, is she not being overly clever

Since that day, a certain unspoken understanding that was not to be shared with outsiders has developed between him and her

Jingning observed it quietly, yet slightly lowered her head, her lips pressed together, pretending to be unaware.

What is referred to as going out is merely a step to the corridor in front of the warm pavilion

Was she promoted beyond the usual standards? It seems that, in the eyes of others, she truly received an extraordinary favor! Even she herself had once thought that he must have developed feelings for her... But, who would have thought...

Xuanye took it, pulled out the letter paper, glanced at it briefly, and nodded.

Shivering and weeping, this frail palace maid is Bi Lian, who is currently serving in the Yan Hong Hall of the Sa Kun Palace

Yingzhui looked at her sister's feigned strong smile, yet was unable to hold back her tears, "Sister, you are now serving the emperor in his chambers, and besides, you are a palace maid who has been specially promoted by the emperor, how can you not be cherished! Sister, why must you be so humble and endure..."

The jade bracelet represents the majesty and power of the central palace, and it is indeed a bribe from the queen to her. However, since it was already disclosed to Lady Hui, she should have been mentally prepared for the emperor to find out. Now, being exposed by him has caught her completely off guard

In her youthful innocence, how could she understand the treacherous hearts of those in the harem

However, now that the queen is with child, it is only natural for those in the capital to find ways to ensure that Lord Nalan, who is far away, can rest easy. Thus, this letter conveying the good news of safety, delivered by Jingning, could not be more appropriate

Before my eyes, that handsome and unparalleled face suddenly reappeared... The Emperor, what a lofty representative he is, noble and awe-inspiring, yet unable to accommodate the most ordinary of human emotions

Nothing binds the heart together, yet the empty binds the heart with grass

"Why not accompany me to enjoy the flowers..."

Unable to contain the doubts in her heart, Yingzhui pressed the flag costume with a hot plate while softly asking, "Sister Ning, what does the phrase 'zi yi mu zun' that you said before leaving mean?"

Her suffering begins with the trivial matters within the palace, where perilous changes arise unexpectedly; his sorrow, however, is trapped in a web of nothingness, stemming from the court while also being entangled by the palace.

Na La Zhi Zhu lowered her eyelids in sorrow, "I truly do not understand why Her Majesty the Empress insists on targeting us mother and son. Historically, the throne has always been inherited by legitimate sons and grandsons. My status is humble, and even with the Emperor's great favor, it would never come to me..."

Turning sideways to gaze, that delicate white | tender arm extends from the brocade quilt and cotton mattress, shaking, laughing at her with a chuckle

He extended his hand to catch a delicate petal that was softly falling, his long and fair fingers, clean and strong, contrasting with the fragrant locust flower petals that resembled snow. His quietly standing figure seemed like a refined scholar walking by the stone bridge in Jiangnan, appearing even more elegant and gentle, as picturesque as a painting

Jingning smiled faintly, yet did not respond. However, that graceful expression, in Na La Zhi Zhu's view, had already tacitly confirmed her speculation

With the Emperor's guarantee, I am naturally a hundred percent at ease. However, the Emperor has always been filial, and I fear that when the time comes, it may be...

Yingzhui brought a hot towel and placed it on Jingning's burning forehead, yet cold sweat continued to seep out uncontrollably

Jing Ning lowered her head, yet the corners of her mouth were slightly raised. What of Rong Chong for a moment? What of having a royal son? She was merely a noblewoman of low status. The Empress is the master of the palace; even if she were to be framed, she would have no power to refute it. Moreover, when one wishes to impose a crime, there is no lack of excuses!

Silence, a silence akin to death

The elder sister is originally the mistress of this Changchun Palace, while the younger sister has just arrived and is here to pay her respects

Throughout history, the emperor has always had to prepare for court at the hour of the rabbit. Today, being slightly late, those in the imperial harem will surely think that she is exceedingly charming and has become arrogant due to her favored status

As a newly appointed palace maid, although she had not yet been granted a rank, she was under the protection of Li Dequan, and thus, the eunuchs and servants in various places were surprisingly accommodating. Therefore, without any hindrance, Jingning was able to proceed smoothly to the Suishou Hall

After a bout of spasms, the lower abdomen seems to hurt less...

The once composed and experienced Lady Hui suddenly became anxious at this moment

Jingning also gracefully inclined her body, her pale face tinted with heavy rouge, becoming a translucent crimson. Unlike her usual demeanor of lowered brows and downcast eyes, her gestures now carried a hint of pride.

Yingzhui playfully stuck out her tongue, "I understand, I understand, the wet nurses in the Chengqian Palace taught me the same way back then"

Jingning stepped forward slightly, gently placing his hand on her slightly cool one, his smile containing a captivating sense of reassurance.

