Chapter 179

Chapter 179

His arm was mostly hidden by the hem of his robe.

His hand was also extremely hot.

Wherever his large hand touched, it felt like fire had scorched the spot.

The woman in his arms had reddened eye corners, her shimmering eyes exuding a seductive charm, utterly captivating.

The man holding her gazed more intensely, his breathing quickening, and he couldn't wait to lift her up.

The woman's feet left the ground instantly, yet their lips stayed locked together.

The man carried her with a few long strides toward the bedroom.

In those few steps, their clothes had already loosened, hanging loosely on their bodies.

With a slight tug, the man tore open their garments, and their clothes fell to the ground.

Only the woman in his arms was left in a crimson undergarment.

The crimson undergarment made her skin appear even fairer, as white as snow.

The beauty's hair was disheveled, her skin snow-white, and the crimson undergarment made for a striking contrast.

The large hand that had been about to untie the back knot turned in another direction.

With a slightly larger movement, the curves wrapped in the crimson undergarment swayed outward.

The pearl earrings on her earlobes swayed continuously.

The delicate, small ear was soon covered by thin lips.

A warm tongue slowly traced the curve of her ear.

The sensitive ear's owner had half her body already softened.

Her body was soft and boneless, collapsing into the man's arms, trembling slightly.

The crimson undergarment was nearly falling off, barely covering anything, revealing large patches of snow-white skin.

The night grew deeper.

The bed shook slightly, with figures intertwined.

They stayed up too late, and the bed's gentle shaking only stopped as dawn approached.

Su Yi nestled in the quilt, catching up on sleep, but Kangxi couldn't.

He had to get up to attend court.

When he got up, Kangxi's expression was thoughtful, wondering if he'd need to replenish himself if every day was like this, or he might not keep up.

Usually he was quite restrained, but yesterday he indulged a bit more, with more variety, so... well.

Liang Jiugong noticed His Majesty looked satisfied; though he'd hardly slept, he still looked energetic. The commotion yesterday was significant—even he, who'd renounced worldly desires, felt a bit heated.

He had dealt with the Empress, but this was the kind of dealing that happened in bed.

The ceremony for the Imperial Noble Consort naturally took precedence. Apart from the edict of appointment, it was only after the ceremony that her position was truly legitimized.

Clad in the ceremonial robes befitting the Imperial Noble Consort, she received the official seal and went through the series of appointment rituals.

As per protocol, regardless of the Grand Empress Dowager and the Empress Dowager's attendance, the Imperial Noble Consort had to prepare in advance to pay her respects.

Their attendance was one thing, but extending the invitation was another.

As for the Emperor, even if he only came to sit for a while near the end of the ceremony, it still lent prestige to the Imperial Noble Consort.

The concubines encircled her with flattering remarks, chatting and laughing at the banquet.

Su Yi, clad in festive attire, sat there dining, her bangs resting softly on her knees, hands neatly tucked.

She closed her eyes, relishing the affection from her favorite human, her throat emitting a purring sound.

Su Yi refrained from conversation, merely listening, appearing somewhat disinterested.

In fact, it wasn't just a bit; she truly felt bored. Had she known, she would have feigned illness and stayed away.

Glancing around, she saw no new faces, weary of the familiar ones. There were hardly any fresh, young faces.

In the absence of novelty, Su Yi couldn't muster the effort to interact with others, showing a somewhat aloof nature.

Even without engaging in conversation, she could sit and eat, as letting the food get cold would make it less enjoyable.

But clearly, some found her leisurely demeanor intolerable. Among those present, how many could really eat what was placed in front of them? It was either for appearance's sake or merely a nibble.

"Imperial Noble Consort, why sit in silence, appearing somewhat downcast?" A woman's voice suddenly chimed in, steering the conversation towards the Rong Noble Consort.

This also redirected the attention of those who had been deliberately ignoring the Rong Noble Consort, though their peripheral glances had been on her, to now fully focus on her.

Who could truly overlook the Rong Noble Consort?

In the recent promotions, while the position of Imperial Noble Consort ultimately fell to Imperial Noble Consort Tongjia, making her the final winner,

Yet, Consort Rong had leapt directly from the concubine rank to become the Rong Noble Consort.

