Crowned Consort in Golden Age-Chapter 277 - 275. Noble Consort Liu’s plan, Third Feng returns
275. Noble Consort Liu’s Plan, Third Feng’s Return
In Noble Consort Liu’s palace, though she hadn’t attended the reading of the posthumous edict, the news had reached her ears at a remarkable speed. When the eunuch delivered the news, Noble Consort Liu was sitting in her small palace garden, gazing at a tree showered with dazzling pear blossoms. A chilly breeze drifted through, scattering petals like white snow upon the ground. Despite donning a white fox cloak, Noble Consort Liu couldn’t help but shudder.
"Get out!" Noble Consort Liu coldly commanded.
The eunuch naturally dared not speak further, scrambling as he fled. He feared that before Her Highness Noble Consort was made to accompany the late Emperor in death, his own head would be the first to roll.
Having sent everyone away, Noble Consort Liu tilted her head, gazing at the tree before her, covered in white blossoms. Pear blossoms were her favorite. In her eyes, their snow-like purity made them far more beautiful and noble than any peony, peach blossom, orchid, or plum. Originally, there were no pear trees in the palace, as the word for ’pear’ is a homophone for ’separation,’ which was considered a bad omen. However, after she entered the palace, Mo Jingqi, in order to please her, had planted several pear trees in the small garden of her residence, just to see her smile. But now... to be buried with him...
She knew Mo Jingqi had always been ruthless, but she had never expected that this brutality would one day be turned on her. Truly, even in death, he wanted her to accompany him?
"Reporting to Your Highness... Prince Qin and the Prime Minister request an audience," the palace maid at the door reported nervously.
Noble Consort Liu stood up, arranging her white fox cloak. "Let them in."
Not long after, Mo Xiaoyun, who had been demoted to Prince Qin, and Prime Minister Liu entered the main hall together. Accompanying them were the Fifth Prince, Mo Xiaoyun’s junior by two years, and the fourteen-year-old Princess Zhenning. As soon as they saw Noble Consort Liu, the Fifth Prince and Princess Zhenning burst into tears, "Mother Consort... *sob*... Mother Consort..." Noble Consort Liu, who had little patience for children to begin with, was already vexed, and the sound of weeping made her anger flare. She shouted, "What are you crying for?! I’m not dead yet!"
The Fifth Prince and Princess Zhenning were indeed worried about their mother consort. They had heard their Imperial Father’s posthumous edict ordering their mother consort to be buried with him and had followed Prince Qin and Prime Minister Liu to her, hoping for some comfort or solution. Though Noble Consort Liu was usually cold towards them, she was, after all, their birth mother, and they still held a degree of filial affection for their strikingly beautiful mother consort. Unexpectedly met with a harsh rebuke, the Fifth Prince choked back his sobs, his face flushing as he gasped for breath. Princess Zhenning bit her lip, determined not to utter another sound.
Mo Xiaoyun was only twelve, but as Noble Consort Liu’s eldest son, he had been meticulously groomed by Prime Minister Liu. Naturally, he was much calmer than his sister and brother. Once the Crown Prince and legitimate heir to the throne, he was now demoted due to his Imperial Father’s final decree. That he could still speak calmly under such circumstances attested to the significant efforts the Liu Family had invested in his upbringing. Mo Xiaoyun frowned and said, "Mother Consort, Second Sister and Fifth Brother are just worried about you."
Noble Consort Liu huffed coldly, "What’s the use of worrying? Can crying and wailing solve anything?"
Mo Xiaoyun said nothing. Actually, he didn’t have deep affection for this mother consort of his. He was not like his Second Sister and Fifth Brother, who simply revered and longed for their mother consort. He understood clearly that in his mother consort’s eyes, he and his siblings were unwelcome existences, and he himself was merely a tool to be used.
"Your Highness!" Prime Minister Liu frowned, his tone heavy. Speaking of this daughter, Prime Minister Liu could only feel a throbbing headache. Ever since she first laid eyes on Mo Xiuyao in her childhood, her heart had been utterly captivated by him. Even after so many years, she still couldn’t let him go. She was not only indifferent to the Emperor but also unconcerned about her own children. If it weren’t for Mo Xiuyao, she probably would never have considered fighting for the position of Crown Prince for Prince Qin, let alone consider the interests of their family. It was truly a karmic debt from a past life. Prime Minister Liu considered himself a ruthless and cold-blooded man; countless individuals had met their doom at his hands throughout his official career. Yet, even he, in his cold-bloodedness, cared for his own family and children. This daughter of his, however, was willing to forsake everyone—family, children, her husband, and her parents—all for Mo Xiuyao.
