The Rebirth of the Malicious Empress of Military Lineage

"How so?" Ji Yushu asked.

Gao Yang stroked his chin. "Since we're dealing with Prince Ding, it must not be his faction. Between the Crown Prince, Prince Zhou, and Prince Li, which side does Shen Miao belong to?"

"Neither," Xie Jingxing replied.

"Huh?" Ji Yushu was puzzled. "How is that possible?"

Xie Jingxing's gaze softened slightly. "Pei Lang is no ordinary man, though he hasn’t yet entered officialdom and still appears inexperienced. Just now, you all heard it—Shen Miao’s tactics are something even Shen Xin might not wield as deftly as she does."

Slippery as an eel—neither admitting nor denying, neither refusing nor accepting. Even seasoned officials who’ve weathered the storms of court politics might not handle it as effortlessly as she does. Shen Xin was a military man, Luo Xueyan too—where did Shen Miao learn such methods? Was there a mastermind behind the Shen family guiding her? He had initially thought so, but now it seemed clear these were all Shen Miao’s own ideas. If she were aligned with the Crown Prince or another prince, she would never employ such a step-by-step, meticulously planned approach. Each prince had their own backing and influence—why resort to such clumsy tactics?

Yet within the limits of her own capabilities, she maximized what she could achieve. It made one wonder: if given sufficient backing and power, just how much chaos she could stir up. Even now, with no chips in hand, she was slowly cultivating her own pieces.

The world was like a chessboard, and in Ming Qi’s game, too many players were vying for dominance. But Xie Jingxing had never considered Shen Miao among them—she was a weak woman, with no apparent motive.

Yet now, through the young girl’s ability to win over heroes with a cup of wine, Xie Jingxing glimpsed her ambition.

"But we still don’t know how she uncovered Pei Lang’s background," Ji Yushu said. "Even Fengxian Pawnshop couldn’t dig it up."

Prefect Pei had spared no effort to protect his son, ensuring every precaution was taken. Pei Lang, too, had lived up to his father’s expectations—seeking no revenge, harboring no resentment, living under an assumed name as a humble tutor. No one would have noticed him. Yet Shen Miao saw through his act and even turned Liuying into a bargaining chip to outmaneuver Pei Lang.

Who knew where she had gathered such intelligence? Just like with the Chen brothers before.

"Never mind her," Xie Jingxing said. "Is the petition for the commander ready?"

"It’s done," Gao Yang frowned. "But are you really sure...? Once this begins, there’s no turning back. And if your plan here hasn’t reached them yet, what if they disagree..."

"Do as I say," Xie Jingxing stood up.

Back at Shen Mansion, in the West Courtyard, Shen Miao had just changed out of her clothes and undone her hair when Bailu hurried in. "Miss, the Madam asks you to come to her room—there’s an important matter to discuss."

The New Year had passed, and spring was approaching. Since Shen Xin had petitioned Emperor Wenhui to stay in the Fixed Capital for another half-year, Luo Xueyan had been much more at ease. She lavished Shen Miao with new clothes and jewelry or had Shen Qiu take her out to eat, drink, and enjoy herself. At times, Shen Miao herself felt like she was being raised as a pampered noble’s child.

Shen Miao casually tied up her hair and went to Luo Xueyan’s room. Upon entering, she was surprised to see Shen Xin and Shen Qiu there as well. Noticing her arrival, Luo Xueyan quickly pulled her to sit beside her. "Jiaojiao, what did you do when you went out today?"Shen Miao asked Bailu and Shuangjiang to stay in the room, instructing them to say she had gone out for a stroll if anyone asked. She said, “I wandered around casually and happened to pass by the Happy Building, so I brought a few jars of strong liquor for Father and Eldest Brother.”

“That’s my good girl!” Shen Xin’s eyes lit up instantly. He exclaimed, “The wine in Fixed Capital is too sweet—cloying and insipid, hardly worthy of being called liquor! Strong liquor is the real deal—now that’s satisfying!”

Shen Qiu was also delighted. “Little Sister is so thoughtful!”