The chiffon dress, light and flowing, achieved a touch of the purest white, yet became even more stark and striking due to being stained with blood. Jingning, dragging her weary body, had only rested for half an hour, and under the support of Yingzhui, arrived at the eastern hall of Changchun Palace—Suishou Hall

This couple, even their surveillance and probing, employs the same methods. However, according to the custom, her current position is not as stable as usual, and agreeing to have one attendant is already sufficient. The addition of four more palace maids this time truly raises questions about how the inner palace will gossip tomorrow

Na La Zhi Zhu's lips parted and closed, hesitating and stammering, presenting an appearance of wanting to speak yet holding back

His hand holding the pen suddenly paused, and although he did not raise his head, he stopped writing. "You are now a waiting maid in the palace. Although you hold no rank, you have served in the inner chambers, so there is no need for you to refer to yourself as a servant."

The sunlight in August is blinding, streaming through the window frames and slanting onto the floor of the hall. The bright yellow table, adorned with satin, reflects a dazzling white light. He is enveloped in that radiant white light, appearing elegant and ethereal, hazy yet unreal.

No wonder people say that serving a ruler is like accompanying a tiger; one misstep leads to a series of mistakes. Her clever schemes ultimately cannot rival the calculations in his heart.

Jingning was taken aback, feeling increasingly anxious

Fair fingers, slender; vibrant petals, poignant

The child honors the mother

The joy of having a beloved child by one's side can be described as the bliss of family. Now, my sister has already secured her position with a little prince, yet she still wishes to deprive other concubines of their chance to conceive. Is this not a bit too inhumane...

Na La Zhi Zhu followed Jing Ning's hand and looked over, her face full of doubt, but she shook her head and said, "I have never seen it."

The words you spoke to Lady Hui regarding the court affairs have surely reached the ears of the Empress Dowager by now. She has always been magnanimous and understanding, and has a fondness for intelligent and clever women. Even without my intervention, it is unlikely that she would make things difficult for you

"Then... could I possibly request His Majesty to bestow a grace..." she whispered softly, asking with great caution

Her clear eyes were indifferent, resembling ice shattered in the gentle ripples of the bright moon, without a trace of disturbance. She slightly curled her lips and raised her arm, gently rolling up the embroidered and gold-trimmed sleeves of her garment

The so-called utilization is merely a form of win-win for both parties. To gain something, one must engage with it. The Emperor's move in this regard can be considered perfectly timed

He set down his pen, clasped his hands together, and his gaze, as faint as smoke, fell upon her slightly trembling eyes. The sunlight was hazy, enveloping her elegant and exquisite face, exuding an indescribable beauty.

The position of the Crown Prince is exceedingly noble. According to ancestral customs, it is indeed the rightful place of the legitimate eldest grandson. Therefore, rather than merely being a status, it is more accurately described as a destiny. He is destined to be the hope of a dynasty, and all are bound to be loyal to him; however, it is also the most perilous and treacherous of positions.

Her cousin is stationed in the southern border. If he achieves merit in quelling the rebellion in the future, he will have established an unparalleled contribution. At that time, it is hard to guarantee that Lady Hui will not be granted a promotion as a result. The saying that a son honors his mother follows the same principle

The words, as faint as smoke, were delivered with an air of calmness, yet they sent a shiver down Jingning's spine. She tightened her clasped hands and, in an instant, lowered her gaze, resolutely deciding to hold on until the end

The newly appointed palace maid before me treads carefully with every step and speaks with utmost caution, each word intricately linked to the next. Even I, who pride myself on being an old hand in the palace, feel inadequate in comparison. The words just spoken were perfectly articulated in both sentiment and reason, yet her heart remains restless and cannot find peace.

Without any obstruction, she walked into the Hall of Mental Cultivation

The queen indeed caused her harm, yet the emperor also ensured her protection

A pair of beautiful eyes quietly gazed at the already pale face, missing not a single expression upon it

But why does her heart still ache like this

Having said that, he took out a delicate and small porcelain bottle from his sleeve and with a "bang," threw it onto the ground in front of Na La Zhi Zhu, not even looking at her. Instead, he turned his gaze to the palace maid and said, "Both Lady Hui and I are present, so why don't you quickly confess the truth!"

"You are so clever that there is no need for me to point it out!" His gaze was shallow, with a faint smile, yet deep within his eyes, there was a hint of subtle brilliance. "A string of jade bracelets, and you think to win people's hearts. Is it that the Empress thinks too highly of herself, or underestimates you too much?"

Na La Zhi Zhu cast a barely perceptible glance, scrutinizing her closely, and couldn't help but feel a bit dazed. She had long heard of this palace maid who had been promoted by the Emperor against the norm, originally a servant from another palace, but she did not understand how she could be so unruly! Could it be that having served in the Emperor's bedchamber had made her arrogant and overbearing?

