The Beloved Concubine of the Eastern Palace (book 2)

Chapter 325 - Found

"Duke Qin's ability is unquestioned, but I never expected Shangyang to use even women and children as soldiers," Pei Yao said, his eyes shadowed under long lashes, hiding his true feelings.

Fang Yun understood his concern.

Shangyang's willingness to involve civilians indicated widespread support for the war, posing a greater challenge to Great Qi.

"Shangyang's boldness in declaring war suggests internal stability and preparedness. Though I'm no expert in state affairs, I know our emperors are praised for their benevolence. Shangyang's tactics might win battles but will lose the people's support," Fang Yun said calmly, then paused.

"So why not use this to strengthen our unity against them? Our citizens, seeing such treachery, will rally even more. Few will willingly sacrifice themselves for a ruler who treats them as expendable pawns."

Pei Yao, calming down, realized Fang Yun's insight.

Sighing, he squeezed her hand. "Zhaozhao should be my strategist."

It was a jest, but his anger had abated.

Fang Yun, relieved, teased, "You're always teasing me. Let's clean up this ink before it stains my new clothes."

"Alright, alright. My fault. I'll let you take that box of gems from the treasury," Pei Yao said, placating her.

They stayed for lunch, as Pei Yao wanted company in his bad mood.

At Fengxuan Palace, Jiaofang Hall:

"Your Majesty, please eat. The situation at Jingqian Palace seems resolved. I heard Zhao Fei is lunching with the Emperor," Tiamo said, entering lightly.

The Empress set down her book, rubbing her temples.

"Zhao Fei is favored and can calm the Emperor. Jingqian Palace knows to find her."

"Don't worry, Your Majesty. Perhaps the servants were simply confused and went to Yuzhang Palace," Minsi suggested carefully, fearing the Empress might be upset.

The Empress had prepared to visit the angry Emperor but stayed put when she heard Fuxi went to Yuzhang Palace.

To their surprise, she was unbothered.

"I'm glad for the help. Calming the Emperor isn't easy; one wrong word can ruin you. More consorts like Zhao Fei would lighten my load."

The Empress was practical. She didn't expect romantic affection from Pei Yao and appreciated Fang Yun's support.

Seeing the Empress's genuine indifference, the maids relaxed, saying no more.

Fang Yun returned from Jingqian Palace after lunch, leaving Pei Yao to his duties.

Back at Yuzhang Palace, she called for Yuanhe.

"The northern camp is unstable; I'm worried about Liu Qin."

"Should I send a message to the camp?" Yuanhe suggested, understanding her concern.

Fang Yun sighed, shaking her head. "No, let's wait. The Emperor is closely monitoring the camp."

If Pei Yao discovered her secret support for Liu Qin, it would undermine her plans.

Liu Qin's pure intentions would be tainted if seen as seeking glory, affecting his future achievements.

Each person has their path. Since choosing this risky one, impatience is not an option.

Seeing Fang Yun's frustration, Yuanhe brought new information.

"Your Highness, I have something else to report."

"What is it?" Fang Yun asked quietly.

Yuanhe's words surprised her.

"Your Highness, we've found your cousin, Chen Xun," Yuanhe announced.

"We found him?" Qingrong echoed, her excitement palpable.

Years ago, Fang Yun's aunt, Song Qiuhua, was manipulated by Yang Fei into falsely accusing Fang Yun of using witchcraft against the Third Prince. Had Fang Yun not uncovered the plot, she would have been charged with harming a royal child. To this day, Song Qiuhua's whereabouts remain unknown.

Yang Fei had controlled Song Qiuhua by holding her son, Chen Xun, Fang Yun's cousin, hostage.

After so long, Fang Yun assumed Chen Xun, a frail man with a weak heart, was dead. To hear he was found was a shock.

"Yes, while you were at Jingqian Palace, the news arrived. He was found," Yuanhe explained.

"Due to the war, people are unsettled. He was begging in Huizhou, but fled to the capital when he couldn't survive. Caught stealing, he claimed to be your cousin. Afraid of mistakenly punishing a royal relation, the authorities investigated, and our agents found him."

Hearing this, Yanwei spat in disgust.

"How shameless! His mother tried to harm you, and now he dares to use your name!"

"Now that we have him, he can testify against Yang Fei. She was protected last time by her maid taking the blame. We couldn't touch her then!" Qingrong added angrily.

Fang Yun's eyes were cold as she considered. "Keep him under guard outside the palace. Make sure nothing happens to him and he doesn't escape. Interrogate him thoroughly to see what he knows before bringing him here."

"Yes, Your Highness. I've already given those instructions," Yuanhe replied quickly.

Fang Yun dismissed him, pondering how to use Chen Xun to create a scandal.

This seemingly minor issue could be turned against Yang Fei, making her suffer once more.