“All you think about is drinking!” Luo Xueyan shot the father and son a glare. “Those things could’ve been bought by the servants. Why bother indulging them, Jiaojiao?”

“You woman!” Shen Xin immediately bristled. “This is Jiaojiao’s heartfelt gesture. How can anything bought by servants compare? How shortsighted!” Given that Shen Miao had only recently warmed up to them, Shen Xin was overjoyed. Even if she had brought back two jars of plain water today, he would’ve been elated, so naturally, he had to counter Luo Xueyan’s words.

“Shortsighted?” Luo Xueyan narrowed her eyes at him.

“My lady, don’t be angry,” Shen Xin quickly backtracked. “I’m the shortsighted fool.” He promptly smacked Shen Qiu on the head.

Luo Xueyan couldn’t be bothered to watch the father and son’s antics. Turning to Shen Miao, she said, “Jiaojiao, the reason we came today is actually to discuss something with you.”

“Please go ahead, Mother.”

“You’ve heard about the family division. In a few days, we’ll be moving out. Your father and I have thought it through—we need to buy a new residence. We’ve already looked at one in the eastern part of the city, a fine estate where we can hire servants to tend to it. However…” Luo Xueyan hesitated, looking at Shen Miao. “Back when your father and I went to the northwest, we left you behind, thinking the Shen family would protect you and keep you safe. But now that we’re splitting up, if your father, your brother, and I leave again, it wouldn’t be safe for you, a young lady, to live alone in a big house. People might gossip too. So… Jiaojiao, would you be willing to come with me to the northwest?”

Shen Miao was momentarily stunned.

“Little Sister, the northwest is so much fun!” Seeing her hesitation, Shen Qiu quickly chimed in. “It’s not as bad as people say. We’d live in Little Spring City—nestled between mountains and rivers, with rare birds and beasts aplenty. I’ll go hunting for you and get a white tiger pelt to make a cloak!”

“Nonsense!” Luo Xueyan scolded him with a laugh. “What would your sister, a young lady, do with a white tiger pelt?”

Shen Qiu scratched his head. “Then there are the mines! The gemstones are huge—Little Sister can make jewelry out of them!”

Shen Miao smiled faintly. She had been hesitant at first, as there were still matters to attend to in Fixed Capital. But hearing Shen Qiu’s description, she found herself growing curious about Little Spring City in the northwest. Who wouldn’t want a carefree life? Who would willingly wake up every day scheming against others? With a quiet sigh, she thought, Why not go just this once? If it doesn’t work out, I can always return next year and not go back.

“Alright.” Under everyone’s expectant gazes, Shen Miao nodded. “I’d love to see it for myself.”

Luo Xueyan exhaled in relief, while Shen Xin laughed heartily. “I told you Jiaojiao would agree! Since she’s been back, has she ever once looked down on us rough soldiers?”

“Little Sister, Little Sister!” Shen Qiu was practically vibrating with excitement. “I’ll introduce you to all my brothers—they’ve heard about you but never met you! And our maternal grandparents—you haven’t seen them since you were born. They won’t even recognize you this time!”Luo Xueyan's maternal family were frontier generals stationed in the northwest. They had only come once when Shen Miao was born, and due to the vast distance separating them, they hadn't seen each other in all these years. Shen Miao lowered her gaze. In her past life, after Luo Xueyan's death, the Luo family had severed ties with the Shen family. Shen Miao had never been particularly close to her maternal relatives, so she wasn't entirely clear about what ultimately became of the Luo family. However, considering Mei Furen's ruthless methods of extermination, she likely found some way to ensure Fu Xiuyi wouldn't let the Luo family off either.

After some more conversation, when it grew late, Luo Xueyan urged Shen Miao to return to her room and rest.

After washing up, Shen Miao sat at her desk watching the flickering candle flame and couldn't help but sigh. If they were truly going to follow Shen Xin to the northwest, she would need to arrange everything within these next six months.

If there was one comforting thought at present, it was the matter of Pei Lang.

