Chapter 56: Settling Old Scores?

After the Emperor’s decree to appoint a new concubine was announced, it became common knowledge throughout the court.

Upon hearing the report, Ji Yucang showed no particular reaction on his face, only issuing a command: “Send people to seek approval from the Empress Dowager to select two strict nursemaids to train the Emperor’s new concubine at the Duke’s residence.”

“Yes, Your Highness.”

“After the new concubine enters the palace, every word and action will impact the dignity of the royal family and must not be neglected.”

“I will go at once.”

Ji Yucang stood with hands behind his back, gazing at the vast mansion for a moment, then turned and headed towards the inner courtyard, making his way directly to the Golden Courtyard.

At noon, Lan Zhi had already begun preparing lunch with the maids. Ji Yucang stepped into the room, just as Shen Ning, having changed into fresh clothes, emerged from the inner chamber, ready to dine.

“I’ve come at a good time, I’ll have lunch with you.” Ji Yucang sat down in front of her and continued, “I’ll be staying in your room tonight.”

Shen Ning raised her gaze slowly, “You didn’t show up on our wedding night, why come tonight?”

“I didn’t show up on our wedding night, and I didn’t hear you complain.” Ji Yucang spoke lightly, “Why bring up old matters tonight?”

“This isn’t an old matter.” Shen Ning lowered her head to eat a mouthful of food, then hesitated before saying, “At this moment, it’s not quite appropriate for us to be overly intimate.”

Several maids in the room bowed their heads, somewhat uncomfortable with the Princess Consort’s direct way of speaking.

Matters of the bedroom had always been a topic women were shy to discuss, and if discussed, it was done privately between husband and wife.

Their Princess Consort not only had a cold demeanor but also lacked the usual modesty expected of a young woman.

“Why?” Ji Yucang inquired.

“You know in your heart.” Shen Ning waved off the maids, not because she was ashamed to discuss in front of others but because certain things should not be heard by anyone, “Firstly, as I’ve made clear today, if I were to concoct an antidote for you, I must ensure I am still a virgin. Secondly, if you cannot guarantee your longevity, then I shouldn’t risk having a child at this time.”

A child?

Ji Yucang was taken aback, not expecting their conversation to suddenly involve the topic of a child.

However, after a moment of silent contemplation, he surprisingly felt… that having a child with her would be an incredibly joyful and anticipated event.

Suppressing his fluttering heart, Ji Yucang spoke with a hint of dissatisfaction, “So, being married or not married to me is the same?”

Shen Ning raised her gaze, “So, do you want to divorce me?”

Meeting her dark and calm eyes, Ji Yucang was momentarily stunned, and a hint of softness crept into his usually cold and hard expression.

“I don’t have that thought for now.” Ji Yucang’s lips curled up, his tone domineering and firm, “You married me, so you are my wife for life. Unless I die, you won’t have a chance to leave.”

Shen Ning nodded, “So, you still want to grow old with me.”

This statement was a statement of fact, not a question.

Ji Yucang’s heart stirred slightly. Hearing these four words repeatedly today stirred an irresistible sense of anticipation within him, “If you wish to put it that way, there’s no harm.”

“In that case, you must ensure you stay alive first.” Shen Ning set down her chopsticks and earnestly told him, “Ji Yucang, we are husband and wife. For now, I haven’t regarded you as the closest person in my life, so I dare not make any promises to you, but we are allies, and I hope you stay alive.”

Ji Yucang asked, “Who is the closest person in your life?”

Shen Ning looked puzzled and shook her head slowly, “There isn’t one.”

She had no closest person.

Those she once thought of as dear and beloved had heartlessly betrayed her, not only betraying her but also hating her to the point of using the cruelest means to torment her.

Who could be the closest person in her life now?

“If I use your blood as an elixir, would that make me the closest person in your life?” Ji Yucang asked calmly, “After all, your blood might flow through my veins.”

Shen Ning paused for a moment, her expression subtly shifting.

Raising an eyebrow, Ji Yucang asked, “What is it?”

Shen Ning replied calmly, “It sounds like I gave birth to you.”

Ji Yucang: “…”

“As long as you don’t betray me, harm me, or scheme against me…” Shen Ning reiterated, “I can consider you my closest ally in life.”

Perhaps never before had a woman spoken so bluntly and calmly in front of her husband, declaring him her ally.

In traditional views, the husband was like the heavens, and a woman should obey.

Moreover, as the Regent with such high status and power, his Consort was not just a wife but a daughter of a Duke married into the imperial family, and she shouldn’t consider her husband her ally.

Yet, Ji Yucang accepted it willingly.

“Alright, allies it is then.” He nodded slowly, “I know you have things hidden in your heart, and you don’t trust men much. I will give you time to willingly accept me.”

Shen Ning, thoughtful, asked, “Can I ask you something? What exactly attracted you to me?”

“You will find out in the future.” Ji Yucang said, picking up his chopsticks and naturally offering her food, “Let’s eat.”

Shen Ning didn’t press further.

She wasn’t the type to pry endlessly, if someone was willing to share, she would listen, if not, she wouldn’t force it.

“One more thing.” Ji Yucang’s voice lowered, carrying a compelling sense of conviction, “Regardless of where you are, no matter what happens, ensure your own safety. In times of danger, even if it means killing, I will cover for you. Other matters are of little importance.”