Chapter 059

Chapter 059

Consort Rong had been unconscious for three consecutive days, occasionally with blood seeping from the corners of her mouth. Even after wiping it away, the blood would soon reappear. The imperial physicians were busy attending to both her and the little milk dragon.

The little milk dragon was just starting to get better; his high fever had subsided, and he was more alert and energetic. However, the smallpox itched, and he often couldn't resist scratching, though he was always stopped.

In contrast, Consort Rong's high fever persisted, and she occasionally coughed up blood. Her pulse was erratic, which truly wore out the imperial physicians. They not only lost hair but also pulled out quite a bit of their beards, and dark circles became permanent under their eyes.

Kangxi was constantly moving between the two every day.

Consort Rong remained unconscious, and the little milk dragon, already fragile from illness, would ask after eating some food and medicine, "Imperial Father, where is Consort Rong? I want to see her. Why hasn't she come to see Baocheng?"

The little one also had smallpox on his face, which itched constantly, but the maids said he couldn't scratch. If he did, it would leave scars, and he would end up with a pockmarked face.

Hearing that he might become pockmarked, the little milk dragon, despite the intense itching, dared not scratch. Consort Rong always praised him for being adorable. If he became pockmarked, he wouldn't look good anymore. Despite his young age, the little milk dragon was already a bit vain.

Noticing the sadness in Baocheng's eyes, Kangxi patted his head and comforted him, "Baocheng, be good. Consort Rong is not feeling well and can't come to see you for now. Once you're almost better, she will come to see you."

In reality, Consort Rong had been unconscious for three days after collapsing. Baocheng, who had been suffering from a high fever, suddenly had his fever break that day. Others believed it was due to Baocheng's good luck.

Since that day, Baocheng's condition gradually improved, while Consort Rong's health took a sharp turn for the worse.

Having overheard her thoughts that day, Kangxi couldn't help but wonder if Consort Rong had done something to turn Baocheng's critical condition around and improve his health.

"Really?" The little milk dragon's eyes sparkled with hope.

Originally, the little milk dragon had a round, chubby face, but after a few days of illness, he had lost a lot of weight, and his face was much thinner.

Though Kangxi was usually strict with Baocheng, he couldn't bring himself to say anything harsh at this moment. "Yes, really."

After hearing Kangxi's reassurance, the little milk dragon's energy waned, and he fell back asleep. Kangxi told the maids to keep an eye on the little prince, ensuring he didn't unconsciously scratch his smallpox in his sleep.

After changing into fresh clothes and washing his hands, Kangxi went to Consort Rong's side.

At that moment, Yun Hua was feeding Su Yi medicinal broth. She had been unconscious for several days, and since she couldn't eat or drink, they had been feeding her medicinal broth to sustain her. The imperial physicians were baffled by Su Yi's condition.

Consort Rong's symptoms resembled those of tuberculosis, with coughing and blood, but it wasn't actually tuberculosis. Normally, when not stimulated, Consort Rong was almost indistinguishable from a healthy person. But once these symptoms appeared, no effective treatment was available. The imperial physicians had been scouring ancient texts for days, trying to find a cure.

But to no avail.

Moreover, with her persistent high fever, it was possible that she had contracted smallpox from being too close to the little prince.

This additional complication plunged the imperial physicians into despair, especially with the Emperor's gloomy face looming over them daily. They silently prayed for Consort Rong to wake up soon.

Seeing Kangxi arrive, Yun Hua and Qinxin, who were feeding Consort Rong, were about to put down the medicine bowl and rise to greet him, but Kangxi raised his hand to stop them. "I'll take over," Kangxi said, walking to the bedside and sitting down, taking the medicine bowl from Yun Hua.

Over the past few days, Kangxi had become quite skilled at feeding medicine. Initially, he was clumsy and spilled it on her clothes and bedsheets, but now he was much more proficient.

Although she was unconscious, the medicinal broth still went down. Kangxi gently fed Consort Rong, who usually tried every trick to avoid taking medicine, but now she was docile.

