The Beloved Imperial Consort Chapter 168

Consort Shu, upon seeing Mu Xi Yao dressed like this, was quite shocked. When did Mu lass become so diligent, knowing how to doll herself up nicely? Wasn’t she the laziest, unwilling to put effort into this? Could it be for the sake of her son Cheng Qing so that he would bear dignity in front of outsiders? 

This was understandable. Cheng Qing’s once-in-a-lifetime Draw Lots Ceremony naturally needed to be more grandiose. As a mother, she must take the lead in setting a proper demeanor, so that her son can be looked upon more highly. It’s just that until now, she had never noticed that this girl was an out-and-out beauty in blossoming. Having dressed up like this, she appeared much more lovely than usual. 

However, this makeup, why did it seem somewhat seductive…

Consort Shu, who had lived in the palace for most of her life, was always attended by palace maids who handled her makeup and hairstyling in a conventional manner. She had never seen such a novel and unique dressing style, so she couldn’t help but stare at Mu Xi Yao for a bit longer. The small stand-up collar and the golden-edged flower marking seemed quite nice; later, she could have someone try it on her. 

Having observed enough, Consort Shu glanced behind Mu Xi Yao and indeed saw chubby little boy Cheng Qing lying prone in the arms of his nursemaid, with wide and round eyes, excitedly looking around. His spirited look brought a smile to Consort Shu’s face.

“Bengong hasn’t even scolded much, but you sure know how to use your eloquence. Hurry and bring Cheng Qing over; the auspicious hour is approaching.” Consort Shu chuckled and scolded, her mind focused on her grandson, oblivious to the subtle eye exchanges between Mu Xi Yao and Zong Zheng Lin.

Mu Xi Yao summoned someone to bring over the little bun dressed in a good-luck-doll attire. Seeing that the tiny tot was quite sensible, understanding the art of repeatedly calling for Consort Shu to curry favor until Consort Shu smiled broadly, she then sat down beside He Lian Min Min, feeling reassured. Glancing back at the man with narrowed phoenix eyes, Mu Xi Yao raised her eyebrows, and the corners of her lips slowly raised. 

Boss, you can mock Qie all you want, but Qie has plenty of ways to leave you speechless. How old was she now to be scorned for lacking a slender waist? Did she still want to keep her position as the favored consort or not? Regarding this issue, she must deal with the boss firmly, so that he won’t lightly speak out again, making fun of her as if she didn’t matter.

Surrounded by an alluring aura, Mu Xi Yao rocked idly back and forth the feather fan in her hand while seated on a small stool, casting flirtatious glances from afar in Zong Zheng Lin’s direction. 

Zong Zheng Lin had been keeping a close eye on Mu Xi Yao, and from the moment she entered the hall, his eyes did not waver. At this moment, that woman covered half of her face with the feather fan, revealing only a pair of seductive eyes that looked over tenderly. Within them, there was a clear provocation and temptation. Zong Zheng Lin’s eyes deepened upon the sight. Unconsciously, his right hand rested on the thumb ring, slowly turning it. 

“Why is it, Sixth Brother, that you seem to be staring at the person with such an intensity? It’s not surprising. Setting aside your aloofness in intimate relationships between men and women, the women in your inner yard are few and far between. Even Gu¹, who has encountered numerous women and left no experiences unexplored, has never seen a figure and appearance as outstanding as Mu’shi’s; those alluring qualities are truly…enough to grip one’s heart and lungs, throwing them into disarray.”

The Crown Prince spoke insolently, his gaze locked and keenly fixed on Mu Xi Yao, who sat with a graceful poise. He particularly lingered on her face and chest, blatantly displaying his lecherous expression. Seizing the opportunity, he moved closer to Zong Zheng Lin’s ear and drew out his words in provocation. Sure enough, the usually impassive man immediately changed his expression. 

Just as the Crown Prince was feeling triumphant for humiliating Zong Zheng Lin and taking advantage of his woman verbally, he saw the man, typically known for his cold demeanor, regain his composure, his expression turning stern and impartial. His responses were also unyielding. 

“If Second Brother forgot Imperial Father’s admonition, didi advises you to keep it in mind. Go back to your residence and take good care of the Crown Princess. The Crown Prince should show more respect to Bendian’s woman.” After saying that, he paid no attention to Zong Zheng Hui’s reaction and walked toward his main seat without looking back, leaving the Crown Prince with a face livid after being challenged. 

