The Beloved Concubine of the Eastern Palace (book 2)

Chapter 361 - I Promise You

Pei Yao naturally agreed to Fang Yun's suggestion.

"I hadn't thought of it before. Now that she's pregnant, she indeed deserves finer care."

Though Pei Yao wasn't fond of Yang Fei, he was compassionate about his offspring. As long as Yang Fei hadn't committed any wrongdoings, he wasn't inclined to treat her harshly.

"You are busy with state affairs, and it's easy to overlook these palace matters," Fang Yun smiled, then sighed. "I was once a carefree person, but now, managing affairs, I understand the hardships you face."

But this time, Pei Yao didn't comfort her with words. Instead, he squeezed her hand and said gently, "I know managing is hard, but as a consort, you need to learn these things. I want you to do well and learn well. When Wan'er and Ji'er grow up, they will need you to guide them."

Although Pei Yao didn't say the most important thing, Fang Yun saw it in his eyes.

She was a consort now, but in the future, she might advance further.

So Fang Yun obediently nodded, "I understand."

"You've always been wise," Pei Yao patted her hand, then frowned slightly, "You seem thinner."

Fang Yun looked down at her waist, "Maybe it's the clothes."

"No, I think you've really lost weight," Pei Yao shook his head, "These days, managing the six palaces and caring for two children must be tiring. Have some venison for dinner to replenish your strength."

"I don't want stewed meat," Fang Yun pouted like a little girl.

Pei Yao's eyes softened, "Tell the kitchen to make whatever you want."

Given this approval, Fang Yun quickly said, "In winter, lamb is best. Have them boil it in a copper pot, slicing it thinly to dip in the broth. And warm a pot of bayberry wine."

Seeing the sparkle in her eyes, Pei Yao thought she looked like a joyous bird.

And all this happiness was just for a lamb hotpot.

"Alright, whatever you wish," Pei Yao couldn't help but smile.

Dinner was still a long way off, and sitting idly was boring. Pei Yao, having not taken a walk in a while, led Fang Yun to the small garden near Jingqian Palace.

Though not as large as the imperial garden, it was exquisite and peaceful.

They strolled for half an hour before returning.

After washing up and changing clothes, dinner was ready.

The maids had set up the meal on the outer room's table.

The copper pot bubbled with rich, milky bone broth, its aroma enticing. Thin slices of lamb, dipped and cooked, tasted fresh and delicious.

The clear, sweet bayberry wine cut through the richness perfectly.

As porcelain cups clinked, Fang Yun's charming laughter filled the air.

Half-drunk from the wine, Fang Yun began to talk about her birth mother, Concubine Song, like telling a story.

"My mother's hands were deft. Her embroidery was exceptional, and she made simple fragrances and delicious dishes, especially her peach blossom cakes."

She picked up the wine jug, refilling their cups.

"In our courtyard, there was a peach tree. Every year, my mother would pick the blossoms to make peach blossom cakes. Your Majesty, they were the best I've ever tasted. I'm not very good at making them, but I told Qingrong we should try making some from the palace peach blossoms next year."

"Would you like to try them too?" Fang Yun smiled, raising her cup.

In her eyes, Pei Yao saw hidden pain and a cautious hope for approval.

"You're drunk, no more wine," Pei Yao gently took the cup from her. "Prepare a bath, then rest."

"Yes," Fang Yun rose but stumbled, nearly falling.

"Careful!" Pei Yao quickly caught her.

Sighing softly, he carried her to the inner room.

Just past the curtain, Fang Yun wrapped her arms around his neck, pressing her face to his jaw.

"Your Majesty, I only have you. Wan'er is obedient, and Ji'er, though weak, is clever and cute. I was never loved by my father, and I hope you, even with a legitimate son and more heirs, won't forget my two children."

A trembling voice and a tear fell, wetting Pei Yao's jaw.

In that moment, he felt how fragile and pitiable she was.

Was she offering to set up a small kitchen for Yang Fei and bringing him sachets made with the children out of fear of losing favor, worried her children would suffer if she fell out of favor?

"Don't say such foolish things," Pei Yao tightened his hold on her. "We've been through hardships together. I promised to protect you and the children, and I will. Even if Yang Fei is pregnant, she won't surpass you. I promise."

Fang Yun, seemingly dazed, looked up at him with teary eyes.

Then, without a word, she hugged his neck tightly.

_____

"The timing of Yang Fei's pregnancy surprised me. With her brother's frequent achievements, if she bears another child, regardless of gender, the position of Noble Consort is inevitable. Only Zhao Fei's unwavering favor can balance her influence, so I don't have to confront her directly."

"Your Majesty, just focus on your pregnancy. No new concubines are entering the palace, and Zhao Fei won't lose favor anytime soon," Min Si added, then scoffed, "I wonder if someone as narrow-minded as Yang Fei can bear watching Zhao Fei manage palace affairs and enjoy exclusive favor without affecting her pregnancy."

"Watch your words," the Empress glanced at her, gently rebuking.

Realizing her mistake, Min Si quickly fell silent.

"Enough, I'm tired. Let's rest," the Empress said, standing and heading to the inner room with Tian Mo's support.

Although Min Si had misspoken, her words held truth.

In Zhongcui Palace, Yang Fei grew increasingly irritable upon hearing Zhao Fei stayed at Jingqian Palace again.

"If not for my pregnancy, I wouldn't let her manage the palace and seduce the Emperor."

"The little prince is more important, Your Highness. Don't get angry," Siqi quickly soothed. "Once you safely give birth to the little prince, what can Zhao Fei compete with? She's just an autumn locust, hopping around for now."

Yang Fei found comfort in these words but remained cautious. "I can't attend to the Emperor while pregnant, and Yun Qian doesn't hold favor. Yuzhang Palace may dominate the harem. I'm worried Zhao Fei will grow more powerful and secure her position."

Considering her words, she muttered to herself, "There should be a few suitable girls in the Yang family's collateral branches."