She was well aware that the Shen family's current prominence made them vulnerable, and it was unwise to get involved in palace affairs. Yet as a young woman confined to the inner chambers, she normally had no opportunity to access deeper matters. Moreover, many things had already changed in this lifetime—only by making Pei Lang her eyes and ears could she proceed. Fu Xiuyi was suspicious by nature; anything that came too easily would be scrutinized, and it was inevitable that he might trace it back to her. But in a year's time, Fu Xiuyi would actively recruit Pei Lang, and by then, Pei Lang could smoothly go along with it, making things much easier.

Winning over Pei Lang still required a bit of luck. In the past, Fu Xiuyi had managed it because one of his advisors had connections with Pei Lang's father, the former magistrate, which led to uncovering Pei Lang's background. At the time, it was also because Fu Xiuyi had settled Liuying that Pei Lang ultimately became his man.

The Pei siblings were stubborn—neither force nor persuasion worked on them, as they had strong wills of their own. Take Liuying, for example: after falling into the pleasure quarters, not a trace of her former noble bearing remained. She had resigned herself to life as a courtesan, perhaps because remembering her past identity only brought her pain. As for Pei Lang, he never spoke of revenge and contented himself with being a teacher.

Liuying refused to acknowledge her identity and resented the Pei family for abandoning her to save her brother. If Pei Lang intervened, she would only resist more fiercely. But Shen Miao had offered Liuying a gentler path. By securing Liuying, she could control the guilt-ridden Pei Lang.

A few years later, after navigating the complexities of court politics, Pei Lang would become far more astute. Looking back on Shen Miao's words today, he would find them full of holes. But the current Pei Lang had yet to enter officialdom. No matter how clever he was, he still lacked experience.

"Young Mistress, it's best you rest early," Jing Zhe said with a smile. "Tomorrow, you're to accompany Madam to look at the estate in the eastern part of the city."

Shen Miao nodded. Within these six months, at the very least, the family could separate, and they could establish their own household.

Yet she hadn't anticipated how quickly plans could change.

Early the next morning, after breakfast, a maid from Luo Xueyan's side came to inform Shen Miao that once she was dressed, they would go see the estate. After all, it was to be their future home—comfort and peace of mind could only be determined after seeing it in person.

But before Shen Miao could finish her toilette, a messenger arrived from the palace, summoning Luo Xueyan for an audience. The palace maid added that if there were no objections, Shen Miao could accompany her.Though it was phrased as a request, it was practically an order. Shen Xin and Shen Qiu's expressions darkened immediately, while Luo Xueyan looked somewhat puzzled. Though she was a noblewoman of the capital, she rarely stayed in Fixed Capital and was unfamiliar with the ladies of high society. The idea that a palace consort would summon her was even more laughable.

After some thought, Luo Xueyan realized she had no connections with the women of the inner palace.

Shen Xin and Shen Qiu considered the matter more deeply. Luo Xueyan had no ties to the palace ladies, yet she was asked to bring Shen Miao along—clearly, the real intention lay elsewhere. Were they targeting Shen Miao? Whenever it concerned Shen Miao, they became especially vigilant. Shen Xin said, "Perhaps I should accompany you to the palace."

"What would you do there?" Luo Xueyan replied. "You weren't invited, and we don't need more complications. I'll take Jiaojiao with me." She hesitated before adding, "With so many people around, they wouldn't dare do anything outrageous. Besides, I'm not some delicate woman—if it comes to it..." She meant to say that if things turned ugly, she wouldn't necessarily be at a disadvantage in a fight.

Shen Xin nodded. "Given the current situation, it shouldn't be that tense. Go ahead without worry."

Luo Xueyan took Shen Miao's hand and boarded the palace carriage. They had originally planned to view a residence early that morning, but now, no one could tell whether this turn of events was a blessing or a curse.

Standing at the estate gate, Shen Qiu watched the carriage disappear into the distance and asked uneasily, "Father, will Mother and Sister be alright?"

"I'll head to the Ministry of War," Shen Xin said, turning away. "You stay here in case anything happens and we need to respond."

Shen Qiu nodded.

Inside the carriage, Shen Miao's face was tense, her mind racing with conjectures.