Noble Consort Liu still held some respect for Prime Minister Liu, her father. Upon hearing her father’s disapproving tone, Noble Consort Liu frowned slightly and asked lightly, "Why has Father come?"
"Why have I come? How could I not come?" Prime Minister Liu said anxiously. "You heard the late Emperor’s posthumous edict! Are you not going to think of a plan? Do you truly intend to be buried with the late Emperor?"
At the mention of Mo Jingqi, Noble Consort Liu’s lips curled into a sneer of distaste. She once believed, to some extent, that Mo Jingqi cared for her. Now, she didn’t believe a shred of it. That man! Even in death, he wanted to drag her down with him! Even if she had to die, she would absolutely not be buried in the same tomb as him! "Father, you need not worry. I have my own ideas about this matter," she finally said.
Prime Minister Liu was surprised. "You have a plan? The late Emperor also ordered the Empress Dowager to be buried with him, and Prince Li raised no objections. I’m afraid Prince Li’s side will be watching closely; it won’t be easy for you to get out of this safely." Upon hearing Mo Jingli’s name, Noble Consort Liu’s face darkened as she ground her teeth. "Mo Jingli! It’s him again, foiling this Noble Consort’s plans!" Prime Minister Liu sighed helplessly. "It’s too late for regrets. In a few days, the Tenth Prince will ascend the throne."
"No!" Noble Consort Liu said coldly.
"What can we do at this point?" Prime Minister Liu said with a furrowed brow.
Noble Consort Liu raised her chin, her voice cold. "If we could depose one Sixth Prince, we can depose one Tenth Prince. The one to ascend the throne must be the Crown Prince. As long as the Crown Prince ascends... he can naturally abolish the posthumous edict, and this Noble Consort won’t have to be buried." Prime Minister Liu, both shocked and furious, stared at Noble Consort Liu. "Preposterous! Right now, not only Prince Li, but also the Eldest Princess, the Empress, State Duke Hua, and even Prince Ding are all keeping an eye on the Tenth Prince. Making a move will be incredibly difficult. If we’re discovered... do you think Prince Qin would still have a chance to ascend the throne? The Liu Family would only end up accompanying him to the grave, paving the way for others!"
A faint smile touched Noble Consort Liu’s lips. "Father, do you think we’re the only ones who want the Tenth Prince dead? Prince Li’s desire for that is no less than ours. This Noble Consort has heard some interesting news. I heard that before the Emperor died, Prince Li asked him where his son was."
Prime Minister Liu was taken aback. He had, of course, heard what Prince Li said at the time, but he had been more concerned with the posthumous edict in the Empress’s hands. After the edict was announced, they were so stunned by its contents that they had no time to consider that question. Noble Consort Liu smiled. "Father, do you remember, a couple of months ago, Mo Jingli... kicked his own son to death?"
Of course, Prime Minister Liu remembered. Although Prince Li’s Mansion had kept the matter tightly under wraps, the Liu Family and Prince Li’s Mansion were political rivals. How could they not know about such a major incident? Stroking his beard, Prime Minister Liu narrowed his eyes. "What are you implying?" Noble Consort Liu smiled. "Ye Ying was pregnant while imprisoned by the Emperor. We all knew she gave birth to a son, but none of us ever saw that son. Naturally, what the Emperor said, was. I fear... that child in Prince Li’s Mansion is not Prince Li’s son at all. The Emperor was always suspicious. Prince Li led a cavalry rebellion; how could the Emperor not guard against him?"
"Does Your Highness know where that child is?" Prime Minister Liu was overjoyed. Currently, aside from the son Ye Ying bore, Prince Li had no other heirs. There hadn’t even been news of any of his secondary consorts or concubines becoming pregnant, leading to much gossip in the Capital City. If this was true, then this child’s value was indeed far greater than any of them had anticipated.
Noble Consort Liu shook her head. "No, the Emperor never told anyone the child’s whereabouts."
Prime Minister Liu looked somewhat disappointed, but then heard Noble Consort Liu say with a smile, "What difference does it make if we know or not? We’ve never seen that child, and neither has Prince Li. As long as Father arranges things properly..."
"Your Highness is right. This old man understands," Prime Minister Liu replied, his eyes lighting up with understanding.
Regardless of the turbulent undercurrents within the palace and the imperial court, Prince Ding’s Mansion remained an oasis of peace and tranquility. That was until one evening, when a handsome man dressed in red knocked on the tightly closed gates of Prince Ding’s Mansion.