Others of the same rank, like Consort Duan, Consort Xi, and Consort An, stayed put in their original positions.

Even Consort Hui, who had the eldest prince, only received the rank of Consort. She was initially the frontrunner for the position of Noble Consort, but now she was overshadowed by the Rong Noble Consort.

Moreover, the Emperor had been a frequent visitor to the Yonghe Palace. The Rong Noble Consort had two out of three: rank, favor, and a prince. If she were to have a prince, who in the harem could be more content than her?

After the Imperial Noble Consort's ceremony, it would inevitably be the Rong Noble Consort's turn, and they would have to congratulate her with smiles, which was quite depressing to think about.

Now, with both the Imperial Noble Consort and the Rong Noble Consort present, the latter had only sent gifts at the beginning and hadn't spoken much since.

She sat there eating, as if the banquet's food was exceptionally delicious, though it was just the same old flavors from the imperial kitchen.

Perhaps the Rong Noble Consort felt uncomfortable, being overshadowed by the Imperial Noble Consort. Even if she came, she was still unhappy.

Thus, someone deliberately pointed out that at the banquet following the Imperial Noble Consort's ceremony, the Rong Noble Consort seemed somewhat out of place.

She remained silent, while others were happily speaking clever words for the Imperial Noble Consort. The Rong Noble Consort's silence hinted at her dissatisfaction with the Imperial Noble Consort.

This is clearly an attempt to stir up trouble between the Imperial Noble Consort and Rong Noble Consort.

It would be best if the Imperial Noble Consort and Rong Noble Consort clashed now, so the Imperial Noble Consort could put Rong Noble Consort in her place.

It’s just a question of who’ll make the first move.

Su Yi turned toward the voice and saw the speaker. Her most striking feature was her almond-shaped eyes, large and round, as if they’d been washed clean. She had a delicate, charming look about her. The face was familiar, but the name might not match.

This is one of the hassles of the harem—sometimes you recognize the face but can’t recall the name.

But it’s no big deal.

Su Yi set down her chopsticks, leaned back against the armrest, and casually stroked Guogaitou’s fur. She asked casually, "And who are you?"

Might as well ask now.

Qinxin had considered stepping forward to whisper the person’s name to Her Ladyship, but since Her Ladyship had already spoken and the person clearly meant no good, she just kept her head down and stayed put.

The person waiting to see how Rong Noble Consort would react had expected her to be difficult, but she hadn’t thought Rong Noble Consort would actually ask who she was.

This was obviously on purpose. Even if she didn’t know everyone, there were maids to remind her. Why would she ask outright in front of everyone?

"Replying to Your Ladyship, this humble one is Noble Lady Min. It is only natural that Rong Noble Consort, with her noble status, would not know of a minor noble lady like myself."

Noble Lady Min's seemingly respectful reply was actually laced with hidden barbs.

"You’ve got that right," Su Yi said with a smile. How could she remember everyone? It’s not like they were particularly outstanding.

As soon as Su Yi finished speaking, someone couldn't help but laugh. It was Xi Noble Consort.

"Why is the Imperial Noble Consort even bothering to argue with a minor noble lady? If that minor noble lady misspeaks, the Imperial Noble Consort shouldn’t take it to heart."

First, it was said that the Rong Noble Consort was making a fuss over a minor noble lady.

Then, "Who doesn't know that the Rong Noble Consort and the Imperial Noble Consort have a good relationship? How could the Rong Noble Consort be unhappy at the Imperial Noble Consort's coronation ceremony? The Rong Noble Consort must be overjoyed for the Imperial Noble Consort." Xi Noble Consort played the mediator, but her words were clearly meant to needle the Rong Noble Consort.

Directly defending Noble Lady Min, this was undoubtedly an intentional jab at the Rong Noble Consort.

The other minor noble ladies chimed in with laughter, "Yes, we don’t often see the Imperial Noble Consort, but we’ve heard that she is gentle and generous, treating the maids kindly. She surely wouldn’t mind us, Sister Min, so please relax."

They piled on the compliments, calling her gentle, generous, and kind. If the Rong Noble Consort really took offense, it would seem she lacked the dignity of an Imperial Noble Consort.

