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Chapter 42
The hall fell so silent a pin drop could be heard. Everyone couldn't help but look at the woman who knelt with her spine ramrod straight. She wore dazzling hairpins, her palace gown luxurious and exquisite. That face, a thousand charms, a hundred enchantments, every frown and smile brimmed with allure. Countless people in the palace wished to emulate her but could not.
All who entered the palace had heard of Consort Shu's supreme favor in the harem. But who could have imagined there was such a past between Consort Shu and Consort Chen?
Consort Shu's gaze stabbed straight at her. Consort Chen instinctively looked away, too guilty to meet her eyes.
Consort Shu spoke sarcastically of "negligence," but both she and Consort Chen knew clearly, it wasn't negligence at all, but deliberate action born of jealous resentment. Back then, Consort Shu was merely a low-ranking concubine in the prince's household. Consort Chen could manipulate her with ease. Consort Shu hadn't even had the ability to resist.
After a long while, before Consort Chen could continue making excuses, Lu Yu bent down to help Consort Shu up. He said nothing, but this action made his attitude clear. Consort Chen froze and cried out in distress:
"Your Majesty?!"
Intense unease suddenly surged in her heart. Consort Chen watched in horror as His Majesty helped that wretch up. Consort Chen knew His Majesty later favored Consort Shu, but women were always somewhat sensitive. In the past, she could clearly feel that no matter when, even if His Majesty openly favored Consort Shu, he actually always favored her more.
But now, Consort Chen suddenly had no certainty whatsoever.
The unease in her heart made her instinctively swallow. Liu An sent people to search Xianleng Palace and indeed found several boxes of safflower in a hidden compartment beneath Consort Chen's bed. They were identical to the safflower found in Baorin Liu's hall—even the outer wooden boxes showed no difference.
The thread of events seemed crystal clear.
Consort Chen stared blankly at those boxes of safflower and suddenly shivered violently.
Lu Yu also looked coldly at Consort Chen. "Do you have any more excuses?"
Consort Chen snapped out of her shock. She stared at those boxes of safflower in disbelief, shaking her head desperately:
"Your Majesty! These aren't mine at all! This consort isn't lying! Someone framed me!! Please believe me just once!!"
Consort Chen felt a malicious intent attacking her. She stared at those boxes of safflower in horror. No one knew how shocked Consort Chen was when Liu An said they'd found safflower in the hidden compartment beneath her bed.
There truly was a hidden compartment in her hall.
But she'd never hidden safflower in it! Harming the imperial heir while leaving evidence in her hall, even she wouldn't be foolish enough to do such a thing!
Only she and Jiachun knew about the hidden compartment in the hall. Though Consort Chen was occasionally harsh with Jiachun, she clearly understood, even if you gave Jiachun a hundred times the courage, Jiachun wouldn't dare betray her.
But now, even such a hidden matter had been discovered. It only meant one thing, there was a mole among the palace servants attending her hall!
Just thinking that her daily food, drink, and activities were all under someone else's control made Consort Chen shiver violently. Today that person could hide safflower in her hall, making her unable to defend herself. Didn't that mean taking her life would also be as easy as turning over one's hand?!
Regarding Consort Chen's defense, Lu Yu only moved his gaze away irritably. But he paused and didn't speak.
Gu Han knew why he paused. No one in this world could act with complete impunity, even as Emperor, he was no exception. In fact, precisely because he sat in this position, he had to consider even more.
Punishing an imperial consort was simple. But this consort was connected to the current only imperial heir. His Majesty had no choice but to be cautious.
Consort Chen's greatest bargaining chip was the imperial heir. Second was the Chen family. Now the Chen family had perhaps become a liability. One more push would be enough to force His Majesty to make a decision.
At this moment, Bǎolín Liu finally stopped being stubborn. She also realized Consort Chen couldn't even protect herself, how could she protect her?
She crawled forward several steps and grabbed His Majesty's hem, in disarray:
"Your Majesty! This consort is wronged! Everything was instigated by Consort Chen! This consort had no idea what Consort Chen wanted to do. She only had this consort lend her a palace servant. Consort Chen's rank is several grades higher than mine, this consort couldn't refuse at all!"
She babbled on. Since choosing betrayal, she had to crush Consort Chen completely. She looked around. When her gaze landed on Concubine Gu, her eyes suddenly brightened.
Gu Han imperceptibly raised her eyebrows. She'd already guessed what Bǎolín Liu wanted to say.
Sure enough, the next moment Bǎolín Liu hastily said:
"Right! There's also Concubine Gu! That day this consort bumped into Concubine Gu because Consort Chen instigated it! This consort and Concubine Gu have no grievances or enmity, how could this consort commit such an act of insubordination?! It was Consort Chen who sent someone to inform this consort of Concubine Gu's daily routes, knowing Concubine Gu always sought shade and walked by the pavilion! That's why she had this consort act then!"
"Consort Chen was jealous of Concubine Gu's beauty and always wanted Concubine Gu's life! Even that time someone put drugs in Concubine Gu's palace, though this consort doesn't know why the culprit turned out to be Xiuyi He in the end, Consort Chen definitely also played a role!"
Bǎolín Liu spoke with absolute certainty. Since it involved Gu Han, everyone couldn't help looking at her. They only saw Concubine Gu staring blankly at Consort Chen, her face full of bewilderment and confusion, as if she'd never expected this matter would implicate her.
Gu Han looked at Consort Chen helplessly, wringing her handkerchief. She looked up at His Majesty, saying in a daze:
"Why..."
