Chapter 35: A Long Chapter for VIP Access

Chapter 35: The Long Paywall Chapter

Two hours later, Niuhulu Yu Wan had given birth. Seeing the midwife about to take the baby away, she stopped her and said weakly, "Bring the child to me."

Nanny Gui had already seen what the child looked like and didn’t want the Empress to see it, as it would only add to her grief. She blocked the Empress’s view and said, "Your Majesty, let them take the child away. Please don’t look."

"Nanny, I want to see my child!"

Seeing the Empress’s firm attitude, Nanny Gui reluctantly signaled the midwife to bring the child closer. The seven-month-old baby did not cry, was very thin and small, and had weak breathing. It was clear it would not survive the night.

Niuhulu Yu Wan noticed the child’s chest rising and falling and exclaimed in hopeful delight, "Nanny, look! It’s a prince! He’s still alive. Quickly, give the child to me."

Nanny Gui didn’t have the heart to discourage her mistress, who was clearly in shock. She could only cautiously agree, "Yes, the little prince is still alive. Your Majesty, let them take him away for now. You must still deliver the afterbirth."

After the child was born, the placenta still needed to be delivered. The Empress had already lost a lot of blood and needed to finish the delivery quickly to avoid further danger to her life.

"No! No one is allowed to take my child away."

Nanny Gui’s heart tightened, fearing for her mistress’s well-being. The servants in the room exchanged uneasy glances, unsure how to persuade the Empress. She held the little prince tightly, refusing to let go. In the end, Nanny Gui had no choice but to ask the Emperor to come in.

Fortunately, the Empress listened to the Emperor. The child was finally taken away, and the Emperor comforted her for a few moments before leaving.

The rest of the delivery proceeded more smoothly. After giving birth, the Empress drank a medicinal soup to stop the bleeding and fell into a deep sleep.

The child passed away within a few hours of birth. The Emperor ordered the servants to take the child away for disposal. Children who died young were usually taken out of the palace and buried at Huanghua Mountain, placed in a coffin without a tombstone or grave. Over time, no one would remember where they were buried.

Nanny Gui also felt it was best to handle the child quickly to prevent the Empress from searching for him when she woke up. If the Empress saw the child after he had passed, it would only cause her more distress. She had waited so many years for this child, only to face such an outcome.

The Emperor had affection for the Empress and stayed at Kunning Palace until dawn. He only left when it was time to attend the morning court session.

The Empress slept for over five hours. During that time, the other consorts and imperial concubines in the palace heard about her miscarriage and came to visit. Since the Empress was still unconscious, Nanny Gui sent them away.

Nanny Gui knew that many women in the harem wished ill upon the Empress and doubted their visits were out of genuine concern.

When the Empress woke up, her first question was about the child. Nanny Gui could only shake her head, and the Empress closed her eyes again.

"Your Majesty, there will be more children. Please take care of yourself first. It pains me to see you like this."

Nanny Gui, who had raised the Empress since childhood, felt heartbroken. Seeing the Empress in a state of deep despair, she thought for a moment and said, "Your Majesty, why did you suddenly experience abdominal pain in the middle of the night when everything was fine before? Could someone have harmed the child in your womb? What happened last night? Your Majesty, your current state only pains those who care for you and pleases your enemies. You must pull yourself together."

Niuhulu Yu Wan finally opened her eyes and recalled the events of the previous night. She had been asleep when she was suddenly woken by intense abdominal pain, and by the time she awoke, she was already bleeding. Several imperial physicians had assured her that the pregnancy was stable, so how could she have suddenly suffered a hemorrhage? Nanny Gui was right—someone must have harmed her.

At the birthday banquet, she hadn’t eaten or drunk anything. After returning to Kunning Palace, she had only consumed a bowl of porridge. That bowl of porridge must have been tampered with.

"Nanny, that bowl of porridge was poisoned."

"Impossible! Your Majesty’s meals are prepared by trusted servants. Could they have betrayed you?"

There was no other explanation. Even the most trusted servants could be bribed by others. Many in the palace wished her harm, especially regarding the child in her womb. It was a prince—if he had survived, he would have been the Emperor’s legitimate heir.

Niuhulu Yu Wan summoned He Zhongfan, the chief eunuch of Kunning Palace, and ordered him to take those responsible for the previous night’s meals to the Office of Internal Punishment for interrogation. She demanded that they be forced to tell the truth.

"Your Majesty, please eat something first. Eunuch He will handle it."

Perhaps because she wanted to find out who was behind the plot, Niuhulu Yu Wan regained some of her spirit. When Nanny Gui mentioned that the Emperor had stayed until dawn, she was somewhat moved. No matter what, the Emperor still respected her deeply. It was a pity she hadn’t been able to give him a prince. She didn’t know if she would have another chance in the future.

That evening, the Emperor visited again. Niuhulu Yu Wan leaned into his embrace and wept.

"There will be more children."

"It is my fault for not being able to protect the child."

"It’s not your fault. I know how much you wanted this child. I understand."

Niuhulu Yu Wan also mentioned that she had sent the kitchen staff to the Office of Internal Punishment. The Emperor supported her, saying he would also do everything he could to find the culprit who had harmed the royal heir.

The Emperor stayed overnight at Kunning Palace that night.

...

Since the Empress’s premature birth, the palace had been shrouded in gloom. Fang Yu heard that the Empress had executed several servants, but no one knew why she had suddenly gone into premature labor—whether it was due to her own health or someone’s malicious actions. All that was known was that the child, a prince, had died within a few hours of birth.

It was said that even the Emperor couldn’t find any evidence.

Gradually, the matter faded from attention.

Although the child had died, the Empress still needed to undergo postpartum recovery. Perhaps due to her grief, she refused visits from all the consorts and concubines who came to see her.

The Emperor also did not summon anyone to his chambers for several days, instead spending time at Kunning Palace to support the Empress during this difficult period.

The Grand Empress Dowager also personally visited to comfort the Empress.

By the beginning of August, more than twenty days had passed since the Empress’s premature birth.