She didn't feel personally endangered—there was nothing of value on her to exploit, and she knew the ways of palace consorts better than anyone. Even if they had schemes, they wouldn't dare act openly today. The imperial family prized their reputation too much; if anything happened to her in the palace, they would be the first to bear responsibility.

But if she reasoned backward... Shen Miao's gaze darkened. The palace women had no ties to Luo Xueyan, yet they summoned her—likely to extract information from her. The real target wasn't Luo Xueyan but perhaps the Shen family... or Shen Xin himself?

But why would they suddenly take an interest in Shen Xin? He had kept a low profile in the capital and hadn't entangled himself with Fu Xiuyi as he had in her past life. Even if the imperial family wanted to suppress the Shen family, they would need a pretext. Unless... they already had one?

Shen Miao grew more confused. The order for Luo Xueyan to bring her along was likely a warning—if anything happened, even Shen Miao, as a daughter, wouldn't be spared... The more she thought about it, the more plausible it seemed, and she couldn't help but feel tense. Many things in this life differed from her past, especially the broader political landscape of Ming Qi. She had tried her best to delay the Shen family's tragedy, yet fate still seemed to conspire against them. This time, what was the reason?

Noticing Shen Miao's troubled expression, Luo Xueyan assumed she was afraid and comforted her gently, "Don't worry, Jiaojiao. We're just going to chat with the palace ladies. It'll be over soon, and then we can go see the house."

Shen Miao smiled faintly, but her mind remained preoccupied.Upon arriving at the palace gates, they were met by palace maids who had been sent to receive them. Seeing Shen Miao and her companion, the maids immediately led them inside. Along the way, Luo Xueyan inquired of the maid who appeared to be a senior court lady about which consort had summoned them, but the woman only smiled without answering, saying they would know once they arrived.

At this moment, in the Yaoguang Hall of the palace, two lavishly dressed women were engaged in conversation. The woman on the left wore her hair in an immortal-style bun and was dressed in a water-red embroidered golden palace gown, exuding extravagance. Though her face was lovely and she spoke with a smile, her eyes betrayed absentmindedness, and she seemed rather dismissive of the woman beside her. Despite her demeanor, the other woman showed no sign of displeasure and instead responded with gentle smiles. This woman wore a long apricot-colored dress printed with plum blossoms. Though not as striking in appearance as the one on the left, she carried herself with grace and courtesy, presenting an air of quiet elegance.

These two were none other than the consorts who had summoned Shen Miao and her mother today. The woman in red palace attire on the left was Consort Xu, while the more refined-looking one on the right was Consort Dong.

"His Majesty asked us to invite Lady Shen, but why must she bring her daughter along?" Consort Xu said impatiently. "They’ve taken so long to arrive—such grand airs!"

"The general's residence is quite a distance from the palace," Consort Dong replied with a smile. "Sister, there’s no need to rush."

Consort Xu laughed lightly. "You’re always so good at playing the peacemaker." Suddenly, as if struck by a thought, she smirked mischievously. "Come to think of it, that Shen family’s young lady once harbored feelings for the Ninth Prince. Could it be that you’re so fond of her that you’re defending her like this?"

Consort Dong’s expression stiffened momentarily before she chuckled. "Sister, you do love to jest. But... since His Majesty has entrusted this matter to us, we should focus on our task. The Fifth Miss Shen is merely accompanying her mother—we can have the maids escort her out later."

Invoking Emperor Wenhui’s authority, even the domineering Consort Xu could say little in protest. Just as she was about to make a sarcastic remark, her senior court lady entered. "They’re here?" Consort Xu asked.

The court lady nodded, and soon after, Luo Xueyan and Shen Miao entered. After paying their respects to the two consorts, Shen Miao stood quietly beside her mother, keeping her head lowered. Then, a slightly shrill voice spoke: "Lady Shen, this must be your daughter. Lift your head and let us have a look."

Shen Miao paused, then slowly raised her gaze to meet the scrutinizing eyes of the two seated women. When she recognized the figure on the right, her heart clenched, and she felt her blood boil with suppressed emotion.

