Chapter 71: Family, parents, are they all to be ignored? [One + two updates]

Chapter 71: Family, Parents, Should They All Be Ignored? "First and Second Watch"

After a short nap, Jiang Yunran was finally fully rested.

By noon, she had a simple lunch and took another brief nap in the afternoon. The young Lady Jiang was once again full of energy.

Dew clung to the grass, the wind rustled through the trees, and autumn had arrived.

As late autumn approached, the chilly wind blew, painting the smokebushes and phoenix trees a fiery red. With each gust, leaves scattered across the ground.

Stepping on them produced a crisp, crunching sound.

A few days earlier, the spent osmanthus blossoms had fallen and rolled about on the dried leaves.

Jiang Yunran had the palace attendants gather them all, wash and dry them, and now they were ready to use.

Taking advantage of the clear, crisp autumn weather, she collected the dried osmanthus flowers and made osmanthus-infused honey syrup.

While she, Qing Dai, and Zi Ye were busy, Qian Xiaoduo hurried in: "My Lady, Nanny Niu from Wangyue Palace has arrived. She says Jieyu Murong invites you to visit Virtuous Consort together."

Jiang Yunran asked Qian Xiaoduo to invite Nanny Niu in while inquiring with Ying Ge: "How is Virtuous Consort Xu's condition?"

Ying Ge leaned in and whispered in her ear: "I heard she has greatly improved, though she suffered significant damage before. These past few days, she has been recuperating. Commoner Wang, who administered the antidote to Virtuous Consort, has been confined to the Palace of Great Cold."

After Jing Huayan issued the decree, Jiang Yunran had Qing Dai rush over to leave a note for Su Xue, informing her that the handover location had been moved to the more remote Star-Viewing Pavilion.

This way, there was no need to worry about exposure.

Over the past few days, Jiang Yunran had Ying Ge monitor the situation. She originally thought it would take Virtuous Consort ten days to half a month to recover, but she improved in just three to five days.

It seemed Commoner Wang was highly skilled in medicine, a true talent.

A shame.

Jiang Yunran nodded to show she understood, and Ying Ge deftly slipped away.

Just then, Nanny Niu entered.

She bowed to Jiang Yunran and said respectfully: "Lady Jiang, Listening-Snow Palace is home only to you, and you have little interaction with other palaces. Jieyu Murong worries you might be left out and specially invites you to visit Virtuous Consort together."

Jieyu Murong had indeed thought this through.

Jiang Yunran clearly did not socialize much with other imperial concubines. She enjoyed her leisurely life in Listening-Snow Palace, finding it delightful and comfortable, though it did hinder her from attending to certain matters.

For instance, visiting Virtuous Consort Xu when she was ill—if others didn’t inform her, she wouldn’t know.

If the entire palace went except for her, it would seem like she lacked propriety.

Jiang Yunran quickly stood up, looking grateful: "Jieyu Murong is so thoughtful, caring for me like this. I am truly thankful."

With that, she had the palace attendants get ready and invited Nanny Niu for tea. A short while later, she put on her cloak and left with Nanny Niu.

Virtuous Consort Xu lived in the West Six Palaces, not too far from the East Six Palaces. The weather was fine and clear today, so Jieyu Murong suggested walking over.

They passed through long palace alleyways, skirting one palace gate after another. Their thick-soled boots stepped on the vitrified bricks, producing a crunching sound.

Each step echoed through time.

Having connected through saving Wei Baolin and being neighbors, Jieyu Murong, Wei Baolin, and Jiang Yunran now had a fairly warm relationship, often visiting each other.

Unconsciously, the distance and coldness between them faded.

Especially for Wei Baolin—were it not for Jiang Yunran, she might have been dead and buried long ago.

So when she saw Jiang Yunran, she smiled first.

"Speaking of which, sister, you played a part in Virtuous Consort's recovery."

Jiang Yunran said: "I merely reported suspicions to His Majesty. I cannot take credit, as I did not do anything significant."

Wei Baolin smiled faintly and shook her head. She covered her mouth with a handkerchief, coughed, and her face remained pale.