This matter had passed several months ago. Learning the news suddenly, Gu Han couldn't muster much hatred, only shock and confusion remained. Lu Yu looked at the woman, then swept his gaze toward Consort Chen who couldn't defend herself. He grew even more disgusted and said coldly:
"Consort Chen harmed the imperial heir, persecuted consorts, and shows no remorse…"
The sentencing words were only half-spoken when urgent running footsteps suddenly rang out in the hall, interrupting Lu Yu's voice. Everyone also looked toward the hall entrance in surprise to see the First Prince running in frantically, tear tracks on his small face.
As soon as he entered, he saw Mother Consort kneeling in the hall, blood on her cheek. Frightened, tears streamed down his face. The moment he appeared, Lu Yu's expression turned completely dark.
Lu Mingfeng threw himself into Consort Chen's embrace. Consort Chen seemed to gain confidence. Concubine Gu imperceptibly withdrew her gaze and completely relaxed.
Consort Chen held Lu Mingfeng, crying sorrowfully and heartbrokenly. Lu Mingfeng cupped her face, continuously blowing on it for her, crying until he could barely breathe: "Mother... Mother Consort doesn't hurt..."
Consort Chen's grief came from her heart. She cried even more sorrowfully. Lu Mingfeng suddenly looked at Father Emperor. He cried out:
"Father Emperor hit Mother Consort! Father Emperor is bad!"
Liu An heard this and trembled. He quickly stepped forward to pull the First Prince away, saying, "Oh my, young master, you mustn't say such things!"
Lu Mingfeng struggled desperately, clutching Consort Chen's neck, punching and kicking at Liu An. His cries grew even more shrill:
"Let me go! Let me go! Don't touch Mother Consort!"
How could Liu An dare touch him now? He secretly glanced back at His Majesty's expression and silently shivered.
Consort Chen and her son embraced each other, crying breathlessly, exactly like pitiful victims of persecution. The hall fell into deathly silence. Like everyone else, Gu Han didn't even dare breathe heavily.
Lu Yu looked coldly at Lu Mingfeng. His eldest son cried breathlessly, his small body trembling from crying too hard. His face showed no expression, but the coldness in his heart grew even more frigid.
He could accept having few children and grandchildren, but he absolutely wouldn't allow his imperial heir to become a weapon in consort struggles.
When everyone thought His Majesty would soften, Lu Yu spoke:
"Pull the First Prince away."
Liu An was surprised. He knew how much His Majesty valued the First Prince. But he didn't dare delay. He gave the palace servants a look. Several palace servants stepped forward and pulled the First Prince away.
The First Prince was nominally six years old but actually not yet four. If not for Liu An's earlier scruples, his small frame had no power to resist. Consort Chen wanted to stop them, but with His Majesty watching from the side, she didn't dare make any move. Moreover, several servants pressed her down. Even if she truly wanted to stop them, she couldn't.
The First Prince's throat was nearly hoarse from crying, yet he still couldn't prevent being separated from Mother Consort.
For a time, only the First Prince's crying filled the hall.
Lu Yu bent down to be at eye level with him. Lu Mingfeng ultimately remembered who he was. In his heart, he held a unique mixture of admiration and fear toward him. His crying gradually stopped. He sobbed as he looked at Father Emperor.
He studied at the Upper Study Room, had read books—he was ultimately different from an ordinary four-year-old child. His small body hiccupped as he asked:
"Why... why... Father Emperor... why... treat Mother Consort... like this?"
Lu Yu took a handkerchief and wiped away his tear tracks. Lu Mingfeng cried even harder. Lu Yu tirelessly wiped his tears, lowering his eyes to ask him calmly:
"Father Emperor remembers, Feng'er once said doing right things deserves rewards, doing wrong things deserves punishment. Correct?"
Lu Mingfeng had once written a note asking Father Emperor for an extra plate of pastries, using precisely this reasoning of clear rewards and punishments. Lu Mingfeng also remembered this. Following Father Emperor's line of thought, he couldn't help nodding blankly.
Lu Yu looked at his eldest son. He'd always held high hopes for this eldest son, even now was no exception:
"Your mother consort repeatedly tried to harm your younger brother's life. Tell me, should she be punished?"
Lu Mingfeng froze.
He only knew someone had told him Father Emperor had hit Mother Consort. If he arrived late, Mother Consort might lose her life. He'd run here in panic all the way but didn't know at all why Father Emperor was punishing Mother Consort.
He'd always wanted a younger brother or sister. So on the very day Miao Měirén became pregnant, he'd excitedly run to ask Mother Consort about it without even sleeping.
But now, Father Emperor told him Mother Consort tried to harm his younger brother's life.
Lu Mingfeng didn't understand. Why?
Consort Chen covered her mouth. She truly loved this eldest son dearly. Seeing His Majesty forcing him like this, her heart immediately ached. She shook her head crying. Lu Mingfeng's gaze moved past Father Emperor to rest on Mother Consort. Using his shallow understanding of right and wrong, he answered blankly: "Should be punished..."
But the next moment, he suddenly cried fiercely. He sobbed:
"But... but she's Mother Consort..."
He shook his head, not knowing what he was saying. But he remembered one thing, that was Mother Consort, the Mother Consort who'd loved him to the bone since his infancy. An unborn younger brother ultimately wasn't as important as Mother Consort. Right and wrong could sometimes yield.
Lu Yu didn't ask him again. He raised his hand and drew Lu Mingfeng into his embrace. People nowadays emphasized holding grandchildren not sons. This was the first time he'd held Lu Mingfeng. Lu Mingfeng lay against his chest, crying very fiercely. He hiccupped and repeated:
"She... is Mother Consort, Father Emperor... please Father Emperor..."
Lu Yu stroked his back. Lu Mingfeng couldn't see his expression, only hearing Father Emperor's voice that could be called gentle: "Father Emperor knows."
