Chapter 6, Pregnancy

She softened her voice, increasingly pleading

"Lady Hui... Nala..." She repeated the names on her lips, suddenly looking at Jing Ning, "Lady Hui also resides in Changchun Palace, right? In your opinion, how is her character?"

Tonight is considered her day of great joy, yet in the bronze mirror, that face adorned with light makeup, those eyes as clear and gentle as water, why do they conceal a sorrow as faint as a wisp of smoke?

That is the place where each concubine attends to the emperor's bedchamber

She naively believed that after last night, everything would be different... But in the end, all she lost was that trace of the vermilion mark on her arm

The binding has been undone, her hands boldly opened his collar, her cool and delicate fingertips daringly roamed, gradually caressing his firm chest

Returning to the Chengxi Hall, it was already past noon, and the vast sleeping chamber remained empty and desolate. Jingning gazed at the dust filling the room and couldn't help but smile wryly

Jingning felt a chill in her heart, for she clearly saw the coldness on his face

Jingning stared blankly, and the tears that had been swirling in her eyes suddenly slipped silently down the corner of her eye

Dong Fuxi focused his gaze, and in the next moment, he was suddenly taken aback, "Master Li, how is it you!"

However, regardless of the circumstances, Empress Dowager Niuhulu no longer needs to worry

Once elevated in rank, one's worth multiplies a hundredfold, yet what follows are baseless suspicions and accusations. Those in the royal family fear offending others, fear scheming for power, and the only ones who seem to take pleasure in this are the empty winds, chasing shadows. She has no support to rely on, and her only hope is to win the favor of the emperor, which may allow her to live a little longer

Her eyes flickered, yet she did not understand her meaning. After much deliberation, she finally replied in a hesitant manner: "Within the inner palace, among the palace maids of the same rank, conflicts are naturally more frequent..." It was customary to address the master with respect, and suddenly changing the form of address made her words extremely awkward

Regarding the matter of the "cooling medicine," this is a significant issue, especially since it pertains to the well-being of the heirs, which is fundamental to the nation. If it is indeed the case that someone has poisoned, this palace will not let it go lightly! In your opinion, who do you think could be responsible?" After some idle chatter, she clasped her hands together, then rested her elbows on the sides of the chair, gazing intently with a piercing look.

With a gaze full of complexity, she smiled, her expression filled with resentment and loneliness, "Enough, enough, enough, Jing Ning, when you soar to great heights in the future, do not forget the bond we once shared as master and servant..."

Is this the imperial favor bestowed upon this humble servant by His Majesty for one night

The palace maid counted on her fingers, speaking with great caution. In truth, there was no need to ask; the Empress, revered by all, presided over the central palace, and it was only natural that she knew who resided in the six palaces to the east and west. Such a question, aside from demonstrating her fair handling of matters, also made Jingning understand something.

Jingning then remembered to rise and pay his respects, but he saw him wave his hand, a look of infinite weariness flickering across his brow, "No need for excessive formalities, just come in with me."

She shook her head, rolled up her sleeves, and began to clean

Noble master, this servant is named Xiao Xizi, and I have come at the command of Lord Li to inform you that His Majesty will likely not be coming tonight. You may retire for the evening, young master.

This is to have her keep vigil

Is what you are saying all true

With no guards in sight, she boldly pushed open the heavy palace door, donned a garment, and leisurely strolled onto the spacious terrace in front of the hall

Entering the palace, it has been more than a year. From a mere servant, I have now unexpectedly risen to the status of a master, something that in the past I would not have dared to even imagine. It is said that once one enters the palace gates, one is no longer in control of their own fate. Now, some matters have already deviated significantly from my original expectations

Is he still the person she once encountered unexpectedly outside the Ruyi Pavilion

The sharp and delicate voice echoed in the vast sleeping chamber, creating an even more tranquil atmosphere. Jing Ning secretly relaxed; for some reason, upon hearing that there was no need to attend to the bedchamber, she felt a sense of relief.

Her icy fingertips trembled slightly as she sat helplessly on the ground, her eyes filled with confusion

She stopped just short, yet her thoughts lingered on.

Now, as the bright red pomegranate flowers bloom, the queen has welcomed her second child

Jingning hastily tidied up, still wearing a set of palace maid's attire. Instead of going to the Fusu Hall to pay respects to Lady Hui, she took a direct route to the Tihe Hall and went to the Chuxiu Palace

"My lord, it is the fault of this servant, this servant deserves to die..."

