Ch 53: Is There Really Such a Good Thing? [QT]

This time, the Emperor woke early but refrained from disturbing Shen Yunxuan. Carefully withdrawing his arm, he got out of bed, gestured for silence, and moved to the outer chamber to dress. He also ordered a nourishing breakfast to be prepared for Shen Yunxuan and instructed the palace servants not to wake her.

Shen Yunxuan, however, was used to waking early. Not long after the Emperor left, she woke naturally. Qingzhu, attending to her, softly mentioned the Emperor’s instructions, smiling as she said, “The Emperor is so considerate of you, Your Grace.”

Shen Yunxuan smiled lightly. “Then we must treat the Emperor well in return, so his kindness lasts a little longer.”

Qingzhu and Qingmei exchanged a glance, their initial excitement fading into calm sobriety. While being favored brought joy, they knew that in the deep palace, favor could just as easily be fleeting. Prudence and humility were the keys to lasting peace.

They wisely refrained from further discussion. After breakfast, Qinglan brought over a tonic she had prepared herself and hesitantly asked, “Your Grace, there’s a saying that ‘medicine is three parts poison.’ Drinking tonics daily—could it be harmful? Perhaps it would be better to consult the Imperial Physician.”

Shen Yunxuan shook her head. “This formula is excellent. Don’t worry, I would never be careless with my health.”

In fact, this was a recipe she had encountered in her previous life, gifted to her by her grandchildren on her sixtieth birthday. She had it examined by a trusted physician, who confirmed that it was a legacy recipe from the previous dynasty’s palace, designed to bring the body to peak condition without any harm. With its help, she had lived to the age of eighty-eight, a miracle considering the injuries she had sustained earlier in life. Naturally, she intended to rely on it again in this life.

Zhuang Mama, understanding that families of high status often had access to such secret remedies, didn’t press further. Instead, she suggested, “In a month or so, Your Grace might wish to request a routine checkup from the Imperial Physician. It would be reassuring for everyone and could provide guidance on improving your health further, perhaps even aiding conception.”

She lowered her voice when mentioning the last part. In the harem, bearing a royal heir was key to securing status, though such ambitions were rarely spoken aloud. Zhuang Mama, having witnessed the late Empress’s suffering from infertility, was especially cautious. The late Empress had tried countless remedies, some of which ultimately harmed her health.

Shen Yunxuan nodded in agreement, though she didn’t reveal that the formula was rumored to have fertility-boosting effects. She hadn’t had the chance to verify this in her past life, but now seemed like the perfect time to put it to the test.

In her previous life, she had raised three sons and two daughters for Shao Kun, guiding them to excellence. Yet every time she looked at them, she longed for children of her own. Now that she had secured a position as a consort, her priority was to bear her own heirs. It would not only fulfill her personal wish but also solidify her standing in the palace and increase the Emperor’s regard for her and her brother.

Her thoughts turned to Shen Jun, who had left a favorable impression on the Emperor. She felt confident in his abilities but still wanted to do her part to help. After some contemplation, she asked Zhuang Mama, “Is there a place in the palace where I can borrow rare books, the kind not easily found in the marketplace?”

Zhuang Mama immediately replied, “Yes, the Wenyuan Pavilion is the palace’s library. It houses a vast collection of books from across the realm. While it doesn’t have everything, most books can be found there. If Your Grace wishes, you can borrow or even commission a copy. You could also request an original copy from the Emperor.”

“Wonderful!” Shen Yunxuan said, delighted. “After morning greetings, let’s visit Wenyuan Pavilion. Let’s head out early today to avoid trouble.”

She adjusted her attire and left for the Empress’s chambers, arriving earlier than the other consorts. After the lower-ranked concubines paid her their respects, Consort Li smiled and said, “Thank you, Consort Shen, for the beautiful headpiece. I love it dearly. I have little to offer in return but would like to gift you two bolts of fine fabric. I hope you won’t find it too modest.”

