Emperor Chengjing, currently interested in Taoist practices and pleased by Empress Li's praise of the rejuvenation pill's effects, smiled.
"The two Taoists are refining elixirs today, so I didn't summon them. What was your dream about that made you think of having them interpret it?" Emperor Chengjing's question played right into Empress Li's hands.
Empress Li's face showed appropriate concern. "I dreamed of holding a brilliant pearl, tied with a red thread to a flourishing tree. Suddenly, someone appeared, broke the thread, and the pearl fell from my hand, shattering into pieces. I can't help but feel uneasy."
She glanced at the Third Princess and continued softly, "Normally, I wouldn't overthink it, but pearls often symbolize daughters. You know, Yu'er is of marriageable age, and I've been seeking a suitable match for her. The broken thread and shattered pearl make me worry as a mother."
Her words made Emperor Chengjing glance seriously at the Third Princess, who presented herself as obedient and understanding, without a hint of flaw.
Emperor Chengjing, who cherished his relationships with King Ming and the Third Princess, plus the youngest Fifth Prince, took this matter to heart. After a moment of silence, he said, "This dream is indeed troubling. Summon the Taoist to interpret it. If there's an issue, we can seek a solution."
"Thank you, Your Majesty," Empress Li said, pulling the Third Princess to bow together.
Pei Yao observed all this, understanding that Empress Li was moving to address the Third Princess's issue. Otherwise, why would she have such a peculiar dream?
Fang Yun thought the same.
She found it laughably sad that Pei Yao had told everyone about the venomous snakes in her tent, but people seemed to ignore that part, focusing only on her pregnancy.
Whether intentionally or not, it highlighted her current low status.
Empress Li's dream drew attention to the Third Princess, yet Fang Yun's near encounter with deadly snakes was disregarded since she wasn't injured.
Indeed, one must climb higher to be noticed.
But now wasn't the time for such thoughts. She needed to counter Empress Li's move.
If the Third Princess escaped unscathed, it would be too easy for them.
However, in such a grand setting, Fang Yun's low status made it improper for her to speak. So, she glanced at Pei Yao.
Perhaps sensing her thoughts, Pei Yao also looked her way, nodding slightly and giving her a reassuring look.
This indicated he had a plan, putting Fang Yun slightly at ease.
Soon, a Taoist in his thirties entered the tent, following the eunuch guide.
When Empress Li saw that the person who entered was not one of the two elder Taoists, she felt a moment of unease. But recognizing him as their frequent companion, she regained her composure.
"Why aren't the two Taoists here?" Emperor Chengjing asked, puzzled.
The young Taoist bowed. "Your Majesty, the two Masters are currently in seclusion, refining elixirs. Interrupting them would ruin the batch of rejuvenation pills. I heard you needed dream interpretation for Her Majesty, so I came."
Though young, he explained he grew up learning from the Taoists and had been interpreting dreams for over twenty years.
His explanation eased Emperor Chengjing's doubts, replaced by delight.
"They're refining more rejuvenation pills?"
"Yes, Your Majesty. They're using all the materials to make five pills."
Emperor Chengjing was overjoyed, praising the Taoists before allowing the young one to interpret Empress Li's dream.
Empress Li recounted her dream, maintaining a concerned demeanor.
The young Taoist declared, "Empress's dream indeed relates to the Third Princess's marriage."
Empress Li feigned urgent worry but inwardly felt assured.
"Please enlighten me. Is this dream an omen?" she asked.
The Taoist replied clearly, "Rest assured, Empress. This dream is not an ill omen but a helpful warning."
His words changed Empress Li's expression.
As she began to speak, Rui Pin interrupted, "How coincidental! I heard the Empress considered a young man from the Ye family. Doesn't a thriving tree resemble the character for 'Ye'?"
Rui Pin, though unaware of the full context, knew Empress Li favored the Ye family for the Third Princess. She cleverly opposed this.
Predictably, Empress Li's face darkened but she couldn't argue with Rui Pin. Instead, she glared at the Taoist, her tone menacing, "Are you certain? This concerns the Princess's marriage. You can't speak rashly. If unsure, call your Masters."
The Taoist reassured, "I swear it's true."
He reminded Emperor Chengjing that interrupting the Masters would waste months of work on the rejuvenation pills, which needed regular consumption for effectiveness.
This shifted Emperor Chengjing's expression, torn between his daughter's fate and his interests.
"The young Taoist is the top disciple of the Masters. His skills are trustworthy. Don't worry, Empress. There are many suitable matches in the capital besides the Ye family."
Desperate, Empress Li insisted, "But Your Majesty, the Ye family's son is exemplary and honorable. How can he not be suitable?"
Pei Yao's voice interjected, "If the Empress already favors the Ye family, then this dream indeed serves as a warning."
YOU ARE READING
The Beloved Concubine of the Eastern Palace (book 2)
RomantikAuthor: Huatang Xiuge Translator: Me (Xiaobai) 东宫掌娇 Upon entering the Eastern Palace, Fang Yun lived cautiously, burdened by the label of a substitute bride and daughter of a traitor. She knew well that, as a daughter of low birth, she had been cas...
