The following day, news spread from the Eastern Palace that Cao Shi, who had just been elevated to the position of Crown Prince's secondary consort, had died suddenly of illness the previous night. It was said that the Crown Princess was startled awake from her sleep, hastily slipping on her shoes with her hair still undone, and immediately summoned imperial physicians for treatment. She personally kept vigil by Cao Shi's side until dawn. Unfortunately, Cao Shi had long suffered from a hidden abdominal ailment since her time in Wuding. Despite extensive treatment then, the root cause had never been fully eradicated. This sudden and violent recurrence proved too much, and she ultimately succumbed. Suppressing her grief, the Crown Princess informed the Imperial Clan Court. By daybreak, the news reached the Cao family, who were stunned and wept bitterly. Cao Shi's mother was granted special permission to enter the palace. By the time she was escorted in, her daughter's body already lay in repose at the Hall of Supreme Bliss, a place designated for funeral rites of deceased imperial concubines. All she saw was a nanmu coffin, with plain drapes and white silks adorning the hall. Palace maids and eunuchs, dressed in mourning hemp and white garments, knelt densely around the bier, wailing mournfully.
The Crown Prince was nowhere to be seen, but the Crown Princess personally received Cao's mother. Her eyes were red and swollen, and tears fell before she could speak. She recounted how Cao Shi had served the Crown Prince before her during their time in Wuding, always respectful, prudent, and virtuous. Even before the Crown Princess had entered the household, they had formed a sisterly bond. Now that they were finally together in the Eastern Palace, she had hoped they would work in harmony to serve the Crown Prince. Yet last night, Cao Shi's sudden illness proved beyond the physicians' skills, and despite her desperate efforts by the bedside, they were separated by death, leaving her inconsolable with grief.
Before she could finish speaking, she choked with sobs several times, rendered speechless and supported by her ladies-in-waiting, her tears unceasing.
Cao's mother had never heard of her daughter suffering from any chronic abdominal illness. Stricken with grief by the shocking news, she also felt bewildered. Since her daughter had entered the princely residence, she had never seen her again, only receiving seasonal gifts sent from the household. Now that His Majesty had ascended the throne and the Heir Apparent had been enfeoffed as Crown Prince, her daughter's status had risen accordingly. The day after the Crown Prince's grand wedding, she had been elevated to secondary consort amidst celebrations. The family had been overjoyed and proud, never dreaming that before the festivities had even faded, they would receive news of her sudden death in the palace, without even a final glimpse.
Though Cao's mother harbored doubts, she dared not voice a single question, blaming only her daughter's lack of fortune to enjoy such imperial honors. Her tears flowed endlessly. When the Crown Princess mentioned reporting Cao Shi's virtues and conduct to seek a posthumous honor to enhance her mourning rites, Cao's mother tremblingly knelt before her, prompting further consolation from the Crown Princess.
Xiao Lie, burdened with myriad state affairs, was surprised upon hearing of the death in the Eastern Palace but gave it little thought. With a stroke of his vermilion brush, he approved the Crown Princess's request. Cao Shi was granted an honorary title and buried in the imperial mausoleum. Four maids and four eunuchs who had served her closely chose to follow her in death. The funeral was conducted with utmost grandeur, and the Cao family later received comforting compensation.The sudden death of the Eastern Palace's concubine was like a stone thrown into a lake, barely causing a ripple before vanishing without a trace. Soon, no one mentioned the ill-fated woman anymore. On the other hand, the Crown Princess, who had only been married for a few days and was still basking in the joy of her wedding, found herself unexpectedly facing mourning. Despite her young age, she showed no resentment, handling everything with grace and diligence. Her kindness and virtue further enhanced her reputation, bringing even more glory to the Zhang family. Half a month later, coinciding with the birthday of the Crown Princess's mother, all the wives of officials ranked fourth grade and above in the capital came to offer congratulations. Empress Zhou Shi also sent gifts and granted Zhang Fengtong special permission to return home for a visit that day. The Zhang matriarch was overjoyed and went to the palace to express her gratitude.
After the guests had left, Granny Lin entered the hall. Knowing she must be reporting on the progress of the secret investigation into Xiao Lie's whereabouts on the night of the Crown Prince's wedding, Zhou Shi dismissed the maids and eunuchs.
