Chapter 78: Bustling With Activity
"He cannot marry, even before suggesting it."
Gao Yang looked towards the direction of Xie Jing Xing's sight, and saw that in the bushes of flowers Shen Miao's personal maid had instructed the young eunuch with some stuff. The young eunuch agreed and most likely it was the first time for him to receive such a large amount, thus he looked very happy and respectfully said some stuff to the maid before leaving.
When the young eunuch left, Jing Zhe stood at the original spot and there appeared a trace of doubt in her expression. Shen Miao specifically instructed her to pass the things to that particular young eunuch, but this young eunuch was obviously new to the palace and had no dealings with Shen Miao. So why the need for specific selection?
Unable to think the reason behind this, Jing Zhe shook her head. Since the goal has been reached, she turned around and left.
"This young lady from Shen family has a really huge courage." Gao Yang commented, "Even dare to take action in the Palace and it seems that Shen Xin is not aware of it."
Xie Jing Xing declined to comment. A person who dared to burn down their own ancestral hall in a fire would not be considered as timid to him. As for what kind of place to take what kind of action, in Shen Miao's eyes, most likely there was no difference at all.
"Come on." A weird smile appeared on his lips, "We should also go and watch the show."
"I will not go." Gao Yang winked, "Now one must prioritise carefulness in one's action. Not to mention, there are changes in the plan thus one must be more cautious."
"As you like." Xie Jing Xing said lazily. Suddenly he thought of something and said casually, "If there is time, go to the Imperial Physician Court and inquire if there is anything going on from those old folks."
"Order accepted." Gao Yang cupped his hands in obeisance and slowly walked towards the other direction.
*****
The time passed like a stroll and it was time for the returning banquet to begin.
The female guests sat at the lower section of the great hall, and the left side that was nearest to the highest seats, at the middle, belonged to the princes. Prince Zhou, Prince Jing and Prince Ding had arrived first. Afterwards Prince Li, Prince Xiang and Prince Chen entered.
Prince Zhou and Prince Jing were brothers so naturally they were a faction, whereas Prince Xiang and Prince Chen were led by Prince Li and they were another faction. As for His Highness the Crown Prince who has yet to arrive, he had the support of Prince Xuan's and Prince Chu's support. As for the ninth prince, His Highness Prince Ding, Fu Xiu Yi, he did not help any faction and looked to have the weakest power and also the most neutral faction.
With the emergence of the three princes, the hustle and bustle in the hall gradually quietened down.
Emperor Wen Hui was also eccentric, he had nine sons and every one of them were extremely outstanding. If it was an ordinary household, one would burst out of joy with so many outstanding sons but in the nobilities, the more outstanding the sons were, the more intense the competition was. The most unfortunate thing was that these nine outstanding sons were born in the most ruthless Imperial family. This meant that their outstanding qualities would become the nails in one another's eyes, and one would not be content with nothing short of the other's destruction.
Now that all the nine sons were grown up, even though the position of the Crown Prince had been established, but all of the other forces did not curb. Emperor Wen Hui was still present and could maintain the balance in it, but there would be a day that this enormous dragon will get old and at that time, one was afraid that it would be another reign of terror because of the Imperial family of Ming Qi that had already begin to stir.
Between the Prince Zhuo's faction, Prince Li's faction and Crown Prince's faction, the Crown Prince's faction looked as though its power were the greatest, but the Crown Prince's health was weak and Emperor Wen Hui would not allow a weak son to sit on the throne. So the Crown Prince's ability to influence was actually following along and could not be considered as in vain. If his health suffered, then it would only benefit Prince Xuan and Prince Chu. In Prince Li faction, because there were more people, there was also a larger ability to influence. In the hundreds of officials, there were many who were secretly under his wing. Even though the brothers, Prince Zhuo and Prince Jing, were not as legitimate as the Crown Prince and their influence was not as great as Prince Li, but they had a mother that had much of the Emperor's favour, Consort Xu Xian and the Xu family was considered a strong support.
And Prince Ding was the remaining one which was not taken into consideration. With regards to influences, it was like a joke to fight alone. With regards to background, his birth mother Consort Dong Shu was very low-key and if she had not give birth to Fu Xiu Yi, she would not be sitting in the position of the four consorts. Even though Fu Xiu Yi was outstanding and modest, there was a limit to a person's strength thus people did not think highly of him. Although Fu Xiu Yi performed that he was not interested in the fight of the heir position, in this deep dark palace, it was necessary to have a defensive heart so his brothers were still keeping an eye on him.
But the womenfolk did not see others as profoundly as men. The young females that were present were secretly checking out Fu Xiu Yi's handsome face and whispered with blushing faces.
In all fairness, the Fu family members all have good looks and Fu Xiu Yi was the most outstanding in this regard among the nine princes. The Imperial family gave him an extraordinary air and he always had an indifferent attitude but did not have an aloof air nor did he raise his chin up to heavens. For the young females, this kind of 'cordial' and 'exceptional' male was covered with elegance.
"His Highness Prince Ding is indeed too handsome." A young female's muttering was heard. Shen Miao turned over and one did not know when did Feng An Ning came over to her side and laughed before putting on a serious face, "Since you have already arrived, why did you not come over to look for me and put up the air of a high and mighty lady, so as to make me look for you?"
Shen Miao was unable to fathom her words. Shen Miao had some frustration as to why and when did this high and mighty young lady, Feng An Ning, begun to stick to her like a milk sweet. She did not even know when did Feng An Ning turned around her attitude towards her. Shen Miao was after all not a true budding young beauty, and she was unable to be intimate with Feng An Ning like peers could be. Even so, she was unprepared to accept other's goodwill so she did not know how to deal with Feng An Ning. Finally she shook her head and found an excuse, "I did not see you."
Shen Miao naturally did not know that if it was the former her, Feng An Ning would definitely not take an additional look, but the current Shen Miao was the Empress who was bathed in the bloody rain and wind in the Inner Palace of Ming Qi, and people would have a kind of feeling to worship and follow others that were stronger than oneself. Feng An Ning could faintly sense that Shen Miao had a strong heart and naturally unconsciously followed her.
"Qi." Feng An Ning's lips curled and suddenly whispered in a teasing manner, "Anyways His Highness Prince Ding has arrived and in any case he was a person you are happy with, why are you not even looking at all?"