Fang Yu was playing shuttlecock in the backyard of Yonghe Palace with Xiao Fangzi and others, working up a sweat.

Pan Liu, worried that she might develop rashes again, said, "Mistress, please wipe your sweat."

"It’s fine, I’ll wipe it later. Let’s see who can kick the shuttlecock a hundred times first."

Fang Yu was no longer worried about overheating. The Imperial Household Department delivered ice to her three times a day, keeping her room cool. After the Emperor learned about her rash the previous year, he had likely instructed the Imperial Household Department to send her more ice this year.

They took turns kicking the shuttlecock, counting aloud.

Seeing that Hong Ye was kicking quickly, Fang Yu deliberately bumped into her, causing her to stop.

Hong Ye laughed and said, "Mistress, you can’t do that. You can’t just push people on purpose."

Pan Liu also laughed.

Since Fang Yu was the mistress, Hong Ye and the others let her win. Fang Yu was the first to kick the shuttlecock a hundred times. Having met her exercise goal for the day, she was wiping her sweat with a handkerchief when she suddenly saw Eunuch Liang and others leading the Emperor into the backyard.

Pan Liu and the others were startled and quickly knelt to pay their respects.

Fang Yu curtsied.

"What are you doing?" the Emperor asked.

Fang Yu honestly replied that they were playing shuttlecock.

Kangxi had been to Yonghe Palace before and had visited Wuya Shi’s room. He knew which room was hers and walked directly toward it.

Fang Yu noticed that Attendant Li and the others living in the backyard of Yonghe Palace had already peeked out from their rooms, aware that the Emperor had arrived. Seeing the Emperor enter, they could only watch, not even having the chance to pay their respects.

Not daring to keep the Emperor waiting, Fang Yu followed him into her room. Since she had just worked up a sweat, there was a basin of clean water on the stand. She dipped a towel into the water and wiped her face.

Kangxi frowned slightly as he watched Wuya Shi casually washing her face. "Have I interrupted your important matters?" he asked sarcastically.

Fang Yu didn’t detect the sarcasm in his tone and instinctively replied, "What important matters could I possibly have? I just eat, drink, and sleep every day."

"Your Majesty, please have some tea."

Kangxi glanced at the serving maid. Wuya Shi's servants were more attentive than she was; Wuya Shi herself had no intention of serving him.

Fang Yu noticed many people standing in the room and spoke directly, "All of you, leave. Xiao Fangzi, it's almost time for lunch. Have the kitchen prepare some food."

Once everyone had left, Fang Yu continued wiping her sweat. When she was almost done, she approached the Emperor. "Your Majesty, can you smell anything on me?"

Kangxi actually sniffed and said disdainfully, "The smell of sweat."

"Then do you think I should bathe first?"

"Are you going to leave me waiting here?"

Fang Yu wanted to say that since he probably didn’t have anything important to discuss, a quick bath wouldn’t take long, and she felt uncomfortable with the clammy sweat. But since he said that, she had to change her tone. "No, I wouldn’t dare. As long as Your Majesty doesn’t mind my smell. Your Majesty, let me peel some lychees for you from those sent by the Imperial Household."

Fang Yu peeled several lychees and placed them on a clean dish.

Kangxi ate a few symbolically but eventually couldn’t hold back. "Aren’t you going to ask why I came to see you?"

"Why did Your Majesty come to see me?"

Kangxi paused. He had come on impulse. The Empress had lost a child, and the atmosphere at Kunning Palace was oppressive. But today, he had learned that Geng Jingzhong and others had been defeated by the Qing army. After the Qing army captured Fuzhou, Geng Jingzhong and his followers surrendered. This was the first piece of good news since the Revolt of the Three Feudatories began—at least one feudatory had been subdued.

Since it was joyous news, he couldn’t go to Kunning Palace. The only person he thought of was Wuya Shi. He wanted someone to share this happiness with.

However, this was a matter of the former court. Even if he told Wuya Shi, she might not understand its significance. As she said, her days were spent eating, drinking, and sleeping—nothing serious.

"Does Your Majesty not want to say, or did you come to see me for... that?"

Kangxi grabbed Wuya Shi’s wandering hand. He was not a dissolute ruler obsessed with women; how could he always be thinking about that? He said, exasperated, "Wuya Ning Yan, what are you thinking about all day? Don’t seduce me in broad daylight."

Fang Yu was surprised that the Emperor used her full name. She had thought he didn’t know it. In Qing history, most women in the harem had no recorded names. She cupped the Emperor’s face and said delightedly, "Your Majesty, you actually know my name. I thought you didn’t."

He had known since her conferment. Her name was recorded in the Imperial Clan Court’s registry. Kangxi saw Wuya Shi was very close to him. Although she had been sweating, he didn’t pull away. He mentioned that Geng Jingzhong had surrendered.

"Who? Who is Geng Jingzhong?" Fang Yu, upon hearing the name, didn’t immediately recall who he was.

"A rebel, one of the feudatories."

Fang Yu realized and exclaimed in surprise, "The feudatory who rebelled two years ago? He surrendered? Was he captured?"

"Yes."

Fang Yu knelt to congratulate him. "Congratulations, Your Majesty."

Kangxi’s smile widened. Indeed, sharing the good news with Wuya Shi was a good choice. He helped her up and led her by the hand to sit on the bed.

"I was also very happy when I received the memorial."

Fang Yu didn’t remember the details of Qing history clearly but knew the Revolt of the Three Feudatories lasted eight years. Three feudatory lords had rebelled, and now one had surrendered, while the other two had not.

"Your Majesty, those rebels will all be captured. Your Majesty’s brilliance and prowess will surely bring them all to heel."

"I like hearing that. It seems you know a thing or two about the former court."

Fang Yu sat on the Emperor’s lap, wrapped her arms around his neck, and said, "I am not deaf or ignorant of the world. Major concerns that worry Your Majesty will inevitably reach the harem. It’s not that I intentionally inquire or wish to interfere in court affairs. I beg Your Majesty to understand."

