Chapter 5, Amnesty

Jing Ning stood quietly in the corner, yet she could always feel a strong gaze upon her. That gaze frequently lingered on her, shifting and circling, refusing to depart. When she slightly raised her head, she could see his deeply smiling expression, his dark eyes profound, as if they were a deep pool capable of drawing one in.

The black satin boots gradually approached, finally stopping in front of her, casting a large shadow over her with their tall and upright figure. Then, a magnetic and gentle voice sounded from above her head

Never having been pregnant... how could she even think of that

She appeared momentarily dazed, then shook her head, "This servant is dull-witted..."

The noble consort was exhausted in body and mind, and had not conceived for a long time. It was not until many years later that she gave birth to this daughter, whom both the Emperor and the Empress Dowager cherished greatly. Therefore, she was granted the title of "Gulun," a title reserved for daughters born to the Empress.

Jingning lay on the ground, the cold sweat on his forehead had not yet faded, but deep down, he was even more panicked

Every endeavor requires a corresponding cost; to achieve a goal, one must sacrifice something. Otherwise, even if wishes come true, one day in the future, they will be engulfed by the boundless waves of the harem.

If such clever ideas truly come from the noble person, then on the following day, I shall confer upon her the title of Guipin. He caressed a square inkstone on the table, his expression full of grace. However, the thought of benefiting the people in such a manner seems to stem from a palace maid's desperate desire for self-preservation... it appears rather absurd

I deserve to die, please spare me, Your Majesty

Clenching the medicine bottle in her hand, she decided to take the initiative first

She nodded respectfully and stepped forward, unfolding the embroidery in her hands. Instantly, the seemingly simple embroidery burst forth with a dazzling array of colors.

When Jingning saw Aiyue again, she was carrying a bundle and walking out of the Changchun Palace under the guidance of the eunuchs. Today was also the day she was scheduled to leave the palace.

"Master, do you need to go to the Suishou Palace for a visit..." Jing Ning has always been the most aware of her thoughts, and this moment is no exception

Since that time, they were no longer sworn sisters, and in the ensuing five years of turmoil within the palace, they became as strangers to each other, even turning into enemies. Yet now, as she faces death, it seems that Dong Fuxi has lost something within her heart

She was already breaking out in a cold sweat, and her breathing had become rapid.

"Sister Rong, I dare not, I did not mean that..." Dong Fuxi felt extremely wronged and hurriedly knelt down, but was stopped by Xuan Ye.

As her fingers lightly moved over the embroidery, Jingning unconsciously raised her eyes, only to meet a pair of black eyes that smiled with a hint of amusement, their depths revealing an understanding of everything.

Thank you for your grace, Your Majesty. She bowed in gratitude, feeling a sense of unease in her heart

From the Yan Hong Hall, one can see the Changchun Palace across the courtyard

At this moment, Dong Fuxi felt extremely awkward, forcing a smile but unable to contradict Ma Jia Yunzhen's face. At this time, Jing Ning also suddenly knelt down on the ground

With a chuckle, before the person arrives, the laughter has already made its presence known

There is no need for excessive formalities, please rise

The royal etiquette has always been strict and harsh; for a guilty party, there is no punishment, yet rewards are to be given. For someone as lowly as her, this may not necessarily be a disaster, but it certainly is not a blessing... However, regarding today's matter, he is determined to have her; how could she refuse? Dare she refuse?

He gently released her, smiling ambiguously, and slowly walked back. "The custom of burial with the deceased has been established since the time of our ancestors, and it has not changed through two dynasties. But do you know that your thoughts happen to align with mine? Therefore, I have already drafted an edict."

In the days that followed, Jingning was taken to the Dongnuan Pavilion for questioning

The heart that had fallen to the depths suddenly rose with a glimmer of hope, and she was taken aback, gazing at him with a look of uncertainty.

"You need not argue, nor do you need to explain; just state the facts clearly and thoroughly." Seeing her look of shock, he relaxed his expression, his eyes reflecting a sense of calm.

In this lifetime, it is destined to grow old and die within the palace. Those with good fortune ascend to great heights alongside their masters, soaring upwards; those with poor fortune find themselves without a chance to rise for their entire lives. For her, ultimately, it is a desire to have a chance to rise. Rather than being just one among the multitude, forever entangled and controlled by others, it is better for her to arrange the lives of others herself.