As if to verify her words, Feng An Ning just finished her words, one could hear Jiang Xiao Xuan laughing loudly, "Fifth Shen Young Lady, His Highness Prince Ding has arrived!"
She did it to make a fool of Shen Miao and also knew that under everyone's eyes and in front of the Imperial family, Shen Miao would not dare to get angry and even Luo Xue Yan would have to endure. This kind of words can be used as a joke since the past Shen Miao was in love with Prince Ding and it was something that the entire court of Ming Qi knew. Once her words were spoken, not only the female guests, even the male side of the banquet also looked over.
Luo Xue Yan gritted her teeth. She knew that this person deliberately angered Shen Miao, although Shen Miao said that she was no longer in love with Prince Ding, Luo Xue Yan knew that it was not easy to just renounce the like one felt for a person just like that. Shen Miao looked as if nothing has happened but who would knew if her heart was painful. Luo Xue Yan was angry that Shen Xin was not present at the moment. She turned to look at Shen Miao and was worried that Shen Miao would be hurt and sadden by it and softly said, "Jiao Jiao..."
In the male side of the banquet, everyone's eyes showed excitement. Cai Lin's lips were pulled up, seemingly to rejoice in others misfortune. That day during the academy examinations, Shen Miao made him lose face and now Shen Miao herself would also repeat his mistakes, so the mere thought of it made him feel happy. Su Ming Feng and Su Ming Lang sat side by side as Su Ming Lang pulled Su Ming Feng's sleeve and said in a pleasantly surprise tone, "Eldest Brother, Shen family's older sister has also arrived?"
His head was too small and the table had blocked his entire line of sight thus it was not possible for him to see Shen Miao. Su Ming Feng shook his head. He did not know when and how this Younger Brother of his had good feelings for the Fifth Young Lady of the Shen family. If it was not because of Su Ming Lang's young age, Su Ming Feng would have thought that this Younger Brother of his has some other inclinations for Shen Miao.
But... He also turned his head to look at Shen Miao. How would Shen Miao face Prince Ding with this kind of close encounter?
At the corner of the male side of the banquet, there was a light coloured robed man. As compared to the other richly clothed nobilities, he was dressed very simply but this did not make him feel awkward. On the contrary, because he was dressed simple, there was a kind of romantic, natural and unrestrained air of a distinguished literary person. At this moment, he was quietly watching that unspeaking purple clad young female and there was some waves of emotion in his eyes.
This man was Pei Lang. It went without saying that Pei Lang was not eligible to participate in such events like this, but the official supervisor of Guang Wen Tang had a death in the family so he let Pei Lang to attend by representing the school. Even though Pei Lan was a teacher in Guang Wen Tang, in actuality he was considered as half a supervisor so there was no decline.
Who knew that after coming in, one would see such a scene.
Prince Zhou and Prince Jing stood beside Fu Xiu Yi and they heard Jiang Xiao Xuan's deliberated provoking words. Prince Zhou laughed and pat Fu Xiu Yi's shoulder and said with a profound meaning, "Your Ninth Younger Brother is really extraordinary..."
Fu Xiu Yi brows slightly wrinkled but there was a light smile on his face, "Forth Elder Brother is joking." Having said that, his eye unconsciously drift over to the seat of that young female.
"Ah." A light chuckled escape from the young female's lips and the surrounding area quietened down.
One was unable to hear any emotion from this laugh. If one were to say it was a ridiculing laugh, it was too soft for it. If one were to say it was a happy laugh, it was too calm for it. It was as if a wine that had settled for too long and had thousands of complex taste, and stirred up so many feelings in one's heart that at the end there was only a floating and plain laugh out of it.
It was still alright for the male guests but the female guests were surprised. They had been immersed in the circles for so many years but they could not even hear the meaning behind Shen Miao's laughter. How old was she?
Shen Miao lifted her head and there was no pause in her eyes, just like that day in the academy examinations when she shot the arrow at Cai Lin, and that look was shot towards the figure who was holding his hands, Fu Xiu Yi.
Fu Xiu Yi was slightly stunned.
The eyes of that young female, were not filled with obsession, love or pleasant surprise but with a deep bottomless calm. As if looking at him was the reincarnation of a century year old elderly who had gone through so much experience. There was no sadness nor happiness, but made one felt uneasy.
That pair of clear eyes had a very nice shape. If it was slightly bent, it will look so sweet that it would make one reminiscent the taste of honey sweets. But she just quietly looked on. In Fu Xiu Yi's heart, there was a sudden uneasiness, like one was walking in the jungle alone and in the depths of the grass, there was a beast who was targeting one. That sense of uneasiness became more and more intense, that the smile on his face was unknowingly put away as he watched Shen Miao determinedly.
"Ah." Shen Miao lightly laughed again. This time everyone could see clearly that her ruddy lips slightly bent but her eyes did not move, making it clearly a sneer.
Most probably it was due to the person that one loved that did not return the feelings, and the hatred fed on love so the sneer was born from the grievances and dissatisfaction. Everyone thought of it like this but were also surprise that Shen Miao actually dared to give such a straightforward expression to show her dissatisfaction. Who had the courage to sneer at the princes in the Palace?
Fu Xiu Yi did not move.
In that sneer, he clearly saw a faint layer of killing intention. Even though it was deliberately disguised, but one could not cover the breathing of such feelings. That kind of appearance was definitely cold and made his heart shrink.
Just because he could not accept the other's intention of a killing intention against him? Fu Xiu Yi became somewhat stunned, but the thing that shocked him was that he actually felt that the killing intention was filled with menace.
Could this be his misconception?
When he looked with rapt attention at Shen Miao, the latter had already turned her head over and was speaking to Feng An Ning.
In Shen Miao's eyes, there was a flash of killing intention. For so long, even if it was during the academy examinations, she only saw Fu Xiu Yi from afar and she did not want to be this close with Fu Xiu Yi because she was afraid that once she was close to Fu Xiu Yi, she would not be able to conceal her monstrous hatred!