Compared to her time in Listening-Snow Palace, Wei Baolin had grown even thinner, her body reduced to little more than bones.

The long years in the palace and her silent, lonely life had worn down her spirit, leaving her with little hope for life.

Her eyes were like lifeless pools.

Due to her prolonged illness, Wei Baolin had been taken off the selection list for two years, with no improvement yet.

She herself seemed to desire nothing.

Jieyu Murong looked back at her, concern evident in her eyes, but she said nothing, choosing instead to change to a happier subject.

"I heard your elder brother and sister are taking the provincial examination this year. They are renowned young talents in Shengjing. Perhaps your family will have two new jinshi graduates next year."

"When your family celebrates, you must invite me for a drink."

Wei Baolin came from the Shengjing Wei family, officials for over a hundred years. Though they had never produced a Cabinet Minister or a high-ranking official, they had remained stable and prosperous.

Her father was a Hanlin Academician, a fifth-rank official who had often served as a lecturer in the palace, a truly erudite scholar.

Wei Baolin had an elder brother and sister, as well as younger siblings, all talented and diligent in their studies, widely praised and admired by families in the capital.

Among all the children, only Wei Baolin was frail and often ill since youth, never gaining any notable reputation.

Yet she was the only one who entered the palace as an imperial concubine, making the Wei family imperial in-laws.

Though not favored, His Majesty showed respect to Hanlin Wei and valued talent, so Wei Baolin was soon elevated to Baolin.

Hearing this, a flicker of light returned to Wei Baolin's numb eyes.

"Elder brother and sister are indeed hardworking, but the capital is full of talent. Father and mother do not expect them to soar immediately; just making the list decently would be enough."

Here, Wei Baolin paused, coughed, and then said: "I heard, Ruan Baolin's younger brother and cousin are also sitting for the exams this year."

Jiang Yunran was aware of this.

But more detailed information was hard to come by.

Ruan Zhongliang was adept at putting on airs, and no news about Ruan Handong had leaked out. It was only known that he studied at home and rarely appeared at capital banquets.

Jiang Yunran remembered he was two years younger than Ruan Hanzhen, just seventeen this year.

At seventeen, he had already passed the tong exam and became a shengyuan, which was quite impressive.

But Ruan Handong's tong exam ranking was only middling, not exceptionally brilliant, so it didn’t attract much speculation.

In contrast, Wei Baolin's elder sister, Wei Xinya, ranked first in the Yujing tong exam, earning the title of top of the list.

Her eldest brother Wei Xinying placed second.

Thus, the Wei family gained significant face and received much praise from others.

This year's provincial exams, after calculations by the Imperial Astronomers, are scheduled to begin in early October, a month and a half later than usual.

It's just a few days away now.

Consort Murong said, "In the same arena, it's not about status but talent and learning. You need not worry."

Lady Wei gave a faint smile, her face pale.

She looked up at the sky; though only a narrow strip was visible, the heavens remained eternal.

So high, so far, forever beyond reach.

"I don’t ask for my brother and sister to reach the highest offices, only for a smooth path for them."

Consort Murong understood and sighed.

Lady Jiang spoke up at the right moment: "Your brother and sister are indeed the center of attention now. For safety’s sake, Lady Wei, you should remind your family to be extra cautious."

If Wei Xinya and Wei Xinying excel this year, they will be the focus of attention in next spring’s metropolitan exams. Even underground betting rings might place bets, hoping to make a killing.

Interests, power, and futures are on everyone’s minds. Even though imperial examinations are strictly monitored and papers are graded anonymously, there are endless ways to meddle in daily life.

Especially since the current emperor holds young talent in high regard. Once the two Wei scholars pass both exams, the Wei family will completely reverse their fortunes. With Lady Wei in the palace, who would dare look down on the Weis?

Touched by their kindness, Lady Wei felt warmth in her heart.

She said, "Thank you, I understand. My parents are aware and have barely attended any banquets or social gatherings lately. My brother and sister are keeping to themselves, focused on their studies."

As they spoke, they arrived at Lingxin Palace.

Unlike last time, Lingxin Palace was bustling with life, as if the entire palace had come back to life, filled with vitality.

