Wen Fei's childbirth had greatly depleted her vitality. Ning Chen decreed that she should observe a double confinement period, which spared her from the New Year's fatigue.
As December began, things became even busier with year-end tasks piling up.
The New Year's palace banquet could not be missed. Although the Empress Dowager's health had not fully recovered, she finally agreed to meet people.
During this time, Cining Palace received several letters from the Duke. The elder brother was concerned about his younger sister, and the maternal uncle was concerned about his own mother. Ning Chen naturally did not stop it.
Although he did not know what was written in the letters, the Empress Dowager seemed to have been persuaded and had some enlightenment.
First, she claimed that she was confused due to illness. The rewards previously given to the Eldest Prince and Wen Fei had been managed by Fuzhuo. This way, the modest rewards could be explained.
Immediately after, she generously sent a large number of items and also sent Fuzhuo to see the child.
Later, she sent a fox fur scarf to Jiu Chen Palace, saying it was made during her illness and expressing concern that the Emperor might catch a cold in the cold weather.
The situation became even more interesting when Yuxiu Pavilion also received rewards.
The Empress Dowager praised Ye Yun for her kindness, generosity, and broad-mindedness, stating that her donation of ginseng had saved Wen Fei and her child's lives.
She even said, "The word 'bright' also signifies deep moral principles. The Ye family has been loyal and virtuous for generations. Ming Meiren is truly a model for women."
This was somewhat excessive.
What model for women? That should be the Empress.
Anyway, Ye Yun did not dare accept such praise. She quickly changed her clothes and went to Cining Palace to express her gratitude, downplaying her role and letting it be known throughout the palace.
Of course, she could not afford to ignore this, as her position was precarious. If the Empress wanted to harm her, it would not be difficult.
Fortunately, the Empress was not foolish. Although she was uncomfortable, she realized that the Empress Dowager was trying to annoy her and did not take further action.
Instead, she also rewarded Wen Fei and Ye Yun.
With these two in the forefront, Ning Chen had no choice but to follow suit and also issue rewards.
Additionally, Chen Wanrong, who was originally to be confined for three months, was released due to her merits in attending to the illness.
As the New Year approached, it was not appropriate for there to be too much discord between mother and child.
In mid-December, news came from outside the palace that Ye Zhe had returned to the capital. Although he missed Chu Shi's birthday, at least he was back.
The Ye family was gradually recovering, and Ning Chen had also given some rewards for Chu Shi's birthday, showing considerable respect.
The day after Ye Zhe's return, it started to snow.
"Snow heralds a good year. It seems that next year will be a good one," Ye Yun said, standing on the veranda.
Lu Zhi brought out a scarf to tie around her. "The scenery is beautiful, but you should also be cautious of catching a cold. I heard that Chen Wanrong fell ill."
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The Enchanting Imperial Concubine (Book 1)
Historical FictionNote: This is a translated novel by me. Title: 贵妃她千娇百媚 Ye Yun was supposed to be the prince's concubine, but due to the sudden death of the late emperor, her entry into the palace was delayed for over a year. She entered the palace with the new bat...