Jiang Xiao Xuan's provocative words were replied by Shen Miao's two inexplicable light laughters. Her first one was a complex light laugh and the second one was a light and cold laugh, but even fools could see clearly and obviously that there were no feelings of love for Fu Xiu Yi! Even after laughing twice, she simply talked to the young lady beside her. That contempt and disregard made others unable to guess if it was on purpose or unintentional.
It was just that the atmosphere was much colder because of her.
There was a flash of light in Prince Zhuo's eyes as he smiled and leaned towards Fu Xiu Yi, "Ninth Younger Brother, it can be seen that you are not invincible after all."
Fu Xiu Yi laughed warily but his heart was gradually paying heavy attention to Shen Miao.
"Oh. It seems that the Fifth Young Lady of the Shen family had some imposing attitude." Su Ming Feng said with interest. Now that he was more or less recovered from his 'serious illness', he was still unable to work so his official position was still not reinstated.
"Older Sister Shen was originally very good." Su Ming Lang rolled his eyes at him.
Pei Lang who was at his seat, lowered his head for a sip of tea but his eyes were pondering.
Just as there was some silence, one could hear a hearty bright laughter, "Haha. Everyone, I have arrived late!"
That little mountain like figure was no one else but Shen Xin. Following closely behind Shen Xin was Shen Qiu. Seeing that the main person was here, the various official came over to greet him. Shen Xin greeted Prince Zhou and the rest before sitting down at the banquet. He and Shen Qiu missed the good show just now else even if Shen Xin do not take action, Shen Qiu would not have any protective feelings for the fairer gender and Jiang Xiao Xuan would definitely take the consequences.
After Shen Xin, Prince Li and entourage and the Crown Prince and entourage also arrived. The Crown Prince's health was weak but the Crown Prince's Consort was magnanimous and dignified. Shen Miao glanced at the Crown Prince's Consort and her eyes moved.
This Crown Prince's Consort had the backing of her maiden Prime Minister family's backing, and the Crown Prince borrowed that backing to have a strong hold of power. Later the Crown Prince's Consort became pregnant, Emperor Wen Hui worried about the poor health of the Crown Prince and that the family of the Crown Prince's Consort would take advantage and seize the power, so he actually instructed some actions to be taken so that the Crown Prince's Consort will lose the foetus. The Crown Prince's Consort was deeply in love with the Crown Prince and did not know that her husband could bear the pain and kill his own blood. She was also scared that by telling this to her maiden family, because it would be a disaster for them and afterwards she succumbed to grief. After the Crown Prince's Consort was dead for three years, the Prime Minister's residence knew of the truth and wanted to seek revenge for their daughter and finally joined forces with Fu Xiu Yi...
Shen Miao looked at the cup in front of her, each one of the Fu family were ruthless, fickle-hearted and ungrateful. There was not much difference between her and the Crown Prince's Consort. Both of them were sacrifices for the schemes to gain the country, an innocent discarded chess piece.
Now she wants to be the person who play the chess, whoever wanted to play with her must be prepared to sacrifice!
After the Crown Prince's Consort was seated, the good friends she had from before she was married came over to chat with her. Over at the male side, Prince Yu had also arrived.
When Prince Yu arrived, some of the people at the female side were silent, especially those young females who were scared till their face turned pale.
In the previous returning banquets, Prince Yu would not participate. For so many years, he did not take into consideration the events that happened in court, and that was also why the paranoid Emperor Wen Hui would be extraordinarily tolerant of this younger brother. In it also includes the meritorious service of protecting his life when Prince Yu was younger but if Prince Yu did not meddle with the affairs of the court, no matter how big the life-saving event was, it would not surpass Emperor Wen Hui's suspicious heart. After all, all the brothers of Emperor Wen Hui died under his hands.
The sudden appearance of the always absent Prince Yu in the returning banquet made the female guests to feel disturbed, the male guests felt puzzled but some of the princes were smiling as they were well aware of it. The women that were close to the Crown Prince's Consort said, "For what reason did His Highness Prince Yu of the First Rank appear here?" There was some probing intention in the words.
Naturally the Crown Prince's Consort was aware of the reasons behind and her lips raised as she smiled, "Royal Shu has been widowed for so many years. It is time to find someone to wait upon his life."
When the words were spoken, the female guests were indefinitely surprised. Could it be that Prince Yu would be choosing a Wang Fei? But it was not a good thing to become Prince Yu's Consort. At this moment the young females could not help but shrink their bodies.
"Daring to ask Crown Prince's Consort." A Furen asked with a smile, "Which Young Lady would have such a blessing?"
But the Crown Prince's Consort was unwilling to speak and only shook her head and laughed, "One will know later."
Because of the Crown Prince's Consort's words, the female guests were in an impasse and everyone were somewhat afraid. That position of Prince Yu's Consort was like a seal to press one to death. It was to make one die faster, how was it considered a good thing...
Feng An Ning leaned nearer to Shen Miao and asked, "Who do you guess is going to be Prince Yu's Wang Fei?"
Shen Miao said, "I cannot guess."
"You are really not interesting." Feng An Ning's mouth twitched.
At the other side, Shen Qing was tightly clutching the end of her dress. From the moment she saw Prince Yu, her mind was overwhelmed by memories of the thousands of tortures that he gave to her. If it was not Ren Wan Yun who was tightly holding her, Shen Qing would have screamed out.
"Qing-er must not be afraid." Ren Wan Yun spoke by Shen Qing's ear, using a voice that only the both of them were able to hear her words, "Today Prince Yu is here to settle that female for you. Wait till she enter Prince Yu residence, naturally there would be means for her to neither live nor die..."
On the other side, Chen Rou Qiu saw the movements at Ren Wan Yun and Shen Qing side, and drank a mouthful of tea as she slightly smiled.
After Prince Yu arrival, one thought that other than the Emperor and Empress, everyone had already arrived but suddenly there was a burst of surprise. Feng An Ning was pulling Shen Miao to talk but looked over at the sound.
One only saw a person walking over from outside the hall. Purple gold robe, black silk boots with brows that were unspeakably handsome, and an unhurried walking pace that was lazily walking in.
The Marquis of Lin An was the first to call out in surprise, "Jing Xing!" Following which he thought of something and frowned before watching his figure without saying anything.
Everyone was surprised. What kind of influence did this returning banquet had that even Prince Yu who did not participate in palace banquets came, and now even the little Marquis of the Xie family, Xie Jing Xing, also arrived.