After feeding her the medicine, he gave her some water, wiped her mouth with a handkerchief, and then, taking her from Qinxin's arms, laid her back down and covered her with a blanket.

Having been unconscious for three days, Consort Rong looked as if she were merely asleep, not in a coma.

At this moment, everyone around had been signaled by Liang Jiugong to quietly withdraw, leaving only the Emperor and Consort Rong.

Kangxi sat by the bedside, gently stroking Consort Rong's raven-black hair, his expression unreadable—a mix of tenderness and coldness, his tone uncertain, "Are you really Niu Gu Lu Min Yi?"

But the room remained silent, and no one answered Kangxi.

The person on the bed still had her eyes closed, showing no signs of waking up. Even in illness, Consort Rong remained breathtakingly beautiful.

Not only did she not become haggard from the illness, but she also exuded a fragile beauty. Even in her unconscious state, she was a delicate beauty, prompting people to handle her with care instinctively.

The person being questioned did not answer, but whether she answered or not was not important now. After all, she was the one he had chosen from the beginning.

Even if her origins were unclear, she was still different from others.

Kangxi's hand slowly moved from Consort Rong's hair down to her neck. That slender, pale neck could almost be fully grasped by Kangxi's hand.

For the past three days, Kangxi and Consort Rong had been alone like this. At this moment, she was unconscious and at her weakest. Kangxi could eliminate any potential threats by ending Consort Rong's life.

With a hint of murderous intent in his eyes, Kangxi's hand on Consort Rong's neck gradually tightened. Her neck looked incredibly fragile; with just a bit more force, she would die without a sound.

Even if the imperial physician noticed something, they would remain silent. They would only conceal the cause of Consort Rong's death, attributing it to her severe illness.

Kangxi's face was cold as the strength in his hand gradually increased. Consort Rong's breathing quickened, yet she did not wake up, too weak even to struggle.

Originally pale and bloodless, Consort Rong's face now bore a faint blush from the difficulty in breathing. Her brows furrowed, and her expression became somewhat pained.

The next moment, Kangxi released his grip and pulled his hand back.

Consort Rong's expression slowly returned to normal. Except for the faint red finger marks on her neck, it seemed as if nothing had happened.

Kangxi looked down at his palm with a complex expression, then tucked his hand behind his back and stood up to leave. His steps were hurried, as if he were escaping.

Outside, Liang Jiugong felt a gust of wind and looked up to see the Emperor walking ahead, hands behind his back. He quickly followed, wondering, "Why is the Emperor walking so fast? I have to jog to keep up."

Meanwhile, in the inner room, Su Yi, who had been unconscious all this time, slowly opened her eyes shortly after Kangxi departed. Her gaze was clear as she looked at the canopy above, a faint smile playing on her lips. She slowly reached out from under the blanket and touched her neck. The faint red finger marks had already vanished.

Hearing footsteps approaching, Su Yi quickly pulled her hand back under the blanket and closed her eyes again, as if she had never awakened.

Yun Hua stepped forward and looked at the still unconscious Consort Rong. She adjusted the blanket for her and then sat down at the foot of the bed to keep watch.

---

Yikun Palace

For several days in a row, the Imperial Noble Consort had been going to Cining Palace without her hairpins, seeking an audience with the Grand Empress Dowager. However, Cining Palace had been evading her. Today was even more absurd.

Suma Lagu explained that the Grand Empress Dowager was deeply concerned about the Crown Prince's smallpox and was so distressed that she fell ill and was unable to receive visitors. She had even temporarily suspended the concubines' morning greetings until her health improved.

Empress Dowager Xiaozhuang refused to see her but sent someone to Jingren Palace to temporarily hand over the palace authority to Consort Tongjia for management.

Consort Tongjia was overjoyed and immediately went to Cining Palace to express her gratitude. Although she did not see the Grand Empress Dowager, she thanked her outside.

She said she was grateful for the ancestor's trust and promised to handle the palace affairs well, unlike the Imperial Noble Consort. She vowed to manage the harem properly, allowing the ancestor to rest and recover in peace.

She then deliberately passed by Yikun Palace on her way back to Jingren Palace, making a grand display as if to let the Imperial Noble Consort know of her current triumph.

