Chapter 26: Do you also wish to bear the royal heir? [Three in one]

Chapter 26: Do You Also Wish to Bear an Imperial Heir? "Three-in-One"

In the blink of an eye, it was the day before the Dragon Boat Festival banquet.

Ruan Hanzhang was counting the days in her heart; in another ten days, it would be Consort Xu's birthday.

She spent her days in the palace busily preparing birthday gifts for Consort Xu, constantly counting down the days, which made Peilan increasingly anxious. Peilan wasn't one to handle pressure well; her anxiety kept her up at night.

Ruan Hanzhang once again summoned Zhao Tingfang, specifically to prescribe a sedative tonic for Peilan.

Peilan wasn't buying her "sincerity" and instead complained that frequently calling for the imperial physician was improper. She took the medicine while continuing to scold her.

Ruan Hanzhang watched as Peilan finished the entire bowl of medicine, squinting her eyes with a smile. "For you, Auntie, anything is worth it."

As she spoke, she helped Peilan lie down on the bed and gently covered her with a thin quilt.

"Auntie, I've been alone since childhood, growing up in solitude. Now that I have your care, I already consider you my closest family."

"Don't you worry, Auntie, I'll take good care of you."

After taking the medicine, Peilan felt drowsy. She lay drowsily on the bed, looking at the blurry-faced woman before her.

Suddenly, the image of a face covered in blood and tears from years ago flashed before her eyes. Peilan was terrified and struggled to sit up.

"You!"

"Auntie, what's wrong?" Ruan Hanzhang asked, puzzled.

Peilan strained to open her eyes wide, to make out her face, and only then did she breathe a sigh of relief.

Why... did they look so similar?

Impossible, they had long been dead.

Peilan comforted herself inwardly, lay back down, and didn't want to look at Ruan Hanzhang anymore.

"Your Highness, please go rest. There's no need to worry about this servant."

Ruan Hanzhang stood up and left the side room, only to see Qian Xiaoduo returning to the Pear Blossom Pavilion, sweating buckets.

"Your Highness."

Qian Xiaoduo bowed to her.

Ruan Hanzhang asked, "I heard from Auntie Peilan that there's an emergency at your home?"

Qian Xiaoduo sighed and said with a bitter smile, "It's my fault for the current shortage of hands in the palace. My family has been temporarily settled, and I'll remain in the palace to serve you from now on."

Ruan Hanzhang waved her hand and led him toward the main hall.

"Qing Dai, go fetch twenty taels of silver for Xiaoduo," Ruan Hanzhang said. "Your mom is seriously ill, so you must return home to fulfill your filial duties. There aren't many tasks in the palace right now; I'll have the cleaning maids take on some extra work."

Qian Xiaoduo was so touched he teared up, and he knelt down to kowtow.

"Thank you for your kindness, Your Highness."

Ruan Hanzhang looked down at him and said, "In the future, if anything happens at home, you can directly ask Peilan for leave. She has the pass token of the Pear Blossom Pavilion, and I'll grant permission for everything."

"Yes."

Tears involuntarily streamed down Qian Xiaoduo's face.

"Thank you for your kindness, Your Highness."

He repeated these words, too overwhelmed to formulate anything else.

"Go on, get back to work."

After he left, Ruan Hanzhang said to Qing Dai, "Is the birthday gift for Virtuous Consort prepared?"

Qing Dai replied, "The artisans from the Imperial Workshops are very diligent. They said it'll be completed in another two days."

"Your Highness has put so much thought into it; Virtuous Consort will surely like it."

Ruan Hanzhang smiled and said, "I hope so."

By evening, Peilan still hadn't woken up.

The sedative decoction Ruan Hanzhang had Zhao Tingfang prepare was extra strong. The first dose could make one sleep for six or seven hours, with the effects decreasing gradually thereafter.

However, the person would become increasingly drowsy and weak, extremely frail, not only losing their appetite but also becoming irritable and depressed, almost to the point of changing their state of mind.

This medicine was, of course, secretly brought into the palace by Zhao Tingfang for Ruan Hanzhang to add daily. The sedative decoction sent from the Imperial Hospital was perfectly ordinary.

Knowing that Peilan wouldn't wake up, Ruan Hanzhang called Qing Dai to help prepare the ceremonial attire for the next day.

"Qing Dai, I'll take you to the Hundred Joy Pavilion tomorrow. Rest early today so you won't be tired tomorrow."

Qing Dai asked, "What about Auntie Peilan?"

Ruan Hanzhang sighed. "Auntie's health is getting worse. It's better for her to rest well and sleep for a couple more days so I can feel at ease."

"Your Highness treats Auntie so well."

Qing Dai said this with a smile as she attended to Ruan Hanzhang's washing. After Ruan Hanzhang went to bed, she also followed instructions and returned to rest.

The night passed without incident.

The next morning, Ruan Hanzhang woke up at the break of dawn.