And the female guests had an obsessed and excited look that was no less than during Fu Xiu Yi's appearance and in fact could even surpass it.
The youth's figure was well ironed and even though his steps were taken leisurely, each step has its own force. He already had an extremely good appearance, with the purple gold long robe, there was a faint feeling of the need to watch him intently. Face was like snow, eyes were like lacquer, brows were like swords and that slightly hooked lips were like the red blossoms that bloom in the snow and had a brilliant peach colour to it. These brows that were more delicate than a females' but there was no trace of femininity. Instead like the sun in the sky, his eyes were burning bright. He walked over along and all the civil and military officials became the contrast, as if the real dragon and Imperial family of Ming Qi and the golden Imperial Palace all encompasses in him as the nobility and arrogance that oozes out of him.
Indeed too handsome that the world paled in comparison. (Translator and editor rolling eyes...)
And this youth who had burning eyes like the sun, had also sharp eyes. That cynical smile when one look was also full of indifference and cruelty.
"This little Xie Marquis, since when was he this remarkable..." Feng An Ning murmured.
Although Xie Jing Xing also acted ostentatiously, as compared to today, he was overshadowed. It was as if the past visage of him was deliberately done to cover up the light, and now that the layers of covers had faded, the real him, his elegance was incomparable to Fu Xiu Yi. It was as if he was supposed to stand at the peak of the dynasty overlooking all living beings!
Once this idea came to mind, Shen Miao was shocked by it. She looked up towards Xie Jing Xing. That purple clad youth walked up in front, faced everyone's surprised eyes and raised an eyebrow and smiled, "I am also here to join in the bustling activities." After speaking, he walked to the middle of the banquet to sit but not next to Marquis of Lin An, Xie Ding, but next to Su Ming Feng. Su Ming Lang pursed his lips and reluctantly moved a little.
Seeing that Xie Ding's expression immediately sank. When the surrounding people saw it, even though there was discussions, there was no obstruction. Xie Jing Xing had always been a frivolous character and one fear that today was only a moment of interest for him.
"The Xie family has brought out such an outstanding character." Luo Xue Yan had a serious expression on. She always had been accurate on seeing if one was a dragon or worm. This Xie Jing Xing's actions had a kind of magnanimity to them and there was no reason for one to feel a little dangerous. Those who had been on the battlefield were more sensitive to danger.
When Shen Qiu saw Xie Jing Xing, his eyes lit up and he almost stood up but he immediately scratched his head and covered it up by picking up the tea in front to drink. Such a rude behaviour like that made the surrounding people look at him weirdly as Shen Qiu quickly laughed awkwardly.
"This guy from the Xie family is indeed not bad." Shen Xin was very satisfied. Towards Xie Jing Xing, who was able to stifle his old rival, he practically could not use words to appreciate. If the other person was not from the Xie family, maybe he would be friends with the other person.
The Fu family princes' eyes however reflected some dolefulness.
This little Marquis of the residence of the Marquis of Lin An, looked overly outstanding. Even though he did not enter the court but he had the lawless attitude, and one could sense that he was not someone who would work under others. If one was unable to subdue this kind of person, it was best to kill them off early.
Seeing the growth of the Marquis residence that held military power due to have such a capable person, was not what the Imperial family was willing to consent.
Just at this moment, one could hear an eunuch voice shout's lengthened, "The Emperor has arrived—— The Empress has arrived——"
The Emperor and Empress were long overdue by the awaiting crowd.
Emperor Wen Hui looked like he was in a good mood but the Empress was rather fierce. As a woman, her looks were considered beautiful and one could see the gracefulness when she was younger. But with age, her cheeks hollowed and she looked somewhat fierce.
Because the Crown Prince was sick, this Empress's methods had to always been extremely severe. Previously Shen Miao stood by Fu Xiu Yi's side and after marrying him, she was often put into difficult situation by this Empress, and suffered numerous times under this Empress's hands. It was because of this Empress that set the example, that Shen Miao learned to see clearly what were the means to live in the Palace.
All the different things in the past were all unfounded now. She was here for revenge but the main goal in mind was to completely overthrow the entire Imperial family. A mayfly trying to shake a tree. Trying to put out a burning cart with a cup of water. They were like the distance between her and the Empress now.
But this Empress position belonged to her and there would be a day where she would sit back on that position.
Shen Miao's pupils hang down as she gently picked up the tea in front of her to drink a mouthful.
Not far away from her, Shen Qing also revealed a trace of a smile as if to celebrate with her and she raised the tea up at the same time and took a sip.
That smile seemed to be more carefree.
Shen Miao black eyes got even stronger as the end of her lips suddenly bend. It was different from a sneer. This smile with her brows also bent looked sweet and was actually very moving. Even the male side of the banquet who noticed it was shaken emotionally.
Pei Lang kept staring at Shen Miao but he did not know why did he do that for. It was as if this young female had something that attracted him. It was only a few months ago where Shen Miao was just Guang Wen Tang's only idiot. Pei Lan treated her warmly but it was only as the etiquette dictated as he looked down on her in his heart.
The Emperor and Empress sat down and the banquet began. This so called monarch and official celebration was in fact only an act. A monarch was still a monarch. An official was still an official. Everyone was making jokes that was of no great matter, as if the heavenly one was celebrating joy with the common people.
Su Ming Feng bumped Xie Jing Xing, "Why did you come?"
"To watch the bustle." Xie Jing Xing's lips hooked up and there was a collective sound of air being drawn out at where the female guests were seated.
"This is senseless, what bustle is there to see?" Su Ming Feng's head ached.
As one was speaking, one could see Prince Yu of the First Rank opening his mouth to speak, "Imperial Elder Brother——"
His voice was neither high nor low but the hall immediately quietened down. Obviously everyone was extremely afraid of this demon.
"A few days back with regards to the promise for choosing a consort for this younger brother, this younger brother had thought of the matter clearly." Prince Yu's smile was queer. "Since there is a happy event today, why not have a double happiness."
"This younger brother is interested in— Shen family's young lady." He spoke very slowly and his eyes were like a poisonous snake that was winding around, like maggots gnawing on bones, tightly climbed to the front of the purple clad young female.