To dispel the gloom during Consort Xu’s severe illness, even in early winter, red palace lanterns were hung in the front hall, and several kumquat trees heavy with fruit were planted in the courtyard.

Upon entering, a festive air greeted them.

The palace maids wore pink velvet hair flowers, their faces all smiles, adding a touch of charm.

Clearly, more than one lady had arrived today, as the entire Lingxin Palace was busy and lively.

Nanny Meiying had just escorted one consort inside when she turned around the screen wall and saw Consort Murong and her group.

She hurried over and said politely, "Thank you, Consort Murong, Lady Wei, and Lady Jiang, for making the trip. Consort Xu has been waiting in the main hall since morning."

After exchanging pleasantries with her and inquiring about Consort Xu’s health, the group prepared to head to the main hall.

Just then, an announcement rang out.

"Consort Yi has arrived."

Everyone halted their steps.

Nanny Meiying looked surprised but apologized to Consort Murong with a glance before quickly moving to the palace gate.

Lady Jiang and the others had no choice but to wait at the gate.

Soon, Consort Yi’s procession came into view.

She wore a plain moon-white robe and skirt, paired with a mandarin duck and lotus patterned cloak with rabbit fur trim. Her expression was aloof, and she looked as fresh as a spring orchid, elegant and pure.

Consort Yi, who had pleaded illness for a long time, had not been seen outside Jinxiu Palace for days.

Her sudden visit to Lingxin Palace to see Consort Xu surprised everyone.

After her sedan chair was set down, Consort Yi stepped out, supported by Aunt Bai Ling. Once steady, she looked at Nanny Meiying.

"Is Consort Xu feeling better?" she asked coolly, without a trace of concern.

Meiying didn't dare slight her and hurried forward: "Greetings, Consort Yi. Consort Xu has improved. Thank you for coming to Lingxin Palace. Please, come inside and rest."

After a pause, Meiying added, "If Consort Xu knows you’re here, she will surely be delighted."

"Heh." Consort Yi sneered, "She would be delighted?"

"Who would believe that?"

Meiying remained unfazed and replied naturally, "She definitely would be."

Consort Yi ignored her.

She did look thinner than before, but her complexion was better. At least the gloom between her brows had vanished, and she seemed much more spirited.

Only her sharp tongue was as cutting as ever, leaving others at a loss for words.

After taking a few steps, Consort Yi noticed Consort Murong and the others waiting in the corridor.

After exchanging greetings, Consort Yi’s eyes swept over them, first landing on Consort Murong.

"You too," Consort Yi said, "with such a great opportunity for their family, why aren’t you striving for advancement? What’s the point of holing up in Wangyue Palace all day?"

"And you." Before she finished, she saw Lady Wei covering her mouth and coughing, which she found irritating.

"You’re already this sick, why come to see her? If she falls ill again, she’ll blame you. How foolish!"

Lady Wei smiled apologetically.

"I will pay respects to Consort Xu and leave immediately, so as not to pass on any sickness."

Consort Yi ignored her and moved on.

Until her gaze fell on Lady Jiang’s face.

Her beautiful almond-shaped eyes narrowed sharply, filled with intensity: "And you are even more impressive."

Consort Yi strolled leisurely, step by step, closing in on Lady Jiang.

"While I was ill, you dared to report the ice storage matter to His Majesty," Consort Yi said, her tone heavy and intimidating. "Were you truly concerned for Xu Ruyan’s health, or were you trying to undermine the Zhou clan and drag me down?"

The bright sunlight fell upon Consort Yi's exquisitely beautiful face, illuminating her captivating peach-blossom eyes, sparkling like autumn waters.

She possessed outstanding looks, especially those peach-blossom eyes; when she smiled at someone, it was breathtakingly alluring.

But she was always filled with malice and carried a sorrowful, sickly demeanor, which marred her lovely lotus-like face, leaving only an impression of sharpness and harshness.

Consort Yi's expression was exceptionally stern, her eyes holding a piercing scrutiny, a stark contrast to her habitually indulgent and arrogant demeanor.