It was the Dragon Boat Festival, and although the palace staff were busy, every palace got their holiday bonuses, so the entire Changxin Palace was immersed in the joy of the festival.

It was a scene of green locust trees and tall willows, with the new cicadas' songs beginning to hum, and the warm summer breeze starting to stir.

The palace maids changed into their summer court attire, adorned with green silk ribbons, full of youthful energy, fresh and natural.

The Pear Blossom Pavilion was missing Hongxiu, and Peilan remained in a deep sleep, but Ruan Hanzhang managed everything methodically.

Qing Dai fetched water, Ruan Hanzhang washed herself, Qing Dai styled her hair, and Ruan Hanzhang applied her own makeup.

By the time everything was properly prepared, the timing was just right, without any delay.

Qing Dai breathed a huge sigh of relief.

After breakfast, the lady and her maid set out under the scorching morning sun, slowly making their way to the Hundred Joy Pavilion.

Magpies chirped joyfully in the sky, flying above the glazed tiles.

The Hundred Joy Pavilion was located behind the East Six Palaces, adjacent to the Imperial Garden. From the three-story opera tower of the Hundred Joy Pavilion, one could overlook the splendid scenery of the entire Imperial Garden.

After walking for a quarter of an hour, they heard Su Cai Nu's voice calling from behind.

"Sister Ruan."

Ruan Hanzhang turned and saw Su Cai Nu approaching, still dressed in a delicate pink gown, looking bright and lovely.

"Sister Su."

Ruan Hanzhang paused slightly and stopped to wait for her.

"Why did you come alone?"

Usually, Su Cai Nu would come with Attendant Li, but today there was no sign of her.

Su Cai Nu smiled and said, "Sister Li was taking her time dressing. She hadn't left her quarters when I set out, so I came ahead."

Ruan Hanzhang glanced at her but said nothing more.

"Sister, I had some free time and braided a five-color rope. I’d like to give it to you."

As she spoke, Su Cai Nu took the five-color rope from her pouch and handed it to Ruan Hanzhang.

Her hands were skillful; the rope was woven with rice pearls, shells, and small golden beads, exquisite and beautiful, looking no less impressive than those from the Weaving Bureau.

"Oh, how beautiful!"

Ruan Hanzhang thanked her: "I’m not good at this kind of handiwork. The one I’m wearing is from the Weaving Bureau. Could you help me put it on?"

Su Cai Nu cheerfully fastened it for her, then said, "I also prepared one for Sister Meng. I wonder if she’ll like it."

"She’s sure to like it."

After chatting briefly, they arrived at the Baixi Tower.

Their ranks were low, so they arrived earlier than the higher-ranking consorts. Once seated, they noticed several other lesser consorts had also arrived.

After a few polite exchanges, the Principal Consorts began to arrive one after another, followed by imperial relatives, inner court ladies, and the spouses of nobles and high-ranking officials. The scene quickly became bustling.

The viewing pavilion of Baixi Tower had two levels, seating over a hundred people. By the auspicious hour, all the nobles of the court had arrived.

In the crowd, Ruan Hanzhang spotted Ruan Zhongliang and Liao Shuyan.

She said nothing, quietly sitting in her seat, observing the lively scene around her.

Before long, Liang Santai’s clear voice rang out.

"His Majesty has arrived! Her Majesty the Empress Dowager has arrived!"

Everyone rose to welcome Jing Huayan and Empress Dowager Renhui.

Jing Huayan, dressed in black official robes, wearing a ceremonial crown and black boots, strode in with an imposing demeanor.

He first assisted Empress Dowager Renhui to her seat before sitting down himself and announcing, "All may rise and be seated."

Once everyone was seated, Jing Huayan raised his wine cup and said, "Today is the Dragon Boat Festival, a time for family reunions. My esteemed ministers, enjoy the feast at your leisure without formalities."

With a wave of his hand, he declared, "Let the feast begin!"

Palace attendants successively served cold dishes and zongzi, each plate accompanied by mugwort sachets and five-color ropes, bestowed as imperial favors.

The entire court, including nobles and inner court ladies, raised their cups with Jing Huayan and drank the realgar wine together. On the Chunhe Jingming Stage ahead, the gongs and drums sounded, and the grand opera began.

Actors in red costumes and on stilts, accompanied by intense drumming and vigorous singing, took turns performing, presenting a magnificent spectacle.

The Dragon Boat Festival was a major celebration.

The palace necessarily held a Dragon Boat Festival banquet, but to allow civil and military officials to reunite with their families, Jing Huayan shortened the banquet duration. Only one act of an opera was performed, and after two hours, everyone would return home without lingering in the palace.

On stage, the gongs and drums clamored, with one excellent performance after another. In the viewing pavilion, the attendees also played out their own scenes.

Ruan Hanzhang happened to be seated next to Beauty Wu. Before the opera reached its climax, she noticed Beauty Wu constantly wiping her mouth with a handkerchief, her forehead sweaty, her face pale.

