Chapter 75: In my heart, you are more important than His Majesty. [One + two updates]

Chapter 75: In My Heart, You Are More Important Than His Majesty. (First and Second Update)

A sudden rain fell upon the capital.

She had just donned lighter robes and savored a taste of freshly brewed green wine.

Then came a gust of wind, a spell of rain, a touch of chill.

Waking in the early morning, she gently opened the small window to a breeze and drizzling rain, the chill of winter still lingering in her dreams.

Zi Ye carefully pushed open a crack in the window, letting a wisp of cool air brush her face. She turned back, and seeing Jiang Yunran’s composed expression, finally breathed a sigh of relief.

The bedchamber, closed all night, had grown stuffy and needed airing.

Jiang Yunran had just recovered from a serious illness, yet she happened to encounter the last autumn rain. Overnight, the cold snap ushered in winter, catching everyone off guard.

Though she had mostly recovered, the night’s autumn rain left Jiang Yunran’s hands and feet icy once more.

Such is often the way when luck turns.

Ying Ge, however, was quick-witted.

Early that morning, she had prepared and brought in the warming stove. By now, the red spiral coal was already burning, and she was carefully transferring it into the stove.

“My lady, this red spiral coal is excellent,” Ying Ge said. “It produces no smoke or soot, and there’s no need to extinguish it at night. It stays warm all through the night.”

In the palace, only ladies of Baolin rank and above were permitted to use red spiral coal. What Jiang Yunran had was a special privilege granted by His Majesty.

Jiang Yunran leaned against the bed, covered with a brocade quilt, holding a warming stove in her hands.

She smiled quietly and said, “You’ve worked hard.”

After taking medicine these past few days, her health had noticeably improved, yet she still felt lethargic and disinclined to move.

Everyone in Tingxue Palace felt for her, assuming she was upset over His Majesty’s coldness, and they tried everything to cheer her up.

In truth, that wasn’t the case. It was simply that these days marked the anniversary of her mother’s passing. Whenever she thought of her mother, Jiang Yunran couldn’t help but reminisce about her younger years.

Afraid that the hostility within her would boil over and drive her to take up a blade and seek vengeance at the Ruan family’s home, she instead used the beautiful memories of the past to mask the pain of separation and loss.

Using her recovery as an excuse, and taking advantage of the latest drama in the palace, Jiang Yunran quietly hid away in Tingxue Palace, silently mourning her mother.

Ying Ge and Zi Ye exchanged a glance, both sighing silently.

Qing Dai, however, knew that their mistress was not the type to be melancholic over the changing seasons, nor would she be disheartened by the palace’s ups and downs. So she carried out her daily duties as usual, seeing nothing amiss.

She happened to bring in the medicinal soup and, seeing Ying Ge and Zi Ye exchanging meaningful glances, couldn’t help but smile. “What are you two doing?”

Zi Ye quickly shot her a look.

How could she be so oblivious?

Qing Dai shook her head helplessly. First, she attended to Jiang Yunran, helping her take the medicine. After Jiang Yunran had fallen asleep, Zi Ye pulled her to the northern side room across the way.

Ying Ge followed along.

“Sister Qing Dai, our mistress is so down. How can you not be worried?”

Zi Ye’s eyes were slightly red.

“Just the other day, His Majesty still cared so much for our mistress. He reprimanded Consort Zhao Yi Xu for her sake, demoting her while raising our lady up. The palace buzzed for days.”

The glory of those days still felt like a dream when looking back.

Zi Ye sighed. “Not only was the harem discussing it endlessly, but even the imperial court knew that there was a favored Talent Lady Jiang in the harem. I thought…”

She thought that His Majesty truly favored their mistress exceptionally, treating her with special regard.

However, how could men remain constant and devoted? Even the emperor was just an ordinary man, no different from others.

Zi Ye gritted her teeth. “How could it be that in just two days, he was swept up by Selected Attendant Han? Taking advantage of our mistress’s illness and inability to serve, she was immediately made a Talent Lady, suddenly putting her on equal footing with our mistress.”

These past few days, the palace had been buzzing.

No one knew exactly what happened in Qianyuan Palace that day, but it was certain that Consort Zhao Yi Xu had offended His Majesty, while Talent Lady Jiang had gained His Majesty’s favor.

Later, both fell ill and secluded themselves, so the excitement in the palace gradually died down.

