Chapter Seven, the heart is anxious and the rain is wild

After the crowd of concubines dispersed, Ting You adhered to the principle of more communication and fewer misunderstandings, lingering until the end

Now, Ting You only realizes that this west wing, exclusively for the emperor's pleasure, is indeed fraught with intricate mechanisms, and did not expect that this ordinary clothes rack would possess such special functions

The Emperor Dingxi paid her no mind, nor did he know what he had pressed, but two exquisite bracelets descended from the carved zitan flower-patterned clothes rack. The Emperor Dingxi took Tingyou's hands, separated them, and placed them into the bracelets, adorning her hands. The gilded rose vine bracelets added a touch of allure to her snow-white, lotus-like hands

I have instructed Wang Jiufu to prepare the Clear Lotus Dew

Thank you for your concern, Your Highness. I am much better now

Where does the pavilion dare to argue

Though he verbally urged others not to be anxious, he himself was in a state of extreme urgency, which ultimately cost Ting You her life. He exerted himself vigorously, as if a rushing waterfall were crashing against the white stones at the bottom of the pool, wishing he could use a thousand-fold strength to pierce and shatter those white stones.

I do not like being rejected. Emperor Dingxi bit the ear of Tingyou, holding it in his mouth and refusing to let go.

Under the candlelight at night, this scene truly evokes the feeling of a bridal chamber. Any woman who hears this would surely feel her heart soften and melt, allowing herself to be molded by him.

In the secluded pavilion, I dared not sit down, standing by to pour wine for Emperor Dingxi. However, he suddenly pulled me into his embrace, saying, "It is said that couples in the folk must drink the wine of union when they marry. Shall we also share a cup?"

Only the low laughter of Emperor Dingxi could be heard, yet his actions remained elusive. He neither advanced nor retreated, leaving Tingyou in a state of indecision. With her eyes hazy from intoxication, she found herself unable to untie her belt, feeling frustrated as she huffed through her nose, leaning against Emperor Dingxi as if pleading for him to untie it for her

"No rush." At this moment, Emperor Dixi began to speak.

Your Majesty, this humble servant... Pavilion of Serenity is truly at a loss for tears, for this time she has not engaged in any schemes to keep people in suspense

Ting You was pinned down on the clothes rack by Emperor Dingxi, unable to move, and did not know his intentions

The Emperor has ordered the use of 'Snow Jade Clear Complexion Ointment', which will not leave scars, so please rest assured, my lady

The three characters "Qing He Lu" clearly remind one of the events that took place last time at the Min Nong Pavilion, making Ting You feel somewhat uneasy. At that moment, a young eunuch brought in "Qing He Lu" along with several dishes to accompany the wine.

In the end, the pavilion echoed with desperate pleas, the voice hoarse and exhausted, and in a daze, one could not discern where they had arrived.

When she woke up again, she saw a different person in front of her, it was the palace's Yanhui Mama, who was applying medicine for her

Ting You indeed felt a bit embarrassed after hearing those words. She stood up gently and said, "Tonight, the Emperor has been preoccupied with drinking; should we prepare some late-night snacks now?" Such attentiveness and concern, Ting You believed she had done exceptionally well.

However, the words "not in a hurry" made Tingyou seem as if she were in a rush. With a guilty conscience, she became even more embarrassed, her face turning bright red.

The Zihan Hall in the Xiyuan is similar to the Qianhe Hall in the Forbidden City. The hall has double wings to the east and west. The eastern wing is where the empress resides, and naturally, due to her esteemed position, the emperor shows great respect. Generally, apart from the month preceding their grand wedding, the emperor and empress share their quarters in the Empress's Chaoyang Palace. The western wing serves as the quarters for the concubines. Those favored concubines selected by the emperor must go to the western wing for grooming and attendance. Of course, for prominent concubines, the emperor is also willing to visit their own palaces.