On the day of the spirit departure, a gentle rain fell from the sky. In the cool weather, seventy-two palace attendants donned mourning garments as they carried the coffin out of the East Huamen Gate. Leading the procession were sixty-four flag bearers holding umbrellas; at the rear were the fully armed soldiers of the Eight Banners. As a blessing for the newly born Princess Gulong Rongxian, a large number of Taoist priests and lamas were also included in the funeral procession, dressed in ceremonial robes, holding ritual implements, continuously playing music and chanting scriptures.

Ma Jia and Yun Zhen were inherently capricious and picky, and in the presence of the Emperor, this remark was particularly well-received. A hint of pride appeared in their expressions, and after carefully scrutinizing for a while, they happily accepted it.

Dong Fuxi's footsteps came to a halt, and he could not help but turn around

Sister, I love the taste of this osmanthus, sweet and sour, just like the life in this harem...

Jing Ning tightly clutched the corner of her garment, for he knew everything... No wonder that day, Eunuch Li specifically came to inform her when the Emperor would visit the Xianfu Palace; it turned out he had long seen through her scheme. She thought herself clever, yet little did she realize she was merely a mantis stalking the cicada, unaware of the yellow sparrow behind.

Then, what about the words of the noble lady Fu Gui?

During childbirth, excessive energy and blood were expended, leaving Lady Rong in a very weakened state. She should not have received guests so soon, but due to her strong-willed and competitive nature, she mustered her spirit and opened the doors to her chamber on the third day after giving birth

He withdrew his gaze and, when looking at Noble Consort Rong, a serious expression appeared on his face. "The matter of burial with the deceased can be brought up for discussion in tomorrow's court, but I must take my time to consider it. Only after discussions with the ministers can a decision be made. You all reside in the inner palace, so it is best to pay less attention to such matters in the future."

Jingning had already fallen into despair, closing her eyes, no longer arguing, "This servant only seeks death... Please, Your Majesty, spare my family."

Dong Fuxi's desire to enter the palace stemmed from a girl's wish

The maid held her head high, and upon seeing her anger, immediately knelt down

The act of embellishing something beautiful often requires only a small effort to win people's favor. Although Ma Jia and Yun Zhen may not show compassion towards the servants, they too will not be an exception when it comes to pleasing others. Moreover, there is also an element of accumulating blessings and virtues for their daughter in this matter

I ask you, on that day, how did you know that I would go to the Xianfu Palace

Within the palace, it is most taboo for women to interfere in politics, let alone the fact that she is not a consort. The events of the previous dynasty are vividly remembered; how many palace maids have met their demise for rashly discussing state affairs, facing collective punishment for their actions. As a mere servant, what qualifications does she have to entertain such thoughts

Similar to the Sakun Palace, the Changchun Palace also features a hip-and-gable roof covered with yellow glazed tiles, a protruding corridor, and a central door. In front of the spacious and grand hall, there are finely crafted bronze turtles and cranes, positioned on either side, creating an interesting contrast. Noble Consort E Zhuo · Hui Yi resides in the Suishou Hall of the eastern side palace and in the Chengxi Hall of the western side palace, where another noble consort resides.

The elder palace maids once said, entering the palace is as deep as the sea. Yet they thought, serving a single husband and being the most esteemed woman in the world should be a good thing

She could walk all the way, and her mind flashed through too many possibilities, but after thinking it over, she still could not make sense of it. After all, the will of heaven is unpredictable; she did not understand why the Empress Dowager would lower herself to summon a mere servant.

That round fan

He made a sound of acknowledgment, seemingly satisfied with her answer. "Well... that embroidery of 'Fortune, Prosperity, and Auspiciousness'..."

If one were not as eager for victory as the noble person, perhaps delaying for a few more days would render Jingning's plans entirely futile

However, they all happened to come together, one ring fitting into another; if one part is missing, it cannot be called a perfect arrangement

With his head lowered, Jingning's gaze fell upon a pair of soft-soled black satin boots, adorned with intricate scale patterns and surrounded by flowing cloud motifs, simple yet luxurious. These were also items from the Imperial Household Department's Tailoring Bureau, crafted with such meticulousness that even every stitch and thread was accounted for

Sister swears to share joys and sorrows with her younger sister, to share honor and disgrace together

As a humble palace maid serving in attendance, I have never experienced pregnancy and do not understand how to remind my esteemed mistress. I would rather die a thousand deaths... Please, gracious mistress, bestow your punishment upon me...

