Chapter 119: Princess Consort Wu

Chapter 119: Princess Consort Wu

Their departure from the capital was set for one month later.

As the date drew near, An Qing had almost finished arranging her affairs. These days, she had been taking Xiao Bao to the palace almost every day without fail. Although Concubine Yi and the Empress Dowager supported their decision, it was clear that they were also quite reluctant to see them go.

On this particular day, An Qing was busy with some trivial matters in the morning. She had planned to take a break at noon before bringing Xiao Bao into the palace again. However, just as she got up from her rest, Ma Xiang hurried over.

"Princess Consort, Master asked me to inform you that the Emperor will be bringing the Empress Dowager and Concubine Yi to our residence this afternoon."

"The Emperor and the others are coming over?" An Qing was taken aback and asked, "Did he say why?"

Why would Kangxi suddenly decide to visit their residence, bringing along the Empress Dowager and Concubine Yi? There had been no signs of this beforehand; it was indeed strange.

Ma Xiang replied, "It seems that Master had previously invited the Emperor to come and see your farm, and the Emperor suddenly remembered it today during lunch."

An Qing: "..."

Was Lao Kang's memory really that slow?!

When Yinqi had initially invited Kangxi to visit the farm, it was to convince him to agree to build an agricultural experimental field in Fengtian Prefecture. At the time, everything had gone smoothly, so An Qing had forgotten about it. She never expected that Kangxi would remember now.

But thinking about it, since they had moved out, Concubine Yi and the Empress Dowager had not yet visited their residence.

"Mother, when are we going to the palace to see Grandma and Uku Mama?" Xiao Bao ran in from outside, clearly having gotten used to visiting the palace daily recently.

An Qing waved her hand and said, "We won't be going to the palace today. Grandma and Uku Mama will be coming to our residence later."

Hearing this, the little boy jumped up happily, "Really? That's great! I'll show them my castle."

An Qing shook her head helplessly. Every time someone came to their house, he insisted on showing them his children's play castle, clearly indicating how much he disliked it.

In the afternoon, when Kangxi arrived with everyone, An Qing had already gathered the household staff at the entrance to greet them.

The group included the Empress Dowager, Concubine Yi, and Xiao Jiu and his wife. It seemed that Kangxi intended to have a family gathering before they left the capital.

Since the reason for Kangxi's visit was to see the farm in the backyard, they headed straight there upon entering. After touring the various sections, Kangxi appeared quite satisfied.

Although he had previously reviewed the detailed plans Yinqi had submitted, seeing it in person made a difference.

"Emperor Father, besides the ordinary cultivation area, vegetable area, fruit and vegetable area, nursery area, and mulberry garden you see here, the new agricultural experimental field in Fengtian Prefecture will also include forest and pasture areas, making a total of eight sections. This is based on the local conditions," Yinqi explained.

Kangxi nodded slightly and said, "Regarding agriculture, We trust you and An Qing. Go ahead and do what you need to do. If you require any support, send a report back."

Yinqi rarely saw his Emperor Father being so kind and understanding, and for a moment, he was caught off guard.

Kangxi gently patted his shoulder, like a common father giving instructions, "Building such a large farm in Fengtian Prefecture will inevitably conflict with the interests of some local gentry and wealthy families. Be tactful when handling these issues. We have already issued an edict to San Guanbao, who will fully support you."

San Guanbao was Concubine Yi's father and the head of the Shengjing Imperial Household Department. Fengtian Prefecture was located within Shengjing.

Logically, San Guanbao was Yinqi's maternal grandfather, and even without the Emperor's edict, he would certainly protect his grandson. However, with the official decree, he could openly support him!

Yinqi felt a warm sense of gratitude, "Thank you, Emperor Father, for worrying about your son. I will work hard to establish the first agricultural experimental field for Great Qing."

Ninth Prince watched his Emperor Father and Fifth Elder Brother, feeling a bit emotional. In recent years, as the struggle between the Crown Prince and Elder Brother Prince intensified, he had rarely seen his Emperor Father act this way.