However, Earl Zhongyi once again submitted a memorial petitioning to confess his faults. It was said that his words were sincere, admitting his failure in leading troops and delaying the campaign, resulting in the suffering of the people of Wucheng, for which he felt deeply ashamed. He further stated that he had failed to set an example, allowing his in-laws to embezzle army supplies, and that as a father, he had been unkind and poorly guided, leading Consort Zhao Yi Xu to disrespect His Majesty. Each and every fault was his alone as Earl Zhongyi. Now that the border was largely secure, thanks to Xu Ruhui’s courageous actions in battle, he earnestly requested that His Majesty strip him of his title as Earl Zhongyi and allow him to return to the capital to face punishment.

Earl Zhongyi was, after all, a battle-hardened veteran.

Shrewd and pragmatic, he quickly realized that Jing Huayan was not as merciful or concerned with reputation as the previous emperor had been, so he immediately changed his strategy.

It was also because Xu Ruhui had achieved outstanding military deeds, swiftly and decisively quelling the conflict in Wucheng. Otherwise, Earl Zhongyi would not have been able to make such a display of submitting a memorial to plead guilty.

His true intention was to rally those who shared his interests to persuade His Majesty to show mercy.

Pleading guilty was a pretext; making his appeal was the real goal.

The first time he pleaded guilty, Jing Huayan left the memorial unanswered. The second time, Earl Zhongyi was not so fortunate.

Since he had pleaded guilty, Jing Huayan granted his wish.

With an edict, he not only stripped Earl Zhongyi of his title but also removed him from his position as Prefect of Wucheng. He ordered Wucheng’s Provincial Governor to temporarily assume the prefect’s duties and work with Xu Ruhui to decide on border military matters.

With winter’s cold and frozen conditions making travel difficult, Xu Chuang was temporarily left in Wucheng to redeem himself through service. He would return to the capital to face accountability next spring.

This punishment left the former Earl Zhongyi in a difficult spot.

Over these three months, Xu Chuang would have to redouble his efforts and achieve merits to atone for his crimes if he hoped to save the Xu family’s future.

For now, he was only stripped of his title. If he failed in leading the troops, the consequences would be far more severe.

With this, the civil and military officials who had surrounded the Earl Zhongyi’s residence scattered overnight. The once-powerful Xu faction collapsed in an instant, leaving behind only remnants.

It was like when the tree falls, the monkeys scatter. No one dared to speak another word on Xu Chuang’s behalf.

Due to the affairs of the Earl Zhongyi’s residence, Consort Zhao Yi Xu, who had been demoted, found life increasingly difficult. Although she still held the rank of Consort, everyone in the palace was waiting to see her downfall.

She had been too arrogant and domineering in the past, offending too many people. Now, no one pitied her.

The fate of imperial concubines was ever-changing. No one could remain in bloom for a hundred years, enduring without decline.

Jiang Yunran knew something of these matters but did not overly concern herself with them. Focusing on recuperating and nurturing her health was what mattered most.

Until three days ago, when His Majesty the Emperor, in a rare good mood, went to the imperial garden for a stroll.

During the transition from autumn to winter, only the midday hours were warmest. The blazing sunlight felt as gentle as a spring day.

Though many plants in the imperial garden had withered, they were still vibrant under the careful tending of the palace servants.

Beneath the freshly bloomed Four-Season Osmanthus, Attendant Han, dressed in light clothing, stood on tiptoe picking flowers.

Her figure was slender, her face delicate and refined, possessing the grace of a Jiangnan lady, appearing tender and sentimental.

As she reached out, her slender wrist glistened palely, and with the slightest movement, it caused the branches to tremble.

At that moment, countless butterflies gathered around.

Attendant Han seemed a bit bewildered; she blinked, then happily began to whirl gracefully among the butterflies.

This scene was witnessed by the emperor, who had come to relax during a rare moment of leisure.

The beauty and the scenery enhanced each other perfectly, like a dream.

That very night, Attendant Han attended the emperor.

Her ability to be recommended by Consort Xu back then to become an imperial concubine was due to her own merits. After years apart, she had grown older, gaining a touch of melancholy and maturity.

Her distinctive grace was unique.

For three consecutive days, it was Attendant Han who spent the night with the emperor.

The palace was abuzz with talk, all saying that Lady Jiang Yunran was about to lose favor, and that Attendant Han was the one the emperor truly adored.

Especially yesterday, Jing Huayan even granted Attendant Han the title of Talent Lady, matching Lady Jiang's rank in just three days.