At this moment, Consort Yi was unusually fierce. She advanced step by step, and no one dared to step forward to stop her.

Even Baolin Wei couldn't help but retreat half a step.

But Jiang Yunran did not move.

She stood quietly in place, calmly meeting Consort Yi's gaze, her eyes clear and calm.

She showed no hesitation, no fear, and not a trace of panic.

"I report to Consort Yi, this humble concubine was merely acting in accordance with palace regulations," Jiang Yunran replied earnestly. "I did not intentionally target anyone, nor did I harbor any ill intentions to deliberately embarrass Consort Yi."

Jiang Yunran explained.

But clearly, Consort Yi never heeded others' explanations.

She snorted coldly and took another step forward, almost standing face-to-face with Jiang Yunran.

At this moment, Jiang Yunran suddenly noticed that the color of Consort Yi's hair bun was unusually dark, clearly a false hair bun.

Her condition causing hair loss had not yet healed.

"You speak so nicely, but in your heart, aren't you just hoping to gain His Majesty's favor and climb the ranks?"

She reached out and suddenly touched Jiang Yunran's slender chin.

Consort Yi's fingers were ice-cold, causing Jiang Yunran to frown slightly.

"Are you only now feeling afraid?"

A light laugh suddenly rang out. Consort Yi abruptly tightened her fingers, her nails aiming straight for Jiang Yunran's cheek.

The scene was truly shocking. As soon as Jieyu Murong regained her composure, she stepped forward to intervene.

"Consort Yi!"

However, another weak yet familiar voice sounded: "Consort Yi, do you dare to act recklessly in Lingxin Palace?"

Consort Yi's hand paused slightly.

A flash of cold light gleamed in her eyes, which Jiang Yunran caught clearly.

"Xu Ruyan."

Consort Yi spoke word by word. She released her hand, slowly turned around, and looked toward Moral Consort Xu standing in the main hall.

At this moment, Jiang Yunran and the others also looked toward Lingxin Hall. They saw Moral Consort Xu supported by her chief maid Gui Xiang, struggling to stand in the hall and gazing toward them from afar.

The light skillfully avoided her pale, sickly face, only faintly falling on the narcissus flowers embroidered on her collar, making her expression unclear.

Once Moral Consort Xu appeared, she captured all of Consort Yi's attention, and Jiang Yunran became insignificant.

Consort Yi waved her hand, and Nanny Bai Ling stepped forward, supporting her as she walked straight toward Lingxin Hall.

Step by step, it felt as though she were stepping on everyone's hearts.

"Virtuous Consort, you're still alive?"

Consort Yi sneered, showing no mercy: "Then again, of course you have to live. What does it matter if your maternal clan has fallen and the entire clan is imprisoned? What does it matter if your father is derelict, arrogant, and delayed military strategies?"

"You, Xu Ruyan, are still the high-ranking Moral Consort, aren't you? His Majesty values you so much, going to great lengths to treat you—no one can surpass you."

These words were deliberately meant to provoke Moral Consort Xu.

Because the icehouse incident implicated Steward Zhou for embezzlement, the eunuch colluding with Commoner Wang to harm imperial concubines, and due to the General Affairs Bureau's poor supervision and officials protecting each other, the Zhou family had been reprimanded by the emperor. Zhou Tongchuan, the director of the General Affairs Bureau and Consort Yi's father, was ordered to reflect behind closed doors for one month. If there were other crimes, he was expected to voluntarily submit a memorial admitting guilt.

This was, in fact, Jing Huayan's final warning to the Zhou family.

However, Consort Yi had been smooth-sailing since childhood. Later, she entered the palace as a consort and was the first to bear a prince. For her, the Zhou family's downfall was almost the greatest calamity of her life.

How could she not resent it?

Jiang Yunran watched coldly from the sidelines. She already knew the Zhou family's actions and understood that Moral Consort Xu and Consort Yi had now become irreconcilable enemies.

In the struggle between two families, it could only be a fight to the death—there was no possibility of reconciliation.

Today, Consort Yi's visit was certainly not to see Moral Consort Xu. She likely came to warn her not to provoke her further.