Noticing the pink headpiece adorning Consort Li, Shen Yunxuan replied with a smile, “Your kindness brings me great joy. How could I possibly dislike it? The headpiece looks lovely on you. You must visit Anhe Palace more often and bring your cats and dogs. I hear you care for them wonderfully—we could dress them up together.”

Consort Li’s eyes lit up. “You like cats and dogs too? Then I hope you won’t find me tiresome when I bring them over.”

The two began chatting freely. Consort Li, who adored beauty and animals, found the conversation engaging. While other consorts mocked her for her superficial interests and her title “Li” (Beauty) as indicative of relying solely on her looks, Shen Yunxuan’s genuine praise and interest in her pets endeared her to Consort Li.

Their lively conversation naturally drew others into occasional participation. When Consort Shu arrived, she was greeted by this lighthearted scene. The relaxed atmosphere and Shen Yunxuan’s seamless integration into the group left her uneasy. There was none of the exclusion or hostility she had anticipated for the new consort.

After Shen Yunxuan rose to greet her, Consort Shu took her seat and leisurely remarked, her gaze appraising, “Consort Shen truly has a way of charming people. You’ve only just entered the palace and already get along so well with everyone.”

Shen Yunxuan sat gracefully, gently waving her round fan. “It’s thanks to my sisters’ kind and harmonious natures,” she replied with a soft smile.

Consort Shu added, “Sister, there’s no need for such humility. To receive such generous gifts from the Empress Dowager and the Empress, and to be so favored by His Majesty—these are things none of us can compare to.”

Though her tone was mild, her words carried a sharp undertone that unsettled the group. The principle of fairness often held the harem together—when no one was favored, there was no envy. But once someone broke the balance by gaining favor, resentment was inevitable.

All eyes turned to Shen Yunxuan, awaiting her response. As a newcomer with recent favor, would she lose herself in arrogance or remain cautious and low-key? Everyone was eager to see her disposition, which would dictate their future interactions.

Shen Yunxuan maintained her composed smile and spoke as if in casual conversation. “I’m merely fond of reading miscellaneous books and was lucky to stumble upon a new delicacy. Moreover, as fellow consorts, we should be like a garden in full bloom. There’s no need to compare ourselves. I’m certain each of my sisters excels in ways I do not. In the future, I hope we can meet often and appreciate one another’s strengths.”

Her tone was gentle, but her words subtly turned the tables, painting Consort Shu as narrow-minded for instigating comparisons. Shen Yunxuan, only two days in the palace, was supposedly unaware of palace politics, yet Consort Shu had already targeted her, trying to drag others into it. In contrast, Shen Yunxuan presented herself as magnanimous and friendly, uplifting everyone present. Her demeanor was disarming, leaving the group feeling at ease.

The Empress emerged just as the exchange concluded, feigning curiosity. “What’s the lively discussion about?” she asked with a smile.

Consort Shu’s expression soured, and she did not reply, clearly slighting the Empress. Shen Yunxuan stepped in smoothly. “Your Majesty, we were just discussing our respective interests. I particularly enjoy painting landscapes. I’ve heard Your Majesty’s calligraphy is unparalleled—may I request an inscription for one of my paintings?”

Understanding Shen Yunxuan’s intent to smooth over the tension, the Empress played along graciously. “If you don’t mind my humble skill, bring your painting to me and let me know what you’d like inscribed.”

Shen Yunxuan then turned to Consort Li with a smile. “I’ve also heard that Consort Li excels at poetry. Would I be fortunate enough to receive a poem from you?”

Caught off guard, Consort Li was surprised that Shen Yunxuan had addressed her specifically. She rarely interacted with Shen Yunxuan, but since it was merely a poem, she saw no reason to refuse and agreed readily.

The group watched as Shen Yunxuan navigated the conversation with ease, deftly redirecting the situation. Though new to the palace, she appeared to have the upper hand, diffusing Consort Shu’s attempt to provoke her and shifting the focus to everyone’s talents. The relaxed atmosphere left no room for criticism or antagonism toward her—she had been in the palace only two days and had given them no fault to find.