Such favor—if that Consort Ruan were still around, she would likely have torn her handkerchief to shreds.

Talent Lady Han resided in Brocade Palace, where the principal consort was Consort Yi Zhou. Not only did Jing Huayan bestow lavish gifts upon Talent Lady Han, but he also ordered Liang Santai to caution Consort Yi Zhou to treat Talent Lady Han well and not make things difficult for her.

When the news spread, the palace was in an uproar.

When had the emperor ever been so gentle and considerate?

When Ying Ge learned of these events, she inwardly knew it was bad and immediately rushed back to Tingxue Palace to inform her fellow servants.

Qian Xiaoduo, who only handled matters outside the inner palace, offered no comment, and Qing Dai also seemed unconcerned. Only Zi Ye and Ying Ge were on edge, fearing that their mistress, having just recovered from a serious illness, would relapse from frustration.

Sure enough, Jiang Yunran did not look well today, and the two immediately grew tense.

Seeing their anxious faces, Qing Dai couldn't help but smile lightly.

"The mistress isn't feeling well today probably because of the sudden drop in temperature. She has always been sensitive to the cold, and her period just ended. She still needs a few more days of recuperation to fully recover—it's not because of Talent Lady Han."

Zi Ye, being older, finally understood after seeing Qing Dai's certainty.

"Is the mistress not concerned?"

Qing Dai tapped Ying Ge's forehead and then turned to Zi Ye.

"When have you ever seen the mistress care about whom the emperor favors?"

"Unless it's necessary to stay informed about the happenings in the inner palace, the mistress doesn't even care which consort serves the emperor, let alone the emperor's favor."

Zi Ye breathed a sigh of relief.

Ying Ge also relaxed. "That's good."

Qing Dai found it somewhat amusing.

"You're not worried about the mistress losing favor, only about her being upset?"

Zi Ye said, "The mistress is already a Talent Lady now, so life is much better. Besides, the consorts in the palace all gain their ranks through longevity. Even without favor, in a few years, the mistress could become a Baolin or a Beauty."

"Life will always get better."

Zi Ye was someone who goes with the flow, calm and composed.

Ying Ge added, "We live alone in Tingxue Palace, quite freely. Life is already very good."

Qing Dai smiled.

When Jiang Yunran woke up, she saw Qing Dai's smile.

She paused and asked, "Did you manage to calm them all down?"

Qing Dai was taken aback for a moment, then replied, "Nothing can escape the mistress's notice."

Jiang Yunran smiled and said, "They were so nervous—it's not like I'm blind. How could I not notice? Ups and downs in the palace are normal. Zi Ye has been in the palace for years; she knows this. She's just worried sick."

After a nap, she felt much better physically, and her mood was naturally brighter.

Qing Dai helped her up and combed her hair.

"Mistress, I admire you so much. How are you so steady?"

Jiang Yunran thought for a moment, then looked back at her through the glass mirror.

Her phoenix eyes were beautiful and profound, upturned at the corners, radiant as a spring day, always warm and bright.

"If you desire nothing, you fear no loss."

Jiang Yunran said, "From the very beginning, what I wanted was authority and position, not the emperor's sincere affection."

"So I don't feel like I've lost anything," Jiang Yunran's voice was soft, meant only for Qing Dai. "Look, has our emperor ever been someone with a sincere affection?"

Qing Dai listened attentively, feeling deeply instructed.

"The mistress speaks wisely."

Jiang Yunran then picked up her teacup and took a sip.

The Phoenix Dancong tea was warm and pleasant, with a rich, mellow sweetness. With one sip, she felt comfort throughout her body.

The palace lanterns flickered, adding a touch of brilliance to the gloomy rainy day.

After several days of medication, Jiang Yunran felt better each day. If not for today's rain, she would have been back to full health.

At this moment, savoring the warmth spreading through her limbs, she slowly smiled.

"I was promoted to Talent Lady just two months after entering the palace—unprecedented in the palace. Right after the promotion, gifts poured in. What more could I possibly be dissatisfied with?"

"Everyone only sees Talent Lady Han's favor these past few days. Why don't they consider her three years of frustration? Why don't they mention that it took her years as an imperial concubine to finally reach the rank of Talent Lady?"

"Our emperor is very strategic."

"Just think, who exactly was Talent Lady Han serving before?"

Qing Dai's heart jolted. She slowly came back to her senses and let out a breath.

