Chapter 63

The rain drizzled, pattering on the banana leaves outside the window.

“Madam.” The old servant woman, Nanny Zhang, who used to serve in the East Courtyard, had come over with a few new maids. They carefully held a clothing box. “The embroidery shop has finished altering the ceremonial dress, and several matching accessories exist. It’s getting late. Shall we help you change?”

Su Ci snapped out of her thoughts, moving her gaze from the rain-soaked banana leaves, and put down her pen, smiling. “Alright, bring them in.”

In late August, there was a grand banquet in the palace. It was the Longevity Festival, the old emperor’s seventy-fifth birthday. Living to seventy was rare, and reaching seventy-five made him the longest-lived emperor of the Ji clan, surpassing even Emperor Taizong, who only lived to seventy-one.

Such a rare occasion, coupled with the fact that the old emperor had finally eliminated the two major threats, the Fourth and Sixth Princes, with the help of the 21 million taels of official silver and the traitor Huang Zhengmao, made the Seventh Prince’s residence also precarious. The emperor was overjoyed and wanted to showcase his power. Thus, this Longevity Festival was grand and celebrated by all, with officials of the fifth rank and above allowed to bring their families to the banquet.

This was a great honor from the emperor. Saying it was optional was just a formality; it was actually mandatory unless one was bedridden. So, Su Ci was definitely going to the palace banquet with Yang Yanzong.

The sewing room at home had just been set up, and Yang Yanzong was reluctant to let unknown outsiders in. The craftsmanship was slightly lacking, so they had the ceremonial dress for the titled lady altered by a familiar embroidery shop.

As Yang Yanzong continued to rise in rank, Su Ci’s status also increased. Often, she would receive a new set of clothes before she even had a chance to wear the previous one. This latest set of second-rank lady’s ceremonial attire had just been delivered by the Ministry of Rites. It was a bit loose, but there was still time for alterations.

Su Ci tried it on and found it quite fitting. She applied light makeup herself, wearing a sapphire blue robe with a wide belt, a crimson skirt, and a gold crown adorned with kingfisher feathers and pearls.

It was even more dazzling and beautiful than her wedding dress, as this was the true form of the phoenix coronet and ceremonial robe. Her rank hadn’t been high enough back then.

With her fair skin and youth, Su Ci looked radiant and lovely in the attire. She was very pleased, smiling at her reflection in the large bronze mirror.

Beside her, the old servant woman, Nanny Zhang, couldn’t help but mutter, “If Master sees this, he will surely be pleased.”

Everyone in the main courtyard knew about the recent conflict between Yang Yanzong and Su Ci. They were all cautious, except for Nanny Zhang, who was the most senior and knew Su Ci’s good temper, so she dared to speak up.

However, Su Ci just smiled at her, and Nanny Zhang quickly closed her mouth.

Su Ci was indeed good-tempered, but she was also very decisive. She could make decisions even on external matters. While she could joke around, she was firm on serious matters, so Nanny Zhang didn’t dare to say more.

Su Ci didn’t intend to be harsh on the servants. The issues between her and Yang Yanzong were not simple marital quarrels and were not for outsiders to know. She didn’t plan to discuss it with the servants, so it was better not to mention it.

She finished getting ready and saw that it was almost time. A Kang came over to check, “Alright, alright, we can go now!”

The maid held an umbrella for her as she lifted her skirt and walked along the corridor to the main gate to board the carriage.

Yang Yanzong also came out, dressed in a deep purple robe with a black crown, matching boots, and a black cloak embroidered with gold, shielding him from the rain. He looked majestic and imposing, though his expression was cold, with the same indifferent look as before.

Su Ci sneaked a glance at him, but he seemed unaware, mounting his horse and saying calmly, “Get in the carriage.”

Su Ci quickly lifted her skirt and climbed into the carriage.

---

Today’s palace banquet was full of ups and downs, so exciting that Su Ci momentarily forgot about her conflict with Yang Yanzong, her eyes wide with amazement.