Two years ago, the Crown Princess gave birth prematurely to a frail di son, but unfortunately, she couldn’t raise him to adulthood. With a sudden change in the weather, he caught a cold, and even before the imperial physicians could examine him, he hastily stopped breathing. 

Yuancheng Emperor didn’t have much expectation for this di grandson. However, upon hearing that the Crown Prince wasn’t in the Eastern Palace when the incident occurred, and despite the Crown Princess sending people to ask for him, he did not come back to the residence, choosing instead to engage in revelry with other ministers outside, he was so angered that he immediately summoned the Crown Prince to the imperial study to reprimand him, and later made him kneel all night as a punishment. Furthermore, the courtiers who were on good terms with him had their salaries suspended. 

This incident only happened not long ago. Zong Zheng Hui naturally wouldn’t forget. Now, Zong Zheng Lin had brought it out to disgrace him and also openly accused him of speaking disrespectfully and committing misconduct. Immediately, he flared up and made a contemptuous snort, muttering a curse.  

“What’s worth seeing in that hag?” His voice was a bit loud, and Zong Zheng Ming who was nearby, happened to hear him. 

“Second brother, it would be wise to choose words more carefully.” Putting aside Mu Xi Yao’s appearance today, which was indeed worth the praise of an outstanding beauty, the Crown Prince’s words lacked fairness. The term ‘hag’ carried a clear undertone of humiliation, and Zong Zheng Ming frowned upon hearing it.

The Crown Prince was increasingly behaving in an unbecoming manner, employing crude and vulgar language that was unbearable to the ears. Zong Zheng Ming deemed it beneath him to be in his company. He moved away, distancing himself from the Crown Prince, and joined Zong Zheng Yun, striking up a casual conversation with him. 

In fact, the person the Crown Prince referred to in his words was not Mu Xi Yao. He was complaining that the Crown Princess was not in good health, couldn’t properly raise their son, and on top of that was ill to the point of being bedridden. As a result, he was reprimanded by the Yuancheng Emperor for being heartless and unfaithful and further being directly chastised by Zong Zheng Lin. 

This time, being publicly humiliated by Zong Zheng Ming, he was already furious, wishing he could let Yuancheng Emperor abdicate in his favor. Once he ascended to the throne, he would make these ignorant people regret it deeply.  

The Crown Prince has faced continuous setbacks. Those with ulterior motives have already noticed it. Among them, the one who found great satisfaction in it was Zong Zheng Chun, who had been suppressed by the Crown Prince for quite some time.

“Second brother is the Crown Prince, with a prestigious status, accustomed to speaking freely. Brothers, let’s be more understanding, to avoid any misunderstanding that might harm our decades-long brotherhood.” Zong Zheng Chun added insult to injury, mocking the Crown Prince without reservation. 

“The auspicious hour has come. Would all elder brothers join didi to witness the ceremony?” Zong Zheng Han, who had been silent throughout, finally couldn’t help but interrupt the farce.

When he saw Mu’shi, he was also entranced for a moment, but not in the same lustful and soul-consumed way as the Crown Prince. Instead, he was captivated by the unrestrained and audacious spirit reflected in the woman’s eyes, which left a particularly memorable impression on him. While he was still pondering the woman’s temperament, he found his peace disturbed by Zong Zheng Hui’s inappropriate remarks.

These elder brothers of his, the two eldest were the most useless. Two good-for-nothings without any self-awareness who actually dared to scheme for the most prestigious seat in the world. Throughout the history of Great Wei, how many imperial princes rushed fervently to climb up based on their seniority, and who among them could eventually meet a good end? Those with abilities yet still ended up like this, those without would be simply driven toward a path of demise.

Coming to Zong Zheng Lin’s residence today, they don’t savor the exquisite pearl dew tea; instead disturb people’s tranquility with their commotion, leaving them irritated. If given a choice, he would rather not make this trip, as these two individuals never make anyone feel comfortable. 

Zong Zheng Yun and Zong Zheng Ming were relatively fine; they usually refrained from quarrels. They were both proud people and were not willing to lower themselves. Excerpt for Zong Zhenglin. He had a cold and unyielding temperament. Whoever provoked this icy and emotionless person, the outcome depended on his mood at that moment. 

Even Yuancheng Emperor often had a headache dealing with Zong Zheng Lin’s unbending nature, let alone that dimwit Zong Zheng Hui.

Zong Zheng Han set down the teacup, stood up, and walked towards the center of the main hall. Subsequently, the others followed suit one after another, finally putting an end to the previous disputes.

