Ch 59: Is There Really Such a Good Thing? [QT]

Shen Yunxuan’s public request for additional attendants took everyone by surprise. In the depths of the palace, who dared openly request people from the emperor? Most feared even the slightest misstep might provoke his suspicion. How could she be so bold? Was she out of her mind?

Even the emperor was momentarily taken aback. However, seeing the trust in Shen Yunxuan’s eyes softened his heart. After a moment of thought, he said, “I will send Qin Mama to serve by your side. She was my wet nurse, a kind and meticulous woman. You should get along well. With her taking care of you, I’ll feel reassured.”

Shen Yunxuan immediately bowed and expressed her gratitude. “Thank you, Your Majesty. I, too, feel much more at ease now.”

With Shen Yunxuan newly confirmed pregnant, the emperor naturally escorted her back to Anhe Palace. The other consorts watched as Shen Yunxuan ascended the imperial sedan, accompanied by the emperor—a rare and tangible display of favor. They realized just how deeply Shen Yunxuan was cherished by the emperor.

Some even speculated privately: Even if it were proven that Shen Yunxuan had deceived the emperor, would it matter? Would he simply claim he already knew? If so, wouldn’t it absolve her of any wrongdoing?

For the first time, they truly understood the extent to which the emperor could protect someone if he wished. His favor could shield Shen Yunxuan completely.

Upon arrival at Anhe Palace, the emperor stepped off the sedan first and carefully helped Shen Yunxuan down himself. His tight jawline betrayed his nervousness. Shen Yunxuan lightly clasped his hand in return and smiled. “Your Majesty, I’m fine, and so is the child. Please don’t worry.”

Still uneasy, the emperor supported her as they walked inside, his protective instincts heightened. He had never been a father before. After two previous pregnancies in the palace ended in miscarriage, he couldn’t bear the thought of such a loss again. This time, with Shen Yunxuan and their unborn child, he vowed to ensure their safety.

Inside the palace, Zhuang Mama and the other attendants had long been waiting. They skillfully set to work, helping Shen Yunxuan change clothes and shoes, presenting her favorite refreshments, gently fanning her, and placing a soft cushion at her back for support. Shen Yunxuan was pampered into a state of perfect comfort.

Only then did the emperor’s tightly wound nerves relax. “You have served Consort Xian well,” he praised. “You will all be rewarded. Furthermore, as this is joyous news, all members of Anhe Palace shall receive half a year’s salary as a bonus, and the rest of the palace shall receive an additional month’s pay.”

Turning to Li Defu, the emperor continued, “Select the finest tonics, medicinal ingredients, and the pearl and kingfisher-feather ornaments from the recent tribute, as well as any suitable furnishings, and deliver them to Consort Xian.”

“Yes, Your Majesty. I will see to it immediately!” Li Defu responded eagerly and withdrew to carry out the orders.

Zhuang Mama and the others knelt in gratitude, their joy palpable. With their mistress so favored, pregnant with the emperor’s child, and newly elevated in rank, the future looked bright for Anhe Palace. Everyone was thrilled to have aligned with the right mistress.

It was rare for the emperor to reward the entire palace for one consort’s pregnancy. Clearly, this was a message to the court: Shen Yunxuan’s position was unshakable. The generous rewards also served to compensate for the humiliation she endured earlier that day.

The emperor’s actions revealed his unwavering trust and affection for Shen Yunxuan, and even she was somewhat moved by his thoughtfulness.

After arranging everything, the emperor sat beside Shen Yunxuan, holding her hand. “Having Qin Mama with you is good, but perhaps I should assign even more people to your service. What do you think?”

Shen Yunxuan glanced at Zhuang Mama with a smile. “Your Majesty, do you recognize this lady here?”

Zhuang Mama realized Shen Yunxuan intended to reveal her identity and immediately knelt, her voice quivering with emotion. “Your Majesty, this old servant is Zhuang, who served the late Empress Dowager Xiao An ten years ago.”

The emperor was startled and studied Zhuang Mama closely. Indeed, she was the trusted attendant from his foster mother’s household, though she had grown much thinner over the years. Given her infrequent presence, he hadn’t recognized her at first.

Quickly, he had her rise and began reminiscing, asking about her life after leaving the palace and how she had returned. Zhuang Mama explained everything honestly, from the destruction of her family to her remaining nephew’s employment with Shen Jun. Her admiration for Shen Yunxuan’s character had ultimately led her to pledge her loyalty to her.

