Chapter 126 Consort Fucha's Newlywed Bedchamber Service 126
Chapter 126 Consort Fucha's Newlywed Bedchamber Service 126
In the evening, the head eunuch of the Imperial Household Department brought the green nameplates of the concubines for the chubby orange to choose from.
Big Fat Orange has been in a good mood lately, and has almost finished handling his official duties.
He also felt like visiting the harem.
Big Fat Orange squinted at the row of green signs in front of him, his hand casually tracing their paths.
I was thinking of choosing a newcomer, but then I thought better of it and chose Nian Shilan instead.
Since the new concubines have already entered the palace, he doesn't need to rush to choose them.
So as not to give the impression that he is ungrateful.
Upon seeing this, Xu Jingliang's fawning smile froze for a moment.
But this Imperial Concubine Hua was not someone he could afford to offend.
He hurriedly shouted, "His Majesty has chosen Consort Hua for this night!"
He then hurriedly stepped back to inform the people to prepare to receive the emperor.
When Nian Shilan received the news, she almost changed her expression. She wondered what had gotten into the old man that prevented him from choosing the new bride.
She was chosen again.
He hurriedly said to Songzhi, "Go tell that little eunuch that I have already gone to bed."
"Let the Emperor choose a new concubine."
Songzhi accepted the order and left, while the young eunuch received a white purse from Songzhi.
The troubled expression on his face instantly changed.
He quickly left Yikun Palace and ran to Yangxin Hall.
Upon hearing this news, Fucha Peiyun of Yanxi Palace hurriedly instructed Xiaozhu and the others to close the palace gates in advance.
She was afraid that the big fat orange would turn around and come to her palace again.
Tonight, this big fat orange cat should go to the newbies' palace.
The young eunuch trotted all the way to the Hall of Mental Cultivation and informed the emperor that Consort Hua had retired for the night.
Big Fat Orange was taken aback at first, then shook his head and smiled bitterly, inwardly sighing that Nian Shilan was still so willful.
He didn't insist, wondering whose palace he would be visiting later.
Su Peisheng, who was serving nearby, also knew that his master did not want to serve him in bed anymore.
Also afraid that the big fat orange cat would think of its master, Consort Shu.
Hurry up and whispered a reminder:
"Your Majesty, in my humble opinion, all the ladies of the palace surely believe that Your Majesty will choose the names of those newly arrived concubines tonight."
So most of them went to bed early.
"Your Majesty, what do you think? How about we choose one of these newly arrived concubines to serve you in bed?"
Big Fat Orange nodded. "Let Xu Jingliang present the green plaque."
Xu Jingliang, who rushed over, quickly brought out the green plaque.
Big Fat Orange stretched out his right hand and casually flipped through the green cards in front of him.
Seeing "Noble Lady Guarjia" reminded me of Zhang Jiaoyan's face that day.
Big Fat Orange gently raised his hand and flipped the green plaque over.
This indicated that the woman from the Guarjia clan would serve him in bed that night.
Having received the emperor's decree, the staff of the Imperial Household Department dared not delay and acted swiftly.
He rushed to Changchun Palace to convey the emperor's decree.
Guarjia Wenyuan was both surprised and delighted upon receiving the news.
She was originally very confident that she would be one of the top new concubines to serve the emperor.
Because of her beauty, rank, and family background, the emperor would always choose her.
To ensure everything went perfectly, she also sent Jinglan to the Imperial Household Department to make arrangements.
Unexpectedly, the Emperor chose Consort Hua's nameplate.
This left Guarjia Wenyuan feeling very disappointed, but unexpectedly, things took a turn for the better.
Consort Hua had already gone to sleep, but the Emperor still summoned her to serve him in bed.
When the other newlyweds heard that the Emperor had chosen Guarjia Wenyuan, some were secretly disappointed, while others breathed a sigh of relief.
Guarjia Wenyuan was bathed by the nannies, and then carried into the Hall of Mental Cultivation by the eunuchs wrapped in a quilt.
Big Fat Orange was very satisfied with the service from Guarjia Wenyuan, looking at the pretty and tender little girl leaning in his arms.
I was thinking of bestowing upon her a title.
After a moment of contemplation, the chubby orange-haired man said, "I will bestow upon you the title 'Qi' and confer upon you the title of Noble Lady Qi."
When Guarjia Wenyuan heard the title, he was initially delighted, but he quickly realized its impropriety.
The character "祺" in this name is the same as the "齐" in the name of Consort Qi, the principal consort of Changchun Palace where she resides!
If I were to be granted the title of Noble Lady Qi, wouldn't I inadvertently offend Consort Qi?
Consort Qi was relatively friendly towards the newly arrived concubines.
There was really no need for me to offend her, and besides, she wasn't asking for any fancy titles.
At least try not to get banned because your account is being blocked by someone else.
Thinking of all this, Guarjia Wenyuan straightened up and knelt down beside the fat orange tree.
Fingers drew circles on the big orange's chest
And he said cautiously:
"Your Majesty, I am very grateful for Your Majesty's grace."
However… isn’t it a bit inappropriate that this title sounds the same as Consort Qi’s title?”