But Gu Han and the others could see very clearly, His Majesty's expression looking at Consort Chen was exceptionally cold. He hadn't softened even a bit because of the First Prince's tearful pleading. He still used that gentle voice to say:
"So Father Emperor won't execute Mother Consort. Only, having done wrong, one must always receive punishment. Father Emperor will demote her rank. In the future, Feng'er can still see Mother Consort."
Consort Chen had been shaking her head at His Majesty, begging him not to say these things to Lu Mingfeng. But when His Majesty's words fell, her eyes became vacant and her whole body went limp. She had always known His Majesty was ruthless, but never knew that when this ruthlessness fell upon herself, it would bring such despair.
Young Lu Mingfeng still didn't understand the severity of rank demotion. He only knew Mother Consort didn't have to die and he could still see her. His eyes brightened. His small fists clutched Father Emperor's sleeve as he asked eagerly:
"Really?"
Lu Yu withdrew his hand and lowered his eyes to be at eye level with his eldest son:
"Now, Feng'er should return to the Upper Study Room."
Lu Mingfeng met Father Emperor's calm gaze. Even feeling heartache for Mother Consort, he didn't dare cry and make a fuss anymore, afraid of angering Father Emperor. He was truly frightened by those words "execute." He wiped his tears, sobbing:
"Son... this son will go back now."
He looked back with every three steps as he left. Only after his figure completely disappeared from view did Lu Yu stand up:
"Replace all the servants attending the First Prince."
Liu An had guessed His Majesty would give this order the moment he saw the First Prince appear. He responded respectfully.
Having said this, Lu Yu finally looked at Consort Chen with a trace of disgust:
"I originally thought you were at least a loving mother."
But Lu Mingfeng's appearance completely shattered Lu Yu's perception. Lu Mingfeng was young and naive. If not for Consort Chen deliberately notifying him, how could Lu Mingfeng have appeared here? If she truly felt heartache for Lu Mingfeng, she wouldn't have let him get mixed up in these matters.
Consort Chen looked up in disbelief. Did His Majesty think she'd deliberately had Feng'er come?
She opened her mouth wanting to say something, but Lu Yu was already impatient to hear her speak. He said irritably:
"For Feng'er's sake, I will spare your life. From today, you are demoted to Concubine rank."
Consort Chen's eyes nearly split with fury: "Your Majesty?!"
Concubine rank was merely fourth grade, she wouldn't even have the qualification to raise her own child. Consort Chen's whole body trembled, not daring to think of His Majesty's intent.
Unfortunately, this wasn't something she could avoid by not thinking about it. Lu Yu swept his gaze around the hall. Consort Shu guessed what he intended and was first to look away. Having her raise her enemy's son, she'd rather die.
The Empress's eyes brightened slightly as she looked up at His Majesty. But Lu Yu skipped over her first.
If asked whom Lu Yu considered first, it would certainly be Consort Shu. Consort Shu had always been clever, knowing what should and shouldn't be done. But Consort Shu's rejecting posture was too obvious. Lu Yu couldn't help recalling Consort Shu's pain when speaking of losing the chance for children. He paused and ultimately passed over her.
Gu Han noticed His Majesty glance at her. Her heart jumped fiercely. She imperceptibly lowered her head.
She wasn't crazy.
The First Prince clearly had memories. Raising the prince would indeed hold great appeal. But she'd only entered the palace half a year ago. There might very well be her own children in the future. When that time came, if she showed any favoritism, it would inevitably create a rift in His Majesty's heart.
Moreover, Consort Chen was demoted to Concubine Chen and couldn't raise her child. She also held Concubine rank, so it would be acceptable?
Unless His Majesty intended to promote her rank. But Gu Han imperceptibly furrowed her delicate brows. She still wasn't willing, felt somewhat put off. Relying on herself alone, she might not be unable to climb to third grade in the future. Why leave herself such a hidden danger?
Lu Yu had indeed thought of Gu Han, but this thought only flashed by before Lu Yu dismissed it.
Gu Han had only entered the palace half a year ago and had already risen two ranks. If he had her raise the heir, he'd have to promote her at least two more ranks consecutively. The palace still had several consorts of third grade and above. If he truly did this, Gu Han would likely truly become a thorn in the harem's side.
Someone who'd only entered the palace half a year ago, already third grade, with the dynasty's only prince at her knee.
Just thinking about it, Lu Yu also found it absurd.
Sensing His Majesty's gaze move away from her, Gu Han imperceptibly breathed a sigh of relief. Immediately after, she heard His Majesty say:
"The First Prince will be raised by Zhāoróng Ling."
Hearing this, countless people felt disappointed. The Empress lowered her eyes lightly, emotions between her brows and eyes somewhat detached. Her eyes seemed to dim for an instant.
Gu Han thought more deeply. Zhāoróng Ling, since the new consorts entered the palace, she had never appeared. She also raised His Majesty's only princess. Now the First Prince was also entrusted to her care. Just from His Majesty's single sentence, one could hear how much trust His Majesty placed in Zhāoróng Ling.
One thing worth mentioning—Rongcui Hall was the eastern side hall of Chonghui Palace, and the mistress of Chonghui Palace was Zhāoróng Ling.
Miao Měirén had encountered accidents several times, yet Zhāoróng Ling never appeared. His Majesty also said nothing, seemingly not thinking these matters had anything to do with Zhāoróng Ling. Not only that, even the Empress and Consort Shu never once mentioned Zhāoróng Ling.
Naturally, the one with the most objection to His Majesty's decision was Consort Chen. Having the prince raised by someone else was more difficult for her to accept than rank demotion. She cried out miserably to His Majesty:
"Your Majesty! You cannot!"