Kangxi believed her. Wuya Shi came from a humble background; even if she wanted to interfere in court affairs, she couldn’t. Her words carried no weight, unlike the Empress and others. He was well aware that his fondness for Wuya Shi was partly because of her low status. No matter how much he doted on her, she had no ability to meddle in politics.

With Wuya Shi on his lap and in high spirits, he felt aroused. He lowered his head to kiss her, and once he started, he couldn’t stop. He removed her clothes.

"Your Majesty, I smell of sweat, and it’s daytime."

"I don’t mind you."

Fang Yu snorted softly. Earlier, he had said she smelled of sweat, but now he claimed not to mind. This man changed his tune quickly. She knew the Emperor was happy today and didn’t want to spoil his mood, so she pretended to resist a little before yielding obediently.

It was their first time doing this during the day. Her room was small and poorly insulated. Answering Attendant Fu Cha lived next door, so she bit her lip, not daring to make a sound. When she was peaking, she grabbed the Emperor’s fingers and put them in her mouth, biting them to prevent any noise from escaping.

After thoroughly enjoying himself, Kangxi finally released her. He also felt refreshed and had broken a sweat. Since it was daytime and not in the Palace of Heavenly Purity, he let Wuya Shi direct him to clean up. He wrung out a towel and wiped both their bodies.

"Your Majesty, you should leave now."

"You’re chasing me away?"

"If you stay in my room for too long, people will think we’ve been doing something shameful."

Kangxi retorted, "Haven’t we?"

Fang Yu pinched his cheek. How could he say that? If outsiders found out, he would be fine, but she would be in trouble. If it reached the Grand Empress Dowager’s ears, she might be punished with learning etiquette again. Others would call her a seductress who tempted the Emperor into doing such things during the day.

"Leave quickly."

Kangxi also knew it was inappropriate to stay long. He smoothed his rumpled robes, stood up, and left, saying before he went that he would choose her plaque that evening.

After the Emperor and his attendants left, Fang Yu initially wanted to call for bath water, but it would be improper to do so immediately after his departure. She restrained herself and only wiped her body with water.

After an hour, she finally called for bath water.

That evening, she was summoned to the Palace of Heavenly Purity to attend the Emperor. At night, they indulged again.

More than ten days later, the Empress finished her postpartum confinement and resumed receiving morning greetings.

On August 15th, everyone went to Kunning Palace to pay their respects.

Fang Yu saw the Empress. Today, the Empress wore exquisite makeup, making it hard to discern her true complexion. Her figure hadn’t fully recovered, and her belly was still slightly protruding.

The Empress spoke, "Today is Mid-Autumn Festival, but to reduce palace expenses, we will not hold a Mid-Autumn palace banquet this year. Consort Rong, you are heavy with child. Henceforth, you are exempt from morning greetings to avoid any accidents on your way."

Consort Rong stood up to express gratitude. "Thank you for your consideration, Your Majesty."

"It has been so long since all sisters gathered for morning greetings. If any of you lack anything, you may inform me."

Noble Consort Tong responded, "Elder Sister, I feel the ice allocated to my palace is insufficient. Could you instruct the Imperial Household to send more ice to me?"

Fang Yu noticed the Empress’s face darken as her gaze fell on Noble Consort Tong. Then the Empress spoke.

"Noble Consort Tong, the ice allocated to you by the Imperial Household already exceeds the quota for a noble consort. The weather is hot, and ice melts quickly—this is normal. Younger Sister, please endure it. It will be better after this month."

Noble Consort Tong was dissatisfied with this response. "If that’s the case, why does Noble Lady De receive so much ice—more than I do? The Imperial Household delivers ice to Noble Lady De three times a day. Am I less esteemed than a noble lady? Your Majesty, you manage the six palaces. Do you think this is reasonable?"

Fang Yu, who was pointed out, raised an eyebrow, surprised the focus had shifted to her. While she was still thinking how to respond, the Empress spoke first.

"The ice allocated to Sister Wuya was ordered by the Emperor through the Imperial Household. Noble Consort Tong, if you are dissatisfied, you may take it up with the Emperor. I cannot override the Emperor’s decisions. Ice is prioritized for the Grand Empress Dowager and the Empress Dowager. It is not available in unlimited quantities. Noble Consort Tong, the ice you receive is already much more than that of other sisters. Some sisters have no ice at all and must endure the heat. Noble Consort, count your blessings."

Fang Yu felt the Empress’s words had made both her and Noble Consort Tong targets, stirring jealousy among the other consorts and concubines. While some had no ice at all, she and Noble Consort Tong received plenty.

Noble Consort Tong was momentarily at a loss for a rebuttal.

Fang Yu decided to keep quiet, knowing that the more she said, the more mistakes she might make. She wouldn't generously say she didn't want the ice—she couldn't handle hardship or the heat. Since the Emperor had given it to her, she would accept it.

The atmosphere in the main hall grew tense.

The Empress spoke again, "The weather is hot. I'll have the kitchen prepare mung bean soup daily. Both masters and servants may drink it. Mung bean soup clears heat and relieves summer heat. I hope everyone can get through this hot summer calmly. Well, if there’s nothing else, you're all dismissed."

Everyone rose and left.

Fang Yu also returned to Yonghe Palace, with Ying Shan following her.

"Your place is truly cool, no wonder Noble Consort specifically mentioned you."

"Can’t be helped, the Emperor dotes on me."

In front of the familiar Na La. Ying Shan, Fang Yu spoke much more casually.

Ying Shan also smiled, "You—countless people in the harem envy you. It’s a good thing you don’t have a child yet. If you did, they would be even more jealous."

Fang Yu reclined on the daybed and merely smiled.

"But you’ve been favored for quite some time now. Why is there still no good news? Should you have an imperial physician take a look?"

Fang Yu waved her hand, "Sister, there’s no hurry," she said. "Children are a matter of fate. Perhaps the time hasn’t come yet. Besides, I’m still young and don’t want to have children yet."