The carriage wheels rumbled as they headed towards the imperial city of Yangdu. Su Ci leaned against the window, lifting the curtain. There were many carriages and horses along the way, but those of lower rank automatically gave way. Officials were always so considerate. It took them about half an hour to reach the palace gates, where they encountered Ji Yuanhao.

Their ranks were similar, so they entered in the same batch, arriving one after the other.

The drizzle had stopped, and although the ground was still a bit wet, it was much more convenient. A Zheng lifted the carriage curtain, and Su Ci jumped out.

Ji Yuanhao and his wife, Mrs. Ren, also got out at the same time.

It was Su Ci’s first time meeting Mrs. Ren, a plump woman with a full moon face who looked kind and gentle but with a determined gaze. She was clearly a woman of some depth. It was said that she had jumped into the river without hesitation and successfully pulled the children to safety. She usually helped Ji Yuanhao with some matters, a capable wife but not the typical housewife like Yan.

Mrs. Ren followed Ji Yuanhao, who casually adjusted his sleeve and smiled slightly. He greeted Yang Yanzong and then glanced at Su Ci with a nod.

Su Ci responded gracefully with a nod.

To be fair, Ji Yuanhao was very handsome, the epitome of a heroic and handsome man, with a touch of carefree charm and an air of mystery. Now that he had shed his restraints and achieved independence, this feeling was even more pronounced. He walked alongside Yang Yanzong, about two steps apart. Ji Yuanhao adjusted his sleeve and said with a smile, “Today is the Longevity Festival; there might be a grand show.”

Yang Yanzong smiled faintly, not denying it.

Ji Yuanhao glanced at the distant Kun Guojiu and smiled, then subtly withdrew his gaze.

The two men walked side by side, and naturally, the two women did as well. Mrs. Ren was clearly someone who could strike the right balance, neither overly enthusiastic nor cold. She smiled slightly and said, “It’s my first time meeting you today, sister, and you truly have a good character.”

Sister, huh? Alright, sister it is. Su Ci smiled, “You too, Sister Ren.”

Unlike the current trend of modesty, where one would say, “You flatter me,” Su Ci accepted the compliment straightforwardly. She thought she was pretty good herself, but Mrs. Ren was also nice.

Mrs. Ren couldn’t help but laugh. This Second Miss Su was quite interesting. Her natural happiness and confidence made Ren a bit envious.

“It seems General Yang is a protector of flowers,” mrs. Ren teased.

Such a personality couldn’t have been nurtured without the love and care of her family and husband, right?

Su Ci felt a bit embarrassed. How did the conversation suddenly shift to Yang Yanzong?

It wasn’t an easy topic to respond to, so she just smiled, “Well said, well said.”

Fortunately, after a few more words, both groups fell silent as they entered the palace gates.

Walking along the red carpet, they reached the Yongle Hall, where the banquet was set. Colorful canopies extended from the hall entrance to near the palace gates, with rows of banquet tables below, possibly accommodating a thousand to two thousand guests.

Su Ci was dazzled along the way. With the crisis gone, she could now fully appreciate the grandeur of the ancient royal banquet. Mid-ranking officials entered through a different gate, and many were already seated. She stood on tiptoe to look for her father but couldn’t find him, so she gave up.

Here, Ji Yuanhao and Yang Yanzong parted ways, each following a eunuch guide into the Yongle Hall with their spouses.

Su Ci’s seat was on the right, quite close to the front. As soon as she sat down, people came to talk to Yang Yanzong, greeting and chatting with him. He was busy, and Su Ci wasn’t idle either, paying attention to those who spoke to him. Many also greeted her, and she smiled and nodded, occasionally returning the greeting.

After the greetings, she sat down and began observing the various attendees and the arrangements of food and drink.

Everything was meticulously arranged; even the light blue porcelain on her table was of the finest quality.

Of course, the people were also fascinating. Su Ci’s gaze swept around, noticing many familiar faces, including the ethereal Prince Qian. However, his brows were slightly furrowed, and his handsome face seemed even more melancholic.