If the little princess had not been favored since her birth, perhaps everything would merely be empty talk

Ma Jia and Yun Zhen, upon witnessing such exquisite and meticulous craftsmanship for the first time, felt joy in their hearts, yet maintained a calm demeanor: "I have long heard that the younger sister of the Dong family excels in needlework and embroidery; seeing it in person, it is indeed extraordinary."

Before he could speak, Lady Rong casually let out a "hmph" and said, "What does Miss Dong mean by this? Are you implying that I have deliberately framed you?"

Let it go, let it go. From now on, it will be another world, bidding farewell to tranquility, bidding farewell to comfort. From now on, one will be accompanied by schemes and intrigues, living by strife and calculation. Her heart, too, will become as ruthless and cold as those empresses who have achieved their rightful place today, amidst the treacherous and fluctuating palace.

The layout will begin with this embroidery

In the morning mist and evening twilight, the once prosperous and flourishing Suishou Hall has long ceased to be as it was, to the extent that the originally lush banyan tree has now also become dilapidated and withered

With a slight glimmer in his dark eyes, he smiled lightly, exuding an air of elegance and gentleness, yet revealing a chilling coldness that could kill without a trace. "You may rise. Originally, you were a palace maid serving in the Yan Hong Hall, under the Ministry of Internal Affairs. However, since you have a connection with the Changchun Palace, starting tomorrow, you will await summons at the Chengxi Hall."

Lifting the steaming cup of fragrant tea, she held the lid, flicked off the foam, and then gently parted her red lips to take a sip

It is a matter of burial sacrifice, it must be related to burial sacrifice! The noble lady has never concerned herself with political affairs, so why would she be bold enough to recklessly discuss the ancestral rites and laws? It is her negligence, it is her rashness; committing such an error in the imperial harem is fatal, and it is feared that it will not only cost her life but also bring disaster to her entire family

Xuan Ye smiled gently, "Zhen'er, do not be willful. The maid just now made it clear that it is not suitable to consume cold and cool foods during the postpartum period..."

The evening light slanted through the window frames into the Yangxin Hall, where fragrant mist slowly rose from the hollow copper incense burner, the smoke swirling and enveloping the entire study in a tranquil and warm atmosphere. Inside the Dongnuan Pavilion, that person was squinting, using a vermilion brush to sketch on the documents laid out on the desk

Having said that, she disdainfully pushed her away with all her might, nearly causing her to fall backward.

Sister is weak after giving birth and should be supplemented more! Dong Fuxi sat on the small chair by the bed, being very attentive

She appeared somewhat dazed, her face slightly flushed, hesitating to speak, yet unsure of how to express herself.

Roughly speaking, this is the principle. When one is favored, everything is delightful; even the red flowers and green grass in the courtyard appear vibrant and cheerful. However, once one loses that favor, everything withers away, and even the plants and trees are on the verge of decay

"Your Majesty, this servant is willing to accept punishment..." Therefore, at this point, what more could she say

The early spring afternoon is slightly cool

Dong Fuxi forced a smile but did not respond. After a while, seeing her sip the hot porridge in small bites, with a slight sheen of sweat on her forehead, she casually picked up the round fan from the bedside and fanned Lady Rong gently, one stroke at a time

It is crafted by the hand of a servant

In the corridor before the hall, there is the red lacquered food box she brought, with the plates and bowls shattered into pieces, along with the crystal fragrant cakes and the tribute plums from Jiangnan that Jingning had meticulously prepared

"It doesn't matter, you may rise and speak up," he waved his hand, his expression devoid of any reproach.

"How..." Ma Jia and Yun Zhen exchanged glances, their expressions filled with impatience. "What crime have you committed?"

For the ministers, it may be an unparalleled honor; but for the women of the imperial harem, it signifies a daily and nightly longing and waiting. She has no support, no capital of hope. The noble man is blameless, yet possessing beauty is a crime. What she must confront is the imperial harem composed of all the noble-born consorts, and yet, the one who will never let her off the hook is the Empress Dowager Niu Hulu.