Ying Shan shot her a reproachful look, "What foolish talk is that? How can you not want children? Children are the reliance of women in the harem. If you don’t take advantage of your favor to bear a child, are you going to wait until you fall out of favor? By then, even if you want one, you might not be able to."

Na La. Ying Shan believed favor couldn’t last forever—the Emperor couldn’t dote on one person for decades. Offspring were the most important. It was only right to seize the moment of favor to have children quickly. Yet, Sister Wuya wasn't pregnant.

"Sister, children can only come by fate. If it’s meant to be, it will be; if not, it won’t. It’s not that I don’t want one, but that there isn’t one."

Na La. Ying Shan thought that made sense. Moreover, even if one conceived, it didn’t guarantee a smooth birth. Wasn’t the Empress an example? She went into premature labor at seven months, and the child didn’t survive. Currently, only Consort Rong was pregnant in the palace.

"My lady, the Internal Affairs Department has sent mooncakes."

Xiao Fangzi brought in the mooncakes.

"Did you give them a tip?"

Xiao Fangzi nodded and said he had.

Fang Yu was never stingy with tipping servants, especially during festivals. The people from the Internal Affairs Department needed to stay on good terms with, all the more so since they provided her with many benefits. Those responsible for food, clothing, shelter, and transportation were the last people to offend.

"My lady, would you like to eat one?"

"Show me what kinds there are."

Xiao Fangzi presented the mooncakes. They were arranged in a flat box—sixteen in total, small and exquisite. In fact, the kitchen had sent over specially made mooncakes a few days earlier. The ones from the Internal Affairs Department were likely local specialty mooncakes sent as tribute.

Since there was no Mid-Autumn palace banquet today, having mooncakes was their way of celebrating. Fang Yu gestured for everyone present to take one.

She ate one herself—a pineapple-filled one, sweet but not cloying, and quite tasty paired with tea.

"Don’t let any go to waste. Those who want more can have another."

Xiao Fangzi smiled and took another.

"Sister, stay and have dinner with us this evening. We’ll have a spicy hot pot."

"Eating spicy hot pot in this heat? Be careful of getting heaty."

Fang Yu laughed, "What’s there to fear about getting heaty? If we’re going to eat, we might as well enjoy it to the fullest. Xiao Fangzi, after you finish eating, go tell the kitchen to prepare some thinly sliced meat."

Xiao Fangzi acknowledged with an "Mm."

That evening, the group gathered in the room to eat hot pot. Slices of beef, cooked quickly and placed in the mouth, were a great delight.

Fang Yu ate until she was drenched in sweat, not caring in the least.

But the next day, her joy turned to sorrow—her throat was severely swollen. She could barely speak above a whisper. Pan Liu quickly summoned an imperial doctor to examine her. The imperial doctor gave her two bottles of loquat syrup.

She also had Pan Liu go to the Office of Imperial Records to remove her green plaque.

But even though her green plaque had been removed, the Emperor summoned her to Qianqing Palace during the day. Coincidentally, the Crown Prince was also in the study.

The two-year-old Crown Prince was seated on the Emperor’s knee, being taught to write. The child looked up and saw her first. Even if he had seen her before, a two-year-old wouldn’t remember. He only called out, "Father."

Fang Yu bowed, "I pay respects to the Emperor, I pay respects to the Crown Prince. May the Emperor be auspicious, may the Crown Prince be auspicious."

The Emperor, hearing the raspy voice of Wuya Shi, couldn’t help but laugh, "Wu Ya. Ning Yan, your voice is quite something."

"Your Majesty, I’m like this, and you still mock me?"

The Emperor chuckled, "I heard you ate spicy hot pot and ended up like this. You brought it on yourself with your gluttony—can’t blame others."

"I’m not blaming Your Majesty."

"Father, who is that?" The Crown Prince’s childish voice rang out as he curiously turned to look at his father.

"It’s your Virtuous Mother, Bao Cheng. Father will teach you and Virtuous Mother to recognize characters, alright?"

"Okay."

Fang Yu shot the Emperor a glare—he was comparing her to a two-year-old. But the Crown Prince, understanding adult speech at two, was quite clever.

The Emperor, well aware of Wuya Shi’s annoyance, deliberately had her sit beside them. He taught them both simultaneously, but Bao Cheng, being young, couldn’t sit still and soon lost interest. Eventually, he had the nursemaid take Bao Cheng away.

"Your Majesty, I hadn’t realized the Crown Prince could already speak."

Bao Cheng was already two years and three months old—by traditional reckoning, three sui. A two-year-old ought to be speaking. As the Crown Prince, he needed to learn to speak early. The Emperor had high hopes for the Crown Prince and planned to start his education in another year.

"The Crown Prince is smarter than you."

The Emperor earned another glare from Wuya Shi. Her eyes widened roundly, and he chuckled, ruffling her hair, "You still need to take care of your throat. Don’t let it get worse—be careful of inflammation. No more spicy food. Why are you so gluttonous? Open up, let me see."

Fang Yu kept her mouth tightly shut—what was there to see? She was afraid the Emperor would find it disgusting.

"You only have a blocked throat. Why did you remove your green plaque?"

"Shouldn’t I have? Throat discomfort is still physical discomfort. Of course, it should be removed. Your Majesty can summon the newly entered court ladies from three months ago."

The Emperor pinched Wuya Shi’s cheek and said irritably, "Whose plaque I turn is not for you to decide. Just don’t make yourself sick, and I’ll thank heaven and earth."

Fang Yu obediently replied, "Okay."

"Alright, let me teach you to write."

After all, Wuya Shi was an adult and learned much faster than Bao Cheng. Teaching her was more rewarding, and the Emperor found it much more satisfying.

They passed an hour like this. The Emperor had Wuya Shi stay for dinner, and after dark, he directly had her remain at Qianqing Palace. That night, he had her attend him. Her raspy voice was quite unpleasant, but as he listened, it grew on him.

Good thing Fang Yu's throat swelling subsided within a few days without any inflammation.