Beauty Wu had entered the palace in the first year of the Yuanhui era. Her father was an Imperial Censor, only a minor eighth-rank official, and her family was not prominent.

She had a shy, delicate demeanor, with almond eyes and rosy cheeks, making her quite charming. After entering the palace, she rose from Selected Attendant to Beauty and still enjoyed some favor.

Ruan Hanzhang recalled that she lived in the rear hall of Changchun Palace in the West Six Palaces. Earlier, the principal of Changchun Palace’s rear hall had been Concubine Hui, but after Concubine Hui’s early passing, the position remained vacant. To this day, only Beauty Wu and Selected Attendant Wang resided there.

"Sister Wu," Ruan Hanzhang whispered very softly, "are you unwell?"

The rank of Beauty was fifth-rank, one level higher than Lady Baolin, and just below the principal Nine Concubines.

Beauty Wu seemed nervous.

She instinctively shook her head, then, collecting herself, smiled apologetically. "I don’t care for the taste of realgar wine. Just one sip made me nauseous, but it’s nothing serious."

She quickly added, "Thank you for your concern, Sister Ruan."

Ruan Hanzhang nodded.

She asked a palace attendant to bring Beauty Wu a cup of clear tea, then said, "The five-color rope on your wrist is very pretty."

Seeing that Ruan Hanzhang did not press further, Beauty Wu relaxed and extended her hand for her to see.

Ruan Hanzhang naturally held her wrist for a moment and praised, "Did you make this yourself? The knot is beautifully done. I’ve never seen anything like it before."

Beauty Wu smiled faintly, looking even more gentle and charming. "It was made by Selected Attendant Wang. She is highly skilled at needlework and very meticulous."

"How wonderful. Selected Attendant Wang is indeed clever with her hands."

Ruan Hanzhang smiled and released her hand.

On stage, the opera continued with fervor, while in the viewing pavilion, cups clinked, portraying an atmosphere of prosperity.

Soon, one act of the opera concluded.

Jing Huayan stood and declared in a clear voice, "The Dragon Boat Festival rites are complete. I pray for a clear and prosperous era, with impurities swept away. I wish all my esteemed ministers harmonious family reunions, peace, and worry-free lives."

This was the customary well-wishing.

Everyone present rose and knelt to perform a grand bow to Jing Huayan.

"Thank you for Your Majesty’s august words."

"We pray for the dynasty’s prosperity and longevity, for Your Majesty’s eternal reign, for Her Majesty the Empress Dowager’s health and fortune, and for peace and wellness on the Dragon Boat Festival."

After the formalities, Jing Huayan directly assisted Empress Dowager Renhui to her feet.

Behind them, the imperial consorts rose in turn, preparing to descend and leave the viewing pavilion.

Ruan Hanzhang stood beside Beauty Consort Wu and, noticing her movements were slow and cautious, stepped forward saying, "Let me walk with you, sister."

The two followed behind the others at a leisurely pace.

Originally, all the imperial concubines were proceeding in order, but as Beauty Consort Wu and Ruan Hanzhang reached the staircase, they unexpectedly ran into Consort Yi Zhou coming up the stairs against the flow.

Since she suddenly turned back, the concubines on the narrow staircase had to squeeze aside as best they could to give her space.

No one dared to cross her.

Both Ruan Hanzhang and Beauty Consort Wu were stunned. Ruan Hanzhang quickly asked, "Consort Yi, what's wrong?"

Consort Yi Zhou frowned, appearing somewhat anxious. She didn’t even hear what Ruan Hanzhang said and directly stepped forward, shoving past Beauty Consort Wu.

"Get out of the way!"

Consort Yi Zhou used considerable force. Beauty Consort Wu, already not feeling well, staggered from the sudden push.

The next moment, she uncontrollably lurched forward.

"Ah!"

Beauty Consort Wu had always been delicate; even her cry for help was soft.

Everything happened too quickly, catching everyone off guard.

Remembering the pulse she had felt earlier, Ruan Hanzhang steeled herself and reached out to pull Beauty Consort Wu back.

"Sister, be careful."

Ruan Hanzhang’s clear, alarmed voice carried so that everyone above and below could hear.

Agile, unlike the frail young ladies of inner chambers, she firmly grasped Beauty Consort Wu’s slender wrist and pulled her back to the second-floor staircase landing.

Their bodies brushed past each other—one moving up, the other down.

Ruan Hanzhang herself lost balance and seemed about to tumble downward.

She had calculated that if she steadied herself on the turning platform, she could grab the railing and regain her balance.

Though her arm might get bruised from the impact, it would be a close call without injury.

She made a split-second decision, not struggling to stabilize herself, and instead let herself fall toward the staircase.

It all happened in the blink of an eye.

Amid the gasps of shock, the expected pain did not come. Instead, Ruan Hanzhang found herself caught in a pair of strong, firm arms.

She froze for a moment, then opened her eyes and met Jing Huayan’s deep, star-like gaze.

"Your Majesty?"