Although she had taken the medicine, Ting You was still in severe pain and did not feign reluctance any longer. However, she was aware that staying overnight would lead to countless rumors behind her back. Given her unstable position, she could not afford to attract attention, so she hurriedly left early in the morning

As soon as Noble Consort Yu spoke, Lan Zhaoyi let out a chuckle, and upon noticing everyone turning to look at her, she hurriedly covered her face with her fan, feeling flustered and anxious

I am reading the memorials by the light of a lamp, while you are sleeping soundly. This is clearly a preemptive move by Emperor Dingxi

The pavilion was in a deep slumber, sweet and serene, yet even in dreams, one was aware of their circumstances. With a slight movement, one immediately awoke, and upon opening their eyes, they nearly collided with a small table. Raising their head, a look of displeasure naturally appeared on their face, "Your Majesty..."

Now this is good, both hands are unable to move

At that moment, Ting You was too flustered to observe any formalities, contemplating a hasty escape from the unpredictable gaze of Emperor Dingxi. Just as she was about to take a garment from the hanger, she felt a shadow loom over her; it was none other than Emperor Dingxi himself behind her

Ting You stepped forward in a delicate manner, saying, "But what did Ting You do wrong to upset Her Majesty the Empress Dowager?" The words were spoken with a sense of grievance, and coupled with her feigned innocent big eyes, which were misty and sparkling, it was truly endearing. Even the Empress Dowager was momentarily taken aback by the sight.

"You, oh you, it is good to be close to the Emperor, but there is no need to be so concerned with *illustrated* books..." The Empress Dowager sighed deeply, clearly not wishing to elaborate further

Fortunately, it is stipulated in the palace that the concubines below the rank of the four imperial consorts are not allowed to stay overnight after serving in the Zihan Hall or the Qianhe Hall.

Ting You put on a light robe and stepped out of the clean room. Emperor Xiyi had not yet arrived, so she casually flipped through a book from the Duobao Pavilion, and she did not even realize when she fell asleep.

Emperor Dingxi paused for a moment, but soon resumed his steps and continued inside without looking back. It was only after the shadow of Emperor Dingxi disappeared around the corner that Tingyou stood up to prepare to leave, but Wang Jiufu appeared behind her like a ghost without feet, smiling as he said: "I kindly request the talented lady to go to the west wing to freshen up"

Ting You nodded randomly, realizing that he was still in the west wing, and struggled to get up

At this moment, Emperor Dingxi was filled with rage, yet he could not bear to show pity for her. He unleashed a fierce punishment, while Tingyou was bound with both hands, her legs forced apart by that person, leaving her with no choice but to endure his caresses. She was in such pain that she wished she could expel him, and in this manner, the pot of flowers was gathered even more densely, captivating more than the previous occasion.

The palace maid attending nearby quickly assisted her, saying: "The Emperor has instructed that the young mistress may rest here for the night"

As expected, Emperor Dingxi touched the water droplets and maliciously wiped them on her leg, his low laughter incessantly ringing in her ears. Tingyou, filled with anger, struggled, but he merely patted her on the buttocks, saying, "Do not be anxious, do not be anxious, it will be given to you."

As soon as this thought arose, Tingyou was greatly alarmed, realizing that she had been too eager. The beauty of a young lady lies most in her modesty and nobility. Tingyou bit her tongue, which helped her to calm down a little, distancing herself from Emperor Dingxi. "It seems the wine has run out; I shall send someone to fetch another jug."

Even though Tingyou had a thick skin, she could not withstand such a shock. In a moment of surprise, she drew her legs together, and the old woman withdrew her hand, casting a pitying glance at Tingyou, "Although the grace is vast and profound, one should still cherish oneself a little."

Even with all her confidence, Ting You couldn't help but lower her head to glance at her attire and touch the jade crown on her head

Emperor Ding placed a jade cup into Tingyou's hand, took a cup for himself, and linked arms with her, his breath brushing against the side of her ear, making her feel unable to endure.