...

Since the Empress had the kitchen prepare mung bean soup, the mistress naturally wouldn't eat from the same pot as the servants. Most of the mung bean soup was consumed by the servants.

Xiao Fangzi was one of those servants. He drank two bowls every day. Because his mistress was favored, the kitchen staff would set aside portions for him in advance.

One day, when he went to the kitchen, he saw Hong Ye speaking with Chef Hao. Chef Hao wasn't responsible for his mistress's meals; usually, Chef Yuan and Xiao Shunzi handled the mistress's food. Chef Hao was in charge of Consort Duan's meals.

When Hong Ye saw him, a flicker of panic crossed her face. Xiao Fangzi found it strange. Although Hong Ye had been assigned to serve the mistress around the same time as him, he wasn't very familiar with her.

In the palace, maids and eunuchs were treated differently. Maids who entered the palace held a higher status than eunuchs like them. Some maids were even from the Eight Banners and could potentially become mistresses. Eunuchs were the lowest-ranking servants, having severed all ties to their past lives upon entering the palace.

Xiao Fangzi feared that Hong Ye might betray their mistress or harbor ambitions of climbing higher to become a mistress herself.

"Xiao Fangzi, your mung bean soup." Xiao Shunzi handed him a bowl of chilled mung bean soup. Xiao Fangzi quickly finished it and left the kitchen, waiting for Hong Ye around the corner.

Hong Ye was startled to find him waiting for her there.

"Hong Ye, what were you talking to Chef Hao about just now?"

"Chef Hao gave me some marinated beef, saying the mistress likes it and asked me to bring it to her. He was trying to curry favor with her. Look."

Xiao Fangzi saw that Hong Ye was indeed holding a plate of sliced marinated beef. He hadn't noticed it earlier. It wasn't unusual for kitchen staff to try to gain the mistress's favor. After all, their mistress was currently the most favored, and earning her goodwill was beneficial for any servant.

"But he serves Consort Duan. Isn't he afraid Consort Duan will find out he's trying to curry favor with our mistress through indirect means?"

"Which servant in the palace doesn't want to curry favor with our mistress? It's just a plate of marinated beef—nothing extraordinary. He's just trying to score points. Consort Duan probably wouldn't mind."

Xiao Fangzi said nothing more, and the two returned to Yonghe Palace together.

The mistress indeed enjoyed the marinated beef very much, even remarking that a spicy version would be even better. She treated it as a snack and finished it quickly.

When Hong Ye mentioned it was a gift from Chef Hao, the mistress directly instructed Hong Ye to reward him with two taels of silver.

Xiao Fangzi's suspicions didn't completely let go. He secretly observed Hong Ye for half a month and only let go of his doubts after seeing nothing unusual.

...

Before they knew it, it was late September at Kun Ning Palace.

Imperial Physician Mu looked grave after checking the pulse.

Two months had passed since Niuhulu Yu Wan's miscarriage. She had already completed her month of confinement. The day before, she had also instructed someone to hang her green plaque back up. She had summoned Imperial Physician Mu to check on her recovery and see if she could conceive again soon.

"Imperial Physician Mu, is there a problem?"

"Empress, I believe Your Majesty should focus on building up your body. It is not advisable to attempt another pregnancy so soon. You need to recuperate and regulate your health for a period of time."

Niuhulu Yu Wan said in a cold voice, "Imperial Physician Mu, tell me the truth. Do I still have a chance to conceive again?"

"This... Your Majesty..."

Seeing Imperial Physician Mu hesitate, Niuhulu Yu Wan slammed her hand on the table. "Imperial Physician Mu, I want the truth. I don't want to hear vague words. Can I still have children?"

Imperial Physician Mu kowtowed, sweat beading on his forehead. After hesitating, he finally told the truth: "Your Majesty, the miscarriage has damaged your foundation. Your body has suffered, and you are deficient in both energy and blood. For you to conceive again... it would be extremely difficult."

"So you mean I will never have my own children? I can no longer bear children?"

"Your Majesty, nothing is absolute. If you focus on recuperation, there is still a possibility you might conceive."

Niuhulu Yu Wan gave two bitter laughs. Imperial Physician Mu was an expert in gynecology. If he said it would be very difficult for her to conceive again, it was likely true. If her body were suitable for pregnancy, she would have been like Consort Rong, bearing a child every year or two in three years. It hadn't been easy for her to conceive this time, and the premature birth had probably truly damaged her body, making it difficult for her to have children in the future.

Even though she knew Imperial Physician Mu was telling the truth, she still felt like venting her anger on him. But she held back and waved her hand dismissively, signaling for him to leave.

"Your Majesty, what Imperial Physician Mu said may not be entirely true. You are still young; how could you not have children again?"

Nanny Gui tried to comfort her. Niuhulu Yu Wan looked at her nanny. "Nanny, he had no reason to lie to me."

"No, no, Your Majesty will definitely have your own children. This nanny will find another physician to examine you."

"Nanny, it's better not to summon palace physicians. I will write a letter to my mother and have her bring two doctors into the palace when she visits."

Sometimes, palace physicians downplayed the severity of an illness to please their masters. Imperial Physician Mu had only told the truth under her pressure. It would be better to seek famous doctors from outside the palace. If... if she truly could no longer conceive... Niuhulu Yu Wan's mind went blank at the thought, not daring to dwell on it.

A few days later, her mother entered the palace with two doctors. Her mother said they were both famous physicians in the capital, specializing in gynecology. Both doctors said she would have difficulty conceiving in the future.

This was the final word. Niuhulu Yu Wan couldn't help but hug her mother and broke down crying. She had so wanted to have her own child, but a single premature birth had shattered her hopes. She hadn't even been able to find the culprit behind it.

After she had cried herself out, her mother told her that since she couldn't have her own children, she could adopt one. If she raised a child from infancy, it would be no different from her own.

This was a last option. After seeing her mother off, Niuhulu Yu Wan considered the possibility. If she were to adopt, the child would not only need to be close to her but also help continue the Niuhulu Family's imperial favor.

