Chapter 3 (Minor Adjustment)

Chapter 3 (Minor Adjustment)

The one who entered and announced the news was the female official Garudai, who had received the message from the Six Bureaus.

She was from the Guargai family and had entered the Imperial Clothing Bureau, where she was in charge of ceremonial attire and other affairs related to the ceremonial standards of Cining Palace, reflecting the dignity of the Empress Dowager.

Her aunt was the head of the Six Bureaus, equivalent to one of the deputy directors of the Imperial Household Department, and had more timely information than others.

Garudai was followed by four other female officials from the Six Bureaus, all of whom had previously served the Empress Dowager in Shoukang Palace.

Regardless of any private friction, they maintained a good relationship on the surface.

At that moment, they watched as Geng Shuning slowly raised her delicate and innocent face, looking utterly confused, her eyes showing a mix of pity and concern.

Garudai stepped forward, took the brush from Geng Shuning's hand, and explained the situation in a few words.

Behind them, Niuheru Jingyi and Tong Siya, who had entered with the group, felt guilty.

Geng Shuning stared incredulously at the two, wondering if they wanted her dead.

Were they trying to get her in trouble by bringing up something said in private to their superiors? Who would dare to share their true feelings with them in the future?

She opened her mouth but, unable to maintain the composure she had cultivated over a lifetime in her previous life, exclaimed with exaggerated intonation—

"Thinking of our past affection, I would rip out my own heart to let you feel at ease... My two ancestors, you are already beautiful enough, why do you have to open your mouths!!"

In their eyes, the previous incarnation was so easy to bully that even her life could be trampled on.

Garudai and the other four female officials laughed.

Especially after seeing the embarrassed expressions of Niuheru Jingyi and Tong Siya, they laughed even harder.

It was these two who had bullied Geng Shuning the most when they were together.

Niuheru Jingyi, seeing Geng Shuning mocking them, was somewhat unhappy.

"Those were your own words; we just let the Empress Dowager know your thoughts; we didn't spread rumors..."

Geng Shuning's expression turned completely cold and interrupted her rudely.

"Don't tell me you didn't know how dangerous it is to spread such words!"

"I may not have ambitions, but I won't allow you to force me into a convent; no one should be bullied like this!"

Niuheru Jingyi and Tong Siya were startled, their already pale faces turning even whiter.

They suddenly realized that the desire to live a carefree life as a widow was probably the dream of most Manchu ladies of the family, but no one would ever say it out loud.

If anyone found out, even if she were arranged to marry, her future mother-in-law would surely enforce strict rules to prevent any disgrace.

Tong Siya, being more tactful, quickly grabbed Geng Shuning's hand and apologized profusely.

"Don't worry; the people around the Empress Dowager won't talk nonsense; only we few know, and we will make sure it doesn't get out."

Garudai snorted with laughter, "Do you think you're fooling idiots? By now, even the Empress Dowager probably knows."

She bluntly gave Geng Shuning advice, "If you ask me, whoever made the mistake should take responsibility."

"Blocking the issue won't work; putting Jingyi and Siya under house arrest for some time under the Empress Dowager's order to copy Buddhist scriptures to reflect on their actions would be more convincing."

This way, the blame falls on these two troublemakers, while Geng Shuning becomes the victim, allowing her to salvage some of her reputation.

Niuheru Jingyi and Tong Siya shot angry glances at Garudai but stayed quiet.

Given the impact on Geng Shuning, this was the best solution. They had gossiped, and now they had to face the consequences.

If they refused, they would likely end up in a bitter feud with the Geng family.

However, if they went through with it, they would lose face, and their expressions turned somewhat ugly.

When they had gossiped earlier, they hadn’t considered the impact on Geng Shuning. They simply assumed the words wouldn’t get out and that Geng Shuning wouldn’t dare to hold them accountable.

Before they could complain much longer, someone arrived from Yongshou Palace.

It was Cuiwei, the head palace maid of the Empress, who was as strict and proper as her mistress. She brought a gift for Geng Shuning, a box of golden melon seeds.

With an icy tone, she said, “Miss Shuning, Her Majesty’s orders are that for the Qianqiu Festival, you should follow the will of the Empress Dowager. Once you have a plan, report it, but under no circumstances should you tarnish the imperial family’s dignity.”