I command you to await at the Chengxi Hall, in order to attend to the mother and son of Noble Consort Hui, who are also in the Changchun Palace. You are aware that the Empress is pregnant, and the atmosphere in the harem is unpredictable, which is bound to lead to various troubles. You are so clever; you should understand my intentions...

The vast Changchun Palace is particularly desolate at this moment

She took out the handmade pouch from her sleeve and placed it into his hand, "I trouble you, esteemed lord. Since His Majesty is not coming, could you please escort me back to the Chengxi Hall?"

With eyes like silk, she breathed softly towards him like the fragrance of orchids

"If you can do it, I assure you that you will have no worries in the future..." In the moment of departure, a voice as cold as a chilling wind came from behind.

At this moment, the Shuxiu Palace is bustling with activity, and everyone is immersed in a joyful atmosphere. Although the child in the womb has just reached full term, the joy pit for burying the placenta has long been prepared. In the pit, there are chopsticks symbolizing the empress giving birth to a noble son, along with red silk, gold, silver, and eight treasures, all eagerly awaiting the empress's successful delivery

Jingning forced a smile and simply bowed, saying: "As a lowly servant, I am unworthy and cannot reside in a better place"

Her stomach was empty, and having risen early, she was now drenched in sweat, feeling dizzy and lightheaded. Suddenly, she heard footsteps approaching, and she rubbed her forehead, thinking it was merely her blurred senses playing tricks on her.

Wandering, anxious, fearful, tense

"It has been a long time since anyone has come. How could I know when this place has turned into a cold palace..." Dong Fuxi surveyed the surroundings, finding everywhere in ruins and covered in dust, nowhere resembling a place fit for human habitation

"This lowly servant, with a frail and delicate demeanor, still hopes for Your Majesty's compassion..." Her soft voice gradually drowned in his heavy breathing, the corners of her lips slightly curling up as she leaned her face against his chest, blooming with a smile that was both enchanting and sorrowful, akin to the blossoming of a poppy flower

Exiting the Shuxiu Palace, Jingning held the brocade box that had just been bestowed upon her, following closely behind, once again passing through the Tihe Hall.

Just now, when the eunuch Xi was leaving, he informed her that Yingzhui is now in the Chengxi Hall

The so-called seduction is akin to a splendid play that unfolds gradually. It can be as vibrant as blooming flowers, or as enchanting as a mesmerizing dance, with waves of entanglement that resemble a rich and intoxicating dream. He savors it willingly, and she too is not immune to the allure, sinking into it.

Last night was an event that should not have occurred. However, he did not anticipate that her beauty and allure would render him unable to control himself. Since the mistake had already been made, he could only think of ways to remedy the situation

"It has been a long time since I last came here, how could I not know when this place has turned into a cold palace..." Dong Fuxi surveyed her surroundings, finding decay and dust everywhere, nowhere resembling a place fit for human habitation. Beside her was Bilian, who had originally served in the Sakan Palace, with a pair of charming apricot eyes that held a disdainful hostility.

After a moment, the sound of footsteps indeed could no longer be heard

Delicate jade-like fingers, cool as snow; a robust chest, hot as fire

Was she really promoted out of turn because she was favored? Then why does she live in such a dilapidated and shabby place? Even the lowest-ranking concubines and regular attendants usually have one or two people to serve them, right? Although she is accustomed to being a palace maid and does not mind doing things herself, it would not be appropriate for her to go to the Ministry of Internal Affairs to collect daily necessities herself

Xuanye experienced a moment of stiffness, but suddenly, he grasped her shoulder, seemingly unwilling to let her advance further. However, she became even more audacious, leaning in with her cherry lips and awkwardly pressing a kiss against his chest, as if the warmth of water was melting the ice, shimmering with affection.

The encounter of ice and fire, in an instant, ignited a desire akin to dry wood catching fire

A night of lingering intimacy yields such an answer. How could one have imagined that she was, after all, a palace maid who had been promoted beyond the norm? If this were to be known, surely no one would believe it; and who could have thought that after such close familiarity, she would end up in such a dire situation

I shall entrust this matter to you, but it must be done a little later. However, remember this well: it is better to err on the side of caution than to be lenient.

The servant strictly adheres to the will of Her Highness

Jingning woke up in a daze, having been shaken awake by someone. Her eyes were heavy and blurred, and she knew it was time to return. Her body felt weak and sore, and her once delicate and flawless skin now appeared particularly alluring and provocative due to the bruises and love bites scattered all over.