Chapter 79: Pregnant
With a 'hong' sound, the entire hall was suddenly up in an uproar and everyone's eyes were on the three Di young ladies of the Shen family. Among the three Shen young ladies, Shen Qing was already engaged and only Shen Yue and Shen Miao was left. Shen Yue was gentle and moving and her talent reputation was known throughout, but now Shen Miao was also a fine young lady and from her bearing, one would be surprised and the more important thing was that behind Shen Miao there was Shen Xin, a big respectable Buddha. Moreover the crowd could see clearly that the person Prince Yu was observing was Shen Miao.
For a moment, the look that everyone gave to Shen Miao was extremely strange, there were those that rejoiced in her misfortune, there were also some with stares out of sympathy and compassion. The previous WangFei died dubiously and everyone who knew found it strange. And everyone also knew clearly what kind of evil character Prince Yu had. But such a person like this was actually protected by the Imperial family. One side was a dignified Formidable Great General and the other side was the blood brother of the Emperor that saved him before. How would the choice be?
Shen Xin's expression sank down after hearing Prince Yu's words and some blue veins even burst out on his forehead.
The reputation of the Formidable Great General was not a false one. In a short time there was a vicious and hostile air which made the surrounding people change their expressions.
The official was a loyal official but if one cannot even protect one's own daughter, Shen Xin would use his entire body and life of meritorious service to go fearlessly against Prince Yu
Shen Qiu's lips were also tensed as he stared viciously at Prince Yu as if when Prince Yu mention Shen Miao's name, he would pounce over and fight till either the fish dies or the net splits.
As for Luo Xue Yan, she had already pulled Shen Miao's hands over tightly and the carefree smile was long gone. What replaced it was a ruthless expression as if a mother wolf guarding her cub and would not give in to the other's coercion.
Everyone saw the Shen family's behaviour and they could not help but exhale. Now Emperor Wen Hui was sitting high above and the Shen family actually made such a gesture. The atmosphere was like swords were drawn and bows were bent, Emperor Wen Hui was mistrustful and for the Shen family to overrun the Imperial power with no fear, were not they afraid that there would be a knot in the Emperor Wen Hui's heart?
Prince Ding expression also slightly changed and there was a trace of surprise when he looked at Shen Miao.
"It seems that this Fifth Shen Young Lady is really the treasure of General Shen's heart." Su Ming Feng whispered to Xie Jing Xing, "The Shen family could do things to such a point for her."
Be it towards Prince Yu or to be enemies with the Imperial family, no matter what, the Shen family's actions had clearly expressed their unyielding attitude. One was afraid that even with Emperor Wen Hui's decree, this Shen family would never agree easily.
Xie Jing Xing smiled lazily and did not express an opinion.
At the corner, Pei Lang's hand that was holding tea tightened slightly. What would that young female, who did not even blink when arrows were shot during the academy exam, do?
Emperor Wen Hui's smile was somewhat deep and unpredictable and the look that he gave to the Shen family darkened. He said, "Which young lady of the Shen family did Royal Younger Brother taken into fancy?"
Everyone was waiting for Prince Yu's reply and there was a floating smile on Shen Qing's face. But before the smile could get wider, she suddenly felt a sharp pain in her abdomen and could not help but miserably shout out an "Ah" and fell onto the ground as she clutched her stomach.
"What is going on?"
"Qing-er!"
Shen Qing's sudden actions made people jump in shock. Ren Wan Yun immediately bring her to her arms. Shen Qing's face was extremely pale. Shen Yu grabbed Chen Rou Qiu's clothes and the latter's heart jumped and she did not know why but she looked over at Shen Miao.
But that purple clad young female was sitting at the table and there was not a single movement of expression. She looked into Chen Rou Qiu's eyes and slightly smile before turning her head towards Luo Xue Yan and asked worriedly, "What is going on with Eldest Sister? Could it be poisoning?"
"Poisoning!" When these words were out, chaos start raising around.
Shen Miao still did not behave sparingly and continued looking at Luo Xue Yan, "Could it be that assassins have mixed in the crowd?"
This time it was not only the female guests but even the male guests', princes' and Emperor Wen Hui's facial expressions that changed. In the returning banquet where hundreds of civil and military officials were present, if an assassin was mixed in, the Imperial family would be in danger. Immediately all the guards outside rushed in and their hands were all on the swords around their waists as they eyed the surrounding movements like tigers.
One possibility was that an assassin was mixed in, second was Shen Qing who was on the ground groaning in pain. Like that, no one cared about who was the Shen family's young lady that Prince Yu mentioned to marry. After all, one's life was more important compared to these rumours.
Su Ming Feng mouth was opened and after a quite a while he then whispered admiringly, "Good method."
Shen Miao relied on this sentence to transfer everyone attention and focus.
With the current chaos and nervousness, it made Prince Yu look like a fool.
Xie Jing Xing swept a look at the 'worried' young female and lightly snorted.
Shen Miao's eyes slightly moved. After getting along with the Fu family for so many years, no one knew better than her on how paranoid they were. At the current condition of Shen Qing, even the mere mention of it, for Emperor Wen Hui who has survived countless of assassination to be like a bird startled by the mere twang of a bow.
"Mother, it is better to find a Imperial Physician for Eldest Sister." Shen Miao said, "This cannot go on like this."
It was only then that Luo Xue Yan recovered and frowned at Ren Wan Yun. Shen Qing was in such a pain and Ren Wan Yun, as a mother, did not even think about finding a physician for her daughter. She really did not know how this mother was regarded. Luo Xue Yan immediately rushed to Emperor Wen Hui to greet and said, "This official's wife beg His Majesty to call for the Imperial Physician to take a look at Qing-er's illness and find a solution to this crisis."
When the words were spoken, Shen Qing had yet to speak when Ren Wan Yun screamed, "No!"
Everyone's eyes fell onto Ren Wan Yun.
When Ren Wan Yun spoke, her heart did not feel good. With so many probing eyes looking at her, she reluctantly smiled and said in clenched teeth, "This official's wife... This official's wife is saying that how can Qing-er trouble the Imperial Physician... And it is better not to spoil everyone's mood. This official's wife will just withdraw with Qing-er..."
"What kind of words are this?" Luo Xue Yan said seriously, "Nothing is more important than a life. Could it be that you as a mother find that Qing-er's life is not as important as the banquet's mood?"