But no one cared about her. The Empress only furrowed her brows lightly, somewhat hesitant:
"Zhāoróng Ling's health is weak. She must also care for the little princess. If the First Prince is also entrusted to Zhāoróng Ling's care, can her body withstand it?"
Lu Yu interrupted the Empress's words, brooking no argument:
"I will speak with her personally."
The Empress pulled at the corner of her lips and said no more.
As if knowing the matter was resolved, the imperial physician finally appeared, bowing to His Majesty:
"Your Majesty, fortunately it was discovered in time. Miao Měirén and the imperial heir in her womb are now safe. Only, Miao Měirén has disturbed the pregnancy several times. In the future, she must maintain a happy mood and absolutely cannot be frightened or harmed again, otherwise..."
The physician's words remained unfinished, but everyone understood his meaning.
Hearing the words "in time," Lu Yu couldn't help looking at Gu Han. With this look, he discovered the woman was staring at the sachet on the ground with inexplicable emotions, her pink lips pressed tightly together. Only then did Lu Yu realize…
This piece of evidence wasn't an ordinary item, but the Marchioness's personal possession. No wonder she cared so much about it.
He imperceptibly glanced at Liu An. Liu An touched his nose and, when no one was paying attention, picked up the sachet again, carefully dusting off the dirt.
In this matter, Gu Han had suffered grievance, even implicating the Marchioness. Moreover, she'd once again rendered merit in saving the imperial heir.
How to reward her, Lu Yu found himself quite troubled for a moment. Consecutive promotions in a short time would be too conspicuous. Other rewards seemed inadequate.
The matter concluded, everyone would disperse. Gu Han had knelt for quite a while, her knees hurt terribly. Jiu nian supported her. As soon as she reached outside the hall, Little Fangzi also hurried forward. Mother was still at Changchun Pavilion. Gu Han absolutely didn't want His Majesty to accompany her.
Upon returning to Changchun Pavilion, breakfast had long lost its warmth. Fortunately, the Imperial Kitchen was perceptive. Not long after her return, the midday meal arrived.
When the midday meal was set on the table, Gu Han discovered the food exceeded a Concubine's allocation. The servant delivering from the Imperial Kitchen bowed:
"These six dishes are bestowed by His Majesty."
Gu Han understood and rewarded the messenger. After everyone withdrew, leaving only trustworthy people in the hall, Gu Han told Mother what had happened at Rongcui Hall. The Marchioness only felt it was dangerous and developed a heartache:
"This consort's wife never knew Concubine Gu suffered so much in the palace."
Outsiders' inquiries about palace matters were always limited. The Marchioness only knew her daughter had been consecutively promoted after entering the palace. At banquets, whenever those ladies saw her, they'd say she was blessed. But they never knew this blessing came with such difficulty.
Gu Han didn't feel it was suffering. She shook her head, not dwelling on these matters.
Beauty Miao's matter had delayed too much time. Gu Han looked up at Mother, pressing her lips together for a long while before asking in a low voice the doubt she'd harbored in her heart since entering the palace:
"Mother, did you know all along about Xie Ang'an being in the palace?"
The Marchioness met her daughter's gaze and suddenly fell silent. This reaction confirmed Gu Han's guess. Her breathing caught slightly.
She asked in a daze: "Why? Why didn't you tell me?"
The Marchioness was silent for a long while, knowing concealing it further had no meaning. She wiped her eyes, saying bitterly:
"You and your elder sister both had deep feelings for him. When news of his disappearance arrived, your sister fell seriously ill. The Marquis and I investigated everywhere before learning he had been sent into the palace. Your sister's temperament was gentle, and she was gravely ill, how could I dare tell her?"
Gu Han recalled how Elder Sister seemed to have withered overnight, becoming like a lamp running out of oil. When she saw Elder Sister, she only remembered her profound sorrow and grief. Gu Han said through gritted teeth:
"Did Elder Sister learn the truth in the end?"
The Marchioness couldn't control her reddening eyes. "It's all my fault. When the Marquis and I discussed this matter, your sister inadvertently overheard. That's why your sister…"
Even after three years, the Marchioness still couldn't stop feeling guilty when mentioning this.
Even after three years, the Marchioness still couldn't stop feeling guilty when mentioning this.
The Marchioness said in a low voice:
"Actually, that year Second Master Xie sent a letter to the marquis household. I don't know how he managed to send a letter from the palace, it must have taken tremendous effort. In the letter, he only said the marriage with your sister should be called off."
"He's a good child, wholeheartedly unwilling to implicate your sister. I know this was unfair to him, but as a mother, how could I bear to delay my daughter's entire life?"
"When I mentioned calling off the marriage to your sister, she vehemently objected. Your sister had always been gentle, yet in this matter she was extremely resolute. She even fell gravely ill over it. I didn't dare press her further and never mentioned it again. But who knew in the end…"
Gu Han closed her eyes. "Elder Sister and Xie Ang'an loved each other mutually. Naturally she couldn't agree to breaking the engagement."
Speaking of these things now was long useless. But Gu Han didn't understand, why had Mother never told her all these years?
She asked this directly. The Marchioness only said: "With your elder sister's precedent, how could I dare tell you?"
Even though Gu Han still felt somewhat sad, she couldn't help feeling rather speechless. Her feelings toward Xie Ang'an were completely different from Elder Sister's. She'd only regarded Xie Ang'an as an elder brother.
Gu Han said in a low voice, informing Mother of how Xie Ang'an had helped her after entering the palace.
The Marchioness was stunned for a long while before saying:
"I once heard the Marquis mention that after your elder sister passed away, Second Master Xie also fell gravely ill and nearly didn't survive. But he said he must do something, or he'd have no face to close his eyes.”