After a night of passion, he had never truly seen her. Perhaps at this moment, he finally saw clearly the woman who had so gracefully shared her affection with him the previous night, and the elaborate makeup she had carefully applied.

"Your Majesty must take care of your health and retire to rest early..." The cherry-red lips parted slightly, and a few scattered words slipped from the corner of her mouth

He was momentarily distracted and suddenly grasped her fair wrist

Taking a deep breath, she looked coldly at the bowl filled with dark brown medicinal soup, picked it up, tilted her head back, and drank it all in one go

Upon arriving for the first time, it is only natural to pay a visit to the masters of the other halls. The Changchun Palace originally housed two noble ladies, one of whom was the late Ping Guiren E Zhuoshi from the Suishou Hall; the other is the Hui Guiren Nala Shi, who gave birth to the Crown Prince a year ago

Before she could speak, she was suddenly interrupted, "Enough! You are no longer a servant, and I do not know who your master is anymore. Have you forgotten..." The person she is now is no longer the same as before; perhaps in some time, she will stand on equal footing with her.

The ground was covered in dust, which had settled all over her body and face, her hair was disheveled, and the cuffs and collar of her clothing were stained with dirt. Those who did not recognize her might have thought she was some servant girl who had mistakenly wandered into the palace gates

Over there, Dong Fuxi resembled a kite that had come loose from its string, her feet unsteady, nearly toppling over, yet it was Bi Lian who supported her.

"Master, why bother to stoop to the level of such a person? It is not worth damaging your health over it." Bi Lian tugged at her sleeve, and only then did Dong Fu Xi realize her own impropriety

A woman adorns herself for the one who delights her

To eat from within while digging from without... this is indeed very apt

Your Excellency, there are a total of 7 individuals.

By her side was Bi Lian, who originally served in the Sa Kun Palace. With a pair of charming apricot-shaped eyes, there was a dismissive hostility lurking beneath her gaze

Master

At first, Huiyi treated her this way; once she received her title, her worth increased a hundredfold, and all notions of sisterly friendship went straight to hell. However, never did she expect that after many years, history would repeat itself. Had she known this day would come, she truly should not have left this hidden trouble back then

She does not blame her harshness, nor does she blame her ruthlessness, for if it were her in this situation today, she would likely only escalate the situation and would definitely show no mercy. Ultimately, the noblewoman is still someone who appears fierce but is soft-hearted.

Dong Fuxi coldly snorted, stepping in front of her, and scrutinized her with a click of his tongue, "To soar to the branches, what a kind of honor and favor it is, yet how have you ended up like this... Could it be that even the people from the Internal Affairs Office do not favor such a treacherous pest, not even assigning a serving maid to attend to you?"

The voluminous dragon robe fell to the ground, accompanied by a faint scent of dragon's saliva. At such a close distance, the warmth emanating from him was palpable, causing her face to flush slightly. Her throat tightened, yet she continued to unfasten the golden jade belt, her cool fingertips trembling slightly.

The chill of the tentacle made her involuntarily shiver, and then her sharp jaw was gently lifted by that long finger. Her drooping eyes trembled slightly; at such an ambiguous distance, she could see the knuckles of his fingers protruding, pale and clean

Embracing her shoulders, she silently sat down on the cold stone steps, her long hair cascading like a waterfall over her slender shoulders, graceful and flowing, radiating a faint halo of misty light

As night falls, the sky is adorned with countless twinkling stars

The dark hair entwined, sweat dripping, the intimate entanglement akin to glue and lacquer, the bright yellow light curtains cannot obscure the enchanting spring light filling the room

Sitting quietly on the ornate carved bed, what caught the eye was not the splendid crimson, but the overwhelming bright yellow, a color that represents royal status, as if constantly reminding Jingning that the person she is to serve with her body is not her beloved, but the Emperor, the Emperor who belongs to millions.

The Emperor toils day and night; it would be better to allow this humble servant to serve him well

The sparse starlight graced the Forbidden City in the night, within the high palace walls, a red clay sedan chair was carried by a young eunuch, directly from the Chengxi Hall of the Changchun Palace to the magnificent Qianqing Palace

So fast, unexpectedly so fast

Perhaps it is time to strive for it

Whether it is a warning or an attempt to curry favor, what the Empress is most concerned about now is not vying for favor, but the position of the heir. In the current imperial harem, apart from Consort Hui giving birth to the Crown Prince, no other concubines have produced any offspring. This kind of threat, if not eliminated early, will lead to endless troubles for the Empress

Xiao Xizi hesitated for a moment, thought it over, but showed a look of difficulty, "Young Master, this is not easy to handle. His Majesty did not say he would come. If he changes his mind and we cannot see him, I cannot bear the responsibility!"