During the Zhou family's crisis, no one must add insult to injury.

In the past, Moral Consort Xu would have loudly refuted her. But now, having just recovered from a serious illness, her breath was unsteady, and even speaking was laborious, let alone arguing with Consort Yi.

She struggled to catch her breath and finally spoke.

"The Zhao family... embezzled military provisions—a crime that cannot be pardoned. His Majesty has already rendered judgment, and I have no defense," Moral Consort Xu paused slightly. "My father served the country loyalty for twenty years. His devotion is evident, clear as the sun and moon, and cannot be tarnished by others."

At this moment, Moral Consort Xu was extremely clear-headed.

The court had not yet reprimanded Earl Zhongyi. All accusations remained unanswered, and even Earl Zhongyi's own confession memorial had not been immediately approved by Jing Huayan.

This seemed to give the Earl Zhongyi household a glimmer of hope.

It also gave Moral Consort Xu the courage to struggle for survival during her illness.

Otherwise, she would not have recovered so quickly, pulling herself back from the brink of death to new life.

Consort Yi had now reached the front of Lingxin Hall.

The two stood on opposite sides of the open threshold, coldly staring at each other.

Jiang Yunran and the others also arrived at the doorway.

As the angle shifted and the light changed, Jiang Yunran could clearly see Moral Consort Xu's face.

She was pale, thin, her eyes bloodshot, looking even more sickly than the chronically ill Baolin Wei.

But her gaze at Consort Yi was filled with venom.

"Zhou Xinlian, do you think the Zhou family will meet a good end?"

Moral Consort Xu let out a loud laugh but immediately began gasping for breath.

Gui Xiang, her face full of concern, sensing Consort Xu's unsteadiness, was about to help her back to her seat.

But Consort Xu stubbornly refused to leave.

She held her chin high arrogantly, glaring coldly at Consort Yi, her tone icy: "Zhou Xinlian, even if I die, I will drag the Zhou family down with me. Do you think just because you gave birth to the eldest prince, you can rest easy? Should the Zhou family not be punished for their wrongdoings?"

Lingxin Hall fell into dead silence.

Mei, the Zhao Yi, and Consort Ning Cui, who had arrived earlier, looked extremely grim; neither spoke.

Everyone held their breath, afraid the two consorts might start fighting right then and there.

Consort Yi seemed somewhat better, looking healthier than before, but Consort Xu would likely collapse after just a few blows.

No one could bear that responsibility.

"Don't you dare mention Xuan'er. What, are you plotting to harm the imperial heir?"

Mei, the Zhao Yi's expression changed abruptly. She quickly stood up and moved to stop Consort Yi.

"Xinlian, what nonsense are you saying?"

Consort Xu gave her no chance to intervene, stating bluntly: "I, harm the imperial heir? Hahaha, Zhou Xinlian, you're truly foolish."

"That sickly child of yours—does he even need me to harm him? Will he live to see his first birthday?"

Just then, a clear female voice rang out.

"Have you all gone mad?"

Jiang Yunran followed the voice and saw Noble Consort Yao, who had just stepped down from her palanquin, striding in swiftly, her face unprecedentedly grave.

This Noble Consort Yao—after various incidents, Jiang Yunran had come to view her quite differently.

Noble Consort Yao walked steadily, heading straight for Lingxin Hall, her expression stern and imposing.

"You are too insolent!"

"Gui Xiang, help your mistress sit down," Noble Consort Yao commanded directly. "Meiying, why haven't you invited all the consorts and ladies to take their seats?"

At her words, everyone in Lingxin Hall froze, and the tense, confrontational atmosphere was broken.

Seeing that no one dared move, Noble Consort Yao's expression darkened.

"What, is this consort unable to command the palace staff?"

Gui Xiang hesitated for a moment but still softly urged Consort Xu: "Mistress, please sit down first. Your health is what matters."

Consort Xu's gaze shifted to Noble Consort Yao. Seeing that she showed no partiality, she finally returned to her main seat and sat down.

On the other side, Meiying, pale-faced, stepped forward and respectfully invited each consort to take their seats.

Only Consort Yi remained standing outside the hall, motionless.