It is thought that during Ping Gui's lifetime, he never enjoyed such a favored treatment, but rather, after his death, he was posthumously conferred the title of consort, elevating his status and honor.

Like a bolt from the blue, Jingning was instantly stunned

Jingning lowered her brows and cast her eyes down, thus she spoke

Before departing, Fugui's wife repeatedly instructed him not to lose his manners and not to offend anyone

Awaiting the imperial decree

Xuanye had been standing outside for a long time, and only now did he make his appearance, but it was due to a single remark from Jingning

Jingning raised her head in astonishment, and everything before her seemed like a dream

"What, are you disappointed to see me?" He smiled in a way that was neither a smile nor a frown, his eyes deep and enigmatic, as if shrouded in a layer of mist, making it difficult for others to fathom.

He smiled gently, his deep and clear black eyes sparkling brightly, revealing a glimmer of profound meaning within them. "Do you still remember when I last said that you are not someone who can be content with mediocrity, nor willing to play a minor role... Therefore, today, I am merely... bringing up old matters again"

After a moment of silence, he slowly descended from the throne, approached her, stood still, and then extended his long, strong fingers to gently lift her chin, saying, "At such a young age, you possess such thoughts, and you even managed to scheme against me..."

Xuan Ye's gaze shifted slightly, and he casually remarked, "If A Fu has something to say, feel free to bring it up later."

Relying on her favor, this palace maid is exceedingly arrogant, showing not the slightest regard for Dong Fuxi, who is of noble status

Later, however, it was all due to congenital deficiencies, resulting in early demise

Ma Jia glanced lazily at the stew pot, the heat just right, steaming with hot vapor. "Well then, let’s serve some out; after indulging in exquisite delicacies, it is not a bad idea to occasionally drink some plain congee."

To alter the ancestral rites and laws... Such a crime is equivalent to a hen crowing at dawn. Throughout history, women interfering in politics have been regarded as an omen of misfortune for the state. Once convicted, there will certainly be no good outcome.

Indeed, his gaze lightly swept over her and then no longer lingered. At that moment, Noble Consort Rong tugged at his arm, playfully and gently saying, "Your Majesty, I wish to eat some cantaloupe..."

Jingning was led inside, not daring to raise her head, first respectfully bowing and greeting.

The grand palace was empty, devoid even of any extra maids to attend to it. Jing Ning placed the food box on the square table made of pear wood, which was covered with a thick layer of dust, indicating that it had not been cleaned for a long time

After a long time, the person on the bed moved again, but suddenly began to cough violently

On June 17, in the twelfth year of the Kangxi reign, the Kangxi Emperor issued an edict prohibiting the servants of the Eight Banners' subordinate leaders from being buried with their masters.

Her face slightly flushed, she calmly averted her gaze, secretly calming her emotions and reminding herself not to overthink.

"Noble person, I... I am unwell... I apologize for my lack of courtesy and beg your forgiveness... I am unable to receive you..." Her face was flushed, her eyes tightly shut, unwilling to look at her.

I summoned you here to understand why a mere palace maid would dare to fantasize about altering the ancestral rites and laws

After a while, Xuanye gestured for Dong Fuxi to rise first, then his gaze flickered slightly, landing with great interest on the embroidered piece in Jingning's hand. "Zhen'er has always been willful, yet today she has unexpectedly shown kindness. It seems that it is still largely thanks to Rongxian's efforts..."

Three palace attendants were buried with her as part of the funeral rites

The consorts live in luxury; although it may not be the epitome of extravagance, they still enjoy the most unparalleled nobility in the world. However, not everyone can partake in such opulence, even if it is made from the same materials. For instance, at this moment, the ailing Ping Guiren, of the E Zhuo clan, Huiyi, is entangled in her illness.

Ultimately, she has passed away; the tumultuous events of her past life have now turned to dust. When the splendor has faded, all that she was has returned to the earth.

"Good intentions?" E Zhuo · Hui Yi, bracing herself and gripping the bed curtain, said, "Put away that pitiful expression of yours. I am not the Emperor, and there is no need for you to put on an act in front of me"

In the palace, it is not about a life-and-death struggle, but rather about making life worse than death. For her, he has already shown too much indulgence and leniency. This final opportunity, it seems, she will not miss it, no matter what.