Geng Shuning took a deep breath and accepted the gift. She understood the Empress’s message: she could pursue Fourth Brother, but it had to be done in a refined and subtle way.

Shortly after, Hongying, a palace maid from Consort Qi’s quarters in Changchun Palace, entered the room with a tray of silk-thread beaded flowers.

She spoke in an especially amiable tone. “Miss Shuning, our Empress is skilled in music and wishes to entertain her parents while also caring for the health of the emperor. You’ll need to put in some effort too.”

“When the time comes for a suitable match, our Empress will certainly think of you.”

Geng Shuning stiffly accepted the red lacquer tray. Ignoring the latter part, the meaning from Consort Qi was clear: the pursuit had to be dignified and needed to capture Fourth Brother’s interest.

With the Empress and Consort Qi leading the way, the maids from other consorts hurried to bring gifts as well.

At twenty-seven, Fourth Master’s harem was relatively small, consisting of Empress Ulanara, Consort Qi, Consort Mao, Noble Lady Ning, and three attendants named Hai, Su, and Zhang.

After the new emperor took the throne, the Retired Emperor, finding the situation unsuitable, ordered the Imperial Household Department to select a few maids from the bondservant class. However, none of them had yet been favored.

One gift after another arrived, each accompanied by a list of demands—“this, that, and the other”—and occasional teasing, which made Geng Shuning’s expression grow more rigid and her eyes more desperate.

Even after being transported to this world, she couldn’t escape these absurd demands. It was ridiculous!

By this point, neither Niuheru Jingyi nor Tong Siya could afford to be petty or give Geng Shuning disapproving looks. They were filled with regret for having offended the female officials so deeply.

No one expected their actions would attract so many demands from the Empresses. If they hadn’t been so determined to sideline Geng Shuning, they wouldn’t have dug such a deep hole for everyone, including themselves.

The female officials couldn’t help but glare at Niuheru Jingyi and Tong Siya. Garudai, being closer to Geng Shuning, comforted her.

“Don’t worry. We’ll figure it out together.”

Geng Shuning’s face remained full of panic and grievance, but in her heart, she was relatively calm.

Handling PR crises was something she was familiar with. She wasn’t as concerned about her reputation as the original owner had been.

As long as she could leave the palace, marrying far away would be more freeing.

The most important thing was to handle the Qianqiu Festival well. If she couldn’t appease the Empress Dowager, leaving the palace would remain a dream.

If she could handle something as paradoxical as “colorful black,” she could certainly handle this ordeal.

Geng Shuning looked at Niuheru Jingyi, trying to appear strong.

"I remember the steward of the Imperial Kitchen Bureau is your paternal uncle. Can you obtain the banquet menu from previous Thousand Autumns Festivals held for the Empress Dowager?"

Niuheru Jingyi, realizing how naive she had been and feeling quite guilty towards Geng Shuning, nodded quickly.

"Sure, but past festivals were pretty standard affairs..."

Geng Shuning lowered her head and said softly, "The luncheon will be held in the Hall of Preserving Harmony, where civil and military officials along with the inner and outer court ladies will offer their birthday greetings to the Empress Dowager. It's better to keep it conventional."

"During the family banquet at Qianqing Palace in the evening, when the imperial family members attend, we can incorporate some creative elements."

Everyone looked at Geng Shuning with surprise.

They had only known her as someone who was easy to push around, but unexpectedly, she had some good ideas when it came to handling things.

Tong Siya instinctively asked, "Got any ideas up your sleeve?"

Geng Shuning gave her a slow, indifferent look. "I'm not some reincarnated Bi Gan; I didn't anticipate this wave of trouble, so how could I have any tricks up my sleeve?"

Tong Siya, thinking Geng Shuning was still easy to push around, was about to retort when she looked up and saw Garudai and the others glaring at her menacingly.

Startled, she swallowed her frustration and forced a smile.

"Truth be told, your mind is a lot sharper than ours. The Empress Dowager has instructed us to follow your arrangements. After the Thousand Autumns Festival, I will apologize to you properly along with Jingyi."

Garudai raised an eyebrow, ready to say something unpleasant.

What do you mean by "a lot sharper"? Are you still using the widow's situation to make a point?

Geng Shuning, with a cold expression, pulled Garudai back and ignored Tong Siya's veiled jab.