The rounds of secret clashes between the princes on the other side did not affect the lively atmosphere in the main hall.

When the red silk on the top of the brocade mat at the center of the hall was unveiled, an array of exquisite and luxurious items was displayed on the fur carpet, each one priceless. In addition to gold, jade, seven treasures², and toys, there were also the four treasures of the study³, Taoist and Buddhist scriptures, armor, and helmet, totaling more than fifty in all.

Among them, the most eye-catching item was the renowned ancient-style sword with a scabbard, housing the personally inscribed calligraphy of the Sixth Highness. His brushstrokes were powerful and commanding, and the inscription read ‘Tai Cang’. It turned out that he asked the Great Wei’s sword-smithing grandmaster to forge a small sword specifically for Cheng Qing. 

As soon as this sword appeared, disapproval showed on Consort Shu’s face. Cheng Qing was still quite young; why give him a sword? Swords were a bit dangerous after all, and they rarely appeared in children’s Draw Lots Ceremony. 

Only in the beautiful eyes of Mu Xi Yao did a radiance flicker. When she saw the scabbard adorned with precious stones and green jade, she unabashedly shot a coquettish glance at Zong Zheng Lin beside her.  

Boss, you’re truly generous to make even the scabbard so fancy. It truly befits your showy personality. Qie’s just afraid others might not be aware of your abundant wealth and think you’re recklessly wasting precious treasures! 

The Sixth Highness’s eyes narrowed. As he saw Mu Xi Yao’s dazzling and enticing appearance, his phoenix eyes gradually darkened. Good, engaging in such flirtation in broad daylight; when the banquet begins later, this woman can forget avoiding consequences. 

The extravagant display by the Sixth Highness left the crowd stunned, and they murmured in hushed tones. After finally tearing their eyes away from the sword, and upon closer inspection, the rest of the items also made their hearts and livers tremble.

Needless to say, the four treasures of the study were bestowed by the Yuancheng Emperor himself. Just this grace alone, regardless of Chengqing or Mu Xi Yao, secures them tremendous benefits. The origins of Taoist and Buddhist scriptures were also quite remarkable – they were personally gifted by the head monk of Anguo Temple. Even when the Empress Dowager worshipped Buddha, she didn’t indulge in such extravagance as perusing a solitary copy. She always had people transcribe it and then carefully collect the original texts, occasionally bringing them out for a closer look.

As for the shining armor, it was a present from the current Emperor’s uncle, Grand Prince of Yi, sent all the way from the South Sea, a thousand miles away. He dispatched people to escort this battle armor, which was bestowed upon him by the founding emperor when he was appointed as a prince, as a congratulatory gift.

As everyone slowly examined each object, a continuous sound of amazement echoed in the air.

Other items were either exquisite relics from the previous dynasty or unparalleled treasures of the present, each with a significant origin and profound meaning behind them. People with a keen eye for these things found it difficult to take their eyes off, their hearts twitching. 

The firstborn son of the Sixth Highness was a precious little bundle, wasn’t he? The child was just one year old; was it necessary to open the private treasury and bring out every original piece for him to play with? If, by any chance, something were to break, the Sixth Highness might not be too upset, but the rest of them would undoubtedly feel heartache deeply.

When they looked at He Lian Principal Consort, the court ladies’s eyes were filled with confusion. 

The Draw Lots Ceremony has been practiced for hundreds of years, and it served more as a ceremony to showcase whether the child was valued within the family, if they will receive an attentive upbringing in the future, whether distinguished scholars will be invited for their education, and if they will inherit the family business or be allotted a share of the family estate when they grow up. 

This time, it was the Sixth Highness’s firstborn son’s Draw Lots Ceremony. Although he bore the character ‘firstborn’, he was not the di son of the princess consort. Therefore, his Draw Lots Ceremony should not have been organized according to the current arrangements. They hadn’t noticed it before, but now, upon observing this added courtesy, they realized that the number of banquet cuisine outside also appeared somewhat off. 

The imperial family had established rules: for the di son of the princess consort, there would be seventy-two cuisines for the Draw Lots Ceremony, as for the offspring of the prince’s cefei, the maximum number of cuisine was fifty. However, just a moment ago, upon a quick glance, it seems there were far more than fifty cuisines outside. 

Did the Sixth Highness arrange this Draw Lots Ceremony in such a way to show everyone that he regarded highly the firstborn son of Cefei almost as much as the di son of the Princess Consort? So openly violating the ancestral family law, wasn’t he afraid of being reported to Yuancheng Emperor by the imperial censors? 