Jingning lowered her head once more and restrained herself, "Your Highness, the Noble Consort Niu Hulu is kind-hearted, gentle, and sincere; she would never commit such malicious acts. Rather, it is those noble ladies of the same rank as Concubine Fu who... And those who are sensitive about offspring must certainly be those who already have children..."

The viscous medicinal liquid dripped down her cherry-red lips, spilling at the corners of her mouth, reminiscent of the sweet entanglement between their lips and teeth from the previous night. That scene caused a slight sting in Xuan Ye's eyes; he turned away, no longer looking at her

This is ... ... " She looked up in astonishment and saw the handsome figure standing by the window. The dark eyes that had been filled with desire just a moment ago were now indifferent, quietly gazing at her.

These are all things she has done habitually in the past, yet at this moment, they feel as if it is the first time, so unfamiliar that it makes her anxious

In my opinion, Noble Consort Niu Hulu is pure and kind-hearted, and does not seem like the kind of person who could commit such an act. Is it possible that it was done by other palace maids?" She lowered her gaze, looking at Jing Ning with a smile that was not quite a smile.

"If you had spent the night together, the service room would not have recorded it. Even if you were to become pregnant later, it would be in vain. Moreover, you cannot bear the blame of a red apricot climbing over the wall..." The coldest words were uttered from those most beautiful thin lips, as he stood in the faint morning light, wearing a light robe, his whole being radiating a soft glow, resembling a celestial being, ethereal and unreal.

After tonight, everything will be different again

If it were a boy, he would undoubtedly be the destined crown prince. Therefore, even before the queen's belly began to swell, the people in the palace had already started to speculate about the child's gender

On a summer morning, it should not be this cold, yet why does her heart feel as if it has been hollowed out, numb with cold, devoid of any sensation

His throat tightened, and his breathing became murky and heavy. In no time, he began to dominate everything. His heavy hand firmly grasped her soft and fragrant body, then he forcefully tore at her thin garment. With the sound of fabric ripping, her skin, as crystalline as ice and snow, revealed its true form under his burning gaze

Jingning was startled and hurriedly turned around, but due to instability underfoot, she fell to the ground.

Indeed, that is true. However, the queen suddenly changed her appearance; in an instant, her eyes sparkled, and beneath them, a strange halo flickered, as if waiting for those words

Jingning shifted his gaze and said, "Since this concerns the state of the battle, it must be a significant matter. The Emperor is unlikely to come. Master Xi, please take me back!"

The red apricot has climbed over the wall ... He has cut off her retreat.

She was unaware that at this moment her face had already lost all color, her tightly pressed lips had been bitten to the point of drawing blood; all she knew was that in about an hour, her lower abdomen would begin to ache, and then, it would be a sky full of blood.

Having dismissed others, Hesheli Fangyi delicately twirled her fingers like an orchid, leisurely sipping tea, while on the ground lay the scene of the grand ceremony of reverence.

Replying to Your Highness, this humble servant has just arrived and is still unaware...

A sound of footsteps approached, and she instinctively clutched the satin bedding beneath her. Raising her eyes, she saw a very young eunuch, his expression submissive, walking straight up to her.

Unbeknownst to me, the sky has already grown faint.

However, Li Dequan seemed to ignore her entirely and walked straight up to Jing Ning. He brushed off the dust and said: "The Emperor has decreed that tonight, the palace maid Wu Ya Shi Jing Ning is to serve in the Qianqing Palace."

Only Jingning came alone, all by herself, without even a maid to attend to her. Everyone's gaze was focused on the Chuxiu Palace, gathering around the future Little Eastern Palace, while the attention towards the new appointments and rewards for the newcomers had instead diminished.

Such transparent thoughts, I truly find myself liking them more and more!" Hesheli Fangyi said with a smile, and then ordered someone to bring over a small brocade box. Inside the brocade box lay a string of exquisite tourmaline, emerald green and translucent, worth a fortune.