Consort Hui and Consort Xian stayed quiet, observing the scene. Now that they were already in the position of consorts, they wouldn’t easily intervene. If they did, it would be the minor noble ladies who would take the lead.

Their palaces were home to minor noble ladies and daying concubines. To live well, they had to follow their lead and not oppose them.

Otherwise, living in the same palace, there were plenty of ways to deal with disobedient minor noble ladies and daying concubines.

The Rong Noble Consort was known for her sharp tongue. Confronting her, no one had ever truly gained the upper hand. Plus, there was the Imperial Noble Consort, whose stance was unclear, seemingly aligned with the Rong Noble Consort.

Jumping in recklessly would likely lead to being crushed by both the Imperial Noble Consort and the Rong Noble Consort.

But that didn’t stop them from enjoying the show.

The Rong Noble Consort often stayed in Yonghe Palace and rarely ventured out, so many had heard of her but rarely crossed paths or exchanged words with her.

Minor noble ladies hoping to curry her favor might not even make it past the gates of Yonghe Palace.

What is heard most is that she is both beautiful and highly favored, climbing the ranks quickly.

This would be one thing, but in the harem where there are more people than resources, with only one emperor, the Rong Noble Consort not only takes the meat for herself but doesn't leave a crumb for others.

While the Rong Noble Consort herself rises quickly, it's tough for us lesser concubines to see when we'll get our chance.

We can't see her often in daily life, but now that we do, even if unwilling to admit it, it must be said that no one here outshines the Rong Noble Consort in beauty.

Moreover, observing her rosy complexion and excellent vitality, she looks like a flower in full bloom.

Such a good complexion, how could that come from just early to bed and early to rise? Who could compare to her?

Even though she is a Noble Consort, there are still many who are dissatisfied.

She's just coasting on her looks, without a prince to rely on, ultimately serving with her beauty, which isn't going to last. She's just basking in her glory for now.

With so many people here, and it being the Imperial Noble Consort's main event, would the Rong Noble Consort dare to make a scene and spoil the Imperial Noble Consort's big day?

Today, if the Rong Noble Consort shows even a hint of retreat, these lesser concubines will start pushing boundaries one by one. Although they are all talking now, they're really watching how the Rong Noble Consort reacts.

The Imperial Noble Consort looks somewhat displeased; these lesser concubines are really not letting up, daring to cause a scene right in her face.

That woman, the Rong Noble Consort, dares to turn the Cining Palace upside down. She's grateful if she can just stay out of trouble and keep quiet. These lesser concubines are really bold, daring to use her as a pawn.

Su Yi: "..." She had only said one thing.

Seeing them talking so energetically, Su Yi didn't interrupt, she just watched to see how long they could keep yapping.

Su Yi reached out towards Qinxin, then signaled to the cat, and Qinxin understood, taking the pouch she carried and handing it to Su Yi.

The cat had already caught the scent, its squinting cat eyes opened up alertly, looking at the pouch in Su Yi's hand, but did not reach out to grab it.

Instead, it rubbed its head against Su Yi's hand, letting out a high-pitched meow.

It's a little cat that knows how to beg for treats.

Su Yi opened the pouch and took out a piece of dried fish, the cat rolled over, and Su Yi stuffed the dried fish directly into its embrace, letting it hold and munch on the dried fish with its paws.

The cat held the dried fish with its paws and started nibbling.

And those below who were always watching for her reaction, seeing Su Yi actually start feeding the cat, couldn't help but stop.

What's the deal with the Rong Noble Consort? Is she not taking this seriously? Bringing a cat to such an occasion is one thing, but actually feeding the cat while they are talking.

Is she really that full of herself?!

"The cat raised by the Noble Consort is really adorable, but is it... somewhat inappropriate for the Noble Consort to bring the cat here.

If the cat gets startled and jumps out to scare or scratch someone, it would be troublesome... the Noble Consort should watch out." It was the Noble Lady Min speaking again.

Seeing that the Rong Noble Consort only asked who she was and then nothing more, and seeing so many people speaking up for her without any reaction from the Rong Noble Consort, her confidence grew even more.