"There's no need for apologies. It won't stop others from talking anyway. I only hope both of you will be more careful and not spread our private conversations. That would be merit enough for me."

"In this vast world, I’ll find my way. My reputation is already tarnished; I don’t want to ruin your bright future, elder sister."

Niuheru Jingyi buried her head in her chest, realizing that from now on, she was willing to take on the role of the clear-cut villain.

Tong Siya muttered under her breath, I'm willing to apologize, so why won't you share your tricks up your sleeve to help me rise?

Geng Shuning sneered inwardly, I'd also like to stick a knife in you and pray for your soul. Why don’t you just do everyone a favor and disappear?

Do I owe you something?

Although Geng Shuning feared being burned to death, she couldn't remain completely passive or she'd be buried alive before even leaving the palace.

Everyone present understood the deeper meaning and figured out what caused today’s mess.

In the palace, there were few fools. The way they looked at Tong Siya turned cold.

Tong Siya's expression changed abruptly, not expecting Geng Shuning to be so firm.

Her face turned almost translucent white, her body swayed, and tears welled up in her beautiful eyes, making her look like the victim here.

Unfortunately, no one cared to comfort her.

Garudai asked Geng Shuning, "What can we do to help? Although our families may not have much influence, we at least have connections in the Imperial Household Department."

Tong Siya was pushed to the back, her eyes flashing resentment as she lowered her gaze to hide her cold expression.

Those words came from that flirtatious young widow, and she intended to cut off all opportunities for Geng Shuning to stay in the palace.

No matter how clear Geng Shuning's words were, her beauty and figure were still too much of a concern. There was only one emperor, and she wasn't going to let anyone near him!

Geng Shuning didn't care about Tong Siya's ambition. She pondered for a moment.

"Sister Garudai, let's first organize what we can use from the Six Bureaus."

"Please ask the female official to check if there are any taboos for the evening banquet, and let's integrate the available resources first, then decide on the next steps."

Pausing for a moment, Geng Shuning asked in a low voice, "Do you know if there's a place in the palace that is particularly quiet, where making some noise wouldn't disturb others?"

Her head still ached a little.

Organizing a charmingly unique banquet wasn't difficult for her, a top-notch planner, but the problem was that this was the Qing Dynasty, where rules were larger than mountains.

No matter how capable she was, if she could retain even a fraction of her abilities, it would be good.

Whenever she lacked inspiration before, Geng Shuning liked to drink a little, privately vent her frustrations about the client, and then slowly organize her thoughts with the help of alcohol.

The duty rooms where the female officials stayed were full of people, making it unsuitable for her to work.

Garudai shook her head, "You want to lead the emperor to a secret place and have the Empresses... well, put in some effort? I really don't know of such a place in the palace."

Tong Siya softly interjected, "Even if there is a secret place, it would be discovered and shouldn't involve too many people."

"There are several Empresses in the palace, and they may not be able to lower themselves to such frivolity."

It would be better to choose someone who is willing to take the initiative.

Geng Shuning's expression remained unchanged, "You're overthinking. I just want to find a place to cry and clear my mind, so I can then think of a solution."

Everyone: "..."

Niuheru Jingyi couldn't hold back a laugh and covered her mouth, giving Geng Shuning an apologetic look.

"I know a good place. This matter is our fault, Siya and I. I'll secretly tell you later."

*

While Geng Shuning and the others were engaged, Yinzhen had already left the palace with Su Peisheng, heading to Changchun Garden.

Ever since the Retired Emperor's injuries started to heal, he had issued an edict for the new emperor to visit Changchun Garden every three days.

The way of being a ruler, Kangxi had only taught the crown prince. With the sudden onset of disaster and the new emperor's ascension being the only choice, Kangxi had no option but to frantically impart the way of being a ruler to his fourth son.

When Yinzhen arrived at the Qingyuan Study, Kangxi was examining Hong Xi's knowledge.

"Hong Xi pays his respects to Fourth Uncle!" Seeing his fourth uncle, Hong Xi immediately greeted him respectfully. His voice, hoarse from puberty, still conveyed steadiness.

Yinzhen's cold expression softened slightly, and he nodded as he stepped forward and personally helped Hong Xi to his feet.

"It's been hot lately, is the ice in the room sufficient?"

Hong Xi nodded slightly, a smile on his face as he looked at his fourth uncle, his voice becoming a bit livelier.