People often say that there is no father-son relationship in the imperial family. He understood this before but never felt it so deeply. The lack of true familial bonds was truly disheartening.

However, today he realized that perhaps if one stayed out of the power struggles, there could still be a father-son bond in the imperial family. Like his Fifth Elder Brother, who never competed or formed factions, this might be one of the reasons Emperor Father allowed him to leave the capital.

If it were someone else, like Elder Brother or Eighth Brother, they likely wouldn't be able to achieve this.

Of course, they would not easily leave the capital either, as doing so would render all their previous efforts meaningless and distance them from the throne.

Compared to the rare moments of warmth among the men, the women's interactions were more routine. An Qing and Ninth Princess Consort accompanied the Empress Dowager and Concubine Yi, chatting and strolling around happily.

The Empress Dowager admired An Qing's farm more and more, praising it continuously.

"If Empress Grandmother likes it, you can stay here anytime. I've reserved courtyards for both you and Mother, which are cleaned regularly," An Qing said with a smile.

When building the residence, An Qing and Yinqi had discussed and reserved separate courtyards for the Empress Dowager and Concubine Yi, designed according to their preferences.

Xiao Bao chimed in enthusiastically, "That's right, Uku Mama. Mother had many flowers planted in your courtyard. I've seen them, and they're beautiful."

The Empress Dowager looked pleased but said to An Qing, "Didn't I tell you not to reserve a courtyard for me? I can't stay here, so it's a waste of resources."

Old Fifth's residence wasn't very large, and the farm took up most of the space. Though she hadn't seen the front yard, she knew the courtyards were limited. Why waste one?

Concubine Yi added, "Exactly. I told them the same thing, but they agreed to it only to do otherwise behind our backs."

Though they spoke this way, the smiles on their faces betrayed their true feelings. Especially Concubine Yi, who felt proud because of Old Fifth's gesture, which gave her a sense of dignity among the other concubines.

After all, none of the other concubines received such treatment in their sons' residences.

"Uku Mama, Grandma, it's not like that. Mother said we're a family, so naturally, there should be courtyards for you. Even if you can't stay here, it's important to have them," Xiao Bao said, sounding like a little adult.

The Empress Dowager was delighted, "Oh, look at our Hong Zhi, he knows so much. How impressive!"

Xiao Bao scratched his head, a bit embarrassed, "Uku Mama, I don't really understand it myself. I heard Mother say it."

The adults found his honesty amusing, and Xiao Bao joined in their laughter, though he didn't know why they were laughing.

An Qing looked at her silly son, unable to hide her amusement. But reflecting on the courtyards for the Empress Dowager and Concubine Yi, she genuinely considered them family.

She knew that the Empress Dowager's courtyard would likely remain unused. Kangxi advocated ruling through filial piety, and as long as he lived, he couldn't let the Empress Dowager live outside the palace due to filial obligations. However, Concubine Yi was different; she still had a chance.

Historically, before his death, Kangxi issued an edict allowing concubines with living children to move to their sons' residences after his passing, rather than remaining alone in the palace.

Regardless of other factors, this edict showed that Kangxi had carefully considered the future of his concubines, perhaps as a final gesture to those who had once shared his life.

And this decree was also set by Kangxi, breaking the then-current palace regulations, so it is normal that Concubine Yi and the others were unaware of it.

Seeing that the Empress Dowager genuinely liked their residence, An Qing smiled and said, "Grandma, you can come for short stays in the future. Staying here for three to five days occasionally would be perfectly fine."

Even if others found out, they wouldn't say anything. After all, Yinqi grew up under the Empress Dowager's care. It would be natural for her to miss her grandson and come for short visits after they leave.

Hearing this, the Empress Dowager was indeed tempted. She truly liked Fifth Elder Brother's residence, especially the farm. Wandering around every day, enjoying the countryside and experiencing the joy of farming sounded delightful.