Fortunately, Jingning was quick-witted and skillful, supporting her from behind. Dong Fuxi, somewhat exasperated, tidied her clothes in disarray, "After all these years, I never expected you to still have this temper. Well, in any case, I mean well, and I won't hold past grievances against you. I brought you some food..."

After a moment of silence, he slowly descended from the throne, approached her, stood still, and then extended his long, strong fingers to gently lift her chin, saying, "At such a young age, you possess such thoughts, and you even managed to include me in your schemes..."

Dong Fuxi and Ma Jia Yunzhen both bowed respectfully, "We humbly remember Your Majesty's teachings"

As soon as he entered, he saw the noble and voluptuous woman wrapped in luxurious garments, radiating vitality, with even her resplendent attire tinged with a hint of joy

My body, alas, is not resilient to turmoil. The Emperor, out of his benevolence, has bestowed upon me a good number of tonics. I shall also share some with my sister later, lest we waste the Emperor's thoughtful intentions by not consuming them all. She smiled lightly while touching her lips, her eyes filled with a sense of pride and self-satisfaction.

Your Majesty, this servant...

"Huiyi, you are still so stubborn..." Dong Fuxi was not offended in the slightest, stepping forward to help her tidy the loose strands of hair at her temples, "We are sisters after all, I came to see you, why do you reject me so fiercely..."

It is also what the servant has taught...

"Oh?" Ma Jia and Yun Zhen focused their gaze and frowned, pointing to one area, "The embroidery on these two pieces is clearly different. Sister, could it have been done by someone else?"

The more she spoke, the lower her voice became, the more aggrieved she felt, until she was almost on the verge of tears

But they do not know that in the affairs of the world, things often do not go as one wishes

The master has a cold body, and the imperial physician advises against consuming cool-natured vegetables and fruits during the postpartum period. This black glutinous rice porridge with yam is the most nourishing. The master should not only think of herself but also consider the little princess and do more for her.

After a while, the person set down the vermilion brush and waved his hand, saying, "Please rise, there is no need for excessive formalities"

Stepping on the bottom of the flower pot, Jingning followed closely behind the sedan chair of Lady Fugui.

For those who are on the verge of death, no matter how good the things brought to them are, they are of no use... Jing Ning pondered for a moment, unable to make a decision. At that moment, Dong Fu Xi held her back and gave her a few instructions, to which she nodded in agreement

Well, those who are unaware are not to be blamed, and besides, Ah Fu has good intentions. Why should Zhen'er be so calculative! He is indifferent to the rivalry among the concubines; although there is a smile in his eyes, it also carries a subtle warning. Upon seeing this, Ma Jia Yunzhen could only close her mouth in displeasure.

"This servant does not dare ... ... "

Behind me, suddenly there was a loud "bang," the sound of something shattering.

Seeing that it was not the Empress Dowager, she felt a sense of relief in her heart. But in an instant, she began to feel anxious and uncertain. In the imperial harem, aside from summoning ministers and favoring concubines, when would the Emperor ever summon a mere servant?

The light smoke lingered, filling the room with a fragrant aroma. She looked up in surprise, only to meet the gaze of those ink-black eyes.

"If today I give you an opportunity to atone for your past mistakes, what would you do?" He looked down at her with a penetrating gaze, his deep black eyes fixed unwaveringly on her face.

Your Majesty, I have learned that Sister Rong has given birth to a princess, and I have specially prepared a piece of embroidery symbolizing fortune, prosperity, and auspiciousness, hoping that Sister Rong will like it. Dong Fuxi smiled gently and sincerely, turning to gesture towards Jingning.

Moreover, life and death are but a thought away in today's world

He probably doesn't remember her, Jing Ning thought. Although she had angered him last time, she did not believe that a palace maid could leave a deep impression on the Emperor, who held the highest authority. At this moment, encountering him, being inconspicuous would be the best form of neglect

Outside the palace, the green willows have already begun to sway gently, and everywhere, the flying catkins are starting to drift like snowflakes

With the departure of the person, everything has turned cold, and there is not even a single mourner present. Originally, the coffin was to be carried out through the Donghua Gate the following day, but due to a momentous joyous event, it has been postponed.