Su Ci blinked, recalling Ji Yuanhao’s earlier conversation with Yang Yanzong at the palace gate. Could it be…

Her thoughts raced, but Yang Yanzong hadn’t completely ignored her. He noticed, but it only made his heart colder. Her eyes were vibrant, and she remained lively and animated as if no sorrow could touch her. He coldly snorted, his heart growing even colder, and he no longer looked at her.

Within less than a quarter of an hour, everyone had arrived. The second-to-last to enter was Empress Kun, a magnificent and beautiful woman, like a golden phoenix spreading its wings. She stood proudly on the phoenix throne, looking down at the hall below, and called out softly.

The auspicious hour was approaching, and those with keen ears could faintly hear the sound of the ceremonial whip. Everyone prepared to rise and greet the emperor. But no one expected the climax to come so abruptly and suddenly, catching everyone off guard.

“The Emperor has arrived—”

The sound of the ceremonial whip grew closer, and everyone stood up, straightening their clothes. The bright yellow imperial carriage ascended the steps to the Yongle Palace gate. With a slight “clack,” it descended, and the intricately embroidered curtain with nine dragons was lifted layer by layer, revealing the old emperor’s face, wearing the imperial crown and a red robe trimmed with bright yellow and mink fur.

At this moment, no one inside or outside the hall was standing. Everyone knelt, bowing their heads to welcome the emperor.

The old emperor stood up and slowly descended from the carriage. He then turned and extended his hand. A small, fair hand emerged from the carriage, resting in the emperor’s palm. Wearing a seven-chapter crown and a heavy ceremonial robe, Little Prince Zhao held the emperor’s hand and stepped down from the carriage.

The old emperor, holding Little Prince Zhao’s hand, walked step by step through the Yongle Hall, ascending the jade steps.

This scene was unknown to those present, including Su Ci. She only felt that the emperor was moving a bit slower this time, but considering his age, it was understandable. However, as the lantern bearers and palace attendants moved forward and the emperor passed by, those with sharp eyes noticed something was amiss.

Su Ci, seated near the front, was one of the first to notice. She wasn’t particularly subservient, so while her posture was standard, her eyes were a bit restless. She noticed that alongside the emperor’s dragon robe and thick-soled dragon boots, there was a pair of small blue boots walking beside him.

Su Ci: “…”

At this moment, a subtle commotion arose within the hall. Holding Little Prince Zhao’s hand, the emperor ascended the jade steps. Sun Shiping gestured, and another jade chair was placed on the left side, level with Empress Kun’s seat.

Su Ci didn’t know what kind of eye contact might have passed between Empress Kun and the old emperor, but she quickly followed the crowd in shouting “Long live the emperor!” when she heard the old emperor’s voice from above, “Rise, my subjects!”

Compared to before, his voice had aged significantly and sounded somewhat weak, but that wasn’t the main point. The main point was…

After expressing their gratitude, Su Ci quickly stood up and looked up, and instantly, the entire Yongle Hall was in an uproar!

It was indeed Little Prince Zhao!

This was the first time Little Prince Zhao had appeared in public since he had grown up. Previously, he was only known by name but never seen.

Ah, right! Little Prince Zhao had just turned five, which meant he was six in traditional age reckoning. In ancient times, turning six was considered a milestone.

The old emperor had just executed the Fourth and Sixth Princes, and the Seventh Prince’s residence was in a precarious position, effectively eliminating long-standing threats.

At this moment, the old emperor was holding Little Prince Zhao’s hand, receiving the homage of the courtiers. After calling them to rise, he sat on the gilded dragon throne while Little Prince Zhao sat on a newly placed jade chair.

The hall was abuzz. It was well known that not just anyone could sit beside the emperor. The seat to the right of the throne was the phoenix chair, undoubtedly for the empress. The left side was usually reserved for the crown prince, who was about to succeed and deeply trusted by the emperor. Otherwise, it would be a step down to show respect.

On his seventy-fifth birthday, the old emperor made such a bold move. His intentions were clear and unmistakable!