The guests who came to offer congratulations pondered repeatedly in their hearts. They dared not rashly guess whether there was a deeper meaning behind the prince’s actions. For instance, regarding the Hellian House, could there be some lingering dissatisfaction or resentment? Was His Highness still holding onto the previous incident that caused a stir, intending to curb the influence of the Principal Consort’s paternal family? 

If His Highness got a di son later, how should it be arranged then? Thinking of this, everyone’s thoughts became complicated. When they looked at He Lian Principal Consort again, a sense of awkward embarrassment unknowingly arose.

The majority of them came to congratulate the Sixth Highness, drawn by his promising future they foresaw, bringing generous gifts. Little did they know that they would encounter His Highness behaving so unruly. With this turn of events, it seemed as if they tacitly accepted this banquet that went against traditions and rushed over to curry favor, seeking to ingratiate themselves with Cefei and gain her favor. 

The way this was dealt with was truly distressing…

Regardless of what everyone thought, the little bun Cheng Qing was overjoyed. As soon as he was placed on the brocade mat by Gui Momo, with a gurgle, his chubby body moved remarkably nimbly. Sticking out his little bottom, he flipped himself over in a few moves, climbed up and his little feet, and steadily stepped on the mat, looking around left and right. 

As Mu Xi Yao was watching with great interest along with everyone else, eagerly waiting for the little tot to randomly pick up something so they could carry him back and feed him rice porridge, her small hand under the broad sleeves was suddenly grabbed by the man next to her, startling her so much her heart pounded rapidly. 

Boss, if you’re considering some clandestine affair under the watchful eyes of everyone, it would have been courteous to give a heads-up beforehand. If Qie hadn’t been bold enough and cried out, wouldn’t that have been embarrassing? Moreover, your son is currently performing the Draw Lots ceremony. Why are you suddenly getting handsy on such a solemn occasion? 

Mu Xi Yao raised her fan to block others’ prying eyes and shot a charmingly coquettish glance at Zong Zheng Lin. He was deeply fond of that teasing expression in her eyes.

While everyone’s attention was focused on Cheng Qing, this pair of biological parents neglected their proper duties and flirted with each other, thoroughly enjoying the moment.

Zong Zheng Lin leaned in close to Mu Xi Yao’s ear, leaving behind words with profound meaning. Mu Xi Yao was so frightened she quickly composed herself, her gaze fixed on her son, appearing entirely focused, yet inwardly apprehensive.

Great Boss just threatened her with, “If you continue to flirt and act coquettishly, you might as well skip the banquet later.”

Where else could she go if not to the banquet? Mu Xi Yao promptly collected herself and earnestly watched her son on the brocade mat being picky.

After seeing from the corner of his eyes that she was finally behaving herself, Zong Zheng Lin, discreetly using his sleeves as cover, gently rubbed her palm. Softness emanated from his brows and eyes. To onlookers, it would only seem that the Sixth Highness’s gaze upon Cheng Qing carried a certain tenderness, indicating a special fondness for his firstborn son. 

Three years have slipped away in the blink of an eye in the company of Mu Xi Yao, and even their son has turned one year old. Life was truly pleasant at the moment. Recalling the past days and nights they’ve shared, Zong Zheng Lin felt content and steady. Apart from small temper tantrums that gave people people a headache, he was satisfied with every other aspect of Mu Xi Yao. However, he was genuinely furious about her attire today. In her bid to anger him, this woman didn’t realize that others had secretly observed her a lot. Having this exclusive joy shared with others, the Sixth Highness felt a sense of frustration in his heart.

“With Jiao Jiao flaunting herself ostentatiously, how should Bendian administer a fitting punishment?” Zong Zheng Lin’s eye twitched when he saw Cheng Qing trampling the solitary copy gifted by the Great Master. His son’s preferences were made abundantly clear.

Witnessing the little bun showing quite a strong personality and just walking over the sole copy, Mu Xi Yao was instantly amused. 

Well done! That scheming old monk, did he want to ordain his son as a monk or what? Gifting scriptures for the Draw Lots Ceremony, it serves them right to be ruthlessly trampled on. Regarding that supposed unique copy, wasn’t it simply too detestable? It was nearly reduced to ashes, with only a lone sapling remaining. How can it be as precious as the rumors say? Just transcribe a few of them, take them out and they can still make money by selling them. If it wasn’t for the obligation to record all gifts meticulously in the inventory, Mu Xi Yao would rather sell that unique copy for a high price.