The woman on the left, Consort Xu, was the birth mother of Prince Zhou and Jing Wang. The one on the right, Consort Dong, was Fu Xiuyi’s mother. Now, Consort Dong smiled warmly at Shen Miao and remarked to Consort Xu, "What a well-mannered child—so clean and proper, with a face full of blessings."

"Blessings." The word lodged like a stone in Shen Miao’s chest. Consort Dong gazed at her with such tenderness that anyone unaware of the truth would surely lower their guard under such affectionate treatment.

Consort Dong was not particularly favored. Emperor Wenhui had countless women around him—those with powerful backgrounds, literary talents, stunning beauty, or captivating personalities. Consort Dong, however, was mild and unassuming, neither competing nor grasping for anything. It was through sheer steadiness that she had risen to the rank of one of the four principal consorts. Outwardly, she appeared the least influential among them, but Shen Miao knew better—Consort Dong was far from the harmless woman she seemed.When Shen Miao married Fu Xiuyi, Consort Dong had praised her as "a blessed appearance that brings prosperity to her husband." But as Fu Xiuyi grew more powerful, Consort Dong became indifferent toward her. After Shen Miao returned from Qin State, Consort Dong, now the revered Empress Dowager, even sided with Mei Furen. In Consort Dong's eyes, Shen Miao was merely a pawn to win over the Shen family—a crude and unrefined one at that. So much so that when Fu Xiuyi later deposed the crown prince, Consort Dong was the first to step forward to support Fu Sheng's ascension.

Shen Miao quickly lowered her head, concealing the flicker of hatred in her eyes.

Consorts Xu and Dong, however, mistook Shen Miao's reaction for shyness. Consort Xu casually asked, "How old are you this year?"

"Replying to Your Highness," Shen Miao answered softly, "this humble girl is fourteen."

"Fourteen..." Consort Xu mused before smiling. "Soon, you'll be of marriageable age."

This abrupt remark immediately put Luo Xueyan on edge. Her greatest concern now was Shen Miao. A young lady's marriage was pivotal to her entire life, and if the palace were to meddle in Shen Miao's betrothal... Luo Xueyan's expression darkened. Noticing her tension, Consort Xu let out a light laugh. "Madam Shen seems so nervous. What, are you afraid this consort will play matchmaker for Miss Shen?"

Luo Xueyan hurriedly replied, "This humble woman wouldn't dare!"

"Rest assured," Consort Xu said, "even if this consort were to arrange a match, it wouldn't be a haphazard pairing. I would certainly seek the young lady's opinion. Speaking of which..." She turned to Shen Miao with a mischievous smile. "Miss Shen, do you have someone you fancy now?"

Asking Shen Miao about her romantic inclinations in front of Consort Dong was a blatant provocation—everyone knew of Shen Miao's infamous infatuation with Fu Xiuyi, which had once been the talk of the town. Consort Xu, emboldened by Emperor Wenhui's favor, had always been domineering. Among the four consorts, Consort Dong was the easiest to bully, and Consort Xu took great pleasure in using her as a target.

"Thank you for Your Highness's kindness. This humble girl currently has no one in mind," Shen Miao replied, her head still bowed.

Consort Xu seemed somewhat disappointed, finding Shen Miao's reserved demeanor dull—far from the legendary "Incompetent" reputation that might have provided some amusement. She waved her hand dismissively. "Very well, if there's none, then so be it."

Luo Xueyan grew even more cautious. Anything concerning Shen Miao demanded her utmost vigilance. Just as she was lost in thought, Consort Dong's gentle voice drifted from above. "Madam, there's no need to be tense. My sister and I invited you to the palace today merely to chat about everyday matters." She paused before continuing, "Neither of us has ever been to the northwest. Your accompanying the general on campaigns has become a celebrated tale, and we're deeply curious about the northern regions. Hence, we sought your company for a conversation."

Consort Dong's tone was warm and soothing, like a spring breeze comforting the heart. Yet Luo Xueyan remained guarded, and Shen Miao grew even more suspicious. They knew full well that today's palace visit had ulterior motives—perhaps Emperor Wenhui's roundabout way of gathering information. By involving Consort Xu and Consort Dong, one brash and the other gentle, the emperor had crafted a perfect blend of force and softness to disorient and coax out secrets unwittingly.