"Cats can read people's expressions, you are a person, how can you not read people's expressions?" Su Yi smiled and spoke to her.

The implication is that you're not even as good as a cat, a mere animal, at reading people's expressions.

Upon hearing this, Noble Lady Min first turned pale, then green, her face looking very unpleasant, "This concubine was just kindly reminding, why must the Noble Consort speak so harshly, saying this concubine is not even... it's really too..."

Her eyes welled up with tears, brimming with sorrow and anger, as if the harsh words had cut deep.

"Noble Lady Min, you only speak half of what you mean, leaving the rest for others to guess, don't you?"

Su Yi was most annoyed by this kind of behavior—people who couldn't finish their sentences in one go, always leaving half of it ambiguous.

Seeing that Noble Lady Min was about to speak again, "You were the one who started it earlier, right? Since you know you're just a Minor Noble Lady,

being talkative and disrespectful, ruining everyone's mood, you shall be punished by kneeling until the banquet ends."

Su Yi pointed to her temple, "Clear your mind."

Looking around at those who had been stirring up trouble earlier, she noticed they all lowered their heads or averted their gaze, and then she spoke gently,

"If others feel that Noble Lady Min is too lonely and wish to join her in kneeling, that's also possible. I, being gentle and generous, will gladly accommodate your wishes."

She was indeed a gentle and generous person; if you asked for one, she would give you two.

Su Yi's words effectively silenced the other concubines who were eager to defend Noble Lady Min and cause trouble.

They did not want to be punished to kneel in front of everyone at this moment.

Finally, they remembered the difference in their ranks—the other party could punish them as they pleased, and their clever talk couldn't save them.

They only dared to whisper that Rong Noble Consort was too domineering, punishing Noble Lady Min in this manner.

Noble Lady Min stiffened, unwilling to accept punishment from Rong Noble Consort.

Moreover, in front of so many people, if she were to kneel, she would lose all dignity in the harem.

"Imperial Noble Consort, isn't it too domineering of you to punish me like this? I only said a few very ordinary words, never intending to offend you, yet you punish me to kneel in front of everyone."

"How will I ever face others after this? Even as the Imperial Noble Consort, you cannot act in such a manner... I implore the Imperial Noble Consort to intervene on my behalf."

As she spoke, Noble Lady Min covered half her face with a handkerchief and wept. Though she cried, her words were clear and could be heard distinctly.

This was Rong Noble Consort overstepping the Imperial Noble Consort. Without seeking the Imperial Noble Consort's approval, Rong Noble Consort decided to punish someone at her banquet.

At this moment, with the earlier context in mind, if the Imperial Noble Consort wanted to seize the moment to rebuke Rong Noble Consort, now would be the best time.

The Imperial Noble Consort might not hold her in high regard, but she could use this pretext to chastise Rong Noble Consort for her arrogance. It was likely that the Imperial Noble Consort also harbored some apprehension towards Rong Noble Consort.

The gap between the Imperial Noble Consort and the Noble Consort was negligible.

The Imperial Noble Consort's face turned cold. Seeing this, Noble Lady Min felt a surge of hope, but then the Imperial Noble Consort looked at her and sneered,

"How shameless! You dare ask me to intervene on your behalf, and then cause a disturbance at the banquet? Why are you all just standing there? If Noble Lady Min doesn't know the rules, don't you?" She then glared at the maids who were standing idly by.

When a mistress gives an order, if the other party refuses to kneel, you go up and 'assist' her. What are you standing around for? Are you waiting for the mistress to 'help'?!

Seeing that both high-ranking concubines had now spoken, the maids immediately stepped forward and forcefully removed Noble Lady Min from her seat.

They dared not delay any longer.

Noble Lady Min could only blame her own misfortune and poor judgment for choosing to stir up trouble at such a time.

When Noble Lady Min was pressed to her knees by the maids, she still hadn't fully grasped the situation. The Imperial Noble Consort had not only failed to exploit the situation but had instead directly defined the matter.

It was her own impertinence that had provoked the Noble Consort, and the Noble Consort's punishment was warranted due to her impropriety.

How could this be?!

Not only Noble Lady Min, but also the other concubines who were dissatisfied earlier silently closed their mouths upon seeing this.