————

Jing Huayan had never expected Ruan Hanzhang to be so self-sacrificing.

It was quite unlike her usual behavior.

But if one had a kind heart, they would naturally extend a helping hand. This showed that Ruan Hanzhang was, at her core, a good person.

Trained in martial arts since childhood, Jing Huayan was agile. In two or three steps, he bounded up the steps and caught Ruan Hanzhang in his arms.

Ruan Hanzhang, falling from above, though slender and light, carried considerable momentum and collided heavily against his chest.

"What happened!"

Once he had steadied her, Jing Huayan exhaled softly and frowned as he demanded an explanation.

"Your Majesty, I did not intend for this to happen!"

Consort Yi Zhou had never expected such a commotion. She glared coldly at Beauty Consort Wu, ready to accuse her of deliberately falling.

But before she could even utter the word "you," she turned to see Beauty Consort Wu’s eyes roll back as she fell backward, collapsing directly into her palace maid’s arms.

"My lady!"

Beauty Consort Wu’s maid, Susu, was frantic, her eyes red with worry. "Madam, are you all right?"

The maid was quick-witted and immediately turned to Jing Huayan. "Your Majesty, please save Beauty Consort."

Jing Huayan helped Ruan Hanzhang steady herself, then swiftly stepped up to the second floor. Bending down, he scooped Beauty Consort Wu into his arms.

"Summon the imperial physicians."

Striding purposefully downstairs, he issued orders as he went: "Noble Consort, Virtuous Consort, arrange for the court officials to leave the palace. Consort Yi and Baolin Ruan, come with me."

Jing Huayan was always decisive and efficient, never procrastinating. He didn’t care who was involved; when trouble arose, he dealt with it immediately.

Ruan Hanzhang curtsied and promptly followed, ignoring the resentful glare from Consort Yi Zhou behind her.

Jing Huayan carried Beauty Consort Wu to a resting chamber in Baixi Tower. Once she was settled, Director Bai and Director Mai, who had been on standby at Baixi Tower, came in together.

"Your Majesty."

Jing Huayan said, "Director Mai, examine Beauty Consort Wu."

In the inner chamber, Director Mai and Director Bai checked Beauty Consort Wu’s pulse. In the outer sitting room, Jing Huayan took the seat at the head and calmly looked at Ruan Hanzhang. "Baolin Ruan, tell me what happened."

Ruan Hanzhang glanced at Consort Yi Zhou, seeming somewhat timid.

Jing Huayan said, "With me here, speak freely without fear."

Ruan Hanzhang then turned back to Jing Huayan, her eyes immediately welling up with aggrieved tears.

A beauty in tears, pure as a lotus flower.

"Reporting to Your Majesty, just now when I was accompanying Sister Wu downstairs, we happened to meet Consort Yi coming upstairs. Because the staircase was narrow, Consort Yi... pulled at Sister Wu, causing her to lose balance and fall downward."

She didn’t say that Consort Yi Zhou had shoved Beauty Consort Wu, already giving Consort Yi Zhou some face.

But Consort Yi Zhou was still furious. "It wasn’t this consort pulling her! This consort had already told you to move aside. You were still blocking the way, so this consort merely gestured for you to step aside."

Ruan Hanzhang ignored her and only looked at Jing Huayan, on the verge of tears.

"Your Majesty..."

Jing Huayan glanced sidelong at Consort Yi Zhou. "Baolin Ruan, go on."

Consort Yi Zhou was so angry her face turned pale.

Ruan Hanzhang then cast a triumphant glance at Consort Yi before turning back. "I noticed Beauty Wu seemed pale earlier and knew she was unwell today. In that moment, I did not think much—I just did not want Beauty Wu to get hurt, so I reached out to save her."

As she spoke, Ruan Hanzhang showed lingering fear. "I had not expected that I myself would lose my balance and fall. Thankfully, Your Majesty was there to rescue me."

At this, Ruan Hanzhang rose and performed a formal curtsy to Jing Huayan.

"I thank Your Majesty for saving my life."

Who would not adore such a kind-hearted beauty?

Hearing this, Jing Huayan stood and gently supported Ruan Hanzhang’s arm, his voice soft. "You did very well."

He waited for Ruan Hanzhang to resume her seat before giving a cool glance at Consort Yi.

"Consort Yi, is this true?"

Consort Yi twisted her handkerchief fiercely in her hands. Ruan Hanzhang had spoken the truth, without even exaggerating, leaving Consort Yi at a loss for how to refute.

She felt unwilling, resentful, and somewhat wronged.

Why were these women so fragile that a slight push would send them collapsing, even fainting from fright?

If Beauty Wu was frail, what did that have to do with her?

Consort Yi thought this to herself, but when she lifted her eyes to Jing Huayan’s aloof gaze, she found herself speechless.

Having been in the palace for years, she knew well Jing Huayan’s temperament.

Sometimes, telling the truth was easier than lying.