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Chapter 42
The hall fell so silent a pin drop could be heard. Everyone couldn't help but look at the woman who knelt with her spine ramrod straight. She wore dazzling hairpins, her palace gown luxurious and exquisite. That face, a thousand charms, a hundred enchantments, every frown and smile brimmed with allure. Countless people in the palace wished to emulate her but could not.
All who entered the palace had heard of Consort Shu's supreme favor in the harem. But who could have imagined there was such a past between Consort Shu and Consort Chen?
Consort Shu's gaze stabbed straight at her. Consort Chen instinctively looked away, too guilty to meet her eyes.
Consort Shu spoke sarcastically of "negligence," but both she and Consort Chen knew clearly, it wasn't negligence at all, but deliberate action born of jealous resentment. Back then, Consort Shu was merely a low-ranking concubine in the prince's household. Consort Chen could manipulate her with ease. Consort Shu hadn't even had the ability to resist.
After a long while, before Consort Chen could continue making excuses, Lu Yu bent down to help Consort Shu up. He said nothing, but this action made his attitude clear. Consort Chen froze and cried out in distress:
"Your Majesty?!"
Intense unease suddenly surged in her heart. Consort Chen watched in horror as His Majesty helped that wretch up. Consort Chen knew His Majesty later favored Consort Shu, but women were always somewhat sensitive. In the past, she could clearly feel that no matter when, even if His Majesty openly favored Consort Shu, he actually always favored her more.
But now, Consort Chen suddenly had no certainty whatsoever.
The unease in her heart made her instinctively swallow. Liu An sent people to search Xianleng Palace and indeed found several boxes of safflower in a hidden compartment beneath Consort Chen's bed. They were identical to the safflower found in Baorin Liu's hall—even the outer wooden boxes showed no difference.
The thread of events seemed crystal clear.
Consort Chen stared blankly at those boxes of safflower and suddenly shivered violently.
Lu Yu also looked coldly at Consort Chen. "Do you have any more excuses?"
Consort Chen snapped out of her shock. She stared at those boxes of safflower in disbelief, shaking her head desperately:
"Your Majesty! These aren't mine at all! This consort isn't lying! Someone framed me!! Please believe me just once!!"
Consort Chen felt a malicious intent attacking her. She stared at those boxes of safflower in horror. No one knew how shocked Consort Chen was when Liu An said they'd found safflower in the hidden compartment beneath her bed.
There truly was a hidden compartment in her hall.
But she'd never hidden safflower in it! Harming the imperial heir while leaving evidence in her hall, even she wouldn't be foolish enough to do such a thing!
Only she and Jiachun knew about the hidden compartment in the hall. Though Consort Chen was occasionally harsh with Jiachun, she clearly understood, even if you gave Jiachun a hundred times the courage, Jiachun wouldn't dare betray her.
But now, even such a hidden matter had been discovered. It only meant one thing, there was a mole among the palace servants attending her hall!
Just thinking that her daily food, drink, and activities were all under someone else's control made Consort Chen shiver violently. Today that person could hide safflower in her hall, making her unable to defend herself. Didn't that mean taking her life would also be as easy as turning over one's hand?!
Regarding Consort Chen's defense, Lu Yu only moved his gaze away irritably. But he paused and didn't speak.
Gu Han knew why he paused. No one in this world could act with complete impunity, even as Emperor, he was no exception. In fact, precisely because he sat in this position, he had to consider even more.
Punishing an imperial consort was simple. But this consort was connected to the current only imperial heir. His Majesty had no choice but to be cautious.
Consort Chen's greatest bargaining chip was the imperial heir. Second was the Chen family. Now the Chen family had perhaps become a liability. One more push would be enough to force His Majesty to make a decision.
At this moment, Bǎolín Liu finally stopped being stubborn. She also realized Consort Chen couldn't even protect herself, how could she protect her?
She crawled forward several steps and grabbed His Majesty's hem, in disarray:
"Your Majesty! This consort is wronged! Everything was instigated by Consort Chen! This consort had no idea what Consort Chen wanted to do. She only had this consort lend her a palace servant. Consort Chen's rank is several grades higher than mine, this consort couldn't refuse at all!"
She babbled on. Since choosing betrayal, she had to crush Consort Chen completely. She looked around. When her gaze landed on Concubine Gu, her eyes suddenly brightened.
Gu Han imperceptibly raised her eyebrows. She'd already guessed what Bǎolín Liu wanted to say.
Sure enough, the next moment Bǎolín Liu hastily said:
"Right! There's also Concubine Gu! That day this consort bumped into Concubine Gu because Consort Chen instigated it! This consort and Concubine Gu have no grievances or enmity, how could this consort commit such an act of insubordination?! It was Consort Chen who sent someone to inform this consort of Concubine Gu's daily routes, knowing Concubine Gu always sought shade and walked by the pavilion! That's why she had this consort act then!"
"Consort Chen was jealous of Concubine Gu's beauty and always wanted Concubine Gu's life! Even that time someone put drugs in Concubine Gu's palace, though this consort doesn't know why the culprit turned out to be Xiuyi He in the end, Consort Chen definitely also played a role!"
Bǎolín Liu spoke with absolute certainty. Since it involved Gu Han, everyone couldn't help looking at her. They only saw Concubine Gu staring blankly at Consort Chen, her face full of bewilderment and confusion, as if she'd never expected this matter would implicate her.
Gu Han looked at Consort Chen helplessly, wringing her handkerchief. She looked up at His Majesty, saying in a daze:
"Why..."