"This Prince doesn’t recall summoning you to the Capital City, Feng Zhiyao?" In the study, Mo Xiuyao lazily regarded the travel-stained Feng Zhiyao and remarked coolly. Feng Zhiyao stood leaning against the wall by the door, offering a weary smile in return. Having passed thirty, Feng Zhiyao’s handsome features, which once seemed frivolous, had acquired a more composed and faintly rugged quality. Such an air was unusual for the man who was Prince Ding’s right hand, the Third Young Master Feng, whose influence in the Northwest was undeniable, even if not absolute. The slight furrow of his sword-like brows, born of fatigue and worry, made it hard to reproach him. Ye Li quietly tugged at Mo Xiuyao’s sleeve, signaling him not to be too harsh.
Mo Xiuyao harrumphed in dissatisfaction. Looking at Feng Zhiyao, he said, "Speak. What is it? If you’re going to tell me there’s nothing, and you just rushed from the Northwest to the Capital of Great Chu because you were worried, this Prince will have you packaged up and thrown back immediately."
Having grown up with Mo Xiuyao, Feng Zhiyao could naturally tell when he was genuinely angry and when he was just trying to scare someone. Smiling gratefully at Ye Li, Feng Zhiyao walked to a nearby chair and sat down. "Young Master Qingchen asked me to deliver a message to the Prince. There was a miscalculation; Xiling and Nanzhao haven’t started fighting yet." Actually, this was something of a personal favor from Xu Qingchen to Feng Zhiyao. Normally, news like this wouldn’t require someone of Feng Zhiyao’s status to travel thousands of miles to deliver, nor was Xu Qingchen incapable of handling such matters. It was just that Feng Zhiyao’s state had been seriously affecting his work efficiency. Young Master Qingchen, with his unparalleled intelligence, naturally understood that there must be someone or something in the Capital City weighing on Feng Zhiyao’s mind. That’s why he casually assigned him a task to give him an excuse to return to the Capital City.
Hearing this, Mo Xiuyao raised his eyebrows in surprise. Xu Qingchen’s plans rarely went awry. However, he quickly understood. Mo Jingqi’s death, although not entirely unexpected, was one thing; the ensuing mess was definitely beyond anyone’s calculations. Especially the Edict of Confession issued by Mo Jingqi before his death and his arrangements concerning Prince Ding’s Mansion—those were an even greater surprise within the unexpected. Upon receiving this news, the Southern Garrison Prince might indeed abandon his plan to attack Nanzhao. After all, Nanzhao, no matter what, was just a small country in a remote corner. Whether it could be conquered or not paled in significance compared to the vast and fertile lands of Great Chu in the Central Plains.
"Any recent changes in Xiling?" Mo Xiuyao asked.
Feng Zhiyao said, "The Southern Garrison Prince has already secretly mobilized troops and is moving them towards the Great Chu border. Young Master Qingchen deduces... that as soon as the news of Mo Jingqi’s demise spreads, the Xiling army will attack Great Chu again. Additionally, Beirong seems to have similar intentions."
"What did Young Master Qingchen say?"
"Young Master Qingchen said that if the Prince has finished handling matters in the Capital City, please return as soon as possible."
"If... matters are handled..." Mo Xiuyao tilted his head, looked at Ye Li, and smiled. "It seems Eldest Brother isn’t in a hurry for us to go back. In that case, let’s stay a bit longer." If things were handled, return quickly; if not handled, then naturally, no need to return. For Xu Qingchen to say such a thing meant he wasn’t taking Lei Zhenting’s movements seriously. Since that’s the case, with Young Master Qingchen holding down the fort in the Northwest, why not see if they could reap some benefits in Great Chu?
Feng Zhiyao raised an eyebrow but didn’t mind Mo Xiuyao’s deliberate misinterpretation of Xu Qingchen’s words. Anyway, he had relayed the message verbatim; as for how the Prince chose to understand it, that was none of his concern.
Ye Li smiled at Feng Zhiyao. "In that case, Third Feng, please stay at Prince Ding’s Mansion for now." Although Feng Zhiyao had his own home, he had moved out of the Feng Family residence many years ago. When the Mo Family Army broke with Great Chu, the Feng Family had publicly announced Feng Zhiyao’s expulsion from the family, severing all ties. His residence in the Capital City had also been vacant for many years. Besides, who didn’t know by now that Third Young Master Feng was Prince Ding’s confidant?
Feng Zhiyao nodded, "Thank you, Princess Consort."
"Prince... Princess Consort..." Feng Zhiyao glanced at Ye Li and Mo Xiuyao, finally unable to hold back any longer. He had rushed back to the Capital City for this very reason; he couldn’t wait a moment longer. Seeing the usually suave and dashing Third Young Master Feng so uncharacteristically hesitant and red-faced, Ye Li couldn’t help but cover her mouth to hide a smile. Looking at Feng Zhiyao seriously, she said, "You can rest assured. She is, after all, the Empress of a nation, and she has the Hua Family backing her. Whoever ascends the throne will only treat her with the utmost respect."