"Your Majesty…"

In the end, Consort Yi lowered her head. "It was my fault. I was only anxious about dropping my sachet and hurried back to find it. I never meant to harm anyone."

As she spoke, Consort Yi suddenly began to weep.

"That sachet was specially prayed for at Hongfu Temple by my mother to ensure Ming Xuan grows up healthy. If it were lost, I would be deeply distressed."

Tears streamed down her face as she spoke, and she broke into genuine sobs.

The Crown Prince had been born weak, nearly dying several times in infancy, saved only by the skilled imperial physicians.

Yet he never fully recovered, remaining sickly and still too fragile to be brought outside.

As a mother, Consort Yi’s anxiety for her child was understandable.

Ruan Hanzhang lowered her gaze, not out of sympathy due to similarity, but thinking of her own mother.

Tears welled in her eyes, and she dabbed them with a handkerchief, choking up. "Your Majesty, thanks to your rescue, I am unharmed. If Beauty Wu is also alright, I implore Your Majesty to pardon Consort Yi."

At these words, Consort Yi forgot her tears.

For a moment, the room fell into a tense silence.

"You," Jing Huayan suddenly chuckled with a sigh.

The dotting affection in his tone was unmistakable. Even immersed in grief, Consort Yi heard the long-lost tenderness in his words.

In this fleeting world, joy comes not from gain, but anxiety from loss.

Consort Yi’s tears fell like pearls, glistening on her lashes, lending her a pitiable beauty.

Jing Huayan had never spoken to her so gently before.

Her heart in turmoil, Consort Yi opened her mouth, but in the end, only said, "Thank you, Sister Ruan."

She had finally relented.

But when she looked up at Jing Huayan again, the grievance in her eyes had lessened, replaced by resolve.

"Your Majesty, if Beauty Wu truly falls ill because of me, punish me as you see fit. It is indeed my fault, and I will not evade responsibility."

Quite spirited indeed.

Ruan Hanzhang glanced at her in surprise, seeing Consort Yi had dried her tears and sat silently with downcast eyes.

Jing Huayan said, "Consort Yi is only troubled by Ming Xuan’s illness, not someone who confuses right and wrong. I am well aware."

Consort Yi remained silent, offering no reply.

For a time, the room was utterly quiet, no one speaking.

After a brief wait, footsteps sounded from the warming room.

Soon after, Director Bai, in his forties, strode out calmly and knelt before Jing Huayan, lifting his official robes.

"Reporting to Your Majesty, Consort Yi, and Lady Ruan," Director Bai’s voice was steady and clear, "Beauty Wu fainted due to qi deficiency and physical frailty, not from excessive fright."

It seemed, then, that this matter had nothing to do with Consort Yi.

Consort Yi showed no joy, still frowning deeply. "I recall Beauty Wu has never been frail all these years, nor bedridden by illness. Why would she have a qi deficiency?"

Director Bai bowed respectfully. "Consort Yi is correct."

After praising her, he turned to Jing Huayan.

Bowing once more, he spoke with utmost reverence.

"Congratulations, Your Majesty. Beauty Wu is with child, just over a month along."

At these words, the room fell completely silent.

Ruan Hanzhang did not look at Consort Yi’s expression but immediately rose, beaming. "Congratulations, Your Majesty. The palace will welcome another child—this is joyous news."

Her congratulations seemed genuine, heartfelt.

Then, Consort Yi also stood. "Congratulations, Your Majesty."

Only then did a slow smile spread across Jing Huayan’s face.

His eyes were deep, his gaze cool as he looked at everyone, the corners of his lips quirking slightly. Even in joy, he remained dignified and imposing.

"Very well."

"Director Bai, rise and report."

Director Bai stood and continued, "This is Beauty Wu’s first pregnancy, and with the recent change from spring to summer, she has often been sleepless at night."

"Her menses have always been irregular, so the slightly longer gap this time went unnoticed. She did not realize her discomfort was due to pregnancy, mistaking it for summer heat, and has been seeking coolness lately."

"Therefore, Consort Duan has qi deficiency and poor circulation, which has worsened her illness and weakness, leading to her fainting due to concern over Lady Ruan."

Director Bai, after all, is a seasoned veteran in the palace, having earned the recognition of two generations of emperors. He speaks and acts with great steadiness, diagnosing illnesses through observation, listening, questioning, and palpation, always grounded in reality and never dogmatic or rigid.

As he spoke, Jing Huayan gradually relaxed, his furrowed brow easing.

"How is Consort Wu now?"

Director Bai replied, "Your Majesty, Director Mai is currently administering acupuncture on Consort Duan to temporarily stabilize her qi. Once she awakens, a month of herbal tonics will restore her to health."

Jing Huayan then smiled faintly and said, "Good!"

"You have done well. There will be rewards."

With a wave of his hand, Liang Santai beside him announced clearly, "His Majesty bestows rewards."

After Director Bai expressed his gratitude, Jing Huayan turned to Consort Yi Zhou.