This matter had passed several months ago. Learning the news suddenly, Gu Han couldn't muster much hatred, only shock and confusion remained. Lu Yu looked at the woman, then swept his gaze toward Consort Chen who couldn't defend herself. He grew even more disgusted and said coldly:
"Consort Chen harmed the imperial heir, persecuted consorts, and shows no remorse…"
The sentencing words were only half-spoken when urgent running footsteps suddenly rang out in the hall, interrupting Lu Yu's voice. Everyone also looked toward the hall entrance in surprise to see the First Prince running in frantically, tear tracks on his small face.
As soon as he entered, he saw Mother Consort kneeling in the hall, blood on her cheek. Frightened, tears streamed down his face. The moment he appeared, Lu Yu's expression turned completely dark.
Lu Mingfeng threw himself into Consort Chen's embrace. Consort Chen seemed to gain confidence. Concubine Gu imperceptibly withdrew her gaze and completely relaxed.
Consort Chen held Lu Mingfeng, crying sorrowfully and heartbrokenly. Lu Mingfeng cupped her face, continuously blowing on it for her, crying until he could barely breathe: "Mother... Mother Consort doesn't hurt..."
Consort Chen's grief came from her heart. She cried even more sorrowfully. Lu Mingfeng suddenly looked at Father Emperor. He cried out:
"Father Emperor hit Mother Consort! Father Emperor is bad!"
Liu An heard this and trembled. He quickly stepped forward to pull the First Prince away, saying, "Oh my, young master, you mustn't say such things!"
Lu Mingfeng struggled desperately, clutching Consort Chen's neck, punching and kicking at Liu An. His cries grew even more shrill:
"Let me go! Let me go! Don't touch Mother Consort!"
How could Liu An dare touch him now? He secretly glanced back at His Majesty's expression and silently shivered.
Consort Chen and her son embraced each other, crying breathlessly, exactly like pitiful victims of persecution. The hall fell into deathly silence. Like everyone else, Gu Han didn't even dare breathe heavily.
Lu Yu looked coldly at Lu Mingfeng. His eldest son cried breathlessly, his small body trembling from crying too hard. His face showed no expression, but the coldness in his heart grew even more frigid.
He could accept having few children and grandchildren, but he absolutely wouldn't allow his imperial heir to become a weapon in consort struggles.
When everyone thought His Majesty would soften, Lu Yu spoke:
"Pull the First Prince away."
Liu An was surprised. He knew how much His Majesty valued the First Prince. But he didn't dare delay. He gave the palace servants a look. Several palace servants stepped forward and pulled the First Prince away.
The First Prince was nominally six years old but actually not yet four. If not for Liu An's earlier scruples, his small frame had no power to resist. Consort Chen wanted to stop them, but with His Majesty watching from the side, she didn't dare make any move. Moreover, several servants pressed her down. Even if she truly wanted to stop them, she couldn't.
The First Prince's throat was nearly hoarse from crying, yet he still couldn't prevent being separated from Mother Consort.
For a time, only the First Prince's crying filled the hall.
Lu Yu bent down to be at eye level with him. Lu Mingfeng ultimately remembered who he was. In his heart, he held a unique mixture of admiration and fear toward him. His crying gradually stopped. He sobbed as he looked at Father Emperor.
He studied at the Upper Study Room, had read books—he was ultimately different from an ordinary four-year-old child. His small body hiccupped as he asked:
"Why... why... Father Emperor... why... treat Mother Consort... like this?"
Lu Yu took a handkerchief and wiped away his tear tracks. Lu Mingfeng cried even harder. Lu Yu tirelessly wiped his tears, lowering his eyes to ask him calmly:
"Father Emperor remembers, Feng'er once said doing right things deserves rewards, doing wrong things deserves punishment. Correct?"
Lu Mingfeng had once written a note asking Father Emperor for an extra plate of pastries, using precisely this reasoning of clear rewards and punishments. Lu Mingfeng also remembered this. Following Father Emperor's line of thought, he couldn't help nodding blankly.
Lu Yu looked at his eldest son. He'd always held high hopes for this eldest son, even now was no exception:
"Your mother consort repeatedly tried to harm your younger brother's life. Tell me, should she be punished?"
Lu Mingfeng froze.
He only knew someone had told him Father Emperor had hit Mother Consort. If he arrived late, Mother Consort might lose her life. He'd run here in panic all the way but didn't know at all why Father Emperor was punishing Mother Consort.
He'd always wanted a younger brother or sister. So on the very day Miao Měirén became pregnant, he'd excitedly run to ask Mother Consort about it without even sleeping.
But now, Father Emperor told him Mother Consort tried to harm his younger brother's life.
Lu Mingfeng didn't understand. Why?
Consort Chen covered her mouth. She truly loved this eldest son dearly. Seeing His Majesty forcing him like this, her heart immediately ached. She shook her head crying. Lu Mingfeng's gaze moved past Father Emperor to rest on Mother Consort. Using his shallow understanding of right and wrong, he answered blankly: "Should be punished..."
But the next moment, he suddenly cried fiercely. He sobbed:
"But... but she's Mother Consort..."
He shook his head, not knowing what he was saying. But he remembered one thing, that was Mother Consort, the Mother Consort who'd loved him to the bone since his infancy. An unborn younger brother ultimately wasn't as important as Mother Consort. Right and wrong could sometimes yield.
Lu Yu didn't ask him again. He raised his hand and drew Lu Mingfeng into his embrace. People nowadays emphasized holding grandchildren not sons. This was the first time he'd held Lu Mingfeng. Lu Mingfeng lay against his chest, crying very fiercely. He hiccupped and repeated:
"She... is Mother Consort, Father Emperor... please Father Emperor..."
Lu Yu stroked his back. Lu Mingfeng couldn't see his expression, only hearing Father Emperor's voice that could be called gentle: "Father Emperor knows."