As the gathering concluded, Consort Shu was the first to rise and leave, stepping onto her palanquin to assert her position as the second-ranking woman in the harem, subordinate only to the Empress. Yet, as her palanquin turned a corner, she caught sight of Shen Yunxuan walking leisurely behind with Consort Li, both engaged in cheerful conversation, unbothered by who left first or last.

It felt like striking cotton—a blow absorbed without resistance. The tactics Consort Shu once used to vex the Empress were proving ineffective against Shen Yunxuan. With a cold huff, she withdrew her gaze. This was just the beginning, and everyone had weaknesses. Once she discovered Shen Yunxuan’s, she would make her regret ever stepping into the palace.

Shen Yunxuan genuinely liked Consort Li. Her radiant beauty, cheerful disposition, and love for animals were a breath of fresh air in the palace. Shen Yunxuan had admired her in the past life, always appreciating her joy and kindness, even in the small things like enjoying a performance at a banquet.

Unfortunately, Consort Li’s cheerful demeanor faded after an incident involving her pets. She no longer kept animals, and her rank never advanced. Shen Yunxuan suspected it had to do with palace intrigues, but since Consort Li hadn’t been demoted, the Emperor must not have held her at fault. However, her lack of promotion likely meant she lacked significant contributions in the Emperor’s eyes.

Shen Yunxuan knew she couldn’t be a lone wolf in the harem—alliances were essential. Consort Li, with her gentle nature, seemed an ideal first choice for an ally. If they could form a genuine bond, she’d have a friend to rely on in the palace.

Consort Li agreed to a small gathering later, and with her plans set, Shen Yunxuan made her way to Wenyuan Pavilion. In her past life, she had lived to eighty-eight and had not spent her days in idle leisure. Her brother, tutored by a renowned master, was well-versed in both literature and martial arts. After retiring from official duties, he often traveled and sent her books and paintings. In those decades, Shen Yunxuan had read extensively, becoming proficient in music, chess, calligraphy, painting, and even household management.

Her poetic talent was average, and she couldn’t compose scholarly essays, but her broad knowledge rivaled many. Arriving at Wenyuan Pavilion, her keen eye quickly sought out rare and valuable books, many of which were either one-of-a-kind or difficult to obtain outside the palace. She intended to find books for her brother—volumes that could not easily be acquired elsewhere.

Shen Yunxuan borrowed more than twenty important books, and the steward of Wenyuan Pavilion personally arranged for someone to carefully deliver them to Anhe Palace.

She walked around the study, instructing her staff to add an additional bookshelf for the borrowed books. She then assigned Qingzhu and two skilled palace attendants to copy the books, while she reclined on a soft couch and began reading a travelogue she had brought back from the Empress Dowager.

After a short nap at noon, Shen Yunxuan summoned all the palace attendants in Anhe Palace. With Zhuang Mama’s observations over the past two days as a guide, she reorganized their duties.

Almost no one retained their original positions, leaving the attendants feeling uneasy. However, Shen Yunxuan praised a few for their good performance and dismissed two who had been lazy.

Those dismissed included a second-tier maid, who was a spy for Consort Shu, and a young eunuch, planted by the Empress. Both were startled, immediately assuming their exposure. Yet before they could plead innocence, Zhuang Mama stepped forward and listed their misconduct in detail, leaving them speechless.

The two were not simply lazy; they had been looking for opportunities to pass along information. However, they couldn’t use this as an excuse, so they had no choice but to accept their punishment and be sent away.

This move shocked everyone in Anhe Palace, making it clear their mistress was not one to trifle with. Those without hidden agendas felt reassured, as Shen Yunxuan had demonstrated she was fair and just, rewarding good performance. This encouraged the attendants to focus on their duties.