She almost went into Yikun Palace to flaunt and mock the Imperial Noble Consort for losing her authority over the palace.

This infuriated the Imperial Noble Consort, who had always maintained a gentle and dignified demeanor, to the point where her face turned dark. She almost couldn't resist rushing out to confront Consort Tongjia, but in the end, reason prevailed.

She knew that if she went out to confront Consort Tongjia now, it would play right into Consort Tongjia's hands. So she pretended not to notice Consort Tongjia's arrogance and remained seated in Yikun Palace.

Seeing this, Consort Tongjia felt a bit disappointed but was still satisfied. She had been in the palace for so long, always overshadowed by the Imperial Noble Consort's pretentious demeanor.

This time, she finally had the upper hand.

Regardless of whether Consort Tongjia was wronged this time, she has indeed gained the upper hand. The palace authority she now holds is real, and even if the Imperial Noble Consort is dissatisfied, she cannot demand it back, especially since the Grand Empress Dowager herself has spoken.

No matter how displeased the Imperial Noble Consort may be, she cannot confront the Grand Empress Dowager. She has no choice but to visit the Cining Palace daily to apologize.

Nanny Wang couldn't suppress a smile. Consort Tongjia's loss of power is a good thing now that she is in charge of the palace authority. Without the palace authority, the Imperial Noble Consort is merely a toothless tiger, having lost her prestige.

Meanwhile, the Jingren Palace is brimming with joy, celebrating the solidification of Consort Tongjia's position, even surpassing the Imperial Noble Consort.

This commotion even reached Lady Uya, who is still in confinement. She asked her personal maid, "What's going on? Why is it so lively outside?"

Lady Uya is diligently resting and recovering during her confinement. With experience, she finds it manageable. A proper confinement period benefits her future health. Previously, after giving birth to her fourth child, who was taken away to be raised by another, Lady Uya secretly shed many tears during her confinement.

As a result, her confinement wasn't properly observed, and she developed postpartum illnesses. This time, aware that her fourth child would still be taken by that wretched Consort Tongjia, Lady Uya scarcely glanced at the swaddled baby during her confinement.

Her indifference made it seem as though she hadn't just become a mother.

Even after the child's birth, Consort Tongjia had the wet nurse take the baby to the main hall for care, hardly allowing the wet nurse to bring the baby back for Lady Uya to see. Lady Uya didn't cry or fuss, merely stating calmly that she knew and trusted Consort Tongjia to care for the child.

"Madam, rewards are being distributed outside. The Grand Empress Dowager is unwell and has temporarily handed over the palace authority to Consort Tongjia. She is now distributing rewards, saying it's to share the joy." As she spoke, she pulled out a red envelope from her sleeve, clearly having received a reward herself.

Upon hearing this, Lady Uya frowned. Shouldn't the Niohuru clan still be in charge? How did the palace authority fall into the hands of that wretched Consort Tongjia?

"Wasn't the palace authority managed by the Imperial Noble Consort?"

The maid didn't find Lady Uya's question strange, as she had been in confinement in the side hall and hadn't gone out, so it was normal for her not to know the news. She replied, "Madam, the Imperial Noble Consort was recently reprimanded by the Grand Empress Dowager for failing to manage the palace properly and neglecting her duties. The palace authority was taken back, and she is no longer in charge."

"But the Crown Prince has fallen ill, and the Grand Empress Dowager is deeply worried day and night, leaving her with no energy to manage palace affairs. So, she handed them over to Consort Tongjia." The maid gleefully examined the red envelope; the reward was indeed generous, equal to two months' wages.

"I see. You may go," Lady Uya said coldly before lying down to rest. The maid, puzzled by Lady Uya's sudden unhappiness, assumed she was tired and didn't linger, saying, "Then rest well, Madam. I will take my leave."

Lady Uya's eyes were clouded with gloom. How did Consort Tongjia gain control of the palace authority so swiftly this time? Once the palace authority is in Consort Tongjia's hands, how can it be easily returned to the Niohuru clan?