As the book states, since ancient times, rulers have often been fickle; a fleeting moment of indulgence is nothing more than a trivial and ephemeral relationship akin to dew

Whether it is to curry favor or to repay a favor, the thoughts of Noble Consort Niu Hulu are unfathomable. Even if she is let go now, it is inevitable that she will settle scores in the future. She has no support, and the only thing she can rely on for her survival is the teachings and guidance of Her Majesty the Empress.

"My sister just got promoted and has already become unrecognizable, truly quite arrogant!" Suddenly, a melodious female voice sounded from behind.

Your Excellency... I, your humble servant, pay my respects to you, wishing you eternal blessings and peace!

After a while, hearing no response from above, Jingning had no choice but to continue kneeling.

Outside the palace, the night has deepened. Gazing out from the window, the pavilions and towers, as well as the tall buildings and palaces, appear hazy and ethereal in the night, exuding an extraordinary beauty and mystery.

Picking up the tattered belly pouch from the ground, she stepped out of the chamber one step at a time. Indeed, how could she conceive? He still expected her to serve him, and if she were to become pregnant, things would become complicated, wouldn't they

With a creak, the heavy palace door was pushed open once more. Jing Ning lowered his head and, upon reaching the screen, stepped forward to assist him in removing his garments

He was rarely so easygoing, and Jing Ning bowed respectfully before following closely behind him. The several armored guards who had originally been following them, upon seeing her, tactfully stepped aside.

Which ones

Jing Ning humbly bowed and expressed gratitude, saying, "Before Her Majesty the Queen, this servant shall always remain a maidservant, and dares not to violate the hierarchy of respect."

Does Master Na Xi know... why His Majesty is unable to come?" she asked cautiously

"What are you doing here?" Before she could respond, he had already walked over.

Jingning forced a smile, not responding. What does it matter if she is promoted out of turn? Waiting in the Chengxi Hall is merely pushing her from one vortex into another; she has no support to rely on, and what little she can depend on is merely that pitiful imperial favor.

Feeling a scorching gaze upon my face, I did not raise my head but smiled gently first. That tender lowering of my head was like mist, as if flowers were crossing the hibiscus, and the clear lotus was quietly blooming under the moonlight, wanting to speak yet feeling shy.

Noble Lady Guo Luoluo, Noble Lady Ma Jiasi, Noble Lady Shi, Noble Lady Dong E, and also, Noble Lady Nala

"You should die? No, Jingning, it is I who should die. I am fully aware of the dangers within the imperial palace, yet I still raised a tiger to bring about my own ruin. It is truly a waste of all the time I spent being cautious, only to end up making a wedding gown for you." Dong Fuxi said, her throat choked with emotion, her eyes filled with an indescribable sorrow.

Jingning stared wide-eyed in astonishment, unable to respond in time, and could only watch as Li Dequan walked out of the Chengxi Hall

It turns out that his exceptional promotion was to ensure that she would help him protect his wife and children

"You certainly have a way with words, no wonder the Emperor has promoted you beyond the norm." She slightly pursed her lips, yet it seemed as if she were speaking of something unrelated to herself, her expression faint, revealing no signs of joy or anger

Jingning bows respectfully, complying with the order

She gently raised her head against the light and saw a striking figure standing quietly. The sparse starlight sprinkled a few glimmers on the long robe of bright yellow satin, and with her thin lips pressed together, the handsome face, unmatched in beauty, bore a pair of black eyes that etched with the wisdom and depth of still waters.

With a noble gaze, she leisurely set down her tea cup and said, "Since you are already awaiting summons at the Changchun Palace, there is no need for you to refer to yourself as a servant. Please rise and speak."

Your Majesty, I would never dare to deceive you

The news came suddenly, as the usually robust queen was suddenly plagued by persistent dizziness and symptoms of nausea. After a thorough examination, the imperial physician dared to conclude that she was with child, immediately prescribing a remedy and advising careful nurturing.

Surprisingly, it was Li Dequan himself who came to proclaim the edict, what does this mean... ? ... What does it mean ?

Gently caressing the slender white wrist, the emerald bracelet on her wrist remained cold and translucent. This is grace, yet it is also a threat; with a single misstep, it could cost her life

The scattered starlight illuminated the high, square eaves of the Qianqing Palace, shrouded in a hazy dimness, appearing increasingly dark and obscure. Feeling a slight discomfort from the heat, she let her ink-black hair down, leaning against the carved railing and jade steps of the platform, lost in quiet contemplation

However, Xiaoxizi increasingly refused, saying, "My lord, please do not make it difficult for this servant. This servant is merely acting on orders. How about this: if His Majesty has not arrived by the fifth watch, this servant will take you back!"

