The Enchanting Imperial Concubine (Book 2)

Chapter 265 - Taboos

Taking advantage of her pregnancy, Ye Yun successfully avoided a busy and exhausting New Year's celebration. The Emperor valued her pregnancy, and no one dared to make her work too hard. If anything were to happen, no one could bear the responsibility.

Before she knew it, the eighth day of the New Year arrived, and the palace had settled down after the lively festivities, becoming much quieter. Now, Ye Yun was five months along, and she had begun to feel the baby move in the past couple of days. Although it had happened several times already, Ye Yun still found it fascinating.

In two lifetimes, this was her first experience of creating life. She was truly looking forward to this child.

Ning Chen shared her excitement. Once he had finished with his tasks, he inquired, "What has Ming Xiuyuan been up to these past few days? Is she eating well and dressed properly? Has she mentioned needing anything?"

Yuan Jiu, who kept a close eye on things, was prepared in case the Emperor asked, and he responded fluently, "Your Majesty, Xiuyuan hasn't been out much these days. She's eating and dressing well, but she's particularly fond of dried radish lately and asks for a small plate with every meal."

"Dried radish?" Ning Chen asked, puzzled.

Yuan Jiu explained, "It's made from diced radish that has been dried in the sun and drizzled with sesame oil. Xiuyuan now wants to chew on a couple with every meal."

Ning Chen frowned. "That doesn't sound very nutritious. Could it be that the food in the kitchen isn't to her taste?"

"Your Majesty, rest assured. I inquired with the kitchen early this morning and also consulted the physician. They said that pregnant women often have different cravings. Furthermore, Xiuyuan isn't only eating this; she enjoys the other dishes as well," Yuan Jiu replied.

Hearing this, Ning Chen nodded, his expression relaxing somewhat. After exhaling a sigh of relief, he stood up. "Let's go to Yuxiu Pavilion and check on her; I haven't visited in a while."

Yuan Jiu quickly nodded and instructed someone to prepare a sedan chair. "Xiuyuan should have just woken up from her nap. If the Emperor goes now, it'll be the perfect time to chat."

Ning Chen walked outside with his hands behind his back, and upon hearing this, he narrowed his eyes slightly. "You seem quite attentive to Ming Xiuyuan."

"Xiuyuan is pregnant, so I dare not be careless," Yuan Jiu replied respectfully.

However, he did not expect Ning Chen to suddenly look over, his voice cold. "What about Fang Jieyu's pregnancy? What has she eaten and done recently?"

Yuan Jiu's face turned pale, and he hurriedly knelt down. "I deserve to die!"

"Indeed, you do." Ning Chen's expression darkened. "I may not ask, but Fang Jieyu carries my bloodline, and that cannot be overlooked. If there's another incident, you may as well give up your position as chief eunuch."

"I know my crime, and I ask for the Emperor's forgiveness. I will be more careful and will not dare to neglect my duties again!"

At this moment, Yuan Jiu was drenched in cold sweat, his face as pale as paper. He realized he had indeed been negligent.

Because Ming Xiuyuan had gained favor and the Emperor often inquired about her, he hadn't paid attention to Fang Jieyu's situation. Yet, Fang Jieyu carried the Emperor's bloodline as well; while the Emperor could be indifferent, the servants could not afford to be careless.

Yuan Jiu had committed a major taboo this time.

"Alright, get up. Later, send some things to Fang Jieyu. You handle it," Ning Chen waved his hand.