"Fourth Aunt specially sent someone to ask about the main consort, and the imperial grandfather also gave some of his ice to your uncle! It's all sufficient!"

Yinzhen gently touched Hong Xi's mouse-tail braid.

"That's good, I've brought you some famous pastries from the best shop in the capital. You said Uxaha likes them, right? Take them and share."

Uxiha is the eldest daughter of the former Crown Princess Gua Jia and is only six years old. She has always had a close relationship with Hong Xi.

Upon hearing this, Hong Xi's eyes lit up, and he eagerly looked at Kangxi. Seeing Kangxi nod with a smile, Hong Xi left the room with a light step.

Kangxi then turned to Yinzhen, "Why have you arrived so late?"

Yinzhen sat upright below Kangxi and naturally picked up the fan beside him to fan Kangxi.

"I went to see the Empress Dowager first to discuss the Thousand Autumns Festival. If we plan a grand celebration, we shouldn't overburden the Empress Dowager."

Kangxi snorted, "She has the energy to manage Prince Lao Fourteen, but she would be too tired for the festival?"

Yinzhen lowered his eyes, "Prince Lao Fourteen is currently serving in the Jingjiao Military Camp incognito. His life is quite hard, so it's natural for the Empress Dowager to worry."

Kangxi raised his eyebrows, "You always find reasons for her. She doesn’t even care for your health or your heirs. Blind filial piety is not acceptable!"

Yinzhen remained silent, as there were things that the Emperor could say, but he could not.

At this point, Kangxi had to urge him.

With a tone of exasperation, he said, "Since your ascension, you haven't favored any consorts. Hong Yun is weak. What exactly are you planning?"

"If he can't stand firm, and you have no princes under you, how can we stabilize Mongolia and the Jiangnan region? Do I need to say more?"

Yinzhen looked up at his father.

At fifty-two, the Emperor, though showing signs of aging, still had a clear and sharp gaze, as piercing and profound as ever.

When he looked at Yinzhen, there was never the warmth and satisfaction that he had given to his second son, only scrutiny and pressure.

A dull ache rose in Yinzhen's heart. As an emperor, how could he not understand Kangxi's dilemma?

His instability was indeed a concern for the Emperor, but at least it gave the Emperor something to worry about.

If Yinzhen were to indulge in the harem, worry about offspring, and consolidate power while the Emperor was still recovering... his power-hungry father would never tolerate it.

Up to now, the Jingjiao Military Camp and the Imperial Guard in Beijing were still largely controlled by the Emperor, with no intention of relinquishing power.

Becoming a puppet emperor, even with offspring, would be pointless.

Yinzhen opened his mouth, hesitating as he looked at Kangxi. After a pause, Yinzhen, sensing Kangxi’s impatience, made up his mind.

He rose and knelt before Kangxi.

"Father, I wish to adopt Hong Xi as my son."

Due to his leg discomfort, Kangxi had been lounging lazily.

Hearing this, he was startled and sat up abruptly, ignoring the faint pain in his leg, his sharp eagle-like eyes fixed tightly on the new emperor.

"Nonsense! You can have your own children, why would you entertain such a reckless notion that could undermine the stability of the court?"

Yinzhen remained kneeling, his tightly wrapped body in the dragon robe making him appear even more resolute.

He looked at Kangxi earnestly.

"Father, I have had this thought for a long time and have considered it repeatedly. This is the most cautious and responsible course of action."

Before Kangxi could continue scolding, Yinzhen said softly, "Since childhood, I aspired to be my second brother’s trusted advisor. I never imagined I would one day control the Qing Dynasty."

"Since ascending the throne, I have been filled with fear and anxiety day and night, worried that the glory of the Qing Dynasty might be tarnished under my rule."

There was a glimmer of moisture in his eyes, washing away the veil to reveal even clearer admiration and longing.

"I will strive to learn from Your Majesty. Hong Xi was educated by both you and Second Brother. I am not certain if the son I raise can become a qualified monarch, but I trust in you and Second Brother."

Upon hearing him out, Kangxi's expression softened, and much of the lingering resentment in his heart dissipated.

Kangxi believed himself to be an enlightened ruler and trusted that he had done better than all his sons. However, fate was cruel, and he could no longer appear before his subjects with dignity.