They attempted to diminish their presence.

Especially those who had just spoken up for Noble Lady Min, they now wished they could disappear immediately, fearing that after Rong Noble Consort dealt with Noble Lady Min, she might remember others who had also challenged her.

If they were to be punished like Noble Lady Min, it was unlikely anyone would intervene.

They saw that even Imperial Noble Consort did not take the opportunity to make an issue of it, so Noble Lady Min had to accept her punishment.

Su Yi smiled and said, "Imperial Noble Consort really knows how to look out for me."

"Quit the sweet talk, it's sickening."

Imperial Noble Consort was not swayed by her words. At first, she felt somewhat embarrassed, as the words were really not subtle.

Later, she discovered that Su Yi had said similar things to others.

Typical women.

Su Yi indeed remembered someone else; while Noble Lady Min had started it, it was Xi Concubine who had led the charge.

"Xi Concubine, you were all fired up defending Noble Lady Min earlier. What happened to your voice?"

Su Yi looked at Xi Concubine, who was sitting as if nothing had happened, thinking it would just pass.

Xi Concubine hadn't expected that after Rong Noble Consort used Noble Lady Min as an example, she would stop there.

She didn’t think Rong Noble Consort would remember her—was she planning to deal with her as well?!

"Imperial Noble Consort, I wasn’t speaking up for Noble Lady Min earlier. I just didn’t want Noble Lady Min to say something wrong and ruin the harmony between you and Rong Noble Consort."

"If I said anything wrong, I hope you’ll forgive me and not hold it against me."

Xi Concubine quickly knew how to spin the situation.

Seeing that Imperial Noble Consort and Rong Noble Consort were suddenly on the same page, it was smarter not to pick a fight. As long as she stayed put, she’d have another chance.

Su Yi casually brushed the dried fish crumbs off the cat’s fur and smiled,

"Oh, I see. I thought Xi Concubine was just using Noble Lady Min to play the hero, trying to get under my skin and vent about being stuck in the same old rank."

Su Yi always knew how to hit where it hurts.

Noble Lady Min had stirred the pot, trying to drag others into it with her sneaky tactics, attempting to smear her with vague words while also grabbing the spotlight.

She gave Noble Lady Min her moment in the spotlight.

Why bother wasting time arguing with someone like Noble Lady Min?

That would just give her a stage to show off.

As for Xi Concubine, this was her latest sore spot.

Hearing this, Xi Concubine’s fake smile almost slipped.

Not just Xi Concubine, but even some others had mixed feelings in their eyes.

The room went dead silent. Afraid that speaking up now would just pull them into the drama.

Xi Noble Consort's status remained unchanged, while those associated with her were either promoted to Consort or Noble Consort, and even those who arrived later were promoted to Noble Consort.

Clearly, one Consort position was still vacant, but it just wasn't hers.

Not only was Xi Noble Consort's status unchanged, but also Duan Noble Consort's and An Noble Consort's.

Having long been out of favor, their cautious nature ensured that even if they felt discontent, they would never confront Rong Noble Consort directly as they had before. They had no choice but to wait until Rong Noble Consort's favor waned.

Isn't Consort Yi the prime example? Before Rong Noble Consort was promoted from Consort Rong, didn't Yipin, relying on her favor, look down on everyone?

But now, isn't she eclipsed by Rong Noble Consort?

In the harem, no flower blooms forever, and it's uncertain whether the next grand selection will produce another 'Rong Noble Consort'.

The emperor's favor is as fleeting as flowing water; it can be held for a moment, but not for a lifetime.

Often, beauty fades before the favor does. How long can Rong Noble Consort maintain this smile?

Only a fool like Xi Noble Consort would believe Rong Noble Consort is amiable.

"Noble Consort, you must be joking. How could I possibly be discontent with the promotions? The emperor's grace is boundless, and I am also delighted for the sisters who were promoted. I would never be dissatisfied. Your words could be misconstrued."

However foolish Xi Noble Consort may be, she cannot admit it directly. If she said she was dissatisfied, and the matter of promotion was decided by the emperor, wouldn't that mean she was dissatisfied with the emperor?

This Rong Noble Consort is truly cunning.