Granny Lin whispered, "Your Majesty, after privately questioning our own people, I finally uncovered a clue two days ago. It's said that on that night, a group of several people passed through the Anding Gate in the northern part of the city. One of them wore a cloak, covering his head and face, and remained on horseback without dismounting, making it impossible to see his features. The guards didn’t recognize the attendants, but one of them presented a palace token to order the gate opened. His appearance suggested he was a young eunuch from the palace. The group headed north after leaving the city, and their whereabouts are unknown. If my guess is correct, that man must have been Your Majesty. That night, Li Yuangui was attending the celebrations at the Pei family, and it was Cui Yinshui who served His Majesty. The description of the young eunuch matches Cui Yinshui perfectly."
Zhou Shi frowned.
"Naturally, we couldn’t inquire about His Majesty’s trusted guards. So, I tried to sound out Cui Yinshui, telling him that Your Majesty knew he worked hard serving the Emperor and wanted to reward him. But that cunning eunuch was extremely slippery, claiming he was unworthy and that serving His Majesty was a blessing from a past life, so he dared not accept any reward from Your Majesty. If Her Majesty insisted, he asked that his adoptive father receive it instead. That castrated rat was as slippery as an eel! After a few words, I realized there was little hope of getting anything out of him. I didn’t press further, afraid he might report it to Li Yuangui. If His Majesty found out, it would only bring trouble to Your Majesty. So, I withdrew. It’s all my incompetence—please punish me, Your Majesty."
As Granny Lin spoke, she noticed Zhou Shi’s frown deepening and quickly prostrated herself, kowtowing and begging for forgiveness. After a long silence, she peeked up and saw the Empress staring blankly ahead, as if lost in thought, her expression strange. Not daring to make a sound, Granny Lin held her breath and waited. Finally, the Empress spoke, "Are you certain His Majesty left through the northern gate that night?"
Granny Lin nodded vigorously. "Almost certainly—that group must have been him!"
Zhou Shi said, "Send trusted people to Cien Temple in the northern part of the city and quietly inquire whether any unusual visitors arrived that night and where they went."
Granny Lin had been Zhou Shi’s wet nurse and had followed her when the old emperor arranged her marriage to Xiao Lie. She knew some secrets that outsiders shouldn’t. Startled, she suddenly recalled something and gasped. "Your Majesty, are you saying His Majesty went to... that place in Cien Temple that night?"Zhou Shi's facial muscles twitched slightly as she gritted her teeth and said, "Sneaking out of the palace in the dead of night, heading straight to the northern city—where else could it be? After all these years, I thought he'd long since let go. Yet here we are, and he still can't forget. Barely a few days in the capital, ignoring the living to mourn the dead..."
She abruptly stopped speaking, her lips trembling faintly. Her ten sharp nails dug deep into her palms, yet she felt no pain. After taking a long, deep breath, she finally stood up and said coldly, "Go investigate immediately. Report to me as soon as you have news."
Granny Lin acknowledged the order, rose from the floor, and retreated from the room.
...
It was the birthday of the Zhang family's matriarch, and the Crown Princess had once again been granted permission to return home for a visit. That day, the street before the Zhang residence bustled with luxurious carriages and fine horses coming and going without cease. Since the guests were all noblewomen from various households, and the Crown Princess herself would be leaving the palace to celebrate her mother's birthday, the Zhang family had cordoned off the entire street early that morning to avoid any disturbances. By evening, bright horn lanterns lined the street from end to end, illuminating the scene as brightly as day. Noblewomen arrived one after another, their carriages and sedan chairs filling the street so completely that not an inch of space remained. Onlookers gathered at a distance, marveling at the extravagant display of wealth and splendor beyond description.
Though Pei You'an and Xiao Yintang had no private dealings, they maintained a cordial facade. Since Xiao Lie's arrival in the capital, the Pei, Zhang, and Zhou families had risen to become the most prominent noble houses in the city, with all the customary social exchanges intact. For Madam Zhang's birthday, an invitation had been sent early to the Pei family, inviting Madam Xin, Second Madam Meng, and the newlywed Jiafu to attend.
By the end of the Shen hour, Jiafu had finished dressing and set out with Madam Xin and Second Madam Meng. Madam Xin rode in her own carriage, while Second Madam Meng shared hers with Jiafu. Servants accompanied them front and back, with maids and attendants following in rear carriages, all making their way to the Zhang residence. At the gate, they were welcomed by the Zhang family's stewardess and led inside. Before they could reach the inner gate, Madam Zhang herself appeared with her attendants to greet them personally.