“Your Highness, you’re mistaken. Qie has done all this to bring you and Cheng Qing honor, with no selfish motives at all.” Lying through one’s teeth, she was quite adept at it too. 

“Come to the study later. If no one will be there, Bendian will personally come to ask for the person.” Zong Zheng Lin didn’t want to engage in a verbal dispute with Mu Xi Yao and directly issued the command.

Mu Xi Yao’s eyes twinkled mischievously, and her small hand scratched his palm, “Your Highness, Qie is not in a rush. Let’s discuss it tonight?” This doesn’t look good, the boss seems a bit angry….

Zong Zheng Lin looked back to see his son standing before the four treasuries of the study, ignoring Mu Xi Yao’s suggestion. 

She regretted it….Mu Xi Yao felt wronged. What gives the Sixth Prince the authority to rob a woman the enjoyment of dressing up? This man was too overbearing. She rarely put in the effort, and this was his reaction?  

Mu Xi Yao secretly grumbled under her breath, harboring much resentment towards Zong Zheng Lin for not understanding a woman’s heart. 

On the other end, Consort Shu watched as Cheng Qing sat down, touching this one and kicking that one, but still reluctant to choose one to pick up. She couldn’t help but become anxious. 

Normally, wouldn’t children point at something interesting and grab it immediately? Why did Cheng Qing seem to be strolling through the garden, examining these items for several rounds without reaching out? This little imperial grandchild of hers, though just a tiny tot, surprisingly knew to select items based on his preferences, choosing through comparison. As expected, he took after that exceptionally clever Mu lass. 

“Cheng Qing, be good, pick one you fancy and show it to your grandmother,” Consort Shu encouraged with a smile.

After watching for a while, everyone finally realized how extraordinary the Sixth Highness’s firstborn son was. Not only was he walking steadily at such a young age and articulating words clearly, but he also demonstrated remarkable intelligence. People couldn’t help but privately discuss what this doted little baby might fancy.  

Little bun, upon hearing Consort Shu’s words, wobbled his head from side to side. At the sight of his mother, he instantly beamed. 

“Mommy, pewls, treasure!” His chubby little hand drew a circle, encompassing all the items on the brocade mat. 

After being called out like this, Mu Xi Yao found herself in the spotlight once more, and Zong Zheng Lin beside her couldn’t conceal his gloomy expression. After finally managing to minimize the many glances directed at Mu Xi Yao through the pretext of the Draw Lots Ceremony, how did it revert back to the previous state so quickly? This content belongs to thehlifestyle.com, if you see this translation elsewhere, it’s been stolen!

Sensing the big boss’s anger, Mu Xi Yao lamented inwardly. Little bun typically called for his daddy, so why was he particularly affectionate with her today? Wasn’t this covertly creating trouble for her? The back of her hand instantly received two smacks from the boss. Mu Xi Yao forced herself to speak softly. 

“Cheng Qing, be a good boy, if you find something interesting, hurry and pick it.” Isn’t this simple enough? Little bun always listened to her, so he should make a choice soon. Once she leaves this place, she won’t attract attention, and the boss won’t find a reason to deal with her. 

“Momo, basket.” Cheng Qing caught on to what his mother meant and started vocalizing for a basket accordingly. Mu Xi Yao was dumbfounded. A basket? Why did that word sound so familiar…..It wasn’t only Mu Xi Yao; even momos and servant girls attending in Danruo Courtyard figured it out. The Young Master’s ‘basket’ meant the bamboo basket that held his handcrafted toys. With this understanding…Mu Xi Yao’s forehead began to break into a sweat.

“Your Highness, is there a rule in the Draw Lots Ceremony that dictates selecting only one item?” Holding Zong Zheng Lin’s hand tightly, Mu Xi Yao felt that her flamboyant outfit today initially intended for flaunting, might now be overshadowed by her son. How was she going to face amused stares from the crowd later and charmingly walk out as if nothing happened? This kind of mental composure…Mu Xi Yao began to regret not heeding the advice of the Sixth Highness earlier. 

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Translation notes:

[1] Gu refers to a way the king/crown prince addresses themselves.  

[2] Seven treasures refer gold, silver, colored glass, coral, giant clam, red bead, and agate.

[3] Four treasures of the study refer to brush, ink, paper, and ink stone.

 

Relationship Diagram  (by Sith Kazar)

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