Noble Consort Yao went directly to Consort Yi's side and gently patted her shoulder.

"Consort Yi, we all share the rear palace as sisters. Why must we attack each other like this?"

Consort Yi remained silent.

Noble Consort Yao sighed. "I've heard Ming Xuan has been much healthier lately. That's a joyous matter—you should be happy."

Hearing her mention her son, Consort Yi finally turned her head slowly to look at her.

"Noble Consort, the Zhou family has been framed. We are innocent."

Consort Yi suddenly grew aggrieved.

"The Zhou family has always been loyal and devoted to the state. We would never intentionally harm imperial concubines, form cliques for selfish gains, or oppress palace staff."

Only Consort Yi would dare say such things.

Noble Consort Yao, unsure how to respond, could only soften her tone: "His Majesty has not yet made a ruling, only ordered the Zhou family to reflect and confine themselves for a month. Don't be so anxious."

"His Majesty is wise and mighty; he will not allow false charges and wrongful judgments."

"Besides, you now have Ming Xuan. For Ming Xuan's sake, His Majesty will not let the Zhou family fall into peril."

These words were spoken by Noble Consort Yao in front of everyone. Recently, her health had greatly improved, and she had resumed managing the affairs of the Six Palaces. Her words carried credibility.

Consort Yi's expression softened. She stared intently at Noble Consort Yao and finally offered an awkward smile.

"If that's the case, then it's fine."

As she spoke, she raised her head again and looked toward Consort Xu seated in the main position.

"Xu Ruyan, this is my final warning to you: do not attempt to harm the Zhou family, and do not lay a finger on my son. Otherwise," Consort Yi's voice turned shrill, "otherwise, I will make you join me in death."

With that, Consort Yi turned and left without looking back.

Watching her retreating figure, Noble Consort Yao sighed.

"She's still as unruly as ever."

Mei, the Zhao Yi, hurried forward: "Noble Consort sister, only you could persuade her. Earlier, I had no idea what to do."

Consort Xu, having argued with Consort Yi, was now short of breath. Gui Xiang had been applying medicated oil to her forehead to help her recover quickly.

She hadn't heard Consort Yi's final words clearly but caught the last part about "joining in death."

When Noble Consort Yao came to sit beside her, she snorted coldly: "Who does she want to join her in death? So young and already rushing toward death?"

Noble Consort Yao rarely frowned.

Lately, there had been too many incidents in the palace: first, Consort Xu's serious illness, then the icehouse mishap coming to light. The Zhou and Xu families had conflicts in the imperial court, and she alone had to manage the affairs of the three bureaus. She herself was exhausted. Today, she had come to check on Consort Xu, hoping that if Consort Xu improved, she would have an additional helper.

Instead, she walked into this dispute.

She sighed, her voice weary: "Don't you know her temperament? She's never been one to yield when she has the upper hand. Recently, the Zhou family has been reprimanded—how could she be happy?"

But Consort Xu laughed coldly.

"Noble Consort sister, you are too kind-hearted. What has the Zhou family done that isn't known throughout the palace? Over all these years, how much silver have they embezzled? She grew up in silks and satins, fine clothes and lavish food—all on a sixth-rank official's salary?"

"She's well aware but plays the fool."

"Now, I've been dragged down by her family to this state. If not for the icehouse mishap, I wouldn't have nearly lost my life. It's already merciful of me not to confront her."

"To think she still had the nerve to come here and curse me."

That's a fair point.

Although it was Commoner Wang who did it, in the end, it still comes down to poor management at the icehouse. After all, the icehouse had been delivering poisoned ice to Lingxin Palace for over ten days. If eunuch Wang's unusual behavior had been noticed earlier, things wouldn't have turned out this way.

Noble Consort Yao looked at her sickly appearance, was quiet for a moment, and then said, "Moral Consort, you must think of yourself. Focus on getting your health back first—everything else can come later."

"Sister, what do you mean…"

Moral Consort Xu looked at the room full of "sisters," her face pale, her eyes shrouded in mist, making everything seem unclear.

"Does that mean I should just abandon my family and parents?"