Shen Yunxuan added, “Zhuang Mama is the most capable person by my side. Thanks to her, I also have Qingzhi, who is skilled in medicine and oversees my health and daily necessities; Yuexi, who is strong and quick, ensuring my safety; and Shen Anlu, who handles all external arrangements with precision. They were all recommended by Zhuang Mama. So, Your Majesty, you really don’t need to worry about me. I’ll take good care of myself and the child. But, please, do remember to watch out for those who might wish me harm.”

Zhuang Mama’s heart raced. She hadn’t anticipated Shen Yunxuan would so openly reveal her connections to the late Empress Dowager’s network. Wasn’t she afraid the emperor might grow wary of her influence? Moreover, no one dared speak so directly about fearing harm from others—such remarks bordered on discontent with the rest of the court!

But to everyone’s surprise, the emperor simply laughed. He hadn’t expected to find Shen Yunxuan so amusing. Her bluntness, rather than alarming him, felt endearing. It seemed she trusted him and viewed him as someone she could rely on. How could he not cherish and protect such trust?

The emperor said, “Zhuang Mama has managed matters admirably. In the future, Anhe Palace will not only house Consort Xian but also imperial heirs. Those serving must do so with utmost care, leaving no room for error. If anyone falters in their duties, they are to be replaced with capable individuals. Serving their mistress well takes priority.”

This was effectively a green light for Shen Yunxuan to utilize the resources left by the late Empress Dowager Xiao An, legitimizing her connections in the emperor’s eyes. There was no longer any need for secrecy.

The emperor continued, “Earlier, you mentioned Qingzhi oversees the inspection of daily items. Has anything problematic been discovered?”

As sharp as ever, the emperor immediately grasped the key point from Shen Yunxuan’s seemingly casual words. Qingzhi knelt and reported the suspicious items she had identified over recent days. As the emperor’s expression darkened with every word, her voice grew quieter.

Leaning against him, Shen Yunxuan smiled lightly and said, “Your Majesty must stand up for me. While Qingzhi’s diligence ensured I was never harmed, many items have been ruined, and I’m both heartbroken and annoyed.”

The emperor chuckled helplessly. “You were nearly harmed, yet you’re worried about the items. I will personally investigate this matter, so you needn’t concern yourself. Just focus on taking care of your health. Although today’s incident feels like a farce, you did indeed recover from a serious illness in the past. Be mindful of your health.”

Shen Yunxuan nodded and then, as if struck by a thought, remarked with curiosity, “The imperial physicians said my body is the healthiest they’ve ever seen. Could it be the tonic I’ve been using? I came across it in a book years ago, and when I consulted a physician, they said it was good for the body. So, I’ve been drinking it all along, and the results have been remarkable.”

The emperor frowned. “You’ve been using a remedy from a random book? That’s far too reckless. Do not do this again.”

Shen Yunxuan nodded again, then added with enthusiasm, “But Your Majesty, after just four or five months, my body became this healthy. It must be a wonderful remedy. You and the Empress Dowager should try it as well! Qinglan, fetch the recipe from the chest.”

Her eagerness to share something beneficial with him left the emperor momentarily stunned. He smiled, reached out to smooth her hair, and said, “It seems you’ve been taking very good care of yourself. That eases my mind.”

The emperor stayed for dinner at Anhe Palace, ensuring Shen Yunxuan was comfortable and rested before departing. Neither mentioned the dog attack again. Before leaving, the emperor personally inspected the contaminated items and ordered them removed with a grim expression. He made no attempt to conceal his actions, instructing Li Defu to investigate all personnel involved in handling the items thoroughly.

The sense of joy in the palace from the recent bonuses quickly turned to unease. Everyone feared being implicated in the investigation. The connection to Consort Xian only heightened the tension, reinforcing the perception that she was now a favored consort beyond reproach.

Li Defu, after organizing the investigations, returned to the emperor’s side. After silently reviewing memorials for an hour, the emperor suddenly asked, “Who do you think orchestrated today’s events?”

Li Defu broke out in a cold sweat. “Your Majesty, all evidence points to Consort Lan. I have found no other suspects. Please forgive my incompetence.”

“Consort Lan?” The emperor sneered. “She’s vain, jealous, and loves to gossip, but she’s also a coward. She wouldn’t dare do this, let alone use her own hairpin to bribe someone. Do they think I’m a fool?”

Li Defu immediately knelt. “Please calm down, Your Majesty. Don’t let such people upset you.”

The emperor glanced at the memorial from the Prime minister’s office, his gaze icy. Tossing it aside, he ordered, “Investigate Consort Shu and the Prime minister’s household. See if they’re connected to this. Look into the Empress’s people and whether they had contact with the implicated maids. Trace the maids’ families and follow the threads. I refuse to believe they’ve covered their tracks perfectly.