But Gu Han and the others could see very clearly, His Majesty's expression looking at Consort Chen was exceptionally cold. He hadn't softened even a bit because of the First Prince's tearful pleading. He still used that gentle voice to say:
"So Father Emperor won't execute Mother Consort. Only, having done wrong, one must always receive punishment. Father Emperor will demote her rank. In the future, Feng'er can still see Mother Consort."
Consort Chen had been shaking her head at His Majesty, begging him not to say these things to Lu Mingfeng. But when His Majesty's words fell, her eyes became vacant and her whole body went limp. She had always known His Majesty was ruthless, but never knew that when this ruthlessness fell upon herself, it would bring such despair.
Young Lu Mingfeng still didn't understand the severity of rank demotion. He only knew Mother Consort didn't have to die and he could still see her. His eyes brightened. His small fists clutched Father Emperor's sleeve as he asked eagerly:
"Really?"
Lu Yu withdrew his hand and lowered his eyes to be at eye level with his eldest son:
"Now, Feng'er should return to the Upper Study Room."
Lu Mingfeng met Father Emperor's calm gaze. Even feeling heartache for Mother Consort, he didn't dare cry and make a fuss anymore, afraid of angering Father Emperor. He was truly frightened by those words "execute." He wiped his tears, sobbing:
"Son... this son will go back now."
He looked back with every three steps as he left. Only after his figure completely disappeared from view did Lu Yu stand up:
"Replace all the servants attending the First Prince."
Liu An had guessed His Majesty would give this order the moment he saw the First Prince appear. He responded respectfully.
Having said this, Lu Yu finally looked at Consort Chen with a trace of disgust:
"I originally thought you were at least a loving mother."
But Lu Mingfeng's appearance completely shattered Lu Yu's perception. Lu Mingfeng was young and naive. If not for Consort Chen deliberately notifying him, how could Lu Mingfeng have appeared here? If she truly felt heartache for Lu Mingfeng, she wouldn't have let him get mixed up in these matters.
Consort Chen looked up in disbelief. Did His Majesty think she'd deliberately had Feng'er come?
She opened her mouth wanting to say something, but Lu Yu was already impatient to hear her speak. He said irritably:
"For Feng'er's sake, I will spare your life. From today, you are demoted to Concubine rank."
Consort Chen's eyes nearly split with fury: "Your Majesty?!"
Concubine rank was merely fourth grade, she wouldn't even have the qualification to raise her own child. Consort Chen's whole body trembled, not daring to think of His Majesty's intent.
Unfortunately, this wasn't something she could avoid by not thinking about it. Lu Yu swept his gaze around the hall. Consort Shu guessed what he intended and was first to look away. Having her raise her enemy's son, she'd rather die.
The Empress's eyes brightened slightly as she looked up at His Majesty. But Lu Yu skipped over her first.
If asked whom Lu Yu considered first, it would certainly be Consort Shu. Consort Shu had always been clever, knowing what should and shouldn't be done. But Consort Shu's rejecting posture was too obvious. Lu Yu couldn't help recalling Consort Shu's pain when speaking of losing the chance for children. He paused and ultimately passed over her.
Gu Han noticed His Majesty glance at her. Her heart jumped fiercely. She imperceptibly lowered her head.
She wasn't crazy.
The First Prince clearly had memories. Raising the prince would indeed hold great appeal. But she'd only entered the palace half a year ago. There might very well be her own children in the future. When that time came, if she showed any favoritism, it would inevitably create a rift in His Majesty's heart.
Moreover, Consort Chen was demoted to Concubine Chen and couldn't raise her child. She also held Concubine rank, so it would be acceptable?
Unless His Majesty intended to promote her rank. But Gu Han imperceptibly furrowed her delicate brows. She still wasn't willing, felt somewhat put off. Relying on herself alone, she might not be unable to climb to third grade in the future. Why leave herself such a hidden danger?
Lu Yu had indeed thought of Gu Han, but this thought only flashed by before Lu Yu dismissed it.
Gu Han had only entered the palace half a year ago and had already risen two ranks. If he had her raise the heir, he'd have to promote her at least two more ranks consecutively. The palace still had several consorts of third grade and above. If he truly did this, Gu Han would likely truly become a thorn in the harem's side.
Someone who'd only entered the palace half a year ago, already third grade, with the dynasty's only prince at her knee.
Just thinking about it, Lu Yu also found it absurd.
Sensing His Majesty's gaze move away from her, Gu Han imperceptibly breathed a sigh of relief. Immediately after, she heard His Majesty say:
"The First Prince will be raised by Zhāoróng Ling."
Hearing this, countless people felt disappointed. The Empress lowered her eyes lightly, emotions between her brows and eyes somewhat detached. Her eyes seemed to dim for an instant.
Gu Han thought more deeply. Zhāoróng Ling, since the new consorts entered the palace, she had never appeared. She also raised His Majesty's only princess. Now the First Prince was also entrusted to her care. Just from His Majesty's single sentence, one could hear how much trust His Majesty placed in Zhāoróng Ling.
One thing worth mentioning—Rongcui Hall was the eastern side hall of Chonghui Palace, and the mistress of Chonghui Palace was Zhāoróng Ling.
Miao Měirén had encountered accidents several times, yet Zhāoróng Ling never appeared. His Majesty also said nothing, seemingly not thinking these matters had anything to do with Zhāoróng Ling. Not only that, even the Empress and Consort Shu never once mentioned Zhāoróng Ling.
Naturally, the one with the most objection to His Majesty's decision was Consort Chen. Having the prince raised by someone else was more difficult for her to accept than rank demotion. She cried out miserably to His Majesty:
"Your Majesty! You cannot!"