After giving a few words of encouragement, Shen Yunxuan dismissed them and said to Zhuang Mama with a smile, “Now that we have two open positions, Mama, please find two capable and trustworthy replacements.”

Zhuang Mama had recently reconnected with her old contacts in the palace and identified a maid and an eunuch from her former network who would be excellent fits. She informed Shen Yunxuan about them, explaining their superior qualities compared to the existing staff in Anhe Palace.

Zhuang Mama also shared her earlier discovery of spies within the palace and suggested either dismissing them or strategically utilizing them. However, she was surprised by Shen Yunxuan’s decisiveness in removing the spies so quickly, making room for new staff and signaling her sharpness and assertiveness to both the Empress and Consort Shu.

After dismissing the other attendants, Zhuang Mama cautiously advised, “Mistress, the Emperor has been very attentive to you these past two days. Forgive my bluntness, but please don’t become emotionally attached, thinking the Emperor’s affection means lasting reliance.”

Shen Yunxuan paused, then waved her hand and laughed. “Mama, what are you thinking? Rest assured, I won’t lose my way. Based on the attitudes of the Empress and Consort Shu these past few days, it’s clear they won’t treat me kindly. I must take a firm stance.”

She continued, “Anhe Palace is where I’ll be living for many years. I treat it as my home. Since palace intrigues are exhausting enough, I want peace and comfort at home. There’s no need to keep spies here. Please, Mama, help me rid this place of its vermin and replace them with reliable people.”

Zhuang Mama relaxed, a smile spreading across her face. “Mistress has a clear plan; it was my oversight to worry. I’ll find the right people and also see if I can establish connections with the imperial kitchen.”

Shen Yunxuan nodded, letting her proceed. Her decision to remove spies entirely stemmed from her different approach to palace politics. With knowledge from the modern world, she possessed countless innovations and aimed to rise to a position of influence where she could benefit the country and its people. She didn’t want to waste her energy on petty schemes and disputes.

A short time later, Zhuang Mama returned with two candidates, both around twenty-seven years old. One was a maid whose family had served as imperial physicians, though they had fallen from grace. She was well-versed in medicine and could rival the palace’s official physicians. Shen Yunxuan appointed her as the fourth personal maid, renaming her Qingzhi, and tasked her with preparing medicines, managing meals, and inspecting items.

The other was a eunuch named Xiao Luzi, who was intelligent, composed, and quick-witted. Shen Yunxuan saw potential in him, reminiscent of the sharpness of Li Defu. Since he didn’t know his original surname, she gave him the name Shen Anlu and appointed him as Anhe Palace’s chief eunuch.

Both had been keeping a low profile for years, avoiding entanglements with any mistress. Yet, trusting Zhuang Mama’s recommendation and hearing of Shen Yunxuan’s recent accomplishments, they joined Anhe Palace without hesitation. They were surprised, however, to be entrusted with significant roles so quickly.

Shen Yunxuan smiled at them and said, “I trust Zhuang Mama’s judgment. You are the first people she brought to me upon returning to the palace, so I believe in your exceptional skills and integrity. Focus on your duties here, and I assure you that you won’t encounter the palace’s usual intrigues.”

The two understood immediately. Shen Yunxuan was reassuring them that she wouldn’t involve them in underhanded schemes, force them into compromising situations, or use them as scapegoats.

Shen Yunxuan didn’t say much to discipline the newcomers. After Zhuang Mama led them away, she would naturally explain everything to them. Since they were valued so highly by Zhuang Mama, they were clearly intelligent, and there was no need to over-explain to clever people.

Shen Yunxuan could tell that these two were the most capable individuals she currently had under her service, so she intended to use their talents well. Whether they would form a harmonious master-servant relationship depended on their future interactions. Even if they didn’t work out, she planned to find them good positions elsewhere and wouldn’t treat them unfairly.