"I understand."

Jiang Yunran patted her hand and said, "Even when you didn't understand, you still did very well. Qing Dai, I'm very grateful to have you and the others by my side."

"Compared to His Majesty's sincerity, your care and concern are my most precious treasures."

"In my heart, you all are more important than His Majesty."

***

After the last autumn rain passed, the entire Jade Capital sank into winter's chill.

This year's winter was exceptionally cold; just walking outside made one's ears itch and ache.

It wasn't yet time to light the heating walls, so warming stoves were already placed in the bedchamber. Jiang Yunran, worried that the palace servants would feel cold at night, allocated silver for Qian Xiaoduo to buy some low-grade coal to keep their rooms warm at night.

Life in Tingxue Palace remained unchanged. For now, it was only Talent Lady Han who enjoyed great favor, while Talent Lady Jiang had been removed from the imperial consort roster due to illness. The palace staff didn't know the full details, so her treatment remained as before.

One day, Qing Dai returned from outside and whispered briefly into Jiang Yunran's ear.

Jiang Yunran raised an eyebrow. "Now that's interesting."

Qing Dai, seeing Zi Ye guarding outside the door, lowered her voice and said, "I don't know what Ruan Baolin is really up to."

Earlier, Qing Dai had gone to Zhaixing Palace to retrieve a note left by Su Xue. Su Xue mentioned that Ruan Baolin had recently recovered from her illness and had started moving about the palace again, but she often seemed constantly melancholic and restless, as if preoccupied.

Later, she requested a diagnosis from the Imperial Medical Bureau, but nothing conclusive was found. She claimed she often dreamed of her elder sister at night and missed her deeply.

As days passed, she looked increasingly worn.

Matron Xing, concerned for her health, petitioned the Empress Dowager to allow Mrs. Liao to enter the palace for a few days to keep her company and ease her sorrow.

Because of Su Yu's death, Ruan Baolin had also become more cautious. She deliberately promoted another first-rank maid to serve alongside Su Xue.

As a result, many matters no longer passed through Su Xue's hands.

However, Su Xue was sharp and resourceful, always managing to learn the movements in Changchun Palace and maintaining communication with Jiang Yunran.

Jiang Yunran tapped her fingers on the table a few times and suddenly said, "If we're talking about intelligence, among the Ruan family, Ruan Zhongliang is the most shrewd, followed by Mrs. Liao."

"The most foolish is Ruan Baolin."

She had never met Ruan Handong, but since he passed the imperial examination at the county level at the young age of seventeen, he likely wasn't too foolish.

"It seems the previous accusation truly hit Ruan Baolin hard. Even now, she has not served the Emperor again."

So she needed her mother to enter the palace to help her scheme a bit.

Jiang Yunran let out a breath and smiled faintly. "It might be time to meet this Mrs. Liao, whom everyone in the Jade Capital admires."

Qing Dai asked, "My lady, how should I respond to her?"

Jiang Yunran lowered her gaze, thought for a moment, and said, "Tell her to take care of herself and watch and wait."

She paused, then added, "Also, tell her to show concern in front of Mrs. Liao, saying that because of me, Ruan Baolin lost His Majesty's favor."

Qing Dai was taken aback.

It seemed her mistress was setting a trap to lure the snake out of its hole.

Jiang Yunran wrote another note and asked Qing Dai to give it to Zhao Tingfang. They needed to investigate this Ruan Handong.

The medicine she had asked Stone and the others to find had already been located. Stone was on his way back and would arrive in the Jade Capital within two days.

As for Deng En, the former magistrate of Qingzhou, there were no clear traces. It was only known that he had been reprimanded by the Ministry of Personnel due to Ruan Zhongliang's repeated reversals of cases. After three years of mediocre performance reviews, he was transferred away from Qingzhou, but no one knew where he was sent afterward.

After fifteen years, his traces were difficult to find.

Jiang Yunran considered for a moment but ultimately burned the note. "Ask Tingfang to come today."

Before long, Zhao Tingfang arrived.

She was very concerned about Jiang Yunran's health. As soon as she arrived, she first checked her pulse and, after a moment, let out a sigh of relief.

"You only experience weakness and abdominal pain during your monthly courses. It doesn't affect you at other times, so there's no need to worry once your period is over. It's truly because my skills were insufficient back then."

If she had diagnosed the Cold Bitter Herb back then, Jiang Yunran would already be cured.