The Niohuru clan hasn't even started to fall ill yet, which is different from Lady Uya's previous memories. Why is this happening? Isn't she supposed to have returned to her younger days?

But why are things different from what she remembers?

There is an additional Consort Rong among the seven consorts, someone who never appeared in her memories. Consort Rong is indeed the younger sister of the Niohuru Imperial Noble Consort. Even if she were to enter the palace, it shouldn't be at this time.

She was supposed to enter the palace after the Niohuru clan's illness and death. Due to her family background, within a year of entering the palace, she became a consort, second only to that woman, Consort Tongjia.

The women of the Niohuru clan are indeed different. With their family background, the elder sister was posthumously honored as Empress Xiaozhaoren, and the younger sister entered the palace to become a consort.

Compared to those of us who worked hard and only reached the rank of consort, never to be promoted again, it's truly enviable.

But now, the Niohuru Imperial Noble Consort, who should have been ill, is perfectly healthy. The Niohuru Consort, who was supposed to enter the palace in the 19th year, entered in the 17th year and was titled Consort Rong.

Even her title is the same as Consort Rong's.

These differences have left Lady Uya somewhat bewildered. Is it a mistake in her memory, or is there some other reason why things are different from what she experienced before?

Lady Uya wants to see the Niohuru Imperial Noble Consort and Consort Rong, but she knows it's impossible. She is in confinement and cannot go out. Moreover, she is not the Empress Dowager now and cannot see anyone she wishes.

Lady Uya can only suppress her anxiety and wait silently. She has always been patient; otherwise, she wouldn't have outlasted Consort Tongjia, eventually becoming Empress Dowager and later ascending to the throne.

Even though her fourth child is not close to her, she is still the Empress Dowager, and Consort Tongjia is nothing more than a dead woman.

"Your Majesty! Consort Rong is awake." Upon receiving the news, Liang Jiugong immediately reported to Kangxi with a smile. She's finally awake.

Lately, whenever the Crown Prince woke up, he'd ask why Consort Rong hadn't visited him, and each time it became harder to soothe him. Every time Kangxi visited Consort Rong, his mood would turn sour for a bit, up and down unpredictably. Liang Jiugong, serving by his side, was always on edge.

It's been four days, and she has finally awakened. The high fever has subsided, and fortunately, it was just a fever—Consort Rong did not show any signs of pregnancy.

Just as Liang Jiugong was about to explain Consort Rong's current state, he saw a blur before his eyes, and the figure of His Majesty disappeared in front of him.

Feeling the usual helplessness, Liang Jiugong resignedly chased after him with his old arms and legs. What's up with His Majesty? Why won't he even let people finish talking?

Kangxi maintained a calm and composed expression, but his steps were swift as he walked straight in. The maids tried to greet him and say something, but Kangxi had already entered before they could speak.

The maids held their tongues.

As soon as Kangxi entered, he was met with a surprisingly fragrant and vivid scene. His steps abruptly halted, and his pupils slightly dilated.

Consort Rong was changing clothes, wearing only a pale moon-colored undergarment. Her entire back was held by a thin string, which looked extremely fragile, as if it could easily snap with a tug.

Her snow-white skin was blinding, making you want to leave red marks on it, like red plum blossoms blooming in the snow.

Maybe because she had just woken up, Consort Rong moved slowly. Hearing the sound of someone entering, she slowly turned her head and, seeing it was Kangxi, said, "Hold on, I'm getting dressed."

Then, Su Yi calmly continued to put on her white inner garment, her movements no different from before. Kangxi's throat bobbed as he was about to say something, but hearing footsteps behind him, he quickly walked around the screen. Liang Jiugong happened to bump into him at that moment.

Liang Jiugong was pushed back a few steps and heard Kangxi say, "Why are you so careless? Get out now!"

Liang Jiugong: ???

Huh?!

Wait, Your Majesty, weren't you also in a hurry?

I was just trying to keep up with you.

Seeing Kangxi's annoyed expression, Liang Jiugong dared not delay and quickly said, "Yes, I'm leaving now." With that, he hastily retreated. Just as he was stepping out,

Yun Hua stepped forward and said, "Liang Jiugong, you were running too fast just now. I was about to tell you that our lady is getting dressed right now!"