It pained him that Yinreng, the son he had carefully nurtured, died in the earthquake, and the one he had never paid much attention to, the fourth son, had taken the throne.

Yinzhen had also spoken to his heart.

Kangxi believed Yinzhen could be a competent minister, but he doubted whether Yinzhen could be a capable emperor, leading the Qing Dynasty into a brighter future. This uncertainty left him uneasy.

This unease intensified his resentment.

After Yinzhen spoke, the weight on Kangxi's chest lifted.

He could see that Yinzhen's words were sincere, and he truly wanted to appoint Hong Xi as heir.

Though he had scolded Yinzhen earlier, Kangxi had also considered this option.

The earthquake had little impact on the Crown Prince's residence.

As the eldest son of Crown Prince Yinreng, Hong Xi only suffered minor abrasions and was subsequently educated by the emperor himself.

At thirteen, Hong Xi, like his father Yinreng, already exhibited the grace and poise of a promising young man.

If not for his young age, in Kangxi's mind, he would have been a more suitable candidate for the new emperor than Yinzhen.

After all, when the disaster struck, although he had disagreements with his beloved second son, it had not reached a point of direct confrontation. Yinreng remained the most suitable successor in his heart.

As Yinreng's eldest son, Hong Xi was naturally the most fitting choice for the title of Crown Prince, even if he had not been officially bestowed with the title.

Kangxi believed that even if Yinzhen could not perform well, Hong Xi could restore order and safeguard the Qing Dynasty once he ascended the throne.

*

By the time Yinzhen left Changchun Garden, it was already deep into the night.

The garden was brightly lit, making the outside seem even darker, concealing all the coldness in his eyes.

After a heartfelt exchange, Kangxi finally gave his word.

Once Hong Xi was officially declared Crown Prince, Kangxi would relinquish all military power except for the internal guards.

As for the internal guards, Kangxi evidently intended to pass them directly to Hong Xi after his own passing.

A burning rage and sorrow simmered in Yinzhen's chest, threatening to consume him.

In the heart of his Father Emperor, only Yinreng was considered a son, while he, this son, was deemed lesser than a grandson.

Yet, Father Emperor had forgotten that even the position of Crown Prince held by Second Brother would have come to an end soon, had it not been for the earthquake.

The greatest conflict between Father Emperor and the Crown Prince was none other than the struggle for imperial power.

Even if Hong Xi became Crown Prince, how much better could he be than his father?

The resentment in Yinzhen's heart grew deeper. Unless Father Emperor could live to be an immortal turtle, he would never see the day Hong Xi ascended the throne!

Su Peisheng felt that his master seemed like a powder keg about to explode.

He didn’t dare utter another word and hurriedly assisted his master onto the imperial palanquin, returning to the palace under the cover of night.

As they approached the Hall of Mental Cultivation, Su Peisheng carefully suggested, "Emperor, shall I call the kitchen to send some food..."

Yinzhen coldly interrupted, "Bring a jar of Jade Spring Wine and take me to the usual spot!"

Su Peisheng felt a bitter pang in his heart. His Majesty had barely touched his evening meal, and drinking strong wine on an empty stomach wasn’t wise!

Yinzhen ignored Su Peisheng and, after speaking, tightly pressed his thin lips together, striding quickly toward the Qingyu Pavilion in the corner of the Northern Five Houses.

The Qingyu Pavilion stood between the Northern Five Houses and the Yanchun Pavilion, where disgraced imperial concubines were housed. It was an abandoned two-story structure that had never been renovated due to its lack of use.

In reality, the side adjacent to the Northern Five Houses had been secretly renovated. Whenever Yinzhen felt emotions that even chanting Buddhist scriptures couldn’t quell, he would come here to drink and vent.

With less than an hour before court preparations, Yinzhen didn’t plan to drink much. However, with sorrow and rage filling his heart, he couldn’t possibly sleep peacefully. He intended to use the aid of wine for a short nap, suppressing the violent anger within him in the complete silence.

Unfortunately, just as he raised the wine cup, an unsettling wail came from the window —

"Dignified and seductive... Qi costume show? No, no, at most, just bare arms..."

"Still need to subtly make him burn with desire... This is even harder than the 'black with five colors' request... Oh, please, just let me burn up!"

Yinzhen's face darkened. Maybe not.