Shen Miao felt a pang of unease.

"Thank you for Your Highness's gracious regard," Luo Xueyan replied with a smile. "But the northern lands are rather monotonous. I fear my accounts may not hold Your Highness's interest.""It's alright," Consort Dong smiled. "Since we invited you here, we don't fear boredom." Her voice paused as she suddenly remembered something and looked at Shen Miao.

Fu Xiuyi knew about the emperor's plan to test Luo Xueyan and understood that bringing Shen Miao along was meant as a warning. He had instructed his mother the previous day that if Shen Miao were present, she should be sent away during the discussion. As Fu Xiuyi's mother, Consort Dong naturally had no reason to doubt him. Yet... no matter how she looked at it, she couldn't see what was so threatening about this seemingly dull and timid young lady.

Shen Miao kept her head lowered, making her expression unclear. Consort Dong said, "But our little jokes might bore the young lady. Tong Yao, take Fifth Miss Shen for a stroll in the gardens. When she tires, bring her to Yi Ju Chamber for some refreshments and take good care of her."

Though slightly surprised, Consort Xu assumed it was Emperor Wenhui's idea and saw no reason to object. Luo Xueyan felt uneasy—keeping Shen Miao within sight would be best—but she realized the coming conversation between the two consorts likely wasn't idle chatter. At the very least... in broad daylight, they wouldn't dare let anything happen to Shen Miao.

Reassured by this thought, she smiled at Shen Miao. "Jiaojiao, go with the palace maid to see the gardens. Once I finish speaking with Their Ladyships, I'll come find you."

Shen Miao didn't refuse, but inwardly she was alarmed. Why were they suddenly sending her away? She could have thrown a tantrum to stay, but that would seem too deliberate. Why exclude her from the conversation? Had she aroused suspicion? Consort Dong, who suggested this, was meeting her for the first time... Could Fu Xiuyi have warned Consort Dong? The thought flashed through her mind.

Yet she said nothing, rising politely to bid farewell to Consort Xu before following Tong Yao out.

The palace maid led her through the gardens. Palaces were filled with such gardens, likely built for the imperial consorts, and they were indeed magnificent. But Shen Miao had no interest in admiring them—she knew every inch of these grounds, every flower that grew here. What novelty was there to see?

Noticing her distraction, Tong Yao said, "Miss Shen, if you're tired, this servant can take you to Yi Ju Chamber to rest. There are refreshments there."

Shen Miao nodded. Halfway there, just as Yi Ju Chamber came into view, a young eunuch rushed up, whispering urgently to Tong Yao. The maid then apologized, "Yi Ju Chamber is just ahead. Please go in first, Miss Shen. This servant will deliver something and return shortly."

Shen Miao agreed without fuss. The chamber was right there, and with guards posted throughout the palace, there was little danger. Besides, she had been here before and knew the place well.

She pushed open the door and stepped inside. As it snapped shut behind her, a jolt of alarm shot through her. Before she could react, a hand clamped over her mouth from behind. Instinctively, she bit down hard and drove her elbow backward with vicious force.

A sharp hiss sounded behind her, but her elbow was caught in an unyielding grip. A familiar voice, laced with suppressed anger, growled, "Shen Miao, are you a shrew?"

She froze. The hand released her, and she turned to see Xie Jingxing rubbing his hand, his expression still faintly irritated. But... that wasn't what caught her attention.

Gone was his usual roguish, untamed demeanor. Today, he wore a deep red official robe trimmed with silver, its cuffs exquisitely detailed, paired with a tall hat and black boots. The sharp, imperious air about him was utterly unlike the man she knew. Stunned, Shen Miao could only stare.Xie Jingxing locked the door, then turned and crossed his arms to look at her, clearly preparing to settle accounts later.

But Shen Miao wasn’t afraid of him. She only frowned and asked, “What are you doing here?”

“I saw you when I left the palace and thought it might be you, so I came to check. And it really is.” Xie Jingxing spoke with effortless ease. “The Emperor summoned your father to the palace?”

Shen Miao’s heart skipped a beat. “What do you mean?”

...