Everyone's expressions became strange. With this situation, it seemed that the biological mother, Ren Wan Yun, was not willing to get an Imperial Physician but Luo Xue Yan, a BoMu, was zealous in Shen Qing's life and death.
At the male section of the banquet, Shen Gui stared at Ren Wan Yun and in his heart he wished that this mother and daughter had no relations with him at all. Else if this made Emperor Wen Hui unhappy, how would his future career be like?
"Eldest Shen Furen said correctly." It was the Empress that spoke as she glanced at Ren Wan Yun, "Eldest Shen Young Lady's injury is important. The returning banquet is not as important as one's life."
Ren Wan Yun's heart was panicking. If Shen Qing was looked at by a physician, then the foetus in her abdomen would be disclosed to others. She said, "Your Ladyship, it is better..."
"I am fine..." Large drops of cold sweat rolled down Shen Qing's forehead and her face was as pale as a sheet, since the pain came out strangely. She clutched her abdomen without saying a word as she knew that the Imperial Physician must not come over, and she suppressed the pain down as much as possible.
"Eldest Sister, it not only related to your safety but also related to everyone safety in the hall. If you were really poisoned, it meant that assassins were mixed in and everyone is in danger. Even if you do not think for yourself, should not one also think of His Majesty?" Shen Miao's calm voice rang out.
When she finished speaking, Emperor Wen Hui's eyes became somewhat more serious.
Shen Qing almost vomited blood from Shen Miao's words. One sentence pulled the Emperor into the situation. What could Shen Qing do? Did she dare not to think of the Emperor?
The few princes of the Fu family had also heard Shen Miao's intention. Prince Li paused for a moment before speaking, "This young lady from the Shen family really have one sharp mouth!"
"Someone come." Without the slightest hesitation Emperor Wen Hui said, "Go and invite an Imperial Physician. Zhen naturally want to investigate clearly what happened to the young lady from the Shen family!"
"Eldest Sister must not move too." Shen Miao said blandly, "One cannot point for certain if the assailant is mixed into the crowd. When the Imperial Physician arrive, Eldest Sister's pulse would be taken on the spot else if the movement affected the body energy, one would be afraid that there will be a problem."
Ren Wan Yun did not have time to speak when Emperor Wen Hui nodded and said, "Yes. Maintain the original scene."
That one sentence had sealed all possibilities.
To let the Imperial Physician to diagnose Shen Qing under the eyes of everyone in the hall, meant to say that Shen Qing's pregnancy would be disclosed to all the civil and military officials. Thinking about this, Ren Wan Yun's body could not stop trembling and her fear finally spreaded to Shen Qing.
As Shen Qing endured the pain, her heart was filled up with panic, "Mother, do not..."
But what could Ren Wan Yun do? Emperor Wen Hui had spoken and she could not just resist it. She was only a married woman and naturally could play unreasonably in the Inner Courtyard but in front of the Emperor, Empress and hundreds of officials, Ren Wan Yun was overwhelmed. She raised her head up and looked towards the direction of Shen Gui, hoping that he would help her but when she saw Shen Gui's expression, there was only anger and blame in his eyes.
In a moment, Ren Wan Yun's hands and feet were ice cold and her heart sank into deep despair. Even the comforting arms that were embracing Shen Qing fell onto the ground.
"What is with that ShenShen of yours?" Feng An Ning said at Shen Miao's ears, "Why does she look like she is afraid?"
Shen Miao smiled. Luo Xue Yan also frowned. Ren Wan Yun was behaving abnormally which made her felt somewhat strange. However she was unable to think of why, and instead looked towards the direction of Chen Rou Qiu and Shen Yue who were at the side.
Shen Yue was shocked by Shen Qing appearance and clinged onto Chen Rou Qiu's clothes with some panic, as Chen Rou Qiu also stared at Ren Wan Yun unblinkingly. Being with Ren Wan Yun as a sister-in-law for so many years, Chen Rou Qiu naturally knew that her Second Sao was one who was able to cope with any scene, and there could only be one reason for today's gaffe, which was that she was caught in her trick.
Shen Yue whispered, "Eldest Sister is not really poisoned right? Mother, is it Fifth Younger Sister..."
"Yue-er!" Chen Rou Qiu stopped her severely and could not help but look at Shen Miao. She was separated by a few people and was unable to see Shen Miao's eyes clearly, but the corners of those lips were hooked up to which Chen Rou Qiu could not help but feel fearful. Her intuition was that Shen Miao must be involved in what happened today, but Shen Miao was so daring enough to even place poison in the Palace? In any case, Shen Qing's reputation could no longer be protected.
Prince Yu's face also turned serious with the sudden change of situation. Even though his actions were absurd, he knew the priority of matter and at this time it was not a good time to mention the stuff before. A sarcastic smile floated on his lips. Today Shen Miao escaped, no matter if Shen Miao poisoned Shen Qing or not, was not Shen Miao's thoughts overly simple to think if this matter could hold him down? After this situation, he could still mention the matter to Emperor Wen Hui. For some situations it was useless to try to escape.
The Imperial Physician quickly rushed over, but the unexpected thing was that the Imperial Physician in the Palace were mostly elderly people as they could enter the Imperial Medical Institution after accumulating rich experiences, but the one who came over was an Imperial Physician who was just over twenty years of age and was rather handsome which made some young ladies' eyes look straight at him.
When Shen Miao saw this Imperial Physician, her heart went 'thump' and she carefully sized that Imperial Physician up. The young Imperial Physician carried the medical box and greeted the Emperor and Empress before walking over to Ren Wan Yun's side. Ren Wan Yun still wanted to block but heard the Imperial Physician saying, "May Furen please release Shen Young Lady. This humble self would take Shen Young Lady's pulse." His voice was very pleasant which made one feel comfortable.
Under the watchful eyes of everyone and the Emperor's sharp eyes, Ren Wan Yun dared not do anything else. Shen Qing was in so much pain that she fainted, so she took two steps back and watch as the Imperial Physician extended two fingers out to take Shen Qing's pulse.
Just when Shen Miao was preoccupied with looking at that Imperial Physician, suddenly Feng An Ning joking voice was in her ears. "It cannot be that you also fancy that Imperial Physician? If you fancy him, your eyesight is not bad."