“As for the contaminated items in Consort Xian’s palace, even if the mastermind remains hidden, cut off their network and eliminate their enablers. Purge the palace.”

“Yes, Your Majesty. Rest assured, I will ensure no one harms Consort Xian or the imperial heir!” Li Defu understood the emperor’s intent to uproot any dissent thoroughly, crippling those who harbored ill intent.

The Empress Dowager, upon hearing about the flower banquet incident, was furious. Having endured her own mistreatment in the past, she knew all too well the machinations behind such schemes. She didn’t believe Consort Lan had orchestrated this or that Shen Yunxuan had committed deception to enter the palace.

Over time, the Empress Dowager had grown fond of Shen Yunxuan, viewing her as a kindred spirit. She could tell Shen Yunxuan was someone who sought joy and fulfillment, not power or status. The notion that Shen Yunxuan would risk deception for royal favor was absurd.

Hearing that the emperor had assigned Qin Mama and Zhuang Mama to Shen Yunxuan’s side reassured her, as both were trusted by the late Empress Dowager. However, she wasn’t content to sit idle. She deeply wished for Shen Yunxuan to deliver a healthy grandchild.

After pondering for half a day, the Empress Dowager suddenly smiled and said, “Consort Xian doesn’t have her own kitchen yet, does she? Prepare a spacious private kitchen for her and let her choose four cooks. Also, tell her that I will personally select her midwife and wet nurse alongside her. Let’s see who dares meddle!”

When news of the Empress Dowager’s intervention spread, it was a clear declaration to the inner court: she would protect this imperial heir. Anyone who dared interfere would be challenging her authority. It also showcased her affection for Shen Yunxuan.

The Empress, who had been fiddling with her prayer beads, threw them to the ground in anger upon hearing the news. Her voice trembled with rage. “How is it possible that she’s pregnant? She’s only been in the palace for two months! And now the Empress Dowager and His Majesty are protecting her like this—why?”

The senior maids and palace attendants knelt, unsure how to console her. One cautiously offered, “Your Majesty, even if Consort Xian is pregnant, it doesn’t mean she’ll safely deliver. Have you forgotten how much Consort Shu detests her? Before, it was just jealousy and rivalry. Now that Consort Xian has been elevated to the top of the Four Consorts, stepping on Consort Shu’s pride, there’s no way Consort Shu will let this go. When the clam and the snipe fight, Your Majesty will reap the benefits.”

In the past, the Empress might have remained calm. But the possibility of Shen Yunxuan giving birth to the emperor’s firstborn son struck at her deepest concerns. How could she stay composed?

“Didn’t you hear His Majesty assign Qin Mama to serve Consort Xian? And that Zhuang Mama, who turned out to be a trusted confidant of the late Empress Dowager Xiao An? With them protecting her, who could touch her? His Majesty even knows about those contaminated items…” Fear began to creep into the Empress’s voice as she clutched the maid’s hand. “Do you think His Majesty will find anything incriminating?”

The maid, resolute, assured her, “Your Majesty need not worry.”

The Empress lowered her gaze. “Ensure the families of those palace maids are taken care of and that their mouths are sealed. If they start blaming one another, the investigation will lead nowhere.”

“Understood, Your Majesty.”

Meanwhile, Consort Shu was raging in her quarters, shattering every object in sight. “Useless! After so long, the information you provided was false! Now I’ve lost two trusted aides! You’re of no help on normal days, but today, you’ve dragged me down!”

The maids remained silent, trembling. Consort Shu was scolding her natal family, and while she could berate them, they dared not agree.

After venting her anger, Consort Shu slumped into a chair, her expression dark and unpredictable. “That wretched Shen Yunxuan! She even won over the late Empress Dowager’s confidants—clearly, she harbors great ambition. His Majesty indulges her, utterly bewitched by that fox!”

No one dared correct her, noting that Consort Xian had been officially elevated. Nor did anyone risk cautioning her against such seditious remarks.

“She mustn’t be allowed to give birth! The emperor’s firstborn must be mine! Shen Yunxuan, I’ll make sure you suffer a fate worse than death!” Just when everyone thought her anger would escalate, Consort Shu suddenly calmed, sitting silently in contemplation. Her maids found her newfound quiet even more unsettling.

Shortly after, she penned a secret letter and ordered her trusted aide to deliver it to her natal family. Since Shen Yunxuan had the emperor and Empress Dowager’s protection, she was difficult to target. So, Consort Shu set her sights on Shen Yunxuan’s brother. Wasn’t it said they were twins? Let’s see if the “dragon falls while the phoenix lives”—would Shen Yunxuan still dare to flaunt herself then?