Everyone was shocked. Many spilled their drinks in surprise, some were horrified, and others were stunned. Su Ci was among them, mainly because the sleeves of her ceremonial dress were too wide, and she wasn’t used to it. Startled, she knocked over her drink, quickly catching the cup before it fell. She glanced around surreptitiously.

In fact, no one noticed her. Many had spilled their drinks, and some even knocked over fruit plates, which spun on the ground for a long time before stopping, but no one paid attention.

In this strange atmosphere, Su Ci glanced at Empress Kun and Imperial Uncle Kun. Many others did the same. The old emperor’s intentions were so blatant, and he had already eliminated three princes. The next target… could it be the Kun clan?

Empress Kun’s face was ashen. From Su Ci’s angle, she could see the beautifully manicured hand with bright red nails and golden finger guards tightly gripping the armrest of the phoenix chair. Su Ci’s sharp eyes even noticed the fine blue veins and pale knuckles. Empress Kun’s luxurious makeup couldn’t hide her rigid expression, especially as she sensed the furtive glances from others, making her even angrier and her face even more unsightly.

Imperial Uncle Kun’s face was no better, as was the rest of the Kun faction.

Su Ci quickly righted her cup. The atmosphere was so strange that she couldn’t think about anything else. She even subconsciously lightened her breathing until the music and dance began, which eased the tension a bit. She noticed her sleeve was wet. It was late August and quite cold, and unfortunately, her handkerchief was in the left sleeve pocket and also soaked. She shook her hand, and Mrs. Ren, seeing this, quietly handed her a dry handkerchief. Su Ci mouthed, “Thank you,” took it, and folded it to use.

The two exchanged a glance but remained silent, focusing on the central stage and watching the dance.

They sat there for over two hours, eyes fixed on the stage. Finally, the grand banquet ended, and many people secretly sighed in relief. They quickly shouted their farewells to the emperor and empress before leaving for home.

As expected, royal banquets were not known for their delicious food.

Following the quiet crowd out of the palace, the event was so significant that no one discussed it. Everyone kept their eyes down, mounted their horses, or got into their carriages and left quickly. Some elderly officials, stiff from sitting for so long, needed help from their families to get into their carriages.

Su Ci was fine, being young and energetic, but she was a bit hungry. The banquet dishes were mostly lukewarm steamed bowls, and with so many tables, the imperial kitchen had a hard time keeping everything hot. The food cooled quickly, and the congealed lard made it unpalatable. She opened a drawer, took out some pastries, and ate to fill her stomach. By then, they were almost home. The guards at the gate saw the carriage and immediately opened the side gate leading to the inner courtyard and stables, allowing the convoy to enter.

They stopped at the hanging flower gate, and after a few steps, they were back in the main courtyard. Yang Yanzong threw down the whip and spread his arms, and Nanny Zhang quickly brought the maids to help him change out of his ceremonial attire. He went into the adjacent bathhouse, and soon, the sound of water could be heard. Not long after, he emerged in a tight-sleeved black robe with a round collar.

Su Ci had also changed into her home clothes. She blinked and asked, “Is there anything I need to be aware of?”

Yang Yanzong sat down, sipped tea, and said, “Your work at the medical camp and your current tasks are unaffected. Just keep a low profile and avoid causing trouble during this time.” He said this calmly, put down the teacup, adjusted his sleeve, and stood up to leave. “I have other matters to attend to.”

Without looking back, he walked down the steps and quickly disappeared into the night outside the courtyard.

Currently, their relationship was like that of half-strangers, an ordinary couple. He didn’t ignore her, but there was no special warmth either. It was as if they were a typical couple in an arranged marriage.

Su Ci understood Yang Yanzong’s thoughts. She had tried, but it didn’t work, so there was nothing more she could do.

Alright then.

She had no words and no solutions, but she wasn’t someone who couldn’t live without a man. After feeling melancholic, she let go.

Let things take their course. Forced relationships are never sweet, right?

Their issues weren’t ordinary conflicts. Without addressing the root cause and with neither willing to take a step back, the problem would always be a deadlock.