Su Yi laughed, her eyes sparkling with amusement, appearing as serene and gentle as still water, however, "Xi Noble Consort, there's no need to be so tense. I was just speaking casually, don't take it to heart. Noble Lady Min was immature and misspoke, I didn't take it to heart, Xi Noble Consort, you shouldn't take it too seriously either."

These words sounded no different from Xi Noble Consort's earlier attempt to smooth things over and play the good person.

Xi Noble Consort also realized this, her expression no better than Noble Lady Min's.

After this, things quieted down, but the food also got cold, so Su Yi didn't pick up her chopsticks again. She raised her hand to her forehead and looked at the Imperial Noble Consort, humming a couple of times. They were close, so the Imperial Noble Consort heard and looked over, her eyes asking, 'What's wrong with you now?'

Su Yi pointed inside, frowning as if she also had a headache.

Imperial Noble Consort: "..."

She took a deep breath and nodded slightly.

"Qinxin."

Qinxin asked in a low voice, "Is Your Highness feeling unwell?"

Su Yi nodded, "I feel a bit stuffy."

Hearing this, Qinxin looked worried and immediately reached out, "Your Highness, let me help you up."

Su Yi took her hand and stood up, originally planning to act a bit and sway before leaving, but the pot-headed cat in her arms was too distracting. The pot-headed cat was already like a pig, not only well-fed but also with thick fur.

It looked very heavy, Su Yi had been holding it for a long time without any problem, and she felt embarrassed to pretend to be unsteady, otherwise the pot-headed cat would have opinions.

Pot-headed cat: Are you saying I'm fat? Which pound of meat on me wasn't fed by you bite by bite?

"Is Noble Consort...?" Seeing Rong Noble Consort's actions, someone asked, is she leaving early?

The question was directed at Rong Noble Consort, but the eyes were looking at the Imperial Noble Consort.

They wanted to know what the Imperial Noble Consort's reaction was, was Rong Noble Consort's sudden discomfort too coincidental, or was she using it as an excuse to leave early?

Qinxin naturally stepped forward to assist the lady, and at this moment, she spoke on behalf of the lady, explaining to those present, "Her Ladyship is feeling unwell and needs to step away to rest for a moment."

"In that case, please help the Noble Consort to a quiet spot to rest," the Imperial Noble Consort said, glancing at the servant beside her. The servant lowered her head and walked over to the Rong Noble Consort, "Allow me to assist you." The servant extended her hand, and together with Qinxin, they supported the lady on either side and walked away.

When Su Yi stood up, she winked at the Imperial Noble Consort, her mouth forming the words 'I'm off first.'

Imperial Noble Consort: "..." Go on, then.

Consort Yi and the others noticed that the direction in which the Rong Noble Consort was being assisted was inward, not outward.

It seemed like they had a prearranged plan.

The Imperial Noble Consort continued to preside over the event with a calm expression, showing no significant reaction to the Rong Noble Consort's departure. It was as if she had already known that the Rong Noble Consort would find an excuse to leave midway.

It must be said, their guesses were quite accurate.

When Su Yi sent a pile of things to Jingren Palace, she mentioned this matter in passing, asking the Imperial Noble Consort to prepare some snacks or something in the back. She’d sit for a bit upfront and then make an excuse to slip away.

The Imperial Noble Consort wasn’t thrilled at first, thinking it was too much for this woman to eat snacks in the back while she entertained the crowd in the front.

But she couldn’t resist the Rong Noble Consort’s smooth talking, and the Imperial Noble Consort reluctantly agreed to sit for half the event.

Otherwise, the Imperial Noble Consort felt that Su Yi might conveniently 'fall ill' on that day and not come.

The Imperial Noble Consort responded indifferently from time to time, thinking about how the Rong Noble Consort was comfortably lying on a chaise lounge in the back, eating snacks and cracking melon seeds. Her mood soured a bit, thinking that when it came to the Rong Noble Consort's investiture ceremony, she wouldn’t be able to get away with slacking off like this.

After half the event had passed, the excitement of the banquet began to fade.

Suddenly, the eunuch waiting outside loudly announced, "The Grand Empress Dowager graces us with her presence."

And it didn’t end there, as the Emperor also arrived.