Still, the virtuous Consort Yu inquired, "I have heard that Lady Jing has been ill recently; has she recovered well today?" and - illustrations - books

Emperor Ding lay on the back of Ting You, breathing heavily yet restlessly. His fingertips traced along the curves of Ting You, slowly gliding over the hollow of her waist and climbing up to the peak of her hips. If one were to speak of the most alluring curves of a woman, it would undoubtedly be this place

Ting You felt a tightness in her heart due to Emperor Dingxi's actions, her whole body tensed up, and her voluptuous hips instinctively drew together. When Emperor Dingxi bit her, he then grasped her with one hand, kneading and pressing, making it evident to anyone that the person behind her was filled with fervor

But the person in front of her was as unresponsive as a wooden figure, only using his palm to idly rub her chest. Not only did he fail to extinguish the fire, but he also added fuel to it, making Ting You want to grab his hand and place it on her own chest.

Both Fangpin and Nayu Guiren cast sidelong glances at Tingyou. Upon noticing her gaze, they hurriedly turned their heads away, as if they had seen something they should not have.

If it were someone else, they would surely think that the Empress Dowager is too cold-hearted. However, upon careful reflection, it seems that the Empress Dowager must have possessed a certain level of grace and capability to have secured her position as Empress in the later years of the late Emperor. It is hard to believe that her manner of treating others could be of such a low standard.

Seeing that he had no objections, Ting You felt emboldened and slowly moved down, gently nibbling on Emperor Dingxi's earlobe, reaching out to untie his belt, her body twisting even more intensely, wishing he would hold her tightly and pull her in.

For a moment, there was silence. Ting Youjing sat with the concubines, and more and more people kept glancing at her, their eyes mostly filled with curiosity, but there was also no shortage of glee at her misfortune

Yet, she saw Emperor Dingxi ruthlessly kneading her jade-like bosom with both hands, and in just two or three movements, it stirred within Tingyou a mix of desire and fear.

Wine is a medium of color, and a wave of warmth surged from Ting You's body, transforming into various postures in the embrace of Emperor Dingxi. The slight friction made her face flush and her starry eyes glisten. If it were not for the firm pressure against her lips, she would likely have cried out.

However, Emperor Dingxi appeared to be like Liu Xia Hui, with a pair of very orderly hands, pouring and drinking by himself, yet he did not forget to pour a few cups for Tingyou. Her tolerance for alcohol was already low, and after such a round, she felt even more fiery and restless. Looking at Emperor Dingxi's face, which was like a source of trouble, it was inevitable that she became flustered and began to nuzzle against him.

The pavilion was quiet as she got out of bed, grabbed her robe to wrap around herself, enduring the pain as she bent down to pay her respects, "I take my leave, Your Majesty"

This time is actually not short, as Tingyou moved away from the pavilion and got off the bed, Emperor Dixi was merely leaning against the bed, taking in her smooth back and long legs. Seeing her in a robe, he did not object. Tingyou thought this meant consent.

Unable to discern the thoughts of Emperor Dingxi for the moment, Tingyou could only allow him to manipulate her as he wished

Whenever Tingyou showed any sign of retreat, one could only hear the sound of his palm striking against his own buttocks, a sound so sharp and stimulating that it felt life-threatening. By the time the water had worn away the stone, Tingyou had long since retreated in utter disarray

After the Empress Dowager saw that everyone had left, she finally let out a "humph" at Tingyou.

The pavilion is filled with a sense of perplexity that cannot be resolved, and I can only set it aside for the time being. I then inquired about the well-being of Empress Dowager Jing and paid my respects to the other concubines.

After Tingyou finished bathing in the western wing, Sui'er had already brought Tingyou's clothes from Congyu Pavilion. The attendants in the palace are quite astute; the zither and guqin that Tingyou brought into the palace are not very familiar with the palace's circumstances. Empress Dowager Jing specifically bestowed Sui'er, who was by her side, to Tingyou. As expected, today, when Sui'er saw Tingyou heading to the western wing, she returned to Congyu Pavilion to fetch the clothes, alleviating Tingyou's inner discomfort.

