Worry engulfs you as you leave the Imperial Infirmary. This case is even more complicated that you thought! You planned to visit the pharmacy and inquire about the medicine, but you're afraid of being seen leaving the palace. After the poison in the painting incident, you could hardly be accused of paranoia. Suddenly you hear child bawling. You follow the sound and find 14th Prince in the Long Corridor standing helpless in the face of the Princess He Ning's tears.
14th Prince: You can have anything you want, except for the cricket in my hand!
The princess pouts theatrically and continues to bawl her eyes out. Watching the 14th Prince squirm is very amusing, but you decide walk over and rescue him
Xiu Ying: Shall I give her a hug?
14th Prince: [Hesitating] I wouldn't if I were you. She looks sweet but she's actually quite vicious and scratches like a cat!
Just as he finishes speaking, Princess He Ning lands another scratch on his handsome features, making him even more reluctant to hand her over.
Xiu Ying: Relax 14th Prince, I'm nothing like you.
Stuffing your package into his hands, you happily take the princess into your arms. Gradually the prince's worried look is replaced by one of the wonderment, and the little princess who was so upset just moments before is laughing happily at your silly jokes.
14th Prince: [Sighing] Well, there you are. I thought no one could handle Princess He Ning... I really thought she was going to hurt you.
After a few moments He Ning's wet-nurse arrives and collects her. She lets go of you reluctantly. 14th Prince seems lost for words.
14th Prince: [Weighing the package in his hands] What's this? It doesn't smell very nice.
You quickly take it back. His curiosity is piqued, and it give you an idea.
Xiu Ying: [Smiling] 14th Prince, I have a favor to ask you.
14th Prince: Your dazzling smile is making me very uneasy. A favor? What kind of favor?
You stuff your package back in his hands and ask him to take it to the Goodwill Pharmacy and ask them what's inside.
14th Prince: Oh, is that all? No problem. I'll take it there myself.
You can't believe the 14th Prince agreed to do it easily. You're surprised and moved by his gesture. Do you want to ask him why?
Xiu Ying: [Astonished] 14th Prince, you didn't ask me why I want to know what's inside the package?
14th Prince: [Twinkling eyes] There's nothing to ask. It's just a small favor... and if I do it for you. YOU will owe ME a favor.
You agree, somewhat reluctantly. It seems people like to have you in their debt. Fu Heng for one, and now the 14th Prince.
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INEVITABLE ARROGANCE
To celebrate the happy occasion of Consort Zhuang's pregnancy, the Emperor has announced special arrangements for this year's Mid-Autumn Festival. Few of the palace women feel much like celebrating. The Noble Consort has been relegated to her quarters, and her complexion is definitely showing signs of fatigue. Since falling pregnant and securing the affections of the Emperor, Consort Zhuang has become increasingly haughty. Everyone in the palace holds their breath, waiting for her next outburst.
Noble Consort: [Smiling coldly] If it's a girl that will be the end of it. But if it's a boy... however will we cope?
Consort Rong: Pregnancy has inflamed Consort Zhuang's pride. We just have to get used to it. [Looks at you] Observe My Lady's gentle manner. Far more pleasing.
It is early. The Empress Dowager and Emperor are yet to arrive. Your thoughts are with Shu Xian who remains locked up in her room. You wonder why Consort Rong would bring up your name. It irritates you that Consort Rong thought to drag you into this conversation. Your instincts tell you to run, but instead you smile blithely and hold your tongue.
Consort Rong: You have always been close to Shu Xian. You must have been very upset when you heard the news. Surely you harbor some resentment towards Consort Zhuang?
Xiu Ying: The Emperor has made his decision. There's no point in further discussion. Correct me if I'm wrong, but it sounds like you think the Emperor has made an error of judgement?
Keeping a cool head at times like this is essential. Your words were pointed, but Consort Rong retains her composure and casually changes the subject. You laugh inwardly. At that moment Consort Zhuang enters, surrounded by gaggle of maids, many more than those who attend to either the Noble Consort or Consort Rong. On entering the hall, Consort Zhuang point out various shortcomings in decor and layout, as member of the Household Department bow and scrape their apologies on the floor.
Consort Zhuang: [Smiling] Forgive me, gentle ladies, but this golden light is hurting my eyes. The Emperor's love is over whelming. Truly we are helpless in its power.
Noble Consort: [Skeptically] Indeed, you cast an imposing shadow, Consort Zhuang. Even the Chief of the Household Department bows down before you like a dog.
Consort Zhuang: That is not my intention, sister. I am in a delicate state. One false move and I could hurt my child.
Noble Consort: Do we HAVE to hear about your pregnancy? You're not the first woman to ever have a child.
Consort Zhuang: [Concealing a smile] You are mistaken, my sister. See how many sisters I have, and yet hardly a nephew in sight!
Her words struck a nerve with many present. Some forgot themselves in anger, and raise their voices in indignation.
Consort Zhuang: Have I offended you? The Emperor favors me, it is true. But I always think harmony is important in any house. Never mind. I will spare your feelings... and take my pride next to you, My Lady.
Upon which, Consort Zhuang walks towards you.
Xiu Ying: [Standing quickly] You should take my seat, my Lady. It is only proper.
Consort Zhuang: [Sighing] We can sit together. I'm clearly not welcome here. You're the only one who will speak to me these days.
Intended to elicit sympathy, Consort Zhuang's words only succeed in inflaming her listeners further. You don't know what to make of her behavior. Perhaps she is trying provoke to another incident.