Ninth Princess Consort silently observed this and made a mental note. Yes, since they were family, they should also reserve a courtyard for Grandma and Mother in their own residence. Fifth Sister-in-law had thought of everything.

Fortunately, they wouldn't move out of the palace until next year, and their residence outside was still under construction. When she returned today, she would discuss this with her husband.

An Qing estimated that it was about time and waved Xiao Bao over, saying, "Go tell your Grandpa and Father that we're going to rest at the pavilion ahead."

The little one, eager to show off, immediately ran over happily.

They soon arrived at the pavilion ahead. An Qing had already prepared tea, snacks, and fresh fruits from the garden. They had been walking for quite some time and were indeed tired.

Kangxi kept Xiao Bao by his side, showing that he really liked his grandson. And Xiao Bao, being good at pleasing people, quickly had Kangxi, the Empress Dowager, and Concubine Yi laughing heartily.

Unable to resist, An Qing whispered to Yinqi, "Look at your son; his mouth is as sweet as honey. I wonder who he takes after."

Yinqi silently glanced at her, implying something obvious.

An Qing: "..."

Alright, she couldn't blame Yinqi for this, but this kid was truly surpassing his parents in this regard.

"Fifth Sister-in-law, let's chat." Ninth Prince winked at An Qing, gesturing for her to talk privately.

An Qing turned to look at Yinqi.

Yinqi nodded slightly and whispered, "Go ahead. I'll take care of things here."

Both guessed what Ninth Prince wanted to discuss. Without hesitation, An Qing stood up and walked out of the pavilion with Ninth Prince. "What's up? Have you found another profitable business?"

Ninth Prince waved his hand. "Fifth Sister-in-law, finding a profitable business isn't easy."

An Qing raised an eyebrow and asked, "Then why did you call me out?"

Ninth Prince replied, "Nothing much. Since you and Fifth Elder Brother are leaving soon, I just wanted to update you on our business."

Hearing this, An Qing said, "No need. You handle the business as you see fit. You're better at it than I am."

But Ninth Prince insisted, "That won't do. You're a major shareholder in our business. You should know about certain things. Even brothers should keep accounts clear."

Seeing his persistence, An Qing reluctantly listened to him.

However, since she wasn't interested in business matters, she started to drift off.

Watching Ninth Prince talk animatedly, An Qing couldn't help but feel a sense of admiration. Over the past few years, their partnership had grown significantly, and their business now spanned the entire country. It was undeniable that Xiao Jiu had a talent for business.

Three years ago, after making their first fortune with the printed apples, Ninth Prince had been constantly thinking about new ventures. He tried opening restaurants and shops, which were successful but didn't satisfy his ambitions.

One day, he approached An Qing and Yinqi, claiming he had found a very lucrative opportunity. At first, An Qing didn't take it seriously, but when Ninth Prince explained, she was stunned.

His idea was to engage in smuggling activities similar to the infamous triangular trade of the Great Qing!

"No way! Selling silk in the north is fine, but the Great Qing strictly prohibits private trading of ginseng and deer antlers from the northeast. If Father finds out, he won't spare you!" An Qing sternly objected.

These products were managed by the Imperial Household Department. Smuggling them would mean interfering with his father's finances, which was a terrible idea.

Just as An Qing thought she would have to give him a long lecture, Ninth Prince looked at her as if she were naive.

"Fifth Sister-in-law, don't worry. We agreed only to do legitimate business."

An Qing was puzzled and asked, "Then what are you doing?"

Ninth Prince calmly replied, "Isn't it simple? I'll collaborate with Father. I've investigated the profits from these products handled by the Imperial Household Department. There's a lot of room for profit. If I can make Father more money, isn't that a good thing?"

He then explained the detailed operations of their business. In summary, selling silk, ginseng, and deer antlers was just a small part of their business, with other ventures involved.

An Qing was confused but realized that if this worked, it would be highly profitable.

Historically, Ninth Prince had made substantial profits through his illegal triangular trade. If it could be legalized, it would be a viable venture.

