The Beloved Concubine of the Eastern Palace (book 2)

Chapter 357 - Reluctant to Relinquish Power

"After wishing for this for years, it seems she's finally got what she wanted. She must be very happy," Fang Yun remarked casually to her two maids after sending off Physician Zeng.

Qingrong smiled, "Indeed. She's probably hiding it now, waiting for the pregnancy to stabilize before announcing it."

"The Empress's pregnancy has reached three months, and Madam Hua has already returned to her residence. In a few days, morning greetings will resume. Let's see how she hides it then," Yanwei snorted.

Fang Yun's lips curved slightly. "Regardless of her actions, remember to keep this a secret. Act as if her pregnancy is stable and will result in a healthy birth. Not a word to anyone. Understood?"

"Yes, Your Highness," Qingrong and Yanwei replied seriously.

They knew their lives depended on secrecy.

At Zhongcui Palace, Yang Fei was drinking her pregnancy-stabilizing medicine.

"Your Highness, the Third Prince is here," a maid reported.

Yang Fei frowned, "Why is he here? The physician said I need to rest. Children are too energetic and might disturb me. Have the wet nurse take him to play in the imperial garden."

Since conceiving, Yang Fei had been extra cautious, fearing a repeat of past tragedies.

The maid nodded and left quietly.

The Third Prince, waiting outside with eager anticipation, was disappointed when told his mother was resting and couldn't see him. His face fell, and he quietly let the wet nurse lead him away.

Siqi took the empty bowl, "Your Highness, the physician said your pregnancy is unstable and you must rest during the first three months. I think you should announce this news soon to avoid any accidents."

The Empress had done so, announcing her pregnancy immediately, bringing her mother into the palace for close care, and safely passing the first three months.

While Yang Fei couldn't bring her female relatives into the palace, announcing her pregnancy would eliminate many troubles.

At least some would hesitate to cause issues.

Yang Fei pondered, "I understand. I'll tell the Emperor at the right time."

She preferred to announce it during a joyful moment, like when her brother, Yang Chengyu, achieved another victory.

Siqi didn't press further.

Yang Fei didn't have to wait long. The Empress's residence soon announced that her pregnancy had stabilized, and morning greetings would resume the next day.

The time was adjusted to half an hour later for the Empress's comfort.

The Empress wasn't one to uphold formalities at the cost of her health.

But Yang Fei wasn't pleased. She didn't want to move around with her precious pregnancy.

She decided to announce her own pregnancy at the morning greetings but was pre-empted by the Empress's announcement.

"Since becoming pregnant, I've been tired and lethargic. Managing palace affairs while pregnant is too much. I've decided someone else should share the burden."

The Empress's gaze swept over Yang Fei and Fang Yun before continuing.

"I discussed with the Emperor. At the Mid-Autumn Festival, Yang Fei and Zhao Fei helped me well. They will assist me in managing the six palaces."

Managing palace affairs was an opportunity to wield power and place one's people.

Hearing this, Yang Fei hesitated, her gaze flicking to the Empress's belly.

Fang Yun, beside her, silently observed her reaction, finding it amusing.

Typical of the Yang family, always ambitious, even now reluctant to relinquish power.

Fang Yun stood first. "It's my honor to assist the Empress."

Yang Fei, after a glance at Fang Yun, followed. "I'll follow the Empress's instructions."

The Empress nodded and efficiently divided the tasks.

Fang Yun was responsible for palace allowances and managing the tailoring and laundry departments. Yang Fei got the gardens and storerooms.

They were also given zones within their palaces for personnel management.

The Empress retained control over the most critical areas: meals and medicine, and everything in her palace.

Essentially, the Empress offloaded the less important tasks.

Still, Fang Yun's responsibilities were more significant than Yang Fei's.

After assigning tasks, the Empress dismissed everyone to rest.

Outside, Jin Pin smiled at Fang Yun. "Zhao Fei, the Empress truly trusts you. Managing palace allowances isn't easy, but she entrusted you with it, recognizing your capability. Unlike others, handling mere flowers and grass—what's to manage in late October when everything's withering?"

The First Prince now gets along well with the Second Princess, and the Fourth Prince, being a bit older, also plays with them. The siblings are very close, and with Fang Yun's previous goodwill gestures, Jin Pin has been currying favor with her.

But hearing her words, Yang Fei was naturally displeased. She snorted and shot a sharp look.

"Do you know the meaning of your title, Jin Pin? It implies being prudent and careful. The Emperor's clear reminder seems lost on you. It appears your small household upbringing and lack of education have left you with nothing but flattery."

"I may be uneducated, but I know that a wise bird chooses a good tree," Jin Pin retorted, feeling emboldened by Fang Yun's support.

Yang Fei regarded her as foolish and couldn't be bothered further. She sneered, "Don't come crying when the tree falls and the monkeys scatter."

With that, she turned and left, unwilling to stay outside longer due to her pregnancy.

Once she was gone, Jin Pin fumed. "Zhao Fei, look at her arrogance. Her family has earned a few merits, and she's already getting a swelled head. I can't stand her smug attitude!"

"Let her be. She's riding high now, even daring to strike consorts. She probably doesn't even respect the Empress anymore. What are we compared to that?" Fang Yun sighed, feigning helplessness.

Seeing this, Jin Pin bit her lip and refrained from saying more.