Madam Zhang wore a brand-new dark crimson brocade gown embroidered with longevity symbols, her forehead adorned with a gold-threaded, gem-studded headband—a vision of opulence and joy. She warmly took Madam Xin's hands, exchanged pleasantries, and said with a smile, "I merely wanted a bit of birthday merriment and never intended to trouble such esteemed guests. But Her Majesty the Empress said the Crown Princess had been working hard lately and should return home to rest and enjoy the festivities. Since Her Majesty insisted, I thought it best to set up a stage in our garden and invite all our dear friends among the noble ladies to enjoy the opera together. While others might decline, your esteemed family's eldest son is now highly favored by His Majesty, and I hear your household receives distinguished guests daily. I assumed you wouldn't have time to visit my humble home today, yet here you are—truly an honor that lights up our humble abode."The eldest son's glory was evident, but Jiafu noticed that Madam Xin's smile wasn't entirely joyful—though others failed to perceive it or pay close attention. Madam Zhang then greeted Second Madam before finally turning her gaze to Jiafu, giving her a brief once-over. Jiafu curtsied in greeting, to which Madam Zhang said cheerfully, "This must be the young madam blessed with His Majesty's arranged marriage! Such a jade-like beauty—I took a liking to you at first sight. Let’s not stand here any longer, come inside!" With that, she led Madam Xin and the others in, chatting and laughing as they passed through several gates. Along the way, not a single male servant was in sight—only maids and matrons. Finally, they entered the birthday hall specially decorated for the occasion, a treasure-laden pavilion adorned with floral splendor.
Inside, many guests had already gathered, their elegant attire shimmering with jewels and pearls, while the mingled fragrances of perfumes and powders filled the air. The noblewomen from various households, all exquisitely dressed, were either engaged in lively conversation or sipping tea, their laughter continuous. When they noticed Madam Zhang personally ushering in the guests, their eyes turned toward the newcomers.
This was Jiafu’s first appearance in the high-society circles of the capital since marrying Pei You'an.
Xiao Lie’s reliance on Pei You'an even surpassed the trust once placed in the Duke of Wei. Thanks to Pei You'an, the Pei family had risen to become the foremost noble house in the capital, its prestige rivaling the days when Pei Wenjing presided over the Imperial Harem. Every woman present recognized Madam Xin and Second Madam Meng, and as the Pei family arrived, they greeted them with warm smiles.
Knowing she was merely an accompanying figure today, Jiafu had dressed neither ostentatiously nor carelessly. Aware that her delicate features leaned toward youthful charm, she deliberately styled herself with maturity in mind. After bathing, she lightly traced her brows, applied a touch of powder, dabbed on rouge, and tinted her lips vermilion. Her hair was swept up in an elegant chignon, adorned with gold hairpins and jade earrings. Her gown, made of twelve panels stitched with golden threads, was embroidered with seasonal floral and avian motifs—each panel a masterpiece of refined opulence. As she moved, the skirt flared like a phoenix’s tail, dignified and peerless.
Pei You'an’s grand wedding had not only been arranged by the emperor but also shared the same auspicious date as the Crown Prince’s. Yet his bride was merely a merchant’s cousin from Quanzhou. Even before Jiafu made her debut, she had already drawn considerable attention. Now, though she followed behind the senior ladies, the moment she stepped into the hall, countless eyes turned her way.
Among the noblewomen present, some were familiar to Jiafu—such as the Duchess of Zhu and the Marchioness of Anyuan, who had previously visited the Pei residence—but most were strangers, necessitating introductions and polite exchanges. She maintained a composed smile, speaking sparingly but with impeccable grace. Even if some privately looked down on her humble origins, given Pei You'an’s current standing, none dared slight her openly. Those senior to her treated her with utmost warmth, while her peers flattered her obsequiously—such was the privilege of a wife elevated by her husband’s status.
Among them were Madam Liu Jiushao and Madam Zhang Zhengdao. Zhang Zhengdao owed his present wealth entirely to Pei You'an’s recommendation. As for Liu Jiushao, during the Wuding uprising, he had been captured on the battlefield. Were it not for Pei You'an, not only would he lack his current position, but his entire family would have long fallen to Prince Shun'an’s blade. The two ladies didn’t wait for introductions—they approached Jiafu themselves, engaging her in earnest conversation, their gratitude overflowing.While Jiafu was chatting with the two madams, she suddenly noticed Second Madam Meng leading a woman toward her, sidling up with an ingratiating manner. The woman was dressed in a brand-new, glossy purple robe, adorned with a head full of jewels. Her eyes darted around, and her face wore an obsequious smile. Jiafu immediately recognized her—none other than Quan Ge’s maternal grandmother, Madam Song.
