The Beloved Concubine of the Eastern Palace (book 2)

Chapter 312 - How to Present It

"Who?" Fang Yun frowned, pondering. "I could mention it to the Emperor, but it wouldn't be beneficial for either of us."

Liu Qin's desire to join the army stemmed from both a patriotic spirit and ambitions for achievements.

If she were to have Pei Yao place him in the military, it would appear self-serving from the start, which wouldn't be ideal.

The ambitious Yang family was a prime example of this.

Unexpectedly, Liu Qin shook his head and offered an unexpected suggestion.

"It's the Duchess of Duke Qin's household."

"The Duchess of Duke Qin?" Fang Yun was surprised.

Though they had spoken briefly at the New Year's Eve banquet, their relationship wasn't close enough to warrant such assistance.

Seeing her confusion, Liu Qin explained.

"You're likely aware that while the first battle wasn't a defeat, General Huo Mingyi lost an arm. His condition is actually more severe; he's gravely injured and likely won't survive. To maintain morale, Duke Qin downplayed the situation, only reporting the loss of his arm."

"Is that true? Did the Duchess of Duke Qin tell you this?" Fang Yun frowned.

Liu Qin nodded. "She likely received a confidential letter. She reached out to me, hoping I could relay her plea to you. She wants you to speak to the Emperor to allow her to visit the northern army to care for her son."

Given the current situation, Huo Mingyi, having secured the first victory, couldn't return to the capital to recuperate. A general's departure might destabilize the troops' morale.

The Duchess wanted to visit to see her son one last time.

Fang Yun understood Liu Qin's plan.

She would advocate for the Duchess, allowing her to travel to the front lines. Meanwhile, Liu Qin would quietly enlist without publicizing it. Once in the camp, he would receive guidance, enabling him to establish a presence without undue hardships.

It was indeed a shortcut.

"Very well, I'll speak to the Emperor. There's no guarantee of success, but if it fails, you must plan your next steps."

After pondering, Fang Yun agreed.

Though Liu Qin was young, he was talented. Even if his initial intentions were self-serving, his patriotic heart remained.

Fang Yun didn't find these plans shameful.

Many officials entered the court for fame and accomplishments, but as long as they genuinely served the country and its people, they were good officials.

The Liu family stayed for half an hour before leaving, as men weren't allowed to linger in the inner palace.

Back in Yuzhang Palace, Fang Yun contemplated how to present this matter.

"The people of Zhongcui Palace are truly tiresome!" Yanwei's voice drifted in from outside. "Always probing for information, like dogs chasing bones!"

Yanwei's angry figure appeared at the doorway.

Qingrong, massaging Fang Yun's shoulders, laughed.

"Were you supposed to get tea and come back fuming? Did you eat the hot coals in the teahouse?"

"You're just mocking me!" Yanwei retorted, handing the tea to Fang Yun before explaining.

"Your Highness, you don't know. I went to the teahouse and saw someone gossiping. Upon closer inspection, it turned out to be a sweeping eunuch from Zhongcui Palace, asking our gatekeeper about the Liu family's visit. Aren't they annoying?"

Listening to Yanwei, Fang Yun chuckled.

"You're well aware of Yang Fei's nature. She meddles where she shouldn't, wanting control over the entire harem but neglecting her own son."

"Indeed. I saw the Third Prince a few days ago. He looked so frail and listless. It's pitiful," Yanwei sighed.

Fang Yun sipped her tea. "A mother's love should match the Emperor's care for his children, but Yang Fei falls short."

With a slight pause, Fang Yun knew how to present her case to Pei Yao.

The next morning, she headed to Jingqian Palace, hoping to catch Pei Yao at a free moment.

"Your Majesty," she greeted him.

"Rise, come in," Pei Yao said, looking up from his desk.

Fang Yun approached obediently. "You've been very busy, and I've avoided disturbing you. Seeing you had a little free time, I made some soup. You've lost weight and need nourishment."

She gestured to Qingrong, who brought in a pot of pigeon soup, and Fang Yun served a bowl herself.

Pei Yao accepted it and, after tasting, looked puzzled.

"This doesn't taste like your palace chef's work."

"Is it not good?" Fang Yun asked, embarrassed. "I made it myself, thinking it would be close to the usual taste with some guidance."

Seeing her embarrassment, Pei Yao found her endearing.

To be honest, the flavor was indeed slightly off, but the effort was genuine.

Concubines who never touched kitchen utensils suddenly presenting exquisite dishes was usually a facade. Pei Yao appreciated Fang Yun's authentic gesture.

"It's good. I was just surprised at the different taste," he reassured her. "Sit. Let the servants handle such tasks. You're weak; don't expose yourself to kitchen smoke."

"I'm glad you don't mind," Fang Yun smiled. "Oh, the Fourth Prince doesn't mind either. I've been making some food for him, and he appreciates it."

"No son dislikes his mother's cooking. It's naturally the best," Pei Yao said warmly.

"I worry about his weak health, trying to do more for him. But you're the same, not taking care of yourself and getting thinner. I worry about both of you every day," she said, her concern evident.

Pei Yao felt warmth at her words.

"I worry about you two as well. You're weak, and so is the Fourth Prince. How have you been managing the recent cold?"

"We're well," Fang Yun nodded. "Seeing the Fourth Prince healthy today reminded me of the New Year's Eve banquet when I met Duchess Qin. It's quite touching."

Pei Yao looked up. "What happened?"

"I envied her for having three healthy sons, hoping the Fourth Prince would grow strong. She envied me for being able to be with my son daily, even if he's weaker. She's far from her sons, not knowing their well-being."

Fang Yun's eyes showed sympathy and sorrow.

"Though I'm pleased with the battle's outcome, hearing about General Huo Mingyi's arm, I feel for Duchess Qin. She must be heartbroken not being able to care for her injured son."