Just when they thought it was over, unexpectedly, the Crown Prince also came.

At this moment, the concubines, who had been growing weary, suddenly perked up instantly upon hearing the Emperor's arrival. They quickly rose to greet him, even smoothing their dresses and fretting over whether their makeup still looked flawless.

When the Imperial Noble Consort heard that the Emperor had arrived, the tension she’d been carrying eased a bit. It was good that he came.

On the day of her investiture ceremony as the Imperial Noble Consort, if the Emperor hadn't appeared, it wouldn’t have mattered much.

But on the day of the Rong Noble Consort's investiture ceremony, the Emperor was likely to appear. If he didn’t, it would be fine, but if he did, it would inevitably lead to comparisons with the day of the Imperial Noble Consort's investiture ceremony when the Emperor didn’t appear. That would make her position as Imperial Noble Consort look rather awkward.

Although the Imperial Noble Consort appeared calm and composed when the concubines mentioned whether the Emperor would come tonight, she was secretly a bit anxious inside.

Not only did the Emperor come, but the Grand Empress Dowager also arrived. So, the Imperial Noble Consort’s day was now complete.

With the Grand Empress Dowager gracing the event and the Emperor present, it was a great honor for her as the Imperial Noble Consort. She promptly vacated the main seat and signaled the servants to quickly add more seats.

Kangxi sat down in the main seat, and the Imperial Noble Consort sat slightly to the side opposite the Grand Empress Dowager. She first expressed her delight and gratitude for the Grand Empress Dowager and the Emperor’s presence, then inquired about the Grand Empress Dowager's health, saying that the journey must have been tiring.

The little milk dragon took a seat beside the Grand Empress Dowager and also offered his congratulations to the Imperial Noble Consort. The Imperial Noble Consort smiled and accepted, praising him a few times, but inwardly, she was puzzled. Why did the Crown Prince come along? She had never had much interaction with the Crown Prince.

Perhaps today the Crown Prince happened to visit the Grand Empress Dowager and came along?

At this moment, a woman’s voice broke the moment with sobs. The Imperial Noble Consort frowned slightly and looked over. After everyone had taken their seats, one person remained kneeling to the side. It was none other than Noble Lady Min.

She hadn’t made a sound earlier, but now, when the atmosphere was just right, Noble Lady Min’s sobbing felt oddly staged. Why hadn’t she spoken up earlier?

The Grand Empress Dowager and Kangxi took notice, seeing a minor noble lady still kneeling, sobbing, and looking rather pitiful.

Kangxi glanced over and then withdrew his gaze without speaking.

The Grand Empress Dowager, however, asked, "What happened to that minor noble lady?"

The Imperial Noble Consort was about to explain when Xi Noble Consort, who had just been verbally cornered by Rong Noble Consort, interjected, "Your Majesty, Noble Lady Min accidentally angered Rong Noble Consort, and Rong Noble Consort punished her to kneel until the banquet ends as a lesson."

The emphasis of this statement was on Rong Noble Consort punishing Noble Lady Min because she displeased her.

As for how Noble Lady Min had offended Rong Noble Consort, it was glossed over the details.

The Imperial Noble Consort cast a cold glance at Xi Noble Consort, slightly turned her head to signal the maid beside her to inform Rong Noble Consort to come out quickly and not hide lazily in the back.

The maid stepped back a few steps, made a gesture to another maid who was some distance away, who nodded in understanding and quietly left.

Seeing Xi Noble Consort speaking up for her, Noble Lady Min immediately knelt forward a bit more to let the Grand Empress Dowager and the Emperor see clearly.

"Your Majesty, please stand up for your concubine. I don't know how I offended the Noble Consort, just a few ordinary words, and I made the Noble Consort displeased. The other noble ladies present were all watching, I am truly wronged."

Noble Lady Min no longer used a handkerchief to cover her face while crying, but instead used her tearful almond eyes to look at the Emperor, crying out to him.

At this moment, Rong Noble Consort had just left her seat, which was a good time for stirring the pot, and indeed several people spoke up for Noble Lady Min to say a 'fair word'.

One by one, it seemed as if Rong Noble Consort had incurred public wrath.

