Chapter 120: Another Confrontation

Chapter 120: Another Confrontation

The figure in front of the Hall of Supreme Harmony.

The Four Treasures of the Study.

Could it be that Noble Consort Zhen had uncovered something?

But the incident had happened so long ago, and all evidence had long been destroyed—there was no basis for it now.

Perhaps it was just a coincidence.

If Su Jiaojiao truly had solid evidence, she wouldn’t be probing at the Phoenix Palace now. Instead, she would have used the Emperor’s current favor to expose the Empress’s alleged plot against the Imperial Heir. This showed that even if it was deliberate, it was merely speculation.

The Empress lifted her gaze to Su Jiaojiao. As for Jia Xi, she had been uncovered so quickly.

She composed herself, unsurprised by Su Jiaojiao’s capabilities, and quickly regained her composure.

Instead, she calmly looked at Su Jiaojiao and said gently, "Since these were bestowed upon you by His Majesty, you should keep them. How could I ask you to part with what you treasure? His Majesty favors you, so you should hold onto them."

Su Jiaojiao smiled and replied, "It is precisely because they are precious gifts from His Majesty that I dare present them to Your Majesty. Otherwise, how could I offer anything worthy? Even if Your Majesty has no use for them, the First Princess surely will. Please do not refuse."

The Empress, her fingers adorned with manicured nails, slightly raised her hand to gesture for her to sit and casually asked, "The First Princess is still young. Why would Noble Consort Zhen think to gift such things? It seems you truly adore her, eagerly wishing for her to study diligently."

At these words, Su Jiaojiao’s brow furrowed imperceptibly for a moment.

Jia Xi was no ordinary servant, but who stood behind her, Su Jiaojiao could not yet confirm. However, the Empress was the most likely culprit. That was why she had deliberately brought Jia Xi along today—to test the Empress’s reaction.

Yet the Empress seemed unfazed by Jia Xi, focusing only on the gift she had presented.

Indeed, someone as ruthless and calculating as the Empress would surely want nothing to do with a gift from her, especially one involving the First Princess. Such wariness was only natural.

Still, a nagging suspicion remained in her heart. She felt there was more to it.

After half a year apart, the Empress had clearly become even harder to read. If it were mere wariness, why would she reveal it so easily in front of everyone? She could have simply suppressed it and disposed of the gift later.

If Su Jiaojiao were to expose a flaw in public, it would only be under extreme shock or surprise. By the same logic, what had shocked the Empress?

Was it the Four Treasures of the Study, or was she worried about Su Jiaojiao framing the First Princess?

Su Jiaojiao buried this doubt in her heart, maintaining a gentle smile as she deflected, "The First Princess is bright and endearing. Naturally, I adore her."

The Empress swept her gaze over the others, her voice warm and steady. "Since you are so favored, you should focus on bearing His Majesty an Imperial Heir. If it is a prince, he could lighten His Majesty’s duties when he grows up."

"This applies not only to Noble Consort Zhen but to all of you. In the palace, a mother’s standing rises with her child. His Majesty has few heirs, so you must strive to bear him one—that is the most crucial matter."

Concubine Lian sneered, darting a look at Su Jiaojiao. "The one who enjoys the most favor in the palace is none other than Noble Consort Zhen. Yet some people, despite receiving favor for a year, show no sign of pregnancy. Who knows if they can even conceive? If one is a barren hen, that would truly be squandering my cousin’s favor."

Su Jiaojiao didn’t even glance at Concubine Lian, taking a deliberate sip of tea before replying coolly, "There are few Imperial Heirs in the palace, and not many consorts have conceived. Pregnancy is up to the heavens—no one can control it. Besides—"

She lifted her eyes to meet Concubine Lian’s. "Has Concubine Lian herself ever been with child?"

Then, Su Jiaojiao smiled. "His Majesty holds dear their childhood bond and has always doted on Concubine Lian, granting her privileges exceeding her station in clothing, food, and daily life, as well as frequent companionship. Such boundless imperial grace—shouldn’t Concubine Lian reflect on herself first before mocking others?"