After getting An Qing's approval, Ninth Prince began working tirelessly. Somehow, he convinced Kangxi, and the business became a reality.

Their business flourished, establishing trade routes across the country. Over the years, Ninth Prince's people helped An Qing find superior seeds in various regions, which was an unexpected benefit.

During the recent disaster in Shandong, Ninth Prince, representing their business, donated a significant amount of money and grain and coordinated with merchants to provide relief efforts, contributing greatly.

An Qing heard from Yinqi that Kangxi now viewed Ninth Prince differently. It was clear that his business career would only improve from here.

Her personal wealth would also grow, given her shares in Ninth Prince's business.

An Qing felt the thrill of a successful investment, feeling secure for the rest of her life.

Days passed slowly, and finally, the day of their departure arrived.

Early that morning, she and Yinqi led Xiao Bao into the palace to bid farewell to the Empress Dowager and Concubine Yi. Upon returning home, they prepared to leave by carriage.

Unexpectedly, as they reached the gate, they saw a group of people there to see them off.

Fourth Prince and Fourth Princess Consort brought Honghui, while Ninth Prince and his wife, Tenth Prince and his wife, Zhang Tingyu, Zhuo Tai, and the students An Qing taught at the Agricultural Academy were all present.

An Qing and Yinqi exchanged glances, both surprised. They had held a farewell dinner a few days earlier, hoping to gather everyone before leaving. They hadn't expected anyone to come today.

"Fourth Brother, Fourth Sister-in-law, you..." An Qing looked at everyone, unsure of what to say.

Lady Sifujin patted her shoulder and smiled, "We all decided to come and see you off. We don't know when we'll meet again."

An Qing was never one for sentimentality; she quickly composed herself and bid everyone farewell one by one.

While the adults were busy talking, the children weren't idle either.

Xiao Bao held Honghui's hand in one and Hongsheng's in the other, saying, "Big Brother Honghui, Big Brother Hongsheng, I'll write to you. You both take care in the Imperial City, okay?"

When An Qing arrived, she saw this scene, with the three of them looking reluctant to part.

"Wu Shennu, take care of yourself while you're away," said Honghui, looking at An Qing.

An Qing gently stroked his head, her eyes softening, "Thank you, Honghui. Wu Shennu will take care of herself."

It had already been some time since the historical date when Honghui passed away; he had made it through that critical period.

After saying this, she turned to Hongsheng and gave him some quiet instructions.

On this trip out of the Imperial City, Hongsheng wasn't going with them. He was now eight years old and couldn't afford to miss his lessons in the Imperial Academy. Even Xiao Bao, who would be of age for the academy in a few years, would have to return then. This was also Kangxi's requirement for the Aisin Gioro descendants.

"Dearest Mother, don't worry. Your son will take care of himself, and you must take care of yourself and little brother too," said Hongsheng, showing his maturity.

An Qing nodded slightly. Due to Xiao Bao, the relationship between the two brothers had improved, and Hongsheng had grown up mostly under her care over the past two years. Her feelings towards him were naturally different from before.

"Your father and I won't be in the Imperial City, but remember, you are the eldest son of our Fifth Beile's Mansion. No matter what happens, don't let yourself be wronged. Go to the palace and find your grandmother and Mother Uku; they will stand up for you. Do you understand?" she instructed.

An Qing wasn't worried about the mansion; Yinqi had left many people in charge of the front yard, and Lady Guajia managed the back yard, ensuring no one would dare wrong a child like him. However, outside, especially in the Imperial Academy, conflicts among the princes and imperial relatives could arise, and someone needed to support him then.

A warm feeling stirred in Hongsheng's heart, knowing his mother was concerned about him being bullied. "Yes, son will do so."

As the saying goes, "Even if you send someone a thousand miles, there must still be a parting." An Qing sat in the carriage, waving goodbye to the group at the gate through the window as their figures gradually disappeared from view.

The carriage moved further and further away, leaving the streets and passing through the city gates, heading straight north.