"Although there was no major harm this time, everything originated from you, my love. A minor punishment is necessary to avoid disrupting palace rules and etiquette."

Consort Yi Zhou remained calm, without her usual defiance. She rose and said, "Yes, I acknowledge the fault and accept whatever punishment Your Majesty decrees."

Jing Huayan said, "Consort Yi acted rashly and acted improperly. She is punished with one month of confinement for reflection and one month's deduction from her monthly allowance to serve as a warning."

This punishment was quite lenient.

The reason for the penalty wasn’t even for endangering a pregnant imperial concubine, but merely for losing composure, showing that Jing Huayan still held some tenderness for Consort Yi Zhou.

Consort Yi Zhou’s eyes reddened again. She bowed and said, "Thank you for Your Majesty’s leniency. I will now take leave and return to the palace for reflection."

Jing Huayan nodded. As she prepared to leave, he added, "Director Bai, accompany Consort Yi to Jinxiu Palace. Ensure the Crown Prince’s health is carefully attended to."

"Yes."

Consort Yi Zhou stood at the palace gate but did not turn back upon hearing this, only saying distantly, "Thank you, Your Majesty."

After everyone had left, Ruan Hanzhang finally relaxed and rose to approach Jing Huayan.

She poured him a bowl of warm tea, smiling charmingly. "Congratulations, Your Majesty."

In private, though their interactions seemed little different from when others were present, an intimacy was unmistakable.

This way of being together felt more comfortable.

Jing Huayan also gradually relaxed.

He looked up at Ruan Hanzhang and patted the spot beside him.

Ruan Hanzhang leaned against him, and for a moment, they sat in quiet silence.

After a long while, Jing Huayan asked, "Do you also wish to bear a royal child?"

Ruan Hanzhang curved her lips into a smile, linking her arm with his and leaning against him dependently.

"I naturally desire it."

As she spoke, she found his hand within the intricate sleeves and gently held it.

"However, fate varies, and heaven’s will is hard to defy. Children are a great blessing; when they come and why they come cannot be changed by human effort."

Ruan Hanzhang’s voice was soft and gentle as she spoke.

"When the day of opportunity arrives, I will surely cherish them and become the best mother."

Jing Huayan clasped her delicate, soft hand in return.

"I know you will."

——————

That day, Jing Huayan issued several imperial decrees.

First, announcing that Consort Wu of Changchun Palace was pregnant, she was specially promoted to Fourth-Rank Consort Duan, granted residence in the rear hall of Yongfu Palace. Attendant Wang, for her meritorious service, was promoted to Seventh-Rank Cainü and also moved to the rear hall of Yongfu Palace.

Second, as Lady Ruan had performed a meritorious deed by saving another with her own body, thus protecting the royal lineage, she was specially promoted to Fifth-Rank Consort Zhuang and granted residence in the rear hall of Changchun Palace.

However, as Consort Duan Wu needed a month to recuperate, she would not move palaces immediately. Ruan Hanzhang also requested to temporarily remain in Tangli Pavilion to avoid disturbing Consort Duan Wu’s recovery. Once Consort Duan Wu had recovered and moved to Yongfu Palace, she would then move into Changchun Palace.

Palace arrangements in the imperial harem are fixed.

Above the Nine Concubines, all high-ranking consorts reside according to their designated main palaces. Below the Nine Concubines, they are assigned to the high-ranking consorts, with residences not fixed.

For example, Consort Duan’s quarters are the rear hall of Yongfu Palace, and Consort Zhuang’s main residence is the rear hall of Changchun Palace. This palace rule has existed since ancient times, though there have always been exceptions throughout generations, so it is not an absolute set in stone.

Delays in moving palaces by a month, or even longer, are not uncommon and hardly cause for concern.

Thus, the delayed move wasn't a big deal. However, Consort Duan Wu’s pregnancy and Ruan Hanzhang’s promotion to high-ranking consort within two months since entering the palace truly raised eyebrows.

People in the palace were buzzing, some envious of Ruan Hanzhang’s favor, others jealous. For a time, Changchun Palace and Listening to Snow Palace became hotbeds of gossip.

Consort Murong and Lady Wei, however, showed no jealousy and were truly delighted for her, specially visiting Tangli Pavilion to celebrate.

Ruan Hanzhang sent Qian Xiaoduo to the imperial kitchen, hosting a banquet with drinks for them that very evening.

"I was just lucky," Ruan Hanzhang toasted them. "At the time, I didn’t know the details—I just saw Consort Duan about to fall and instinctively went to save her, completely unaware that she was pregnant."

Consort Murong, with her military background, deeply admired such a kind-hearted act.

She raised her glass in return. "Ultimately, it’s goodness that counts."

If Ruan Hanzhang hadn’t been kind-hearted, how would she have gained such opportunity?

Though fate can be fickle, kindness should never be extinguished.

"Sister speaks so highly of me, I’m blushing—I didn’t realize I was so virtuous." Ruan Hanzhang laughed and downed her cup in one go.