Su Ci had done all she could, so she accepted it. She could always make her life happier. Her new job kept her very busy, and she also enjoyed listening to gossip. The days passed quickly

The late August night wind howled, carrying a sharp, cutting chill.

Yang Yanzong left the main courtyard, heading towards the outer study. He began to let go of his feelings for Su Ci. Handling matters professionally, no longer angry or sad, he suppressed and buried all his emotions, gradually cutting them away. After making up his mind, the suffocating feeling in his chest seemed to ease a bit.

Yang Yanzong felt this was good. He told himself. Nothing is impossible!

He wouldn’t treat her poorly, but they would only be an ordinary couple from now on. His eyes were cold and indifferent, his steps no longer hesitant. Yang Yanzong quickly returned to the outer study courtyard gate. A Kang cautiously glanced at his face and whispered, “Master, General Ji is here.”

“Oh?”

Yang Yanzong turned, forcing himself to put the matters of that courtyard and that person out of his mind, and looked up, “Invite him to the flower hall.”

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Ji Yuanhao played with the two gold-threaded jade balls hanging from his belt. He stood by the wide-open window, admiring the rain-soaked autumn scenery.

The flower hall, adjacent to the large garden, was spacious and open on all sides, perfect for enjoying the view and discussing matters. Hearing footsteps, Ji Yuanhao turned and saw Yang Yanzong approaching from the rear courtyard. He laughed heartily, “What time is it? Back to your room so early, enjoying the company of your lovely wife, I see. Sorry to interrupt!”

Yang Yanzong didn’t respond. No matter what his relationship with Su Ci was, outsiders could not know. He simply asked, “What’s the matter?”

Ji Yuanhao rubbed his stomach, having not eaten a proper dish at the banquet. He was looking for a place to fill his stomach, but more importantly, to discuss today’s events with Yang Yanzong. After all, they were still allies, weren’t they?

“What do you think?”

The food and wine were quickly served, but Yang Yanzong didn’t call for music and dance; he wasn’t in the mood. Ji Yuanhao clicked his tongue but didn’t mind, picking up his chopsticks to fill his stomach and sipping warm wine.

Yang Yanzong succinctly said, “The emperor will soon appoint Little Prince Zhao as the crown prince.”

Yes, one step was completed, and the next step would follow, just as Ji Yuanhao had predicted. He raised an eyebrow, “It seems Yangdu will be restless again.”

Yang Yanzong calmly replied, “Yangdu has never been peaceful.”

“You have a point.”

Indeed, that’s how it is. Even if you don’t move, the situation will push you forward.

Yang Yanzong squinted at the wet flowers outside the flower hall but still preferred to take the initiative- whether it was other matters or emotions.

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But in fact, the development of the situation was even faster and more urgent than Yang Yanzong and Ji Yuanhao had anticipated.

The Longevity Festival hadn’t even ended when, the next day, the old emperor bathed and changed clothes, walked from the altar to the ancestral temple, and after bowing, informed the ancestors. Before the grand banquet that day, an imperial edict was issued, adopting Little Prince Zhao into the main lineage as a prince.

Immediately after, another imperial edict was issued, appointing Little Prince Zhao as the crown prince, moving him into the Eastern Palace, and declaring that after the emperor’s death, he would inherit the throne and the ancestral temple. The Imperial Astronomical Bureau was ordered to choose an auspicious date for the official ceremony and the sacrifices to heaven and the ancestral temple.

Little Prince Zhao was already six years old, the closest in blood to the old emperor. With the Fourth and Sixth Princes dead and the Seventh Prince’s residence in a precarious position, there were no significant opposing voices or strong reasons for opposition.

Under the old emperor’s strong will, the edict was issued that day and announced to the world.

People in other regions probably celebrated, but in Yangdu, under the emperor’s feet, the atmosphere instantly became tense and subtle.

With this edict, it was as if a signal had been released, and the relationship between the old emperor and the Kun clan immediately tightened.

Su Ci had heard about these major events not only from A Zheng but also from Su Yan and Yang Yanzhen. Despite several discussions and speculations, she never imagined this matter would eventually involve her.