Upon hearing this, Liang Jiugong finally understood what had just happened.

No wonder His Majesty acted that way. He had almost followed His Majesty inside, which could have led to a disastrous incident.

Liang Jiugong now stood outside, feeling a lingering sense of fear. If he had actually entered earlier, given His Majesty's already displeased expression, the consequences would have been disastrous.

Liang Jiugong dared not imagine further and obediently stood outside, waiting.

After scolding Liang Jiugong, Kangxi walked back around the screen and returned to the inner chamber. By then, Su Yi had already dressed and was sitting by the bed, leaning against a thick pillow as if boneless.

Seeing Consort Rong fully dressed in her undergarment, Kangxi felt a subtle sense of regret, though he did not show it. He kept a straight face as he walked to Consort Rong's bedside and sat down.

He reached out and touched her forehead. Su Yi looked at him with a gentle expression.

"You're not feverish anymore. You've finally awakened," Kangxi said, withdrawing his hand after checking her temperature.

"How long have I been asleep? Yun Hua said it's been several days," Su Yi's voice was hoarse. Having not eaten for days, even with occasional sips of water, her throat was dry from insufficient hydration.

She coughed lightly and looked at Kangxi, her eyes clearly conveying, 'I'm thirsty and want some water.'

Just as Kangxi was about to call someone to bring water for Consort Rong, he heard, 'Really? There's a pot of water right on the table. Can't you just walk two steps to pour it yourself instead of calling someone in?'

Kangxi forcibly swallowed his words, his expression unreadable as he stood up and walked to the table a few meters away. He picked up the water jug, poured a cup of water, and walked over. Su Yi was about to smile gently and take the cup to drink.

However, Kangxi avoided Su Yi's outstretched hand and instead sat down. The handsome emperor's face carried a gentle smile as he spoke softly, "You've just woken up and don't have much strength. Allow me to feed you."

He brought the teacup to Su Yi's lips. Su Yi felt she couldn't back down, especially not to this dog man, so she also revealed a sweet smile, her face filled with gratitude. "Thank you, Your Majesty."

Then she drank from the edge of the teacup. But whether this dog man had never fed someone water before or what, he poured it far too quickly. Before Su Yi could swallow one mouthful, more water was already being poured, compelling her to hastily swallow the water and continue drinking.

Still, some water trickled from the corner of her mouth, flowing down her chin and onto her slender, snow-white neck.

After struggling to swallow the water, Su Yi was on the verge of a sarcastic comment that this dog man couldn't even feed water properly—pouring it so fast must have been intentional!

Kangxi casually tossed the now empty teacup aside. He leaned over, reaching out to grasp the back of Su Yi's neck, who was about to speak, and pressed his lips against hers, silencing her unspoken words. His entire body pressed against hers, leaving her no space to retreat.

Su Yi was startled by the sudden kiss, her eyelashes fluttering as her peach-blossom eyes blinked, looking at him. It was so sudden, and Kangxi had already closed his eyes.

She wanted to say something, but her words were immediately swallowed by his actions, leaving only muffled sounds. Her hands were guided by his to rest on his shoulders.

This kiss was more fervent than the last, leaving her mouth feeling somewhat numb. He didn't let go until Su Yi was almost out of breath, slowly pulling back and gently licking her now crimson lips. His warm breath seemed to envelop her completely.

But his thin lips didn't stop at her glistening, slightly swollen lips. Instead, they moved to kiss her chin, giving it a lick, then her neck, before finally stopping.

Kangxi looked up into those peach-blossom eyes, now filled with a dazed expression.

Su Yi's face was flushed, the corners of her eyes red, her eyes glistening with moisture as they met Kangxi's deep gaze. Her red lips parted slightly, still catching her breath, as she spoke in a soft, delicate tone, "Your Majesty, I've just woken up and haven't had a chance to rinse my mouth yet!"

Kangxi immediately froze.

The tension in the air dissipated completely after those words were spoken.