They were drinking plum wine freshly brewed by the imperial kitchen a month prior—sweet with a slight tartness, not too strong in alcohol, with a fragrant and pleasant fruity aroma.

Consort Murong twirled her glass thoughtfully and sighed. "Consort Duan Wu has been in the palace for many years without ever being highly favored, though she saw the Emperor now and then each month. This year, she is blessed—it is her own good fortune."

"In palace matters, who can say for sure what’ll happen?"

Seeing that she wasn’t envious and Lady Wei also appeared calm, Ruan Hanzhang couldn’t help but ask, "Sister, do you not wish to bear a royal child? What about you, Sister Wei?"

Lady Wei smiled and said, "From now on, I should call you sister."

"My health is poor, as you know. Let alone getting pregnant, I struggle through every spring and summer myself. I don’t hope for such luck."

Consort Murong said, "Whether I have children or not, I am still a Jie Yu. In a few years, I will likely be promoted to Consort status. No point being jealous."

Both of them were quite easygoing.

Ruan Hanzhang smiled and said, "That's wonderful. Let me propose another toast to you both. In the future, after I move to the new palace, we must visit often."

Host and guests all enjoyed the meal.

When she finally saw them off, Consort Murong was already a bit tipsy.

Wei Baolin, due to her cough, had only half a cup of wine and remained quite sober.

Ruan Hanzhang asked her, "Sister Wei, there are only eight days left until Virtuous Consort Xu's birthday. Is your birthday gift ready?"

"The embroidery is finished. These past few days, I’ve had the palace maids carefully inspect it. It just needs to be washed, ironed, and boxed as a gift."

Ruan Hanzhang sighed, "How thoughtful of you."

Wei Baolin was curious, "What gift did Consort Zhuang prepare?"

Ruan Hanzhang raised an eyebrow and smiled faintly, "It's a secret."

"You’ll find out on that day."

She had prepared a grand gift for the entire Changxin Palace.

On the second day after her promotion, the Palace Matron Bureau, the Weaving Bureau, and the Bureau of Provisions took turns visiting her.

The Palace Matron Bureau asked if she wanted to add more serving palace maids, but Ruan Hanzhang declined, saying she would let the bureau select them first and choose new ones after moving to the new palace.

Two embroiderers from the Weaving Bureau came to take her measurements carefully. The promotion to consort required a formal ceremony, and her consort crown and robes needed to be tailored to her size.

The Bureau of Provisions came to deliver Emperor Jing Huayan's rewards, which were mostly antiques from the Western Treasury. Each piece was unique, exquisite and dazzling to the eye.

Ruan Hanzhang did not have them sent directly to the Tangli Pavilion but instead asked to temporarily store them in the Western Treasury until she moved into the Changchun Palace.

Though it didn’t seem like much, the busyness lasted the entire morning.

By the time Peilan finally woke up, she learned that Ruan Hanzhang had suddenly been promoted to Consort Zhuang.

Peilan’s mind was in a haze; her thoughts were sluggish, and she couldn’t react quickly.

She sat on the bed, stunned for a long time, before repeating, "Because you saved the pregnant Consort Wu, His Majesty promoted you to Consort Zhuang and granted you residence in the Changchun Palace?"

Ruan Hanzhang smiled, "Yes."

She kindly helped Peilan sit up and said, "But Consort Wu is indisposed and needs to rest quietly this month, so I won’t be moving for now. The investiture ceremony will also be held next month after she recovers."

Since both were being promoted together, there was no rule allowing Ruan Hanzhang to hold her ceremony first. In any case, her status had already been changed to that of a consort, and her monthly stipend and ceremonial arrangements were already prepared, requiring no extra effort from her.

Peilan blinked.

After a moment, she said joyfully, "It’s a happy occasion."

Though she seemed happy, it wasn’t exactly overjoyed; instead, there was a hint of unspoken hesitation and reluctance.

Ruan Hanzhang naturally knew why.

She didn’t point it out or probe, only saying, "Auntie, rest well these next few days. Once you’ve recovered, we’ll move to the Changchun Palace."

Peilan forced a smile, "Your Ladyship is very thoughtful."

She added, "Such good news must be shared with the Lord and Lady. Your Ladyship, this servant wishes to write to the Lord and Lady."

Ruan Hanzhang naturally agreed, "Auntie, as you wish."

With that, she stood up and said, "Auntie, rest well. I have things to attend to."

After Ruan Hanzhang left, Peilan tightly clutched the light blanket.

She took several deep breaths to calm her turbulent emotions, struggled out of bed, unfolded a letter, and frowned in deep thought.

Now that Ruan Hanzhang was so favored, rising to the rank of Principal Consort in less than two months, it was an unprecedented achievement in the entire harem.

Such capability was something she had never anticipated.

Peilan knew that even if Ruan Hanzhen were to enter the palace again, she likely wouldn’t achieve such splendor. She might have to struggle for years in the palace, climbing step by step, just like Consort Wu today, who, after four years in the palace, was promoted to one of the Nine Concubines only because of her pregnancy.