Ting You's face flushed with embarrassment as she awkwardly adjusted the robe wrapped around her. She caught a glimpse of the bloodstains on her wrist caused by the bracelet, which had also been treated with medicine

Emperor Dingxi raised his head to gaze at the pavilion's tranquility, yet he smiled without speaking

The Empress Dowager ignored Ting You, merely emitting a sound from her nose in response to her greeting, resembling either a "hum" or an "mm." However, it was evident that Ting You had offended her.

Ting You had only taken half a step when Emperor Dingxi seized her back with a powerful grip, pressing her down with overwhelming force. His hand reached down, and Ting You quickly closed her legs tightly, fearing that his fingers would touch her urgent marks. However, how could her strength withstand the man's brute force

Ting You lay in the Congyu Pavilion for four or five days, and only now can she walk without leaving any traces. The Empress Dowager had reported her illness early on, yet surprisingly, no one has come to inquire about her condition in these past few days, nor have they sent any gifts for the sick. This is truly somewhat lacking in human compassion

Only Tingyou can be considered rational; the person who was so indifferent just a moment ago is now so warm and intimate. If you think the emperor is infatuated with you and wishes to make you his wife, that would truly be digging your own grave

The day is serene and splendid, as I make my way to the Green Ripple Palace to pay my respects. Along the way, I encounter a few concubines who are also on their way to offer their greetings. Their gazes are imbued with a hint of exploration and curiosity, accompanied by an indescribable sense of elevated joy.

The skin is radiant and smooth, exuding a pearlescent glow that makes one reluctant to let go even without indulging. The faintly discernible sweet fragrance compels one to lean in and savor the scent.

Ting You struggled to shift her body slightly; she had already found it difficult to hold on just a moment ago, and now the pain was unbearable. She did have the intention to flatter Emperor Dingxi, but unfortunately, it was a case of having the will but lacking the strength, akin to someone who does not dare to take on delicate tasks without the proper tools.

Ting You was unkindly pondering whether Emperor Dingxi was attempting to undermine his connection with the Empress Dowager. However, he also considered that given his current advantageous position, with or without his own support, he was still the winner. As a dignified emperor, why would he need to act in such a manner

When Emperor Dingxi, Chu Ke, walked into the western wing, he saw Ting You holding a scroll in one hand and propping up her chin with the other, sleeping at an angle. Her large sleeves had slipped down to her elbows, revealing a section of her arm that was as beautiful as snow, appearing tender like a lotus root. One bite would be crisp and sweet, leaving a refreshing taste in the mouth.

Tingyou's figure is truly exquisite, with a well-proportioned physique that is both ample and graceful. It is neither so thin that it feels bony, nor so plump that it appears excessive; rather, it possesses a fullness that makes one yearn to reach out and grasp it at first sight

This kind of teasing is amusing once or twice, but if it happens too often, it inevitably becomes annoying, don't you think, Jingcai? The voice of Emperor Dingxi echoed in Tingyou's ear, and although their actions were indeed intimate, with no space between them, the words were chillingly cold.

As Tingyou entered the Green Ripple Hall, the hall could truly be described as a splendid gathering filled with guests. The virtuous Consort Xian and the former Consort Hui were engaged in conversation with the Empress Dowager, while Lan Zhaoyi, upon seeing Tingyou enter, couldn't help but laugh. After laughing, she pretended to cover her face with a round fan, as if afraid that others would know she was laughing.

Ting You is most annoyed by this aspect of him; instead of speaking properly, he will laugh in a way that makes your heart uneasy, leaving you feeling awkward and embarrassed. "Then shall this servant attend to His Majesty's rest?"

In the secluded pavilion, I take a deep breath, feeling excited about the desires hidden in my heart, while simultaneously looking down upon my own resolve

Wang Jiufu was about to wake Tingyou when he was dismissed by Emperor Dingxi. The people around them all withdrew, and Emperor Dingxi sat down opposite Tingyou. Seeing that she was sleeping soundly, he quickly removed the hand that was supporting her head, watching as her head tilted rapidly towards the small table beside the couch.