The hand that was held tightly formed a fist, and only when the slender nails dug into the flesh did she regain her wandering consciousness

The slender and clean fingers slowly closed in, enveloping the delicate yet not overly refined hands. The cool touch caused him to lower his eyelids, his deep gaze resting upon her subtly elegant face, which bore a semblance of a smile, with a glimmer of profound meaning flickering in the depths of her eyes

With tears welling in her eyes, she gently wiped away the bruises and kiss marks visible all over Jingning's body, and after a moment, she cried out, "Why not send for a royal physician? At this rate, my sister won't be able to endure..."

Returning to the Chengxi Hall, it has already passed the fifth watch of the night

A child who has just turned one year old, and a noble who has not been favored for a long time, would typically be abandoned in a forgotten corner. Yet, it is precisely this mother and child duo that has captured the hearts of everyone in the imperial harem

Seeing her in a daze, he did not take it to heart. Holding a pen, he appeared to casually inquire while flipping through the memorials:

You did very well

As for Lady Hui, the Emperor is indeed deeply considerate, even taking meticulous care in the smallest details for her. However, it is uncertain whether Lady Hui would cry or laugh if she were to learn of his myriad schemes.

Deep down, I suddenly feel a strong urge to sigh

Na La Zhi Zhu smiled gently and said, "Sister, you are being too serious, please come in and have a seat."

Her lips moved slightly as she wanted to defend herself. Yet secretly, she was still angry; it was clearly he who had sent her to the Suishou Hall to provide support, which led to this unfortunate situation. Now, however, he had turned against her mercilessly and was blaming her instead.

The clasped hands tightened momentarily, and suddenly, she cast her gaze downward, resolutely deciding to hold on until the end

Yet she ultimately forgot that there sat a queen and two imperial consorts above her, and unless they bore no offspring, the current crown prince would only ever be the crown prince, never to become the legitimate grandson of the heir.

This ... ...

Old Lady Gui? It turns out it was for this...

The crimson lips were bitten until they bled, and Na La Zhi Zhu took a breath, after a moment, suddenly realizing something

Jingning's lips stiffened for a moment, and after a while, he bitterly closed his eyes

Jing Ning took out a piece of floral stationery from her sleeve and respectfully placed it on the desk. The elegant small characters were neatly written with the words "To my esteemed cousin".

Jingning felt a jolt in her heart, lowering her head, yet the corners of her mouth curled into a bitter smile

What does it matter to sit in the central palace? She is merely a pitiful woman who has lost the emperor's favor. Without the nourishment of a man, she becomes bitter and harsh, her very countenance turning grotesque and loathsome. Even with all her scheming and calculations, it is difficult to ensure that she will not ultimately fall into the fate of being trapped by her own web.

The words, as faint as smoke, were spoken with an air of calmness, yet they sent a shiver down Jingning's spine

At the ear, it is the warm breeze that brings comfort; before the eyes, it is the delightful fragrance of flowers.

The warm hibiscus curtain envelops the spring night, from this moment on, the sovereign no longer attends the morning court

Jingning, however, smiled noncommittally, her淡视线 falling upon the bright yellow sleeve band.

One might think that within the imperial palace, it is supremely exalted, resplendent and luxurious. Living there, one enjoys the utmost of worldly pleasures, yet it is not as carefree as it appears to the common folk. Setting aside the unpredictable struggles of the court and the alluring intrigues of the harem, the sheer volume of daily governmental affairs alone consumes an excessive amount of energy, accompanied by a fair share of sorrow and heartache, which is beyond what an ordinary person can bear

Jingning smiled faintly, becoming increasingly unrestrained. With a casual gesture, a slender and delicate palace maid stepped forward from behind her.

She remained silent, not responding, merely playing quietly with the porcelain vase in her hands

To be a servant for a day is to be a servant for a lifetime; one cannot harbor extravagant hopes, nor can one defy authority, only obedience is required...! These were the words she once spoke to Ai Yue, yet at this moment, why have I forgotten them...! She is a servant; after all, she is but a servant...

With her gaze slightly lowered, she淡然地勾起唇, then gently withdrew her hand that had been grasped by him, "I truly must thank His Majesty for his grace..."

This was originally a description of the fragrant April, yet now in the weather of July and August, the locust trees should be lush and verdant, with deep green shade. However, looking around, one sees the trees adorned with clusters of flowers, resplendent and vibrant.

This is to let her fend for herself

Her pale face showed no color, and she weakly smiled, "How could I be so delicate? Such a trivial matter, I wouldn't dare trouble the physician for it!"

The long road stretches endlessly, and I do not know where the way home lies. Only by groping forward can one avoid an irretrievable fate. However... I am uncertain whether this bright lamp of the Emperor will always guide and care for me

Turning her head to signal, a palace maid immediately approached, holding a tray, and attentively arranged the tea cups and pastries one by one

Can you recognize her, sister