After a day of handling governmental affairs, he now felt a slight weariness. He rubbed his brow, yet his eyes remained clear and sparkling, sitting upright with a dignified and noble royal demeanor, exuding wisdom and grace

The quilt is in disarray, and the woman on the bed sleeps deeply, her emaciated body wrapped in a satin comforter, with a glimpse of bright red peeking out from the corner, revealing her belly.

Moreover, that crystal fragrant cake, translucent and sparkling, resembles the silk garments worn by the imperial concubines.

Originally, several years ago, Lady Rong had given birth to two boys, and with the children, she enjoyed a period of great favor and prominence.

Separated by the moon gate, the two of them gazed at each other. Ai Yue longed to say something to her, hesitating for a while, yet she did not know how to begin.

It was because of her; she meticulously planned, yet did not anticipate that in the end, she would lose herself in the process

"That's all, you should take a rest. Those food items are a small token of my appreciation, just consider it a remembrance of our sisterhood..." She waved her sleeve and turned to leave

"Who let you ... ... in here, cough cough, go out, everyone go out ... ..." She moaned softly in pain a couple of times, her breath faint, and her face, covered in grease, showed a sickly flush.

"Is there anything you might have overlooked?" The tone suddenly rose a bit, resembling a smile, yet not quite a smile

Jing Ning felt a chill in her heart, a mix of sarcasm and helplessness. After a while, she took a deep breath and lowered her head. Then, she no longer looked at her and turned to leave.

"My lord, this servant deserves to die..."

My master is weak after giving birth, why would the noble lady want to harm her

She could not remember how long it had been since she last called that name, whether it was after she was promoted to the rank of Ping Guiren or when they first plotted against each other. She only remembered that spring of that year, which was as chilly as now. That year, she learned what the inner palace was, and understood what it meant that if one does not act for oneself, heaven and earth would conspire against them

The person on the bed did not move, so Ai Yue simply reached out to shake her

Dong Fuxi set down the tea cup, let out a gentle sigh, "Having known each other for a time, in the end, I should accompany her on her final journey. Please prepare some food and drink, as a token of my sentiments."

On the 9th day of the 5th month in the 12th year of the Kangxi reign, Ping Guiren was posthumously honored as Ping Fei.

At that moment, another maid from the Xianfu Palace entered with a bronze basin, and upon seeing this scene, she suddenly stepped forward and knocked the fan out of Dong Fuxi's hand

Dong Fuxi was momentarily taken aback, feeling quite awkward. However, Jing Ning remained calm and composed, responding: "In reply to the esteemed master, this embroidered piece was indeed completed using two different techniques. The animals are done in Su embroidery, while the scenery is in Jing embroidery. The combination of the two represents the unity of the Manchu and Han. The differences between these two embroidery styles are not significant, making it difficult for the average person to distinguish between them. Your keen eye, esteemed master, is truly admirable to this servant."

At that time, they were still in their youth, their hearts untouched, only knowing each other

Slowly lowering her head, she decided to compromise. It was merely a position; if he had acted on a whim that day, then today, he must have had a change of heart

We entered the palace in the same year and must support each other

With a beautiful appearance and noble lineage, she was once an extraordinarily esteemed woman in the imperial harem, proud and arrogant, never considering the other concubines worthy of her regard. Yet, what does it matter to have enjoyed such honor and favor? Now, she has withered, become frail, and dried up, no different from the women in the cold palace

Today, the walls of Changchun Palace have peeled away layer by layer, while the tiles of Yanhong Hall are renewed year after year. Their hearts have also gone from gradually drifting apart to becoming like strangers.

"A gentleman pursues his path, and fortune and blessings will return to him" - this is what is meant by "the Manchu and Han as one family". It reflects not only my virtue but also the well-being of the people. A-Fu's thoughts are indeed commendable!" Xuan Ye looked over with appreciation, his gaze imbued with profound meaning, making it difficult to discern whether he was looking at Dong Fu Xi or someone else.