After hearing this, the chubby orange cat suddenly realized its oversight and nodded slightly, saying:
"Yes, that is indeed somewhat inappropriate."
Fine, let's think of another one.
"You just said, what's your name?"
"Your Majesty, this concubine is Wen Yuan, Guarjia Wen Yuan."
Guarjia Wenyuan answered respectfully.
Upon hearing this, the chubby orange cat pondered for a moment, then said slowly:
"In that case, I shall bestow upon you the title of Noble Lady Wen."
Guarjia Wenyuan was overjoyed and quickly expressed her gratitude in a sweet voice.
After serving the emperor, Guarjia Wenyuan was sent back to Changchun Palace.
The next morning, Guarjia Wenyuan got up early, dressed, and went to Jingren Palace to pay her respects to the Empress.
After paying her respects, Guarjia Wenyuan was kept behind by the Empress.
Upon seeing this, Consort Qi, Li Jingyan, felt very uneasy.
Is the Empress planning to use Consort Wen for something by leaving her alone?
Consort Wen now lives in the same palace as her, and she fears that the Empress might use Consort Wen for some purpose.
Then she was dragged into it too, and she herself was just a worthless life.
Fearing she might implicate her son Hongshi, Li Jingyan is now as frightened as a bird startled by the mere twang of a bow.
Even after returning to the palace, Consort Qi remained restless.
He hurriedly instructed Cuiguo to keep an eye out for when Consort Wen would return to Changchun Palace.
Upon seeing that Consort Wen had returned, they invited her to the main hall.
When Guarjia Wenyuan saw that the Empress had kept her behind alone, she couldn't help but feel uneasy, completely unsure of what was going on.
She nervously twisted the handkerchief in her hand, pondering how to respond.
After thinking for a moment, Guarjia Wenyuan forced himself to make conversation:
"From the moment I entered the palace and saw Your Majesty for the first time, I felt an extraordinary closeness to you."
I have two half-sisters at home, and I never really get along with them.
The relationship was very distant.
But for some reason, upon seeing Your Majesty today, I felt compelled to share my innermost thoughts with you.
Before entering the palace, Father specifically instructed me to make sure I get close to Her Majesty the Empress.
As soon as the words left his mouth, Guarjia Wenyuan realized he had said the wrong thing and was instantly filled with regret.
She suddenly remembered that the Empress seemed to be born a concubine's daughter!
Oh dear, now look what's happened! I've just made a fool of myself by trying to flatter someone.
Thinking of this, Guarjia Wenyuan felt a chill run down her spine, and beads of sweat appeared on her forehead.
The Empress's expression changed slightly, but she quickly regained her composure, a faint smile appearing on her lips.
"Hehe, I see. I also find Consort Wen to be exceptionally kind."
Since that's the case, then if Consort Wen has any free time in the future,
Why don't you come to Jingren Palace more often? We can chat and relieve our boredom together.
Hearing the Empress's words, Guarjia Wenyuan breathed a sigh of relief and quickly replied:
"Thank you for your kindness, Your Majesty. I will definitely come to bother you often."
The Empress turned her head slightly and her gaze fell on Huichun, who was standing respectfully to the side.
Hui Chun understood and quickly and carefully stepped forward, carrying an exquisite and beautiful brocade box.
The Empress gently reached out and took the brocade box, then slowly opened it.
In an instant, a dazzling red light shot out from the box.
Inside lay a string of red jade beads.
Each red jade bead is round, smooth, and brightly colored.
The empress smiled and said, "This is a red jade bead necklace that was presented as tribute from a foreign country."
I think it suits you very well, so I will bestow it upon Consort Wen today.
"Consort Wen, you must serve His Majesty diligently from now on!"
Guarjia Wenyuan unconsciously looked at the red jade bead necklace in the brocade box.
When she saw the beaded necklace clearly, her eyes lit up, and a look of surprise appeared on her face.
But then, somewhat fearfully, he said:
"Such a precious item is probably not appropriate to give to a concubine."
The Empress smiled nonchalantly and gently placed the box in Guarjia Wenyuan's hands.
And said gently:
"Sister, please don't refuse."
You've only just had your first night with the Emperor, and he's already bestowed upon you a title.
This shows that the Emperor dotes on you.
Since the Emperor likes you, I will naturally like you too. My actions can be considered an extension of his affections.
After hearing the Empress's words, Guarjia Wenyuan's worries were largely dispelled.
She glanced gratefully at the Empress, accepted the box containing the red jade bead necklace with both hands, and said softly:
"Thank you for your generous gift, Your Majesty."
The empress doesn't seem like a bad person.
"If you truly love this beaded necklace, then wear it."
Upon hearing this, Guarjia Wenyuan's heart stirred.
She took out the red jade beaded necklace and carefully put it on her fair neck.
After putting it on, Guarjia Wenyuan raised her head and responded sweetly:
"Thank you for the gift, Your Majesty. I really like this beaded necklace."
I will wear it every day from now on, and I will never let Your Majesty's kindness go to waste.
After saying this, she bowed gracefully, showing her respect.
The Empress smiled with satisfaction upon seeing this.
