The Beloved Concubine of the Eastern Palace (book 2)

Chapter 316 - Zhao Fei is the First Again

"The Emperor loves the Fourth Prince, and with the Empress overseeing the birthday celebration, everything will surely be well-planned and perfect," Fang Yun said, her smile gentle and obedient.

"I have no objections. I only hope the celebration can be simple. With the ongoing war at the border, it's best to save where we can, providing more resources for the soldiers."

Hearing this, Pei Yao nodded seriously.

"You're always so considerate. We'll do it your way."

"I have one more request," Fang Yun said, her expression sincere as she looked up at him.

"The Fourth Prince lacks nothing. What if we convert the birthday gifts into donations for the military? It would be a gesture of his support for the soldiers."

Pei Yao was moved by her suggestion, his gaze softening.

"Let's do that, but we should still keep some clothes and practical items for the child. The rest—gems, gold, and jewels—can be donated."

"Thank you, Your Majesty," Fang Yun's smile widened. "Please inform the Empress about this. While it's my wish, she is overseeing the arrangements."

This would prevent misunderstandings and maintain harmony.

Pei Yao appreciated her understanding and respect for protocol, liking her even more.

He knew which concubines were genuinely virtuous and which ones pretended.

Smiling, he said, "I don't know what to say. You're such a kind soul, which is my fortune."

"Zhaozhao?"

The new nickname surprised Fang Yun.

Seeing her reaction, Pei Yao's gaze grew even more tender.

"Do you know how your title came about?" he asked softly.

Fang Yun shook her head. She had thought it signified her pure heart.

Pei Yao explained gently, "It's from the poem, 'Shining like the moon in the clouds, this intent is directed to you, Zhaozhao.'"

His words, like a gentle breeze, touched her deeply.

Looking at the man she had known for years, who had faced life and death with her, Fang Yun couldn't deny her emotions.

She felt her heart flutter.

Though she could control herself, her eyes misted with tears, showing her restrained emotions.

"Why are you crying?" Pei Yao, alarmed, pulled her into his arms, gently wiping her tears. "What's made you sad?"

Fang Yun smiled through her tears, shaking her head.

"I'm not sad, just happy. Happy to know your feelings for me. With your love, I have no regrets."

"That's a foolish thing to say," Pei Yao said softly, pulling her close and letting her lean on his shoulder.

"I know the intrigues of the harem well. I can't always be by your side, but believe me, as long as I'm here, I'll protect you and our children."

It was a sincere promise. As an emperor, he couldn't afford to focus on just one woman. The best he could do was show his preference as much as possible.

That night, Pei Yao stayed in Yuzhang Palace, despite the envy it stirred in others.

Qingrong and Yanwei prepared the bathwater and then left.

In the warm, steamy bath, their shadows intertwined, and the sound of water lingered before finally settling.

When Fang Yun was carried out, wrapped in a thin robe, her skin bore several new marks.

Pei Yao, exhausted, lay down and slept, leaving their clothes scattered.

The next morning, Fang Yun woke up feeling flushed, realizing she was still uncovered. She dressed quickly and called for her attendants.

"Your Highness woke up early today, earlier than usual," Yanwei noted.

"Did the Emperor go to court?" Fang Yun asked as she dressed.

"Yes. He didn't wake you and asked Eunuch Hong to bring you some blood bird's nest for nourishment," Yanwei teased. "The Emperor cares for you."

"Don't tease," Fang Yun smiled. "Let's get ready and go greet the Empress."

Yanwei nodded and got to work.

When Fang Yun arrived at Jiaofang Palace, she found the timing just right.

Stepping out of her sedan, she encountered Wan Liangyuan, who had been confined for three months and was now keeping a low profile.

"Greetings, Zhao Fei," Wan Liangyuan said politely.

"Rise," Fang Yun waved dismissively, not paying her much attention.

Though feeling slighted, Wan Liangyuan had no choice but to follow Fang Yun inside and take her seat.

Having been demoted and confined, she felt less confident.

Sitting next to her, He Lingyi, who had also been punished, was in no mood for pleasantries.

"Look at you, all dejected. Who are you trying to impress early in the morning?" He Lingyi sneered.

He Lingyi now avoided provoking Fang Yun and took out her frustration on Wan Liangyuan.

Fang Yun sipped her tea, watching the exchange.

Last time, He Lingyi had caused Wan Liangyuan's demotion, so Wan Liangyuan was not friendly towards her.

Adjusting her hair, Wan Liangyuan coldly asked Xie Meiren, "Did you hear a dog barking? It sounded like a mad dog, right here. Strange to hear such a thing in the Empress's palace."

"A mad dog indeed. They can't control their barking," Xie Meiren laughed.

He Lingyi, furious, was about to retort when Yang Fei arrived, interrupting her.

Yang Fei, supported by Siqi, entered with a smile, scanning the room.

"Such lively chatter. Zhao Fei is here too. Many must envy you, with the Emperor staying at Yuzhang Palace last night."

Though said playfully, her words were meant to stir resentment.

Fang Yun didn't hesitate, setting down her cup and smiling.

"I wouldn't know about others, but you seem quite envious, Yang Fei."

"You're mistaken, I—"

"Even if you're envious, the Emperor's favor can't be envied," Fang Yun interrupted, leaving Yang Fei momentarily speechless.