The Dongnuan Pavilion is located on the southern side of the West Sixth Palace in the inner court, and it is rarely visited, except for the eunuchs responsible for cleaning. There are no extra people in the hall. She feels very anxious, as this is the first time the Empress Dowager has summoned her

The plants in the courtyard are sparse, and the flowers and trees that have not been tended to for a long time have mostly withered away, leaving only a few scattered branches and sprawling vines. In the corner, there is a well, with a wooden bucket tipped over at its edge, containing a small amount of water mixed with dried leaves

If it were not for the fact that the noble person is wholeheartedly vying for favor, then Jing Ning's diligent suggestions and strategies might not have been adopted at all

Your Majesty, last night, Noble Consort Ping passed away due to a severe illness in the Changchun Palace. According to the rules established by our ancestors, all servants below the rank of Eight Banners' leaders must be buried with her. Noble Consort Ping had a close relationship with this humble servant, and in her final moments, she kept expressing her wish to plead with Your Majesty for the pardon of those maidservants..." Dong Fuxi did not rise but merely lifted her head slightly, "Originally, even if this humble servant had the greatest courage, I would not dare to violate the ancestral rules. However, the day after tomorrow, Sister Rong will give birth to a dragon child. This is a great blessing from heaven and also a fortune for the royal family. Therefore, this humble servant dares to plead with Your Majesty for mercy..." Dong Fuxi did not rise but merely lifted her head slightly, "Originally, even if this humble servant had the greatest courage, I would not dare to violate the ancestral rules. However, the day after tomorrow, Sister Rong will give birth to a dragon child. This is a great blessing from heaven and also a fortune for the royal family. Therefore, this humble servant dares to plead with Your Majesty for mercy..."

He waved his hand, signaling her not to be overly formal

On the morning of June 11 in the twelfth year of the Kangxi reign, Lady Rong, of the Maja clan, gave birth to a princess

The one who entered to report was a thin and small palace maid, with a waxy yellow complexion, likely the "Little Lian" mentioned by Bi Lian and the others. As for Ai Yue, Jing Ning accompanied Noble Consort Fu into the Sui Shou Hall, and she happened to be dozing off in the corridor.

Ma Jia and Yun Zhen smiled gently, lowering their heads, and shyly said: "Your Majesty is teasing this humble servant..."

Dong Fuxi humbly smiled and said, "Sister, you flatter me."

"Your Majesty, this humble servant has committed an offense..." Dong Fuxi lowered her head, her face filled with shame, "I did not know that Sister Rong could not endure the cold. Seeing a round fan placed by the bedside, I assumed that Sister Rong did not like the heat... It was only then that... I ask Your Majesty to impose punishment."

E Zhuo · Huiyi bit her lip and said, "Noble person, are you implying that you have come to send me off for the last time? If that is the case... then there is truly no need for that. I am living well and do not require your concern."

On the fifth day of the fifth month in the twelfth year of the Kangxi reign, Noble Consort E Zhuo Shi Hui Yi passed away at Changchun Palace

With the departure of the person, everything has turned cold, and there is not even a single mourner present. Originally, the coffin was to be carried out the next day from the Donghua Gate, but due to a momentous joyous event, it has been postponed.

With nothing to do, Dong Fuxi sat in front of the dressing mirror, fiddling with the jade bracelet she had received as a gift a few days ago. Just now, she learned that the favored concubine Ping from the Changchun Palace was gravely ill and that it had come to this point today, which meant it was only a matter of days.

Jingning and the noble lady Fuguiren both bowed and paid their respects

What can one say? In order to protect herself, she did not hesitate to drag the innocent her into the fray, resorting to threats and temptations, leaving no stone unturned. It seems that it was merely for the sake of survival, choosing the right person at the right time; even if it was a risk, it was better than waiting passively for death.

Jing Ning followed closely behind, bending slightly towards Noble Lady Ping, and stepped out of the Sui Shou Hall alongside Noble Lady Fu

The palace maid, known as Qiao Zhen, knelt down on the ground with a look of indignation, "My master has a pure and kind heart, but I cannot help but be on guard at all times. During the confinement period, one must absolutely avoid the wind; otherwise, the cold evil will invade, leading to a significant loss of vital energy and blood... How could Lady Fu actually fan my master? I truly do not understand what her intentions are..."

"Qiao Zhen, step back," Ma Jiayun waved her hand coolly. "In front of the master, you have no right to speak. Do not lose your manners and bring shame to our Xianfu Palace."

Ai Yue hurriedly stepped forward to help her catch her breath. Little Lian, with tears streaming down her face, trembled as she brought over a tea bowl, but the noblewoman had already coughed to the point of exhaustion, leaning against the bedside, taking a long time to recover.