"Even if His Majesty pampers me, my daily life has never overstepped propriety. At most, it is just more gifts from His Majesty. As for favor, does Concubine Lian truly lack it? Many sisters in the palace suffer neglect. If you speak like this, I doubt anyone would agree."

At this, Noble Lady Xiang and Beauty Yu, who had been silent until now, couldn’t help but glance at Concubine Lian, their gazes far from warm.

Concubine Lian was arrogant and unrestrained in speech, yet His Majesty, out of nostalgia for their shared past, spoiled her rotten, ensuring her living standards surpassed even those of her rank.

Frankly speaking, few women in the palace scheme for power out of genuine admiration for His Majesty. Most simply crave riches and rank to avoid being bullied.

Concubine Lian was given a palace of her own right away from the moment she entered the palace. As long as she didn’t stir up trouble, His Majesty would treat her well for life—a privilege lesser consorts would kill for. Yet she sneered at them relentlessly and now even felt dissatisfied, constantly mocking and targeting Noble Consort Zhen. Such a person was hardly pitiable.

No matter what, Noble Consort Zhen had clawed her way up step by step in the palace. In comparison, Concubine Lian had already been born under a lucky star.

Unless absolutely necessary, cautious women like Noble Lady Xiang and Beauty Yu would never associate closely with her, lest they land themselves in hot water.

The Empress glanced at the two, then discreetly swept her gaze over Jia Xi before stepping in to mediate. "Enough. We’re all palace sisters—what is there to squabble over trifles? Noble Consort Zhen and Concubine Lian are both His Majesty’s favorites. It’s only a matter of time before they bear children—why argue over words?"

Sat silent in their seats, Noble Lady Xiang and Beauty Yu kept their eyes lowered and refrained from joining the conversation. They knew better than to meddle.

They were clever women and naturally wouldn’t seek the spotlight at such a time.

Once Concubine Lian finally shut her mouth, the Empress finally said, "You’re dismissed."

As Noble Consort Zhen and Concubine Lian rose to leave, Noble Lady Xiang, Beauty Yu, and Junior Attendant Miao bowed respectfully. Junior Attendant Miao departed from Fengyi Palace, while Noble Lady Xiang and Beauty Yu returned to their seats.

The Empress raised a brow slightly but showed no surprise. Accepting a fresh cup of tea from Yu He, she asked leisurely, "Beauty Yu, you’ve only just recovered from your miscarriage. Has your health improved?"

Beauty Yu hastily rose and curtsied, keeping her eyes downcast. "Your Majesty, I am much better now. Thank you for your concern."

"That’s good. You’re pretty, and His Majesty is pleased with you—a real asset." The Empress studied her, then signaled to Yu He, who cleared the room before the Empress continued, "You’ve done well in this matter. I am very satisfied."

"Especially you, Beauty Yu. You’ve endured much, and I’ve taken note. Before you leave, I’ll have Yu He escort you back personally and gift you a fine wild ginseng to restore your health."

Beauty Yu hurriedly replied, "Thank you for your generosity, Your Majesty. Serving you is my greatest fortune. Besides, at the time, Consort Mi and Noble Consort Zhen were ruling the roost, already seen as public enemies by all. Such arrogant consorts who disrespected the rightful Empress needed to be taken down a peg to set things right. It’s only a pity we only managed to topple Consort Mi, while Noble Consort Zhen remains unscathed—even more favored by His Majesty. I have failed you."

The Empress set down her cup. "Rise and sit—no need for formalities. Why would I blame you? Noble Consort Zhen is wily as a fox, an extremely difficult opponent. That you managed to remove Consort Mi and strip her of authority in managing the rear palace is already commendable."

"And you, Noble Lady Xiang. Recommending Beauty Yu to me was well done." She studied Noble Lady Xiang’s eyes, as if searching for something hidden. "But back when you were in labor, it was Noble Consort Zhen who stayed by your side. Given such deep affection, why have you turned against her?"