Shen Miao was slightly stunned and asked, "You know him?"
"Oh?" Feng An Ning was surprised, "This is your first time talking to me with interest on this kind of things. Never mind, I am merciful to tell you about it. This Imperial Physician is a new Physician that entered the Imperial Medical Institution, and his skills are exceptional as he could cure Consort De's inherited heart condition. His Majesty held him in high regards and made an exception for him to enter the Imperial Medical Institution. Now he is the youngest official in the Imperial Medical Institution and has a good appearance so many young ladies like him."
Shen Miao said, "You like too?"
"How can I possibly like him?" Feng An Ning stretched her neck, "Even though his medical skills are high and he is good looking, he is just an Imperial Physician and does not have any family or clan support. How would such a person be compatible with my family? Even it is you can only take a fancy. It would still be not mutually compatible." Feng An Ning had been spoilt by her family and was convinced that her husband would be a world-shaking man. A small little Imperial Physician was not worth it in her eyes.
"What is his name?" Shen Miao asked.
"Could it be that you really like him?" Feng An Ning suspiciously looked at Shen Miao before saying, "Gao Yang. But in the official families in the Ding capital, there is no high ranking families with the Gao name." This was indicating that this Gao Yang was not from a big family.
Shen Miao watched that young Imperial Physician and even ignored Shen Qing and Ren Wan Yun. There were some fluctuations in her heart as Shen Miao discovered that this Gao Yang gave her a familiar feeling, as if she had seemed to know him from somewhere before. But in the previous Imperial Medical Institution, she did not see anyone by the name of Gao Yang.
Not at the Imperial Medical Institution but where did she see him from?
As she was pondering, Gao Yang had already finish taking the pulse. When he turned over, his eyes met with Shen Miao's eyes that were sizing him up. He was also slightly stunned but he soon recovered and cupped his hands in obeisance to Ren Wan Yun.
"Imperial Physician Gao." The Empress said, "Is the Young Lady from the Shen family poisoned?"
Gao Yang looked at the fainted Shen Qing and looked over at Ren Wan Yun's pale face before cupping his hands and said, "Answering to Your Ladyship's words, Young Lady from the Shen family was not poisoned. She only consumed Lotus tea." After pausing, he continued, "The tea that Shen Young Lady consumed did not have poison and Shen Young Lady was not poisoned."
"Oh?" Emperor Wen Hui looked at Shen Qing, "Since it is not poison then how did it turn out to this?"
"Answering Your Majesty," Gao Yang sighed, "Lotus tea is naturally cold and it would be alright if ordinary people consume it. But for those who are pregnant the consumption would affect the foetus energy... The Young Lady from the Shen family is already pregnant."
Shen family Young Lady was already pregnant.
When the words were out, everyone was suddenly up in an uproar. Shen Gui's mouth dropped and instantly was purplish red. He looked furiously over at Ren Wan Yun and the later only fell onto the ground despondently.
"Good!" The one that spoke out was however that Huang Furen. She stood up suddenly and did not care about where she was and pointed at Ren Wan Yun to curse, "You reach an engagement with our Huang family and want our Huang family to marry a used shoe and raise other's son. Ren Wan Yun, you are so shameless!"
Everyone was up in an uproar because of Huang Furen's words. The engagement between Shen Qing and the Huang family was spread widely and disclosing the pregnancy in front of the civil and military officials today, what kind of logic was this? An unmarried decent young lady was pregnant. Was it an illicit relationship? To even think of marrying into the Huang family pregnant? Since ancient times, this was a first in Ming Qi.
Ren Wan Yun still did not move. Her entire body seemed to have lost its strength and she could only crawl to Shen Qing's side and embrace her.
"Shen Furen, Bengong also want to know what is this exactly about?" Sitting high above, the Empress said coldly.
Although Ming Qi was considered quite open about matters between male and female, but getting pregnant before marriage and having an illicit relationship was a matter that will lose the clan's reputation. Once it was found out, one would be drown in a pond. The Shen family was considered a prominent official family in Ming Qi. Even though Shen Gui's rank was not comparable as Shen Xin's, it was not considered as low. The higher Shen Gui's position was in, the worst the impact of the matter was. The Empress who was in charge of the six palaces also could not get used to such filthy matters and her cold voice made everyone hear the old values that were held.
Ren Wan Yun only felt bitterness in her mouth and did not say a single sentence. What could she say, that Shen Qing was not having an illicit relationship but was violated? But no matter which way, the fact was that her innocence was lost. As for the matter of Prince Yu, she even more could not say a single word. Prince Yu had the character of haggling over every cent and if one bit him, one would not have anything good to eat.
"If Shen Furen does not speak then let Shen Young Lady speak." The Empress's eyes were suddenly sharp as she instructed the palace maids beside her, "Go wake Shen Young Lady up. Bengong has some questions to ask."
Ren Wan Yun was shocked but the palace maids beside the Empress already came forward. Their actions were very quick and Ren Wan Yun did not have time to block them before those two palace maid manage to brutally wake Shen Qing up. When Shen Qing woke up, she felt a sharp pain in her abdomen but heard the Empress coldly speaking from the highest position, "Shen Qing, Bengong ask you. Who is the father of the foetus in your womb?"
When Shen Qing heard this, she froze and looked towards Ren Wan Yun for help. In Ren Wan Yun's desperation, she could only slightly shake her head at Shen Qing, telling her not to anyhow speak. As for what happen later, Ren Wan Yun will find a way to save her.
Shen Qing saw Ren Wan Yun shaking her head. Even though she did not understand her intentions, she dared not speak nonsense, so she responded evasively, "This official daughter... This official daughter..." Unable to speak properly.
Shen Miao lightly sighed and said, "Eldest Sister should say it. Now that one has now committed a felony and since there is such an outcome like this, one cannot just let you bear the brunt of it with this life of yours."
Ren Wan Yun looked at Shen Miao hatefully and could not wait to tear Shen Miao's mouth apart.
Shen Qing trembled and her eyes were filled with horror. Shen Miao's words meant that it would be hard for her to escape death. Between life and death, Shen Qing would not care for anything else and suddenly said loudly, "No... No... My child is His Highness Prince Yu of the First Rank! The child in my womb is the flesh and blood of flesh and blood of His Highness Prince Yu!"