"If Consort Wen is pleased, that's good."
You just spent the night with me last night, and you have to come to pay your respects to me so early this morning. I feel really bad about it.
I also don't want to see my sisters so exhausted, but unfortunately, this is the rule set by our ancestors.
I imagine you must be very tired, so I won't keep you any longer.
Go back and rest.
Guarjia Wenyuan bowed slightly and said, "Thank you for your consideration, Your Majesty. I will take my leave now."
After saying this, he turned and slowly walked away.
When they returned to Changchun Palace, they saw Cuiguo, who was by Consort Qi's side, waiting there.
"Consort Wen, our Lady invites you to come over for a chat."
"Cuiguo said softly."
Guarjia Wenyuan didn't know why Consort Qi wanted to see her, but she couldn't refuse.
He then strode toward Consort Qi's main hall.
Before long, they arrived at Consort Qi's palace.
When Li Jingyan saw Guarjia Wenyuan enter, she quickly stood up and carefully looked Guarjia Wenyuan up and down.
After a moment, he finally spoke and asked, "Sister, you're finally back."
What did Her Majesty the Empress say to you when she kept you behind today?
Guarjia Wenyuan said, "Her Majesty the Empress merely chatted with the concubines for a few moments."
Then he bestowed a string of pearls upon his concubines.
Li Jingyan frowned, not understanding what the Empress was planning.
Li Jingyan looked at the red jade bead necklace around Guarjia Wenyuan's neck.
"May I borrow this pearl necklace, sister?"
Guarjia Wenyuan hesitated for a moment, but still took off the beaded necklace and handed it to Li Jingyan.
Li Jingyan held it in her hand and examined it carefully. The beaded necklace looked normal.
But given the Empress's methods, it's impossible that she wouldn't have done nothing.
This Guarjia Wenyuan is from the Manchu Banner.
Suddenly, Li Jingyan smelled a faint, strange fragrance.
Li Jingyan's heart skipped a beat, recalling the scar-reducing gel with musk that the Empress had asked An Shi to make.
Li Jingyan was startled and said to Cui Guo...
"Go to the Imperial Hospital and invite Physician Wen over. Tell him I am feeling unwell."
It seems she'll be sick for a while, but that's alright.
She doesn't like going out anymore.
Cui Guo hurriedly sent someone to the Imperial Hospital to fetch someone.
Li Jingyan stared solemnly at Guarjia Wenyuan and said:
"Sister, in my opinion, this beaded necklace probably contains a hidden secret."
You'd better not wear it if you can avoid it.
Upon hearing this, Guarjia Wenyuan was greatly surprised, her face filled with astonishment, and she asked in a trembling voice:
"Your Majesty, what makes you say that?"
How could there be a problem with such a beautiful necklace?
Li Jingyan handed the beaded necklace back to Guarjia Wenyuan and explained softly:
"Sister, smell the fragrance emanating from this beaded necklace."
Doesn't it seem a little strange?
I fear this is very likely an object used to harm people.
Guarjia Wenyuan sniffed carefully and indeed, the pearl necklace emitted a strange fragrance.
Could this be a specially made foreign incense?
Just in case, Guarjia Wenyuan placed the pearl necklace far away on the table.
Together with Li Jingyan, they waited for Wen Shichu.
Soon after, Wen Shichu arrived, greeted the two, and seeing that neither of them seemed to be in any trouble, asked...
"What are your orders, Your Majesty?"
Li Jingyan asked, "Imperial Physician Wen, could you please check if there's anything wrong with that beaded necklace?"
Wen Shichu walked to the table and picked up the string of beads.
Then he began to examine it carefully.
After a moment, Doctor Wen's expression grew increasingly grave.
Wen Shichu raised his head, looked at Guarjia Wenyuan and Li Jingyan, and said in a heavy tone:
"Consort Qi, Consort Wen, after this humble servant's examination..."
It can be confirmed that this beaded necklace is actually made of red musk beads strung together.
"If a woman wears this beaded necklace for a long time, it will make it difficult for her to conceive."
Upon hearing this, Guarjia Wenyuan turned pale and clutched the handkerchief in her hand tightly.
"Why...why would Her Majesty the Empress harm me?"
Li Jingyan sneered.
"My younger sister has just entered the palace and doesn't understand the dangers of the inner palace."
I told you long ago that the Empress cannot tolerate anyone gaining favor and becoming pregnant.
Seeing that the Emperor cares about you, and that you come from the Manchu Banner Army
She naturally had to be on guard.
Guarjia Wenyuan was filled with regret at this moment, deep regret.
She shouldn't have let her guard down around the Empress just because she seemed kind.
And incredibly stupidly said he wanted to wear the bracelet every day.
She was now considered one of the Empress's people, and she dared not let the Empress know that she already knew about the tampering in the jade bracelet.
Guarjia Wenyuan looked at Li Jingyan and asked, "Your Majesty, what should I do?"
Li Jingyan said, "You should wear this jewelry less often in the future."
"I only wore it when I went to pay my respects to the Empress."
Wen Shichu also said, "If you avoid contact with this pearl necklace in the future, you'll be fine."
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