Noble Lady Xiang’s heart lurched, and she quickly knelt. "Your Majesty, it was only under your care that my pregnancy proceeded safely, allowing me to deliver Xi Er unharmed. I have never forgotten your kindness. That Noble Consort Zhen entered that day was something I never anticipated. My only loyalty has always been to you alone, Your Majesty. Noble Consort Zhen is insatiable—how could I submit to her control? Naturally, I resisted in every way. In this rear palace, you are the true mistress. I would never dare harbor disloyalty, which is why I brought Beauty Yu to serve you faithfully. Please do not doubt me."

"Noble Consort Zhen sought to drive a wedge between us, hoping to ensnare me under her influence. But she is a snake in the grass, hiding her schemes within the palace—someone not to be provoked. I must care for Xi Er—how could I allow myself to be controlled? Your Majesty, I beg you to see the truth. I would never dare betray you."

The Empress smiled slowly, watching her agitation. "Is that so?"

"If so, then I’ve wronged you. You’ve borne His Majesty a child, and I’ve always held you in high regard. How is the Second Prince lately? Why haven’t you brought him for me to see?"

Noble Lady Xiang lowered her head. "Xi Er is still under a year old, and with autumn’s chill winds, I feared he might catch cold, so I didn’t bring him."

"Once he’s a little older, I will surely bring him to see you. You are his Empress Mother—he will adore you."

The Empress hummed in acknowledgment. "You’ve always been sensible. The Second Prince must be sharp as a tack."

Her tone gradually cooled, the underlying meaning clear. "But raising the Second Prince shouldn’t consume all your attention. His Majesty has few heirs, and the Second Prince is currently the youngest in the palace—naturally, he’ll be doted on. A deep father-son bond now will ensure His Majesty’s favor in the future. No matter how much you cherish him, if His Majesty doesn’t take interest, what good does that do? Moreover, the rear palace does not belong to one person alone. If even a child cannot make His Majesty linger, then you are truly useless."

"If you cannot make His Majesty cherish the Second Prince, I will take him under my care."

For a mother, the cruelest punishment was separation from her child. Noble Lady Xiang treasured Xi Er like a pearl—how could she stand by and watch him be taken away?

This was a warning: she must ensure His Majesty visited Xi Er more often, diverting his attention from Noble Consort Zhen. Otherwise, the Empress would personally raise the child. With so many consorts in the palace—so many young, beautiful women—none had succeeded. How could Xi Er, a mere infant, achieve it? This was a naked power grab!

Noble Lady Xiang’s chest heaved violently, her eyes wide. "I will ensure His Majesty visits Xi Er more! But he is still so young—he cannot be parted from his birth mother. Please, Your Majesty, let him remain with me!"

How hateful the Empress was! Noble Consort Zhen had demanded she regain the Empress’s trust, forcing her to feign submission. Though Noble Consort Zhen had struck a deal with her, at least she had never schemed against Xi Er and had even helped greatly.

She had been torn over what to do, but now it was clear: the Empress would either use her to harm other consorts or target Xi Er. There would be no peace—she could not follow such a path.

Since having Xi Er, she only wished for her son to grow up safely and become a leisurely prince in the future. Once he was granted his estate, she could finally enjoy a peaceful life, no longer needing to wear herself out scheming for the Emperor's favor.

In that case, it might be better to steel her heart and side with Noble Consort Zhen. She had favor, family prestige, and extraordinary intelligence—everything one could desire—and was the sole favorite in the Emperor’s heart. It was only a matter of time before she conceived. She and the Empress were at each other’s throats, and who could predict the outcome?

Her indecision might fool the Empress and Noble Consort Zhen for a time, but not forever. It was better to make a firm decision now than to remain torn by hesitation!

People often make their choices only when forced into a corner. Noble Lady Xiang felt a chill in her heart, yet she lifted her head with a pleading smile, hoping to dissuade the Empress.