Jiang Yunran held her hand. "We are like sisters; there's no need to say such things. You had just started learning medicine then, and being able to alleviate my symptoms was already remarkable."

After exchanging a few casual words, Zhao Tingfang said, "Imperial Noble Dowager Consort injured her waist when she was young. For many years, she has suffered excruciating pain every autumn and winter. I had been serving in Jing'an Palace and nearly caused a disaster."

"Fortunately, it was Physician Qian on duty that day."

Jiang Yunran said, "We must still thank her. If not for her, we'd be in trouble now."

Zhao Tingfang nodded. "I know. Don't worry. Physician Qian never involves herself in palace affairs. She is incorruptible and keeps to herself, with a healer's benevolence, compassionate and kind-hearted."

"It's my good fortune."

If they had to change to another Imperial Physician, the outcome might be different now.

Jiang Yunran asked, "When will Stone arrive?"

Zhao Tingfang lowered her voice. "He'll arrive tomorrow. I've already arranged for Mo Li to pick him up. I have a day off duty tomorrow and will enter the palace the day after to check your pulse again."

Their eyes met, and Jiang Yunran smiled and nodded. "Thank you, Imperial Physician Zhao."

At this point, Jiang Yunran shared a few guesses about Deng En's whereabouts with her and then asked, "What has Ruan Zhongliang been up to lately?"

Lord Ruan, the Right Chief Censor, was known for his integrity. He never indulged in wine, women, or entertainment. Aside from his wife, he had no concubines or maids in his household. Coupled with his dignified and elegant appearance, he enjoyed an excellent reputation in the Jade Capital, praised by all.

After leaving his office, he usually went straight home. Occasionally, he would visit Sanbao Zhai to buy osmanthus cakes, which Mrs. Liao loved most.

He would also stop by Qingfeng Study to look through new books, chatting with the scholars and students there about local customs and affairs, and the accomplishments of scholars.

On the surface, he did not form close ties with any particular family. Aside from outings, flower-viewing, and poetry banquets, he rarely socialized with other households on ordinary days.

He seemed even more like a dedicated official than Zheng Dingguo.

For over a decade, he had maintained this behavior without a single misstep.

Jiang Yunran sometimes admired Ruan Zhongliang. To reach the highest echelons of government and hold sway over the court, he could force himself to renounce all pleasures, maintaining this discipline for over ten years.

With such determination, he would succeed in anything he did.

"We checked both Sanbao Studio and Breeze Bookhouse, and found nothing unusual. The owners behind them are just ordinary merchants with no connections to other families in the capital."

Zhao Tingfang was also worried.

They had been investigating for two months, yet Ruan Zhongliang had shown no signs of suspicion. If they continued to follow him, it was uncertain when they would finally catch him slipping.

After a moment of silence, Jiang Yunran suddenly asked, "How about Mrs. Liao?"

Zhao Tingfang was taken aback for a moment, then blinked and said, "Right, husband and wife are a unit. Even if Ruan Zhongliang lays low, Mrs. Liao must mingle with the ladies of other households."

"I'll have Wang Shu follow Mrs. Liao and see if there’s anything unusual about her."

Jiang Yunran nodded and said, "I appreciate it."

She paused, took out fifty taels, and handed it to Zhao Tingfang.

"The weather is cold in winter. Tell them to bundle up and not to catch a chill. They shouldn’t cut corners day-to-day either. Once this matter is settled, I’ll have more funds to work with. We can set up a small shop in Liyang then, so there’s no need to worry."

The children who came from Yixiang Pavilion were all used to hardship.

Even though they now had more money to spare, they still avoided extravagance and always planned for the future.

Having lost their families or been abandoned by them, they relied solely on themselves and never begged for heaven’s help.

Having grown up with them, Jiang Yunran knew how they thought best.

Zhao Tingfang sighed and said, "I know. Our embroidery shop in Liyang is doing very well now. The older sisters can support themselves and make a living independently, while the younger children have a place to go. Nowadays, Fangcao and a few others are studying."

After chatting for a while, Zhao Tingfang told her again to keep warm before leaving.

At noon, while having lunch, Eunuch Little Liu arrived.

His face was as expressionless as ever, delivering pleasantries without any emotion.

"Talent Lady Jiang, His Majesty has sent you a portion of Fortune Stew Pot and a Lamb Hot Pot."

Jiang Yunran stood up and and said calmly, "Thank you for His Majesty’s generous reward."