If her brother were to die, Shen Yunxuan could be framed as a “disaster star,” having already lost her grandparents and brother. And if she bore a child, that child would also bear the stigma of being cursed.

Meanwhile, Shen Yunxuan, drained from the flower banquet’s disputes and schemes, slept soundly until the next day. Thankfully, she woke up feeling well, much to the relief of Zhuang Mama and the others.

Qin Mama had arrived the day before. Under Zhuang Mama’s guidance, she settled in and only came to greet Shen Yunxuan once she was awake. Despite her esteemed status as the emperor’s wet nurse, Qin Mama greeted Shen Yunxuan respectfully and with a warm, motherly smile, calling her “Mistress” without the slightest air of superiority.

Shen Yunxuan blinked in surprise before smiling. “Qin Mama, there’s no need for such formalities. I’ll be relying on you a great deal. None of us here know much about pregnancy, so I’ll need your guidance.”

Qin Mama chuckled. “Mistress, you flatter me. It’s my duty to serve you and the little one. His Majesty kept me idle for so long, but I’ve always been a busybody. Now, I finally get to care for you and the little one—I couldn’t be happier!”

Unaccustomed to such warmth, Shen Yunxuan felt a bit overwhelmed. After chatting with Qin Mama for a while, she asked her to explore the palace grounds. Once Qin Mama Qin left, Mama Zhuang grinned. “Don’t worry, Mistress. Qin Mama means every word she says.”

Leaning in, she whispered, “If I may speak bluntly, Qin Mama sees His Majesty as her own child. For years, she’s watched him grow colder and harder, with no one to confide in. Now that she sees he cares deeply for you and that there’s a little one on the way, she’s overjoyed. She’s vowed to protect you and the child with her life. Besides, she’s an old acquaintance of mine. Mistress, you can trust her completely.”

Hearing Zhuang Mama recount their shared history, Shen Yunxuan learned that Qin Mama had once served Empress Dowager Xiao An as a maid. After marrying and later returning as a wet nurse, she was entrusted to care for the young and unappreciated emperor. Having safeguarded his childhood, she’d earned his unwavering trust.

Shen Yunxuan marveled at how Zhuang Mama’s presence had unexpectedly linked her to key figures from the emperor’s inner circle. She had nothing to hide, so having someone like Qin Mama in her service was all the more reassuring.

Shen Yunxuan entrusted Qin Mama with overseeing her meals and daily routines. When Qin Mama listed foods to avoid and those to eat more of, Shen Yunxuan had no objections. Qin Mama, knowing her mistress loved good food, worked with the palace chefs to create a variety of dishes, and the two got along wonderfully.

Shen Yunxuan later brought out two cherished travel journals and visited the Empress Dowager to express her gratitude. The Empress Dowager warmly embraced her, looked her over carefully, and gave her many reminders before insisting she stay for a meal and then arranging an escort to send her back.

Although Shen Yunxuan felt that such an escort was a bit over the top, she was genuinely pleased. Her child wasn’t just protected by her but also cared for by their father and grandmother. The thought that her child would grow up under the shelter of the most powerful people in the land filled her heart with contentment—a source of pride since her rebirth.

When she returned to the palace, Zhuang Mama reminded her that Shen Yunrong’s wedding day was approaching and asked if she wanted to send any wedding gifts.

Shen Yunxuan chuckled. “There’s no need. I wouldn’t want her using my name as a shield for any future misconduct.”

Sometimes Zhuang Mama couldn’t quite grasp Shen Yunxuan’s thinking. A woman’s natal family was often her main support, especially for a consort in the palace. Her father, Shen Xiuyuan, served as the Minister of Rites, her brothers Shen Jun and Shen Ming were advancing in their studies, and Shen Yu was set on making a name for himself in the military. Meanwhile, her sister Shen Yunrui had married General Shao Xie. All of this could serve as Shen Yunxuan’s strength, as well as future support for her child. Why, then, did she insist on severing ties and letting everyone know they were estranged?

However, Zhuang Mama rusted that Shen Yunxuan had her reasons. She never questioned her mistress’s decisions and only ensured her tasks were executed flawlessly.

Still, she offered a word of advice. “It’s good fortune that you’re experiencing no pregnancy symptoms, Mistress, but you mustn’t let your guard down. Why not leave the farming to the palace staff?”

Shen Yunxuan had only started farming as a pastime, so she readily agreed. “There are so many things I can’t do now that I’m pregnant. I might as well learn household management. I never had much opportunity to practice back home. I hear you often helped the late Empress Dowager Xiao An manage her affairs. Could I trouble you to teach me?”