Your Majesty, esteemed lords, this embroidery of 'Fortune, Prosperity, and Auspiciousness' features traditional symbolic patterns, primarily depicting bats and plum deer, which phonetically symbolize blessings and official rank; the decorative embroidery includes peonies, symbolizing wealth, and elegant lotuses, embroidered at both ends of the fabric, signifying the auspicious blooming of flowers

The Emperor holds her in great affection and bestowed upon her the title of Princess Gulong Rongxian 1

On the vast fabric, there is an arrangement of golden silk embroidery, with shimmering colorful clouds surrounding several quiet and gentle sika deer. Beside them is the Wind Lotus Pavilion, where bats roost, and a rich cluster of crimson flowers serves as a backdrop, complemented by vividly lifelike scenes of animals, creating an exceptionally noble and luxurious atmosphere

Upon hearing this, he lowered his head and remained silent. However, Lady Rong pulled at him gently, playfully coaxing, "Your Majesty, I also implore Your Majesty to show mercy, as it would be a blessing for little Rong Xian..."

On the 18th, the blue bannered palace maid, Wu Yashi Jingning, was waiting in the Chengxi Hall of the Changchun Palace.

Huiyi... Dong Fuxi walked over slowly and called her softly. That voice seemed to be separated by a thousand years

When Ma Jia and Yun Zhen saw him coming, a sudden rush of joy filled their eyes, and they hurriedly got out of bed to welcome him

The servant pays respects to Your Majesty, may Your Majesty live for ten thousand years, ten thousand years, and ten thousand years.

On the morning of the sixth day of the fifth month in the twelfth year of the Kangxi reign, Lady Rong, of the Maja clan, gave birth to a princess

"Your servant humbly thanks His Majesty for his great kindness..." Closing her eyes, she erased the last trace of hope in her heart

The maid presented a supplement of yam and black glutinous rice, yet it could not bring a smile to her face. Without speaking, she furrowed her brows and said, "What is this crude thing? Is this fit for me to eat? Quickly take it away! Bring some fragrant melons instead!"

"Who let you... in, cough cough, go out, everyone go out..." She moaned softly in pain a couple of times, her breath faint, and her face, covered in grease, showed a sickly flush.

This humble servant has a matter to request of Your Majesty

Ai Yue performed a bow to the noblewoman Fu Gui Ren, then walked over to lift the heavy curtain.

The day after tomorrow, a spirit will be summoned

The person on the throne let out a sound of "hm" and then intertwined their fingers, resting their elbows on the sides of the chair. "Do you know why I have summoned you here?"

The harem was in an uproar

The bright sunlight streamed through the window frame, casting its glow upon his handsome features and the lapels of his moon-white satin robe, which shimmered with a faint soft light. As he walked, he exuded an air of noble elegance, his clear black eyes filled with a serene smile.

Over there, Dong Fuxi could not contain her joy, stood up to express her gratitude, and then as if suddenly remembering something, knelt down on the ground once again

1. Princess Gulen Rongxian: In the first month of the 30th year of the Kangxi reign, she was conferred the title of Heshuo Rongxian Princess; in June, she married Ulgun of the Borjigin clan from the Mongolian Bailing tribe in the southern desert; in the 48th year of the Kangxi reign, she was promoted to the title of Gulen Rongxian Princess. Due to the needs of the plot, her title was conferred in advance. Those who have watched "The Kangxi Dynasty" will surely know that this little princess is Lan Qier

Not far ahead is the Xianfu Palace

You ... ... '' Dong Fuxi was momentarily speechless with anger. Seeing her close her eyes again, she wanted to say something but was reluctant to speak due to pride. They had fought for many years, and now, at their parting, it still ended up being a disappointment.

"Your Majesty..." She could not help but be astonished

"This humble servant pays her respects to Your Majesty, wishing you good fortune."

Lord Li... Lord Li had once mentioned it inadvertently... "With a myriad of complexities before her, a wave of sorrow surged within her. At this point, she could only lay everything bare.

The master has come to see you!

"Qiao Zhen, step back," Ma Jiayun waved her hand coolly. "In front of the master, you have no right to speak. Do not lose your manners and bring shame to our Xianfu Palace."