Attendant Yin, who had entered the palace a few months ago, had been close to their family. If Attendant Yin could give birth to a prince, she could find a way to take the child. As the Empress, wanting a child from an Attendant shouldn't be difficult.

Niuhulu Yu Wan sent a servant to the Records Office, instructing them to place Attendant Yin's green plaque where it could be easily seen.

A few days later, the Emperor came to see her. She also mentioned Attendant Yin to him. She wasn't afraid of the Emperor realizing she wanted to promote Attendant Yin. She knew the Emperor would show her, the Empress, some respect. She wouldn't defy the Emperor's will, and the Emperor wouldn't oppose her in such minor matters. It didn't matter who served him.

Sure enough, Attendant Yin received the Emperor's favor for a while. However, the Emperor's favor for Wuya Shi remained undiminished. In the imperial harem, Wuya Shi still claimed half of the imperial favor.

By early November, winter was beginning to set in Beijing.

The younger sister of the late Empress Renxiao, Little Hesheli Shi, fell ill. There were two Hesheli Shi in the palace: one was a cousin of Empress Renxiao, and the other was her biological younger sister. Little Hesheli Shi was only seven years old, and her allowance was given according to the consort rank.

Since Little Hesheli Shi was still young and seriously ill, she, as the Empress, should visit. Although she disliked Empress Renxiao, she had to fulfill her duties as Empress to avoid being seen as narrow-minded.

Little Hesheli Shi had lived in the residence for young mistresses since entering the palace, cared for by servants. She rarely visited, though the Emperor occasionally did.

When she arrived at the residence for young mistresses and entered Little Hesheli Shi's room, the child was being persuaded to take her medicine. The servants stopped and hurriedly bowed in greeting upon seeing her.

Little Hesheli Shi was staring at her with wide eyes. They had only met a few times, and the young child probably didn't remember her.

"Young mistress, this is the Empress. Please pay your respects to Her Majesty."

Little Hesheli Shi obediently curtsied, her manners quite proper. Niuhulu Yu Wan knew that Little Hesheli Shi was too young to serve the Emperor, but once she was, she certainly would. The servants addressed her as "young mistress," indicating that everyone knew Little Hesheli Shi hadn't entered the palace to be a young mistress but to become a mistress.

"I heard the young mistress was ill, so I came to see her."

The nanny beside Little Hesheli Shi replied, "Your Majesty, the young mistress had a high fever a few days ago. Fortunately, the imperial physician came to see her. After a few days of fever-reducing medicine, the fever has subsided a little. His Majesty also visited yesterday."

"That's good. The young mistress is young and in delicate health. You servants must take good care of her and not neglect your duties."

"This servant will remember your instructions."

Niuhulu Yu Wan turned to speak to Little Hesheli Shi: "Young mistress, you must take your medicine on time. Medicine tastes bad but it works, and it will help you recover."

"Yes, I understand."

Niuhulu Yu Wan didn't have much to say to a seven-year-old child. After giving a few instructions, she left and went to check on Princess Gong, who was the daughter of Prince Gong but had been recognized by the Emperor as his own and was also being raised in the residence for imperial princesses.

Princess Gong was a year younger than Little Hesheli Shi. After taking a few glances and asking a few questions, Niuhulu Yu Wan left once she confirmed the child was well.

Niuhulu Yu Wan sent servants to check on Little Hesheli Shi every day until she recovered from her illness.

Answering Attendant Yin had also been serving the Emperor for some time. Niuhulu Yu Wan had the imperial physician check her pulse, but she was disappointed—there was no sign of pregnancy.

On the first day of December, everyone came to Kunning Palace to pay their respects. Niuhulu Yu Wan couldn't help but look over Wuya Shi. She noticed that Wuya Shi had matured quite a bit; she had lost some of her childishness, her figure had filled out slightly, and her features had become more enchanting. No wonder she continued to captivate the Emperor's favor—her looks were unmatched by almost anyone in the harem.

Because of her favor, she didn't need to rely on higher-ranking consorts. She lived in Yonghe Palace and was quite close to Consort Duan, though Consort Duan was not favored and was older, so it was likely that Consort Duan depended on her.

Fortunately, Wuya Shi was relatively well-behaved and kept to herself in the harem.

Noble Consort Tong complained again that her winter charcoal supply was insufficient. How could the servants shortchange her? The Tong Jia Shi simply enjoyed stirring up trouble—she wasn’t happy unless she was causing a scene.

Niuhulu Yu Wan said she would take note and send more winter charcoal to her.

"Noble Lady De, is your winter charcoal supply sufficient?"

"It is, thank you for your concern, Your Majesty."

Niuhulu Yu Wan deliberately remarked, "The Emperor cares deeply for you. Even Noble Consort Tong doesn’t receive as much attention. I must ensure you don’t suffer from the cold. Your health is delicate—you mustn’t fall ill."

"I haven’t been ill lately."

Niuhulu Yu Wan smiled. "That’s good. The winter is harsh, and many in the palace have fallen ill. Sisters, please remember to keep warm and guard against the cold."

"Your Majesty is most kind. Thank you for your concern."

Seeing that there was nothing else, she let them go.

...

Earlier, during the morning greetings, the Empress had specifically said that Noble Consort Tong was not as favored as her. Before Fang Yu could even leave Kunning Palace, Noble Consort Tong shoved her hard from behind. She stumbled two steps before steadying herself.

"Noble Lady De, why aren’t you watching where you’re going? You’re blocking my path."

Noble Consort Tong shot her a haughty glare.

In front of everyone, Fang Yu couldn’t retaliate directly and had to endure it for the moment. She understood clearly: the Empress wanted to drive a wedge between her and Noble Consort Tong. She was the most favored lady in the harem, while Noble Consort Tong was the highest-ranking consort after the Empress. If their relationship soured, it would likely benefit the Empress, who could profit from their conflict.

"Hmph!" Noble Consort Tong snorted coldly at her and strode away.