Their sudden appointments to the most crucial roles in Anhe Palace caused some dissatisfaction among the other palace attendants who had hoped for promotions. However, after a few rounds of interaction, everyone quickly realized how competent the two were and quieted down. Their arrival served as an indirect deterrent, signaling that Shen Yunxuan had sharp judgment. The fact that she could find and recruit such outstanding talents so soon after entering the palace made her seem formidable.

For the moment, Anhe Palace fell into an orderly calm, with no one daring to harbor secret schemes.

That evening, the Emperor didn’t visit. Qingmei, worried that Shen Yunxuan might be upset, hesitantly remarked, “Perhaps the Emperor was too busy to come tonight, but he didn’t go anywhere else either.”

Shen Yunxuan nodded lightly. “When the Emperor visits, serve him well. When he goes elsewhere, don’t speak about it. In this palace, the Emperor is free to go wherever he wishes.”

Realizing her misstep, Qingmei immediately bowed and apologized. “This servant misspoke.”

With Zhuang Mama and the four personal maids present, Shen Yunxuan glanced around and said calmly, “I know you all care for me, but to live comfortably, you must learn to be content and let go. Whether favored or not, especially with such minor shifts, there’s no need to worry. It’s not worth dwelling on.

“I’m busy every day with many things I enjoy, and even if one day the Emperor’s favor shifts entirely to someone else, as long as I still have my daily comforts, I’ll continue to enjoy myself. Do you understand?”

Her attendants quickly voiced their agreement. The newer maids like Qingmei had a tendency to worry, being unused to palace life and overly concerned for Shen Yunxuan. However, her occasional guidance gradually eased their minds. They began to realize that their mistress didn’t pin her happiness solely on the Emperor’s favor, and if she wasn’t troubled, they needn’t be either.

Seeing their understanding, Shen Yunxuan was satisfied. She had selected Qinglan, Qingzhu, and Qingmei to enter the palace with her because of their loyalty and intelligence. They were willing to learn and could keep pace with her plans. Watching them gradually adapt and grow into capable attendants brought her genuine comfort.

Glancing at the time, Shen Yunxuan rose and said, “Prepare for bed. None of you are to stay up late. Remember, a long and healthy life is the ultimate victory. Don’t let worries fester—always go to bed with a clear mind, and take care of yourselves.”

Zhuang Mama and Qingzhi felt a jolt of surprise. Their mistress had such a clear perspective, seemingly unshaken by anything. It was a stark contrast to Zhuang Mama’s previous mistress, who had struggled with the realities of palace life, eventually succumbing to her despair. If her former mistress had possessed this mindset, she might have secured a stable position, enjoying the leisurely life of a respected Dowager Empress.

Indeed, peace of mind and longevity were the true triumphs.

That night, Anhe Palace settled early into darkness, leaving the palace spies confounded. Even Consort Shu, upon hearing the news, frowned in confusion. She had expected Shen Yunxuan to be anxious, eagerly awaiting the Emperor’s return on her third night. Instead, Shen Yunxuan had gone to bed earlier than anyone else.

Consort Shu had been anticipating Shen Yunxuan’s sleepless misery, eager to mock her during the next day’s greetings. But how could she jeer at someone who slept better than she did?

Late into the night, after finishing his work, the Emperor suddenly thought of Shen Yunxuan and casually asked, “How is Shen Fei today?”

Li Defu, grateful for his foresight in keeping someone posted, promptly replied, “Your Majesty, the consort is well and has already retired for the night.”

The Emperor chuckled softly and prepared to rest. Li Defu hesitated before adding, “Your Majesty, the investigation into Shen Fei’s entry into the palace has yielded results.”

The Emperor’s interest piqued, and he gestured for Li Defu to continue. Judging by the eunuch’s cautious expression, it seemed there was more to the story than expected.

“Speak. Did Minister Shen truly neglect Shen Fei? If so, why did he send her into the palace?”

Li Defu bowed lower and said carefully, “Initially, Minister Shen intended to send the second daughter of the Shen family. As for Shen Fei… before the late Old Madam Shen passed, she had already arranged a marriage for her.”

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