Zhuang Mama froze in surprise. Over the past three months, she’d observed that Shen Yunxuan was remarkably adept at managing people and affairs, capable of running a household with great finesse—better than most matrons. What else was there for her to learn?

But the mention of the late Empress Dowager hinted at something deeper. Could it be that Shen Yunxuan wanted to learn how to handle palace affairs?

Looking at Shen Yunxuan, Zhuang Mama saw her smiling. “It’s exactly what you’re thinking, Madam. Being prepared never hurts. Opportunities come to those who are ready.”

Zhuang Mama immediately agreed, her thoughts racing. What circumstances would require managing palace affairs? Only if the Empress faced trouble, leaving consorts to take over. Zhuang Mama was thrilled. She had assumed her mistress preferred a life of leisure, but now she realized Shen Yunxuan harbored a deeply hidden ambition.

Her excitement grew as she considered the possibility that Shen Yunxuan might bear the dynasty’s first prince. She immediately set to work, discreetly preparing for future opportunities while keeping everything under wraps to avoid arousing suspicion.

Her first step was to cleanse Anhe Palace once again. Using the recent issue with contaminated items as a pretext, Zhuang Mama replaced some personnel, capitalizing on the palace-wide restructuring led by Li Defu. By the time she was done, Anhe Palace was staffed entirely with trusted individuals.

Within just a few days, Shen Yunxuan’s position had become even more secure. While this news hadn’t yet spread widely, a few influential figures outside the palace were aware.

Shen Yunrong, meanwhile, was blissfully unaware. On her wedding day to Shao Kun, she brimmed with joy, believing her dreams had come true. She envisioned a future of spousal devotion, filial children, and the honor of a noble title. She felt triumphant, certain she had changed her destiny.

Before Shao Kun arrived to escort her, the family came to see her off with blessings. Even Madam Liu, her mother, was brought out, clutching her daughter’s hand and reluctant to let go. Shen Yunrong, moved by the familial love, softened a bit. Seeing her father, Shen Xiuyuan, smiling proudly, she said, “Father, your daughter has grown up. I will repay your kindness by being a filial daughter.”

Shen Jun narrowed his eyes. It was clear Shen Yunrong couldn’t resist taking a jab at Shen Yunxuan. Wasn’t this a thinly veiled accusation that Shen Yunxuan was unfilial for neglecting their father?

But Shen Xiuyuan laughed heartily. “Good! I truly have two good daughters, both filial to their father.”

The others looked at him in confusion, while Shen Yu scoffed. “Father, you must be mistaken. Ever since the consort entered the palace, she’s only had eyes for our eldest brother.”

Shen Xiuyuan, in high spirits, didn’t bother arguing with him. Stroking his beard, he said, “I only just found out—our consort is pregnant! The emperor has already conferred the title of Consort Xian upon her, making her the head of the four consorts. This is a momentous occasion for our family. I must pick an auspicious day to open the ancestral hall and inform our ancestors that our family has produced a favored consort!”

“What? She’s pregnant?” Shen Yunrong’s voice rose sharply, audible even outside the room.

Shen Jun frowned. “What’s that supposed to mean?”

Realizing her slip, Shen Yunrong quickly backtracked. “I was just surprised, that’s all. It’s wonderful news. I’m thrilled for her.” Madam Liu intervened, urging everyone to return to their duties and focus on the wedding. On such a joyous day, no one pursued the matter further.

Privately, however, Madam Liu, now gaunt and haggard, gripped Shen Yunrong’s hand tightly. In a low voice, she demanded, “Didn’t you say she wouldn’t be favored and would end up in disgrace? How has she become the head of the consorts and even conceived an heir? This doesn’t match your dreams at all!”

Shen Yunrong, equally shaken, was at a loss. She had fought for three years and failed to surpass Consort Shu, yet Shen Yunxuan had achieved this in just two months? What was going on?

She muttered, “Maybe changing the marriage altered everything. But Shao Kun’s rise in the military is certain. I’ll still be a marquis’ wife. Trust me, Mother—I’ll look out for our family.”

Whether she was reassuring Madam Liu or herself, her words seemed to calm her. She urged her mother to attend to the guests and prepared herself for the wedding. Regardless of what had changed, she had taken Shen Yunxuan’s life for herself. That was enough.

The Shen family bustled with activity. Shen Jun stood beside his father, hosting guests with a composed demeanor. His polished manners left a favorable impression on all, earning him admiration. As the eldest son, he had his ambitions too. With his sister establishing herself in the palace, it was now his turn to become her strongest ally.

🌸˚˖𓍢ִ໋🌷͙֒✧🩷˚⋆

Sandy: Next chapter is password locked. Pw is reallyreally.