Fang Yu returned to Yonghe Palace, her face unusually dark.

Pan Liu, worried that her Mistress had been hurt, asked anxiously, "Mistress, are you injured?"

"It’s nothing."

"Noble Consort has always been like this. Please don’t take it to heart—it’s not worth damaging your health over."

Fang Yu curled her lips. "There’s no need to comfort me. I don’t have Noble Consort’s family background. If I want to confront her directly, I have to think twice."

"Mistress, Noble Consort is so arrogant and domineering—sooner or later, she’ll get her comeuppance."

Fang Yu listened but didn’t take it seriously. If she remembered correctly, Noble Consort Tong had only been Empress for a day before she died, and she was still young at the time. But for now, Niuhulu Shi was still Empress, so it wasn’t yet Noble Consort Tong’s time to die.

She thought Noble Consort Tong would only resort to petty tricks, but a few days later, Noble Consort Tong directly punished one of her servants.

Xiao Fangzi happened to run into Noble Consort Tong, who accused him of disrespect and ordered him to kneel on the ground for a full hour. In the middle of winter, kneeling outside for an hour could easily lead to hypothermia.

Fang Yu went over and found Xiao Fangzi kneeling on the palace pathway in the Eastern Six Palaces, with two servants watching over him. She didn’t know how long he had been kneeling, but his face was already pale.

"Mistress..."

"Get up."

Without another word, Xiao Fangzi stood up.

"Noble Lady De, Noble Consort said Eunuch Fang must kneel for an hour before he can rise. Please do not defy Her Majesty’s orders."

Fang Yu coldly glared at the two servants, one of whom was Eunuch Hai, Noble Consort Tong’s eunuch. She said icily, "Since when does my servant need to be disciplined by Noble Consort? Eunuch Hai, go back and tell your mistress that my servants are not her concern. She should focus on managing her own."

Fang Yu directly took Xiao Fangzi and left.

"Are your knees alright?"

Xiao Fangzi said cheerfully, "I am perfectly fine. You came quickly—I hadn’t been kneeling long. There’s no need to worry about me. I’m tough."

Fang Yu didn’t know what to say to him. They were servants—if they disobeyed a consort’s orders, she could make their lives miserable or even end them. Unlike her, as a mistress, no matter how much she and Noble Consort Tong clashed, only the Emperor could truly decide her fate.

She felt she hadn’t been able to protect them.

"In the future, if you see Noble Consort, avoid her. When I’m not around, try not to cross paths with them."

"I understand."

She took Xiao Fangzi back without any further objection from Noble Consort Tong, and the matter was dropped.

By the fifteenth of December, it was another day for morning greetings. Fang Yu arrived at Kunning Palace first, while Noble Consort Tong came very late. As she passed by, she deliberately stepped hard on Fang Yu’s foot.

These repeated petty provocations finally made Fang Yu lose her temper. She had never considered herself patient and had been restraining her temper in the palace. But Noble Consort Tong was picking fights for no reason, and in a fit of anger, Fang Yu slapped her across the face.

Noble Consort Tong was stunned. She turned to look at Fang Yu with disbelief in her eyes, then tried to slap her back.

Fang Yu immediately grappled with her. Even if she couldn’t win, she would fight—and besides, she could hold her own. She wouldn’t let Noble Consort Tong think she was an easy target to bully.

Screams filled the air, mostly from Noble Consort Tong. Fang Yu didn’t hold back—hitting and pinching without mercy. Noble Consort Tong’s servants rushed to protect her, while Pan Liu and others shielded Fang Yu. Eventually, the other ladies and consorts present pulled them apart.

The Empress appeared and sternly asked what had happened. Noble Consort Tong accused Fang Yu of hitting her and demanded that the Empress punish her.

The Empress didn’t want to take on the troublesome task of offending either party—one was a Noble Consort, the other a favored lady. She wanted to avoid offending either, so she sent for the Emperor.

It was the first time in the harem that two mistresses had fought publicly like common street brawlers.

The Emperor arrived shortly after. After hearing both sides, he ordered both of them to reflect on their actions behind closed doors for three days and deducted three months' worth of their allowances. Both were punished equally, with no distinction in severity.

"Empress, you are the head of the harem. The harem is in such disorder that you need to trouble me to settle such petty matters. You have failed in your duties and lack discipline. Copy a sutra and submit it to me. I expect the harem to be peaceful and stable, not constantly embroiled in turmoil."

The Empress knelt and admitted her fault. "I am at fault for troubling Your Majesty. I will ensure better discipline in the future and not disappoint you."

The Emperor left in a huff.

The Empress, also punished by the Emperor, canceled the day’s greetings and sent everyone back to reflect on their actions. If something like this happened again, she would not be lenient.

Fang Yu saw Noble Consort Tong glare at her fiercely before leaving, but she felt quite pleased. She had made it clear to Noble Consort Tong that she wasn’t to be trifled with. If Noble Consort Tong tried to bully her again, she wouldn’t hesitate to fight back. As fellow mistresses, neither could truly harm the other. After all, she was the most favored lady in the harem—if she allowed herself to be repeatedly bullied, what was the point of being favored?

After returning to Yonghe Palace, she wrote a note and had Xiao Fangzi deliver it to the Emperor at Qianqing Palace.

As for the three days of confinement for reflection, they passed quickly—just three days after all. She stayed in Yonghe Palace, kicking shuttlecocks, jumping rope, and chatting with the other ladies there. The three days flew by in no time.

The Emperor first drew Noble Consort Tong's green plaque and only drew hers the following day.

Lying in bed together, Fang Yu had her face pinched.

"You have quite the nerve, daring to strike even a Noble Consort. Is there anything you wouldn’t dare? If I didn’t protect you, do you think you could have escaped unscathed?"