Seeing her like this, the Empress softened her tone and said gently, "I only wish for you to strive for a better future for the Second Prince. Why are you so afraid? Rise."

Yu He personally helped her up and guided her back to her seat. Only then did Noble Lady Xiang wipe her tears and sit quietly.

The Empress spoke calmly, "In the harem, the Emperor’s favor comes first—even for me. Whether it concerns heirs or power, after the Empress Dowager’s passing, the palace bows to the Emperor alone. Consort Mi remains under house arrest, so use this time to recover and think of ways to win His Majesty’s favor. I’ve said enough for today and am weary. You may all withdraw."

Noble Lady Xiang, eager to escape, immediately curtsied and said, "This concubine takes her leave."

Beauty Yu glanced at Noble Lady Xiang before following her out. Only then did Fengyi Palace fall silent.

Yu He stood beside the Empress, watching their retreating figures before whispering, "Even though His Majesty knows you’re well, he hasn’t returned full authority to you. Perhaps he’s forgotten."

The Empress replied coldly, "When I was Crown Princess, I kept trying to win His Majesty’s love—flawless in every way. Yet in the end, I still failed to win his heart. After His Majesty ascended the throne and I became Empress, I bore Lan Ying and believed that as long as he grew up safely and I secured my position by eliminating all threats, it would be enough. But recently, seeing Noble Consort Zhen’s rise, I realized that even with power, lacking His Majesty’s affection leaves you vulnerable."

"Have you seen how Noble Consort Zhen is now? The jewel of His Majesty’s heart. And she hasn’t even borne a child yet. If she delivers a prince, with His Majesty’s love for her, what’s to keep her from replacing me? Even without love, I must become someone irreplaceable in His Majesty’s heart—like Concubine Lian. Though she’s willful and impudent, His Majesty indulges her out of sentiment."

She took a deep breath, her composure cracking as emotions surged forth. "I once thought His Majesty was cold-hearted, merely playing roles with everyone. But Noble Consort Zhen’s existence has slapped me in the face. To secure my position, how can I allow the Su family to thrive?"

Yu He soothed, "Your Majesty, don’t upset yourself—it’s not worth harming your health. If this servant may speak, Noble Consort Zhen enjoys such favor yet remains childless. Perhaps she suffers from some hidden ailment that prevents conception. A childless consort—how could His Majesty favor her forever? You are the Empress, sharing years of mutual respect with His Majesty. How could outsiders compare?"

The Empress stared blankly ahead. "These are mere conjectures. Who knows if she can conceive? This Consort has only just managed to dispel some of His Majesty’s suspicions through silence. I cannot act rashly again. Noble Consort Zhen must be dealt with gradually. As for the rest, I have my plans."

"While His Majesty was at the summer retreat, I heard whispers from the court. The Yin family displeased His Majesty, and some urged him to restore the Empress’s authority. Combined with Beauty Yu’s pregnancy, His Majesty stripped Consort Mi of her power. Though it’s now in Noble Consort Shu’s hands, it’s only a temporary measure. She lacks seniority and connections. Sooner or later, His Majesty will return it to me."

As long as her plans proceeded smoothly, why worry about regaining control of the harem?

Yu He served the Empress fresh tea, and the hall fell into prolonged silence.

An autumn breeze swept in, carrying a faint chill. After sipping the warm tea, the Empress’s agitation gradually subsided.

Seeing her calm, Yu He stepped behind her and gently massaged her temples. "Your Majesty, this servant noticed Noble Lady Xiang seemed terrified of losing the Second Prince. Truly, a mother’s love runs deep. Yet her words just now sounded sincere—though it’s hard to say how much was true."

The Empress closed her eyes slightly. "Noble Lady Xiang is no fool. Her words are half-truths. Noble Consort Zhen’s presence during her labor was far too convenient. Likely, Noble Lady Xiang had already guessed my intentions and allowed it. But she still has value to me. There’s no need to push her too hard. These past days, I’ve come to realize—raising another’s child under my care means nothing if their heart isn’t with me."