Eunuch Little Liu glanced at her and, seeing no sign of joy on her face, hesitated for a moment before asking, "Ma’am, it seems your health has improved greatly."

"Not yet," Jiang Yunran said indifferently. "It will take a few more days to recover. That’s what the imperial physician said."

Eunuch Little Liu: "..."

If she wasn’t well, she couldn’t be listed. If she didn’t go to Qianyuan Palace, the Emperor wouldn’t see her.

Eunuch Little Liu blinked helplessly and had no choice but to retreat.

Jiang Yunran wondered what game Jing Huayan was playing again. She enjoyed a hotpot meal with Qing Dai and the others, warming herself up completely.

Taking advantage of the afternoon sunshine, Zi Ye led Ying Ge and others to air out the clothes.

Winter jackets, over-robes, and capes needed to be aired out, and the quilts, stuffed with new cotton, were fluffed in the courtyard, making them soft and warm to sleep under at night.

While they were busy, faint voices could be heard from outside.

Shortly after, Qian Xiaoduo came in and asked Jiang Yunran, "Ma’am, Su Baolin, along with Talent Lady Han, Selected Attendant Zhao, and Selected Attendant Li, have come to visit you."

Jiang Yunran looked up at him and asked, "They’re here already?"

Qian Xiaoduo stepped forward to help her up, "Yes, they’ve already arrived."

Jiang Yunran raised her voice and said, "Then hurry and invite them in! Don’t you know any better?"

Jiang Yunran adjusted her hair and went out personally to welcome them.

Walking around the screen, she looked up and saw Su Baolin standing under the palace gate, speaking softly to Talent Lady Han beside her.

After not seeing her for several days, Talent Lady Han was wearing a brand new pearl-embroidered over-robe over a pinkish-red broad-sleeved jacket and skirt. She looked relaxed and radiant, her entire demeanor much more at ease.

Especially the ruby gold hairpin in her hair, which shimmered brilliantly by her temple—it was clearly something special.

Seeing Jiang Yunran come out to greet them, Su Baolin immediately stepped forward, took Jiang Yunran’s hand, and said, "Sister, you’re still unwell. Why come out to welcome us? Hurry back inside to keep warm."

Jiang Yunran smiled and said, "Sister has come personally to visit me. How could I dare to sit and wait? Please come in. Qing Dai, bring out the Liu'an Tea. I’d like to chat with my sisters for a while."

After everyone was seated in the elegant room, Su Baolin said, "Sister, you’ve been ill for several days. Are you better now?"

Her gaze remained fixed on Jiang Yunran, but she didn’t notice any difference from before.

She still had that strikingly beautiful face and that jade-like, ethereal grace.

Among all the imperial concubines seated in the elegant room, no one could compare to her.

Su Baolin was so captivated that she remained speechless for a long while.

Jiang Yunran’s face flushed slightly with shyness, "Sister, why are you looking at me like that?"

As she spoke, she sighed, a trace of worry appearing between her brows.

"This is an old ailment of mine. When I was young and my family was poor, I suffered from the cold in winter. Every time my period comes, the pain is unbearable."

Her eyes swept over each of the faces in the room, "It’s not a serious illness, but it’s tormenting. I don’t feel like going anywhere, so I had to call in sick."

Su Baolin patted her hand and said, "We’re all women. We get it."

At this point, she turned to look at Talent Lady Han beside her.

"Today, Talent Lady Han specifically came to me. Knowing that we are close, she wanted me to bring her here to say she’s sorry to you."

Jiang Yunran raised her phoenix eyes and smirked at Talent Lady Han.

Talent Lady Han lowered her head, wringing her handkerchief in her hands, looking utterly pitiful.

"Sister Han, why would you need to apologize to me? I truly don’t deserve it."

Seeing that Talent Lady Han was unwilling to speak, Su Baolin had no choice but to say helplessly, "She’s afraid you might take it the wrong way."

"How could that be?"

Jiang Yunran smiled gently.

She reached out and suddenly took Talent Lady Han’s wrist.

"Sister, we are all sisters. I am genuinely happy that you are doing well now. Please don’t say such things in the future."

Jiang Yunran paused, then continued, "Besides, I am merely a low-ranking consort. The Emperor does not belong to me alone. Even if Sister Han wishes to seek forgiveness, it shouldn’t be from me."

"I cannot bear such a responsibility," Jiang Yunran said. "If word got out, I would be scared sleepless."