Fang Yu pouted, said plaintively, "Your Majesty, it wasn’t my fault. Noble Consort Tong went too far—she bumped into me several times for no reason, stepped on my foot, and even presumed to punish my servant. I’d already tolerated it multiple times; I couldn’t keep enduring indefinitely. When would it have ended? It’s true that she is an exalted and noble Noble Consort, but I am also Noble Lady De, ennobled by Your Majesty. She bullied me first; I was merely defending myself. Besides, I didn’t hit her hard—how can you blame me? Should I just allow myself to be bullied without a word? In Your Majesty’s eyes, am I so lowly that I should smile and take it even when wronged? I know Noble Consort is your cousin, but she truly went too far."

The Emperor listened to Lady Uya's lengthy self-justification, her expression full of pitiful grievance, and felt a headache coming on. "After all, she is a Noble Consort. You cannot go too far."

Fang Yu, knowing when to stop, admitted fault: "It won’t happen again. As long as Noble Consort doesn’t provoke me, I promise not to provoke her. I also know Noble Consort is more esteemed than I am—I had no choice but to act. I didn’t mean to put Your Majesty in a difficult position. Please forgive me this once."

"Just this once."

From that day’s punishment, Fang Yu could tell the Emperor wasn’t truly angry with her and had even shown bias in her favor. Smiling, she wrapped her arms around the Emperor’s waist and said clingingly, "Your Majesty, since I enjoy your favor, you should let me exercise some privileges of a favored consort—no, a favored lady. I can’t just have an empty reputation without any real privileges."

"That's sophistry."

"Your Majesty drew Noble Consort’s green plaque first—I came after her. I didn’t even blame you for favoritism. Your Majesty, you should cherish someone as understanding and considerate as me."

The Emperor felt Lady Uya was truly a temptress; her clingy words made him want to silence her mouth—and so he did.

During intimacy, Lady Uya knew how to please him. Sometimes she took the initiative, other times she was languid, arousing him.

The Emperor found it easy to indulge with her and wasn’t afraid of wearing her out. After all, after many nights, Lady Uya had adapted well. Her cries of pain weren’t genuine; she was just pretending.

Late at night, the bright moonlight streamed in, casting faint shadows over their embracing figures.

...

Another New Year arrived. Due to the Grand Empress Dowager’s poor health, they did not go to Cining Palace on New Year’s Day to offer New Year’s greetings.

The Grand Empress Dowager, now advanced in age, experienced occasional discomfort. The Empress had them take turns caring for her, and Fang Yu went once. However, with many servants around the Grand Empress Dowager, there was little need for her to personally serve.

The Grand Empress Dowager only wished to rest peacefully and later declined their attendance. The Emperor, however, visited daily to inquire after her health.

During the New Year period, the meals became even more sumptuous. Today’s table featured steamed mandarin fish, spicy marinated beef, lamb bone soup, egg tofu, and pickled bamboo shoot with diced pork. The staples were steamed buns and rice.

Fang Yu had Pan Liu and the others sit down to eat with her. The room was warm, and they all ate cheerfully.

Yingshan arrived while they were still eating.

"Still eating?"

"Sister, we’re halfway through—it wouldn’t be right to ask you to sit and eat with us now."

Nara Yingshan shook her head, saying she had already eaten, then mentioned that Consort Rong had bled today.

Fang Yu was startled: "Was it a premature birth?"

Having two premature births in a row in the palace was not a good sign.

"It wasn’t a premature birth, just some bleeding. The physician prescribed medicine to stabilize the pregnancy. If Consort Rong had given birth prematurely now, it would have been at seven months, like the Empress’s premature birth. Fortunately, it was only bleeding, and the physician managed to stabilize it. It even drew the Emperor’s concern, who went to check on Consort Rong just now."

Bleeding around New Year’s—it seemed Consort Rong’s pregnancy wasn’t entirely stable. Fang Yu said she would visit Zhongcui Palace tomorrow to see her.

"What did the physician say? Why did she bleed?"

Yingshan replied, "Bleeding during pregnancy isn’t uncommon. I’ve heard many women experience slight bleeding during pregnancy. As for Consort Rong, I don’t know the reason—maybe her pregnancy is just unstable."

"Could someone be trying to harm the imperial heir?"

Yingshan pressed a finger to her lips, whispering, "Don’t say such things recklessly—it’s not good if overheard. Harming an imperial heir is a capital offense. Consort Rong has given birth several times before; perhaps her health is just poor."

Fang Yu recalled that Yin Zhen was born in the 17th year of Kang Xi’s reign, and the Third Prince was Consort Rong’s child—likely from this pregnancy. So Consort Rong should be fine.

Yingshan had visited her room so many times that she no longer needed special treatment. Fang Yu continued eating, thinking that if she visited Consort Rong tomorrow, she would go with Consort Duan, who was more familiar with Consort Rong.

She wanted Yingshan to serve the Emperor, but she couldn’t outright ask the Emperor to draw Yingshan’s green plaque. Fortunately, Yingshan herself was indifferent to favor and didn’t mind much. Otherwise, with Fang Yu favored and Yingshan not, they wouldn’t get along.

After eating, Fang Yu did needlework with Yingshan. Having something to do during idle times kept boredom at bay.

She didn’t forget to inform Consort Duan that she would accompany her to Zhongcui Palace tomorrow to visit Consort Rong.

Consort Duan had initially treated her poorly, allowing servants to mistreat her, but now they got along relatively well. Because Fang Yu was in favor, Consort Duan showed her some deference, not targeting or opposing her. Perhaps Consort Duan had also accepted the situation, seeing no need for hostility. It was better to be harmonious. Fang Yu felt grateful not to be living in Chengqian Palace—if she shared a palace with Noble Consort Tong, life would be unbearable.

The next day, she and Consort Duan went to Zhongcui Palace, but Consort Rong’s servants said she was resting and did not receive them.

They turned back. On the way, Consort Duan asked her whether she thought Consort Rong would have a son or a daughter. Fang Yu said a son.

"I think it will be a daughter."

"Then I’ll wager five silver taels with you, Your Highness. If it’s a son, you give me five taels; if it’s a daughter, I give you five taels."

Consort Duan gladly agreed.

But the outcome of this wager would not be known until February.