Feng Zhiyao’s expression stiffened. He hesitated for a moment before saying, "I want to see her. I implore the Princess Consort to grant this."
Ye Li glanced sidelong at Mo Xiuyao, who raised an eyebrow, saying, "Ah-Li can decide over this petty matter herself."
Ye Li thought for a moment, then said to Feng Zhiyao, "The palace is under heavy guard right now. Please be patient. I will have someone make arrangements, but... I must first obtain her consent." Ye Li certainly knew what Feng Zhiyao wanted, but if the Empress didn’t agree, Feng Zhiyao going rashly would only cause trouble for both of them. Ye Li couldn’t be sure if the Empress had any feelings for Feng Zhiyao, or if those feelings were strong enough for her to abandon her responsibilities and status. Feng Zhiyao hesitated, wanting to object, but seeing Ye Li’s earnest expression, he could only nod. "Thank you, Princess Consort."
As if sensing Feng Zhiyao’s reluctance, Ye Li sighed softly. "Matters of affection are hard to judge as right or wrong. We all know you care for her, but... if she doesn’t need this concern from you, then your current intentions are not helping her, but rather adding to her troubles. Do you understand?"
Feng Zhiyao remained silent. Perhaps, deep down, he didn’t believe the possibility that the Empress might not need his help at all. But... she was the Empress, a mother to the nation. Even if she had no feelings for Mo Jingqi, it didn’t change the fact that she was the Empress of Great Chu, the future Empress Dowager. Even if Mo Jingli ascended the throne, he would have to respectfully address her as Imperial Sister-in-Law. And now, the Tenth Prince, who was about to ascend the throne, was only seven years old. It was precisely when he needed someone to support him. Would she leave with him? For a moment, Feng Zhiyao suddenly felt a wave of panic and unease.
Seeing his rarely troubled expression, Ye Li sighed softly in her heart. The word ’love’ was indeed the most tormenting. Someone like Feng Zhiyao, naturally unrestrained and extraordinarily accomplished, should have lived a carefree and uninhibited life. Unfortunately, he had stumbled over this word ’love’. He had been obstinately devoted for so many years. If Han Mingyue’s obsession with Su Zuidie evoked hatred, then Feng Zhiyao’s deep affection for the Empress could only make one sigh with regret and helplessness.
"Don’t think too much about it," Ye Li said softly with a smile.
Feng Zhiyao forced a smile. "Thank you for the reminder, Princess Consort."
"Prince, Princess Consort, Second Young Master Leng and Madam Leng are here," Zhuo Jing reported from outside the door.
Mo Xiuyao raised an eyebrow. "What are they doing here at this time?"
Leng Haoyu’s laughter rang out from outside the door. "The Emperor has passed away, and many businesses have been forced to close. Isn’t this subordinate idle with nothing to do?" Many businesses under Leng Haoyu’s name involved establishments like brothels, taverns, and gambling dens. With the Emperor’s passing and the entire nation in mourning, these businesses naturally had to cease operations. Thus, Leng Haoyu, finding himself at leisure, brought his son and wife to Prince Ding’s Mansion for a visit.
Pulling Murong Ting into the study, he spotted Feng Zhiyao sitting to one side. Leng Haoyu chuckled, "Oh? Isn’t this Third Young Master Feng? It’s been a while. This... demeanor of yours... isn’t looking too good, is it?"
And indeed, he didn’t. Feng Zhiyao had galloped all the way, and without resting or tidying himself up, had gone straight into the study for discussions. When his spirits were high, he looked fine, but now that he had relaxed, even his red robes seemed to have dimmed somewhat. Although Leng Haoyu always liked to trade barbs with Feng Zhiyao, he was sensible enough not to poke at his sore spot now. After sitting down, he looked at Feng Zhiyao and said in a low voice, "Rest assured, she’s fine. At a time like this, no one would dare to slight her." With the new Emperor yet to be enthroned, the previous Emperor deceased, and the Empress Dowager and Noble Consort Liu ordered to be buried with the late Emperor, the Empress was effectively in charge within the palace. No one with any sense would dare to cause trouble for the Empress at this juncture.
Feng Zhiyao nodded and responded with a faint smile, "Thank you."
Leng Haoyu pursed his lips and said nothing more. He had no particular opinion of the Empress, but seeing Feng Zhiyao’s fruitless devotion for over a decade, he sometimes couldn’t help but feel indignant on his friend’s behalf. But then he’d recall the immense time and effort he himself had spent wooing his own wife, and could only sigh that Feng Zhiyao was even unluckier than he had been.