Consort Xian's eyes flickered, also somewhat eager, it was rare to have a chance to step on Rong Noble Consort, but she looked left and right, Consort Yi was sitting steadily aside, acting as if it were none of her concern, Consort Hui sat like a statue with lowered eyebrows and eyes.

Seeing this, Consort Xian also did not want to be the first among the three consorts, so she looked at the minor noble ladies and dayings living in her palace, hinting for them to also speak up for Noble Lady Min.

The Grand Empress Dowager had seen it all, and knew that this was stirring the pot, it was true that Rong Noble Consort was offended, but how it was offended was vague.

The little milk dragon heard clearly, this was speaking ill of his Honored Mother Consort.

"Grandmother, Honored Mother Consort has always been gentle, she would not punish people without reason," the little milk dragon said seriously. "Grandmother must not believe the one-sided words of that Noble Lady Min, it would be a misunderstanding of Honored Mother Consort."

The Grand Empress Dowager, old and experienced, was momentarily at a loss for words: "... Baocheng, have you not seen Rong Noble Consort when she is angry?"

A dozen rough maids couldn't hold her down; if she were really gentle and easy to handle, she wouldn't give her such a headache.

The Imperial Noble Consort: "... Crown Prince, who are you saying is gentle?"

Kangxi sat in the main seat silently listening, turning the jade ring on his hand, listening to the people below speaking one after another, and then said indifferently, "Clamor."

This word 'clamor' was not loud, but the minor noble ladies who were speaking with some enthusiasm immediately fell silent, even a fool knew the situation was not right, and quickly stood up and knelt down. "We beg Your Majesty's forgiveness."

"It is my fault for failing to discipline them properly, causing them to repeatedly be disrespectful in front of Your Majesty," the Imperial Noble Consort said.

"Imperial Noble Consort, you speak."

Kangxi asked the Imperial Noble Consort what really happened, which was actually normal, after all, the Imperial Noble Consort was hosting the banquet, asking her was the most normal thing.

But how the Imperial Noble Consort would say it was the key point.

It seemed there were two options.

One was to tell the truth, the other was to align their stories with those present who were speaking fair words for Noble Lady Min.

Actually, not so.

Choosing the first option, she had nothing to lose.

Choosing the second option would go against the Emperor's wishes, and if it reached the ears of the Rong Noble Consort, it would be seen as adding insult to injury, inevitably losing the previously cultivated friendship with her. At that point, it might even lead to renewed enmity, which would be a loss outweighing the gain.

The choice was already obvious.

The Imperial Noble Consort began to recount the sequence of events, seemingly impartial but actually favoring the Rong Noble Consort.

Listening to this, the Grand Empress Dowager couldn't help but think to herself that the Imperial Noble Consort had indeed learned her lesson after a few setbacks.

The people present listened with mixed feelings, wondering if the Imperial Noble Consort was truly friendly with the Rong Noble Consort. This was a perfect opportunity to sow discord, yet the Imperial Noble Consort let it pass. Could they really be as close as sisters? It all seemed too well-rehearsed.

What exactly was the Imperial Noble Consort thinking?

Seeing the Imperial Noble Consort once again siding with the Rong Noble Consort, Noble Lady Min could no longer restrain herself, "Your Highness, as the Imperial Noble Consort, you should handle matters fairly. Do not let your close relationship with the Rong Noble Consort lead you to favor her."

In her agitation, she couldn't kneel steadily, her knees somewhat unresponsive, causing her to fall to the side. Though disheveled, she did not lose her dignity; instead, she appeared even more vulnerable and helpless. Her tear-filled almond eyes looked towards the Emperor, brimming with grievance and sorrow.

Kangxi's gaze shifted downward to Noble Lady Min, who felt a surge of joy upon seeing the Emperor's attention, "Your Majesty, I beg you to uphold justice for your humble concubine."

The other concubines watched with disdain, thinking she wouldn't let go of any opportunity. If she could catch the Emperor's attention through this...

Kangxi looked at her, his expression unchanged, showing neither joy nor anger, and said, "The Noble Consort's punishment of kneeling until the banquet ends is indeed somewhat inappropriate."

Upon hearing this, the expressions of those present varied.