The Beloved Concubine of the Eastern Palace (book 2)

Chapter 395 - A Cover-Up

Not everyone knew what was going on, like Wan Lingyi, who was nearby.

Hearing Fang Yun invite the Emperor for dinner, she glanced over, thinking that even Zhao Fei could feel anxious.

After all, just yesterday Yan Pin had injured herself, and the Emperor went to Furong Hall but not Yuzhang Palace. This invitation might be to explain herself and seek pardon.

But Wan Lingyi couldn't help but mock herself. She barely saw the Emperor twice a month and yet worried about others.

Then another thought crossed her mind. If Fang Yun faced the Emperor's displeasure and was neglected, while the newly arrived Yan Pin was injured and couldn't serve, perhaps her chance would come.

Thinking this, Wan Lingyi felt much better.

"Your Highness," Song Lingyi approached, glancing at Wan Lingyi before continuing, "Wan Lingyi seems to be in a good mood. I wonder what's made her so happy."

Following Song Lingyi's gaze, Fang Yun saw Wan Lingyi leaving and said indifferently, "I heard her brother is getting engaged to the eldest daughter of Assistant Censor-in-Chief Shang. That must be the reason for her joy."

"Assistant Censor-in-Chief? That's a good match, complementing each other well," Song Lingyi remarked.

Wan Lingyi's brother, Hu Daixu, was the commander of the capital garrison.

Fang Yun smiled lightly and asked, "How is your brother doing lately? Does he have any future plans?"

Liu Qin and Song Lingyi's brother, Song Shuyan, both went to Northern Xinjiang. Though Song Shuyan didn't achieve great success, he secured a position thanks to the care of Huo Mingxuan and Liu Qin.

Liu Qin was appointed Vice Minister of the Court of Judicial Review, and Song Shuyan worked under him, similar to a modern-day secretary.

"Shuyan wants to take the imperial examination again, aiming for a better position, which is also Lord Liu's advice," Song Lingyi said, a soft light in her eyes as she spoke about her brother.

Song Lingyi hadn't thought much about the current situation, nor did she feel it was unfair that Liu Qin received an official position while her brother remained an assistant.

Fang Yun nodded, "It's a good idea for him to try again. Your brother has talent and will have a brighter future if he gets into the Hanlin Academy or another prestigious position."

"Thank you, Your Highness, and Lord Liu for supporting him," Song Lingyi said, bowing slightly.

Fang Yun smiled and helped her up. "We support each other, so no need to be overly polite."

"You're right, Your Highness."

Understanding Fang Yun's meaning, Song Lingyi smiled.

After a few more words, they parted ways at the intersection and returned to their respective places.

Back at Yuzhang Palace, Fang Yun changed into a casual outfit and called Yuanhe in.

"Is everything ready at Yanqing Institute?"

"Yes, Your Highness. Everything is prepared, awaiting your command."

Yanwei brought tea and said with a smile, "Once Qingrong returns, we'll know everything."

Fang Yun sipped her tea, a slight smile on her lips.

Soon, Qingrong returned, happily announcing that the Emperor agreed to dine at Yuzhang Palace that evening.

Pleased with the news, Fang Yun finished her morning tasks and spent the afternoon playing outside with the Fourth Prince.

While she and her son enjoyed their time together, another mother-son duo was far less harmonious.

At Zhongcui Palace, Yang Fei, resting on a couch, heard rustling at the door.

Already irritable and tired, she angrily called out, "What's that noise outside?"

"Please, calm down, Your Highness," Siqi said, hurrying in and bowing. "It's Si Shun, the eunuch attending the Third Prince."

Yang Fei opened her eyes, still frowning. "What does he want?"

"The Third Prince wishes to see you."

"I don't have the energy for that! I'm not well," she snapped.

Siqi, frightened, knelt but still mustered the courage to speak.

"Your Highness, I know you're unwell and don't want the Third Prince disturbing your rest, but you need to show some concern in front of the Emperor. Si Shun heard from the First Prince's nursemaid that it might be inappropriate not to see the Third Prince."

Mentioning the Emperor calmed Yang Fei slightly. "What did the First Prince's nursemaid say?"

"Last night, Jin Fei brought the First Prince to Changqing Palace for dinner. This morning, the First Prince visited the imperial study, and the Emperor asked about his studies. During their conversation, the First Prince mentioned the Third Prince, saying you never had him back to Zhongcui Palace for a meal and only sent occasional items. Even snacks and soups were never sent."

Seeing Yang Fei's reaction, Siqi continued, "The First Prince's nursemaid told Si Shun, as they are from the same hometown and often talk. Si Shun thought it might be best to bring the Third Prince back for dinner to show the Emperor you care."

"I don't feel well today. I'll bring the Third Prince back for lunch tomorrow," Yang Fei said, rubbing her temples.

"Your Highness, Si Shun suggested bringing the Third Prince back tonight might be best."

"Why?" Yang Fei frowned.

"The Third Prince was unwell after a nightmare last night, and the physician appointed by the Emperor reports his condition daily."

Realizing the importance, Yang Fei sighed deeply. "Very well, bring him tonight."

Just to maintain appearances, she thought.

"Yes, Your Highness. I'll relay the message."

Siqi went to the door and instructed Si Shun, who was delighted, thanked her, and left.

Si Shun was one of the eunuchs who had saved the Third Prince from drowning.