A new wave arose when the previous one has barely subsided. So many things actually happened on such a good returning banquet. Prince Yu of the First Rank... Everyone looked at Prince Yu and their eyes narrowed but the eyes that were towards Shen Qing was very gloomy.
"Qing-er do not say nonsense!" Ren Wan Yun rushed over to cover Shen Qing's mouth but the words that were spoken were like spilt water and could not be retrieved back.
Shen Qing's eyes widened and stared straight at Prince Yu. Her thoughts were also very simple, since she had engaged in an illicit relationship and premarital pregnancy it was a confirmed ending. As long as the foetus in her womb was Prince Yu's flesh and blood then it would be related to the Imperial lineage which was equal to having a life preserving ticket. No matter what, the Emperor would not order the execution of his own nephew!
Shen Miao looked at Shen Qing and she felt it funny in her heart. She could roughly guess what Shen Qing was thinking in her heart but she also had forgotten that there was phrase called— Getting rid of the mother and keeping the child. In the Inner Palace, this method was used a hundred of times without weariness. Did Shen Qing really thought that because of that little flesh and blood, could one live safe and sound? It would only make one die faster.
The Emperor's and Empress' expressions were uncertain as this involved Prince Yu so it was not that simple.
At the male side of the banquet, Shen Qiu and Shen Xin glanced at one another. It was still alright for Shen Xin as he was only somewhat stunned with the matter but Shen Qiu secretly clenched his fists. Previously Shen Miao had been afraid to tell him who was the person who violated Shen Qing and now he understood everything. No wonder Shen Miao was unwilling to speak, it was because it was Prince Yu of the First Rank. Thinking that if it was not for Shen Miao's good luck, the person who would be in Shen Qing's current situation would be his own Younger Sister, a wave of anger formed in Shen Qiu's heart.
Prince Yu did not admit to it but did not deny it either. Like that, this can almost be determined. Everyone looked at Shen Qing with eyes of sympathy and compassion. Prince Yu had been using a variety of means and methods to secretly capture young females and even dare to make a move on an official family's daughters. It so happened that the unlucky person what Shen Qing.
In the blanket of silence, Shen Miao's soft voice rang out, "No wonder just now His Highness Prince Yu proposed to marry a Shen family's young lady. So it is to give Eldest Sister a title."
The words were said flutteringly but the people present came into realisation. No wonder just now Prince Yu wanted to marry and mentioned about a young lady of the Shen family. It was Shen Qing and they even have an unborn child together. In a moment, the eyes that were looking at Shen Qing changed. In this way, it was not like Prince Yu was forcing her but that Shen Qing was willing to be a Wangfei.
"This Fifth Shen Young Lady is powerful." Su Ming Feng was surprised, "Her ability of reversing black to white is extremely high."
Most of the people were led by the nose but this did not represent everyone. Those who were clear-minded still remembered that when Prince Yu mentioned about marrying a young lady of the Shen family, he was looking at Shen Miao.
Xie Jing Xing folded his arms and looked at the opposite purple clad young female with a smile yet not a smile. No one knew when all the people in the banquet was led by Shen Miao by the nose. The development of the situation to this point was all in her calculations. And this was not without risks. She had such big guts to gamble and her actions were so accurate that everyone's reactions were all in her palms and played a good game.
That being the case, he did not mind to fan the waves to help. Immediately Xie Jing Xing also said, "It is good to have affection and faith."
The Emperor's brows wrinkled. One need to know that even though Prince Yu created nonsense in the past, he would not let the matter brew up to this stage. In private, there would always be a solution but now in front of a large crowd to punish this Royal Younger Brother? One fear that this would make resentment to form in Prince Yu's heart, and exposing this would make one feel that the Emperor harboured too much and with subordinates following the examples of their superiors, it would deter all officials. Shen Miao's and Xie Jing Xing's words proposed a good method. If one were to say that this two people did such things due to their feelings for each other, it would be understandable. He looked at the Empress and the Empress understood the intentioned and said, "So the young lady that Royal Younger Brother mentioned was actually Shen family's young lady. But you two are too much. How would the future be with such trouble provoked?"
Shen Qing's heart gave a big sigh of relief. Disregarding the pain in her abdomen, she half got up and knelt on the ground to kowtow and pleaded, "It is all this official's daughter's fault. But this official's daughter could not bear the flesh and blood, and plead with Your Majesty and Your Ladyship to spare this official's daughter once on the account of the baby."
Shen Qing this time has lost all the dignity and even threw all her face away. The Empress looked at her disgustedly but blandly said, "One need to bear responsibility for a crime but since today is the returning banquet, only happy events are discussed. Royal Younger Brother has been widowed for so many years, so Bengong will do a good thing today and gift both of you a marriage blessing and a harmonious union."
Shen Qing had managed to pick her life back and delightedly said, "Thanking Your Majesty and Your Ladyship fulfilment." She did not know how ugly this action of hers was in others' eyes. Previously Shen Qing only said that Shen Miao could not be seen in public but now, Shen Qing herself had become the Di daughter of the Shen family that could not be seen in public.
Prince Yu darkly looked at Shen Qing. His eyes turned and landed on Shen Miao. Up high in his seat, the Emperor stared at him warningly and Prince Yu could only cup his hands obeisance and said slowly, "Thanking Imperial Elder Brother and Imperial Sao for fulfilling."
The chill in those words were only known by the people present.
The corners of Shen Miao's lips hooked up and there was no traces of fear when facing Prince Yu's eyes. The pair of bright clear eyes had traces of delight but hidden in the pleasure there was a trace of ferociousness, as if it was as cruel as a beast.
Today was only the appetiser and the main dish that was for Prince Yu residence was still at the back. To wipe Prince Yu's plans cleanly away in front of his face, presumably at this moment Prince Yu's heart was full of rage.
When people had anger in their heart, they would make mistakes easily and this kind of mistake was like the incorrect chess pieces of a game. One then have to pursue a retreating enemy and destroy their carriages and soon one could game.
She tilted her head and her eyes were bright. Even though the smile on her lips was gentle, there was an indescribable chill of horror.
It has begun, Prince Yu.