"I will bear my own legitimate son. Once he’s grown, my position will be unshakable."

"Yu He, earlier I asked you to deliver the wild ginseng to Beauty Yu. Though it was mere courtesy, etiquette must be observed. Beauty Yu and Noble Lady Xiang are two blades in my hands—sharp, but they must be wielded carefully. If mishandled, they may turn against me and draw blood."

Su Jiaojiao left Fengyi Palace, undecided whether to return to Yaoxian Palace or stroll elsewhere. As she stepped onto the palace path, she glimpsed the direction of Taiji Palace and felt a stirring to visit.

First, to express gratitude. Second, regarding the Empress, she wanted to gauge the Emperor’s stance.

In truth, everything Yu Ying had told her, she already knew. Being the sole favorite made her a target—she was well aware.

But she had her reasons for acting this way.

Su Jiaojiao could sense that the Emperor’s feelings for her had deepened far beyond ordinary affection. Even if these emotions eventually faded, she needed to accumulate enough capital first.

With so many women in the harem, standing out in the Emperor’s heart required something extraordinary.

Moreover, she had long become the object of envy and resentment in the palace. Though it was true that "the taller the tree, the stronger the wind," Su Jiaojiao was already the tallest tree in the harem—second only to the Empress.

She had never been a delicate flower nor an innocent, fragile maiden—what did she have to fear from the storm?

There was another reason—Su Jiaojiao wanted to see exactly what the Empress was plotting.

She noticed clearly. Though the Empress had reacted strangely upon seeing Jia Xi, it wasn’t entirely unfamiliar. Compared to Jia Xi, she seemed more concerned about the scholar's implements on the tray.

Yet Jia Xi had been by her side for two or three months now. Apart from that day when she had coaxed Su Jiaojiao to rescue Nanny Sun, attempting to trap her by exploiting the terrain, she had never made another move. She had remained so unassuming that it almost seemed as if that incident had truly been a coincidence, not something Jia Xi had intended.

The longer the danger remained hidden, the more perilous it became. The more Jia Xi remained docile without clear motives, the more uneasy Su Jiaojiao grew.

Under the current circumstances, the Empress’s restoration to power was certain. Yet Su Jiaojiao couldn’t guess what the Empress’s next move would be. She wanted to force the Empress to act, to show her true intentions.

After a moment’s thought, Su Jiaojiao turned toward the direction of the Taiji Hall. She raised her head and lifted her finger slightly. Yu Ying immediately understood and said, "Jia Xi, if you have nothing else to do, you may take your leave. Her Highness is going to pay respects to His Majesty, and I alone will wait outside."

Jia Xi glanced at Su Jiaojiao, then at Yu Ying, nodding obediently before curtsying. "Then this maid will take her leave."

Upon arriving at the Taiji Hall, Yu Ying stepped forward and announced, "Noble Consort Zhen has come to pay respects to His Majesty. Please inform him."

The palace servants on duty, recognizing Noble Consort Zhen, immediately bowed respectfully. "This servant greets Noble Consort Zhen. May Your Highness be well."

"Your Highness has come to express gratitude, but the timing is rather unfortunate. Your father, Lord Su, has been in the Taiji Hall for quite some time now. He is likely discussing state affairs with His Majesty, so it may not be convenient to see you. Would Your Highness mind waiting a little longer?"

Su Jiaojiao lifted her gaze toward the towering jade steps. The Taiji Hall stood at the highest point, rising above the surrounding palaces as if overlooking the entire rear court.

The sky stretched endlessly, clear and blue, making mortals seem all the more insignificant.

For a moment, she was lost in thought, yet the sight brought her an unusual clarity and calm. She acknowledged with a soft hum. "This consort will wait. Thank you for your trouble."

At some point, a figure clad in a purple goose-feather robe gradually appeared in the corner of her vision—his expression serene yet radiating quiet authority. Yet when his eyes met hers, there was a flicker of emotion.

It was her father.

Su Chang.