The Beloved Concubine of the Eastern Palace (book 2)

Chapter 355 - Never Suffer in Vain

Before coming, Fang Yun had anticipated this situation.

Yang Fei wasn't foolish. She knew she could bully lower-ranked consorts without issue, but even then, harming someone's close ally wasn't without consequence.

By hitting Song Liangyuan, Yang Fei was indirectly challenging Fang Yun. As a favored consort, Fang Yun wouldn't let such an insult slide.

Yang Fei likely felt confident because of her family's contributions to the ongoing war between Great Qi and Shangyang, making Pei Yao more lenient toward her.

To maintain this leniency, Fang Yun would have to endure some humiliation.

But Fang Yun wasn't one to suffer in silence. Whether for future gains or immediate retribution, she would ensure she didn't suffer in vain.

Listening to Pei Yao's words, Fang Yun softly replied, "I understand your position, Your Majesty. But my anger isn't just about Yang Fei hitting Song Liangyuan without reason. I'm infuriated that she uses her family's power to bully consorts in the harem. It's like she's using the Nanning Marquis's influence to pressure you."

Taking a deep breath, Fang Yun continued, "You've always treated me well, and I've never been arrogant because of your favor. But Yang Fei's actions are corrupting the harem's atmosphere, suggesting that consorts with powerful families can do as they please."

Pei Yao understood her meaning, feeling even more disdain for Yang Fei.

"I know you understand the big picture and follow the rules. Yang Fei's ambition is clear. But for now, I must ask you to bear this. Once the war is over, I'll ensure justice."

Pei Yao knew Yang Fei's attack on Song Liangyuan was a deliberate affront to Fang Yun. If Fang Yun hadn't intervened, he wouldn't have cared.

It was a harsh reality that an unfavored consort with no influential family wouldn't attract his concern.

Seeing Pei Yao's response, Fang Yun sighed and softened her tone.

"I haven't suffered much. The real victim is Song Liangyuan. You know it's hard for me to care for two children alone. Song Liangyuan often helps, and both the Second Princess and Fourth Prince adore her. Her kindness is evident.

Last time, she caught smallpox because she was implicated by me. If not for Xie Meiren's scheme to harm me and the children, she wouldn't have suffered. Now, after recovering, she's been humiliated again. I can't stand it. In the harem, I respect the Empress most, followed by Song Liangyuan, who is like a sister to me."

Fang Yun emphasized Song Liangyuan's virtues and their close relationship.

Pei Yao understood Fang Yun's message and responded as planned.

"Indeed, Song Liangyuan deserves proper compensation and comfort. What do you suggest?"

"Since you ask, Your Majesty, I'll be direct. In the harem, women without favor or powerful families rely on higher ranks for stability. Song Liangyuan and I entered the palace to serve you in the same year. She has a proper official background and deserves this recognition."

Fang Yun didn't beat around the bush, aiming for the best outcome.

Pei Yao agreed. "Alright, then let's promote her to Lingyi." 

"Thank you, Your Majesty, on behalf of Song Lingyi," Fang Yun nodded.

Then she thoughtfully added, "With Song Lingyi promoted, Yang Fei might feel uneasy. If she's unsettled, the Nanning Marquis's household will be too. Perhaps you should visit her."

Looking out for Pei Yao's position, Fang Yun ensured he wasn't left in a difficult situation.

Pei Yao appreciated her gesture, gently patting her hand. "I understand. Don't worry."

The matter was settled, and Fang Yun shifted the conversation. "The weather is cooling as autumn turns to winter. I started making two inner garments for you. They aren't ready yet, but they will be in a few days."

"For years now, you've made my sleeping clothes, and I've grown unaccustomed to those from the tailoring bureau. If you make my inner garments too, their seamstresses will have no work left," Pei Yao joked.

Despite his words, he truly appreciated the personal touch Fang Yun put into making his clothes.

Fang Yun laughed. "Then you should pay me for my work. I'll make your outer robes too."

"I love your handiwork but care more about your well-being. Making inner and sleeping garments is one thing, but outer robes would exhaust you. I'd be worried," Pei Yao's eyes softened, much of his earlier stress dissipating.

As they conversed, Hong Zheng returned.

"Your Majesty, the physician has seen Song Liangyuan. She's still waiting outside. What should we do?"

Pei Yao nodded. "She should rest. Also, announce that Song Liangyuan is promoted to Lingyi for her years of service."

"Yes, Your Majesty," Hong Zheng replied and left.

Outside, Song Liangyuan, hearing the news from Hong Zheng, was shocked.

"I've been promoted?"

"Indeed, congratulations, Lingyi," Hong Zheng smiled. "You were wronged, and Zhao Fei and the Emperor decided you shouldn't suffer in vain."

This subtly indicated Zhao Fei's role in securing her promotion.

Song Lingyi was stunned. She had escalated the situation expecting Zhao Fei to use it against Yang Fei, not realizing she would benefit directly.

Though not yet a consort, being a Lingyi was a significant step for someone of modest background and little favor. It was just one step away from being a consort.

Suppressing her confusion, Song Lingyi slowly walked, waiting nearby for Fang Yun.

Sure enough, after a short while, Fang Yun emerged from Jingqian Palace.

They met on the path.

"Your Highness," Song Lingyi bowed, "I..."

"I know what you're wondering," Fang Yun smiled. "Yang Fei, emboldened by her family's military contributions, humiliated you to insult me. I remember this grudge, but now isn't the time for revenge. For now, I've had you promoted; it will benefit you later."

Fang Yun had plans she didn't share with Song Lingyi, given their scale.

Song Lingyi, understanding a bit from Fang Yun's words, didn't ask further.

Meanwhile, at Zhongcui Palace, Yang Fei grew uneasy upon hearing about Song Lingyi's promotion.

Her anxiety persisted until news arrived that Pei Yao would dine at Zhongcui Palace that evening.