Ruan Hanzhang’s ease was truly unmatched.

By now, the Ruan family outside the palace must have received the news.

What if the Lord and Lady couldn’t bear to part with this source of wealth?

No, no—Ruan Hanzhang must not live.

She had long wanted to kill her.

Every time she saw her, she was reminded of that face, bleeding from all seven orifices, and closing her eyes only brought nightmares.

She couldn’t take it anymore.

Ruan Hanzhang had to die.

No matter what, she couldn’t let her live in such comfort and luxury.

She didn’t deserve a good life.

Peilan took a deep breath and began writing furiously.

In the following days, rewards kept flowing into the Tangli Pavilion.

Ruan Hanzhang temporarily assigned two cleaning maids to help Qing Dai manage the busy schedule of receiving visitors and exchanging pleasantries.

By the time she came to her senses, she realized there were only three days left until Virtuous Consort Xu’s birthday.

These past few days, due to floods in Changhe and other areas, Jing Huayan had been busy with political affairs and hadn’t summoned any consorts or concubines. So when Ruan Hanzhang saw Eunuch Little Liu in the Tangli Pavilion, she was somewhat surprised.

Eunuch Little Liu said, "Consort Zhuang, His Majesty summons you to the Qianyuan Palace to accompany him."

Ruan Hanzhang let out a soft breath and smiled gently, "Alright."

When she arrived at the Qianyuan Palace, Ruan Hanzhang was directly led to the small study.

Jing Huayan was still handling political affairs, with stacks of memorials on his desk, looking utterly exhausting.

His eyes were slightly red; he probably hadn’t rested well these past few days, but his spirit didn’t seem weary.

After all, he was young and full of energy.

Ruan Hanzhang tiptoed behind Jing Huayan and gently began massaging his shoulders.

Jing Huayan finished the last memorial, tossing it onto the table.

Liang Santai scurried forward, gathered all the memorials neatly, and backed out of the room, memorials in hand.

The study fell silent, filled only with the cool scent of cold-burning ambergris.

Jing Huayan closed his eyes, leaning back into his chair, savoring Ruan Hanzhang's ministrations.

"Your Majesty’s shoulders are quite stiff," Ruan Hanzhang said softly. "You should get them massaged regularly, or your neck may ache later."

She spoke lightly, with simple, unaffected words and no hidden meanings.

Jing Huayan responded with a quiet, "Alright."

"No matter how busy state affairs keep you, Your Majesty must still eat properly and not neglect meals or rest, lest you harm your digestive system."

Jing Huayan relaxed completely.

He smiled faintly, the first in many days. Though his voice remained hoarse, his tone was leisurely.

"Understood."

Ruan Hanzhang looked down at him.

Jing Huayan’s features were exquisitely sculpted, especially his striking brows and the spirited intensity in his eyes when he smiled.

He possessed noble elegance, his presence as commanding as precious metals.

Born the emperor’s eldest son, he carried an imposing aura even without anger, a man born to rule.

Accompanying such a man, Ruan Hanzhang never felt she had settled for less.

Yet, with today's parting, who knew what fate held in store for tomorrow?

She fixed her gaze on him, as if imprinting his image deeply in her heart.

Sensing an unusual shift in the atmosphere, Jing Huayan suddenly opened his eyes, his starry eyes instantly bright and focused.

He never fully let his guard down.

"What is it?"

He patted the back of Ruan Hanzhang’s hand. "If you’re tired, you needn’t continue."

Ruan Hanzhang shook her head.

Pressing her lips together, she smiled at him, like a distant mountain flower, uniquely graceful.

"It’s just that it occurred to me how fortunate I am."

Ruan Hanzhang lifted her head, gazing into the distance.

Beyond a beaded curtain of crystal, the elegant room lay veiled in shadows, and further out, a green gauze partition blocked the view, leaving only a corner of the *luohan* bed bathed in the fading sunset glow.

The palace’s opulence, its carved beams and painted pillars, seemed to have little to do with her.

To grasp it all firmly in her hands, she would have to walk over demons' bones and climb with all her might.

"To enter the palace and serve Your Majesty, to receive such grace and favor—sometimes at midnight, it feels like a dream of immortals, everything ephemeral and dreamlike."

"I always fear that one day this mirage will shatter, leaving only ashes."

Jing Huayan sat up straight, turned, and pulled her close by her slender waist, enfolding her in his embrace.

"Why does my Beloved Concubine think this way?"

"You are now amidst riches and honor, firmly in the real world. Your beautiful dream won't fade."

Ruan Hanzhang looked up into his eyes.

The palace lantern on the table flickered, dimming briefly.

Ruan Hanzhang rose on her toes and placed an extremely tender kiss on Jing Huayan’s cheek.

"Your Majesty, I want to always be at your side."

She smiled, her voice tinged with hope. "If one day I can give you a son, and double our joy, I would have no regrets in this life."