But no one cared about her. The Empress only furrowed her brows lightly, somewhat hesitant:
"Zhāoróng Ling's health is weak. She must also care for the little princess. If the First Prince is also entrusted to Zhāoróng Ling's care, can her body withstand it?"
Lu Yu interrupted the Empress's words, brooking no argument:
"I will speak with her personally."
The Empress pulled at the corner of her lips and said no more.
As if knowing the matter was resolved, the imperial physician finally appeared, bowing to His Majesty:
"Your Majesty, fortunately it was discovered in time. Miao Měirén and the imperial heir in her womb are now safe. Only, Miao Měirén has disturbed the pregnancy several times. In the future, she must maintain a happy mood and absolutely cannot be frightened or harmed again, otherwise..."
The physician's words remained unfinished, but everyone understood his meaning.
Hearing the words "in time," Lu Yu couldn't help looking at Gu Han. With this look, he discovered the woman was staring at the sachet on the ground with inexplicable emotions, her pink lips pressed tightly together. Only then did Lu Yu realize…
This piece of evidence wasn't an ordinary item, but the Marchioness's personal possession. No wonder she cared so much about it.
He imperceptibly glanced at Liu An. Liu An touched his nose and, when no one was paying attention, picked up the sachet again, carefully dusting off the dirt.
In this matter, Gu Han had suffered grievance, even implicating the Marchioness. Moreover, she'd once again rendered merit in saving the imperial heir.
How to reward her, Lu Yu found himself quite troubled for a moment. Consecutive promotions in a short time would be too conspicuous. Other rewards seemed inadequate.
The matter concluded, everyone would disperse. Gu Han had knelt for quite a while, her knees hurt terribly. Jiu nian supported her. As soon as she reached outside the hall, Little Fangzi also hurried forward. Mother was still at Changchun Pavilion. Gu Han absolutely didn't want His Majesty to accompany her.
Upon returning to Changchun Pavilion, breakfast had long lost its warmth. Fortunately, the Imperial Kitchen was perceptive. Not long after her return, the midday meal arrived.
When the midday meal was set on the table, Gu Han discovered the food exceeded a Concubine's allocation. The servant delivering from the Imperial Kitchen bowed:
"These six dishes are bestowed by His Majesty."
Gu Han understood and rewarded the messenger. After everyone withdrew, leaving only trustworthy people in the hall, Gu Han told Mother what had happened at Rongcui Hall. The Marchioness only felt it was dangerous and developed a heartache:
"This consort's wife never knew Concubine Gu suffered so much in the palace."
Outsiders' inquiries about palace matters were always limited. The Marchioness only knew her daughter had been consecutively promoted after entering the palace. At banquets, whenever those ladies saw her, they'd say she was blessed. But they never knew this blessing came with such difficulty.
Gu Han didn't feel it was suffering. She shook her head, not dwelling on these matters.
Beauty Miao's matter had delayed too much time. Gu Han looked up at Mother, pressing her lips together for a long while before asking in a low voice the doubt she'd harbored in her heart since entering the palace:
"Mother, did you know all along about Xie Ang'an being in the palace?"
The Marchioness met her daughter's gaze and suddenly fell silent. This reaction confirmed Gu Han's guess. Her breathing caught slightly.
She asked in a daze: "Why? Why didn't you tell me?"
The Marchioness was silent for a long while, knowing concealing it further had no meaning. She wiped her eyes, saying bitterly:
"You and your elder sister both had deep feelings for him. When news of his disappearance arrived, your sister fell seriously ill. The Marquis and I investigated everywhere before learning he had been sent into the palace. Your sister's temperament was gentle, and she was gravely ill, how could I dare tell her?"
Gu Han recalled how Elder Sister seemed to have withered overnight, becoming like a lamp running out of oil. When she saw Elder Sister, she only remembered her profound sorrow and grief. Gu Han said through gritted teeth:
"Did Elder Sister learn the truth in the end?"
The Marchioness couldn't control her reddening eyes. "It's all my fault. When the Marquis and I discussed this matter, your sister inadvertently overheard. That's why your sister…"
Even after three years, the Marchioness still couldn't stop feeling guilty when mentioning this.
Even after three years, the Marchioness still couldn't stop feeling guilty when mentioning this.
The Marchioness said in a low voice:
"Actually, that year Second Master Xie sent a letter to the marquis household. I don't know how he managed to send a letter from the palace, it must have taken tremendous effort. In the letter, he only said the marriage with your sister should be called off."
"He's a good child, wholeheartedly unwilling to implicate your sister. I know this was unfair to him, but as a mother, how could I bear to delay my daughter's entire life?"
"When I mentioned calling off the marriage to your sister, she vehemently objected. Your sister had always been gentle, yet in this matter she was extremely resolute. She even fell gravely ill over it. I didn't dare press her further and never mentioned it again. But who knew in the end…"
Gu Han closed her eyes. "Elder Sister and Xie Ang'an loved each other mutually. Naturally she couldn't agree to breaking the engagement."
Speaking of these things now was long useless. But Gu Han didn't understand, why had Mother never told her all these years?
She asked this directly. The Marchioness only said: "With your elder sister's precedent, how could I dare tell you?"
Even though Gu Han still felt somewhat sad, she couldn't help feeling rather speechless. Her feelings toward Xie Ang'an were completely different from Elder Sister's. She'd only regarded Xie Ang'an as an elder brother.
Gu Han said in a low voice, informing Mother of how Xie Ang'an had helped her after entering the palace.
The Marchioness was stunned for a long while before saying:
"I once heard the Marquis mention that after your elder sister passed away, Second Master Xie also fell gravely ill and nearly didn't survive. But he said he must do something, or he'd have no face to close his eyes.”
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