At this time, the concubines from other palaces particularly enjoyed visiting the Shuxiu Palace. Due to the festive atmosphere, the usually capricious Empress also became much more amiable, engaging in casual conversations with her sisters.

Her long hair, as dark as ink, has been let down, cascading over her shoulders, which diminishes her usual indifference and coldness, adding a touch of softness and charm. In the flickering candlelight, her cheeks are flushed, shimmering like the peach blossoms of March

At that moment, a person suddenly walked in from outside the door

She immediately wore a face full of contrition, adopting a softer and more humble demeanor, no longer exhibiting the earlier arrogance.

Serving in the Qianqing Palace, is this ... ? ... Is she to attend to the emperor's bedchamber now

Her voice grew softer, her eyes full of smiles, and a radiant sparkle shone from the depths of her gaze

From now on, there will be no worries ... What a beautiful promise ... It turns out, she is ultimately just a maid ...

Jingning sighed inwardly and could only nod, "Then I must trouble you, Master Xi!"

Her clothes were severely wrinkled, and beneath the disheveled strands of hair was a delicate, weary face, resembling a beautiful water lily, unable to withstand the cool breeze, quietly blooming in the depths of his profound and chilly gaze

On the 19th day of the 6th month in the 12th year of the Kangxi reign, which was merely the second day of Jingning's waiting at the Chengxi Hall, a momentous piece of good news suddenly spread throughout the palace: Empress Hešeri Fangyi was with child

It seems that the Internal Affairs Office has forgotten... Jing Ning lowered her eyes, which contained a hint of bitterness.

Hugging her arms around herself, she felt very cold

By the bedside, there lay a torn belly pouch, scarlet hibiscus flowers, and snow-white satin, all of which had already begun to wither at this moment. She slowly closed her eyes, a wave of desolation washing over her heart

At this moment, there was not a trace of joy in her heart

In the silence, a sound of footsteps approached

The concubines who serve the emperor at night, except for the empress, are not allowed to stay overnight in the Qianqing Palace. Moreover, given her lowly status, how could she dare to rest here

This... little Xizi paused for a moment, lowered his voice slightly, and said, "It seems to be about the battle report from the front. The Emperor summoned several ministers overnight and is currently discussing matters ahead!"

Hmm," she pondered, her gaze lingering. After a while, she smiled faintly, "It doesn't matter if you don't know. Just pay more attention in the future. Since you live in the same palace, it is only natural to look out for each other.

She looked at her with mockery, thinking that she was merely pretending to be pitiful. "Jing Ning, it is indeed impressive that you have such ability. In less than a year since entering the palace, you have managed to have the Emperor promote you beyond the usual standards. It seems I have misjudged you..."

To her, she has always felt guilty. In any case, she is grateful for the recognition she received from her, yet not only does she fail to repay this gratitude, but she also competes for her favor, ultimately leaving her with too many debts.

Jingning was taken aback and hurriedly lowered her head, pretending not to know

It is indeed rare for princes and princesses, who are of such noble status, to grow up smoothly into adulthood. Just like the first legitimate son born to the Empress in the eighth year of the Kangxi reign, who, due to congenital deficiencies, passed away a year ago. At that time, Jingning had not yet entered the palace, but witnessed the grand and solemn funeral.

He Shenli · Fangyi rubbed her temple, appearing both weary and extremely languid, yet she beckoned to the palace maid beside her, asking, "How many noble ladies are there in the palace now?"

She struggled to rise, and just as she had finished putting on her clothes, she saw a palace servant with lowered brows and downcast eyes walking in, carrying a tray. On the tray was a bowl of thick, dark brown medicinal soup.

After bathing and changing clothes, Jingning took off the attire of a palace maid and donned a light lotus pink floral gown, which was only worn by concubines. With hairpins and delicate makeup, her already exquisite and fair face was adorned with sweet and rich rouge, creating a smoky blush that was faint yet exuded the subtle fragrance of a hundred flowers

Jingning shook her head self-deprecatingly, thinking that with her status not being as constant as others, how could anyone come to visit her

The bottle containing the cooling medicine was left by the Empress. Jingning knew that as soon as she left, the Empress would summon Noble Consort Niuhulu.

"Drink this, and I assure you that you will have no worries in the future." The voice, magnetic yet unremarkable, resembled a cold pool shrouded in mist, much like the person himself, exuding a subtle chill.