During Prince Shun'an's reign as emperor, the Song family had enjoyed a few years of glory. Later, when Xiao Lie marched toward the capital, even before his army arrived, it was said that the Song family was among the first officials to secretly pledge allegiance to him. After Xiao Lie ascended the throne, he exempted the Song family from punishment but seemed to hold them in particular disdain, repeatedly demoting their ranks. The head of the Song family, once a high-ranking second-grade official, was reduced to an insignificant sixth-grade position in the Court of Imperial Sacrifices. It was only through Madam Song’s relentless social climbing and generous gifts that they managed to secure an invitation to this occasion, allowing her to stand here today.
Second Madam Meng led Madam Song to Jiafu with a smile, but as soon as she turned her back, she frowned and whispered into Jiafu’s ear, “A’fu, this woman has been pestering me to introduce her to you. I couldn’t shake her off, so I had to bring her over. Just say a few words to her and send her on her way.”
When Jiafu was preparing for her wedding, Madam Song had shamelessly arrived bearing gifts, not only returning the treasures the Zhen family had previously given but also adding many more. Would Meng Shi ever accept her favors? As soon as Madam Song left, Meng Shi immediately had the extra gifts sent back.
Remembering how her mother had endured humiliation and swallowed her pride in the past, suffering under Madam Song’s arrogance, Jiafu felt a surge of disgust. Now, seeing the woman brazenly trying to ingratiate herself, Jiafu could hardly muster a pleasant expression. Suppressing her revulsion, she forced a smile and said, “How have you been, Godmother?”
Madam Song hastily waved her hands, simpering, “How could I possibly deserve such an address from the esteemed Madam Pei? I’m no godmother of yours. If you’d just call me ‘Madam,’ I’d be overjoyed! I heard your mother is still in the capital? I’ve been longing to pay her a visit, but I know she’s busy and didn’t want to impose. Would it be convenient in the coming days?” Her tone dripped with sycophancy, a far cry from her former domineering demeanor.
After the news of Jiafu’s imperial betrothal to Pei You'an reached Quanzhou, her brother Zhen Yaoting had immediately set out for the capital. Once they reunited, he would take their mother, Meng Shi, back to Quanzhou. By Jiafu’s calculations, they should arrive in a couple of days.
Jiafu had no intention of publicly humiliating this opportunistic woman to vent her anger, but she also wouldn’t let her take advantage of the situation. She replied coolly, “My mother has indeed been quite busy these days, with a constant stream of visitors leaving her no time to rest. She’s exhausted. If you have no urgent matter, I’ll convey your regards on her behalf.”
Madam Song nodded awkwardly. “Yes, yes, if Madam Meng is tired, she should rest well…”
Jiafu gave a faint smile and turned away, ending the conversation.
Suddenly, a palace eunuch hurried in, announcing the arrival of the Crown Princess. Everyone in Quanshou Hall immediately stopped what they were doing and, following protocol, lined up behind Madam Zhang to welcome her outside.
Jiafu followed the crowd to the second gate and stopped. Outside the main gate, a full ceremonial procession was in place, with eunuchs and palace maids holding towels and fans. A young eunuch bent forward and lifted the curtain of the palanquin, from which Zhang Fengtong descended. Madam Zhang led the women of the household to welcome her inside, the display of grandeur truly magnificent.Jiafu stood with the others on either side of the corridor, watching as Zhang Fengtong approached, surrounded by attendants, her face radiant with smiles. Dressed in palace attire, she exuded grace and opulence, the lamplight casting a brilliant glow upon her, fully displaying the demeanor of Great Wei's future empress. As she drew nearer, the ladies of rank below the second grade, along with the young maidens accompanying them, bowed deeply in her direction.
Jiafu, positioned at the forefront, was exempt from kneeling before the Crown Princess. As Zhang Fengtong passed by, she turned her head as if catching sight of Jiafu by chance, her face breaking into a smile. She halted, then veered toward Jiafu.
Jiafu performed a customary salute, which Zhang Fengtong waived, also motioning for those kneeling along the path to rise. Addressing the crowd, she said with a smile, "Madam Pei and I have been old acquaintances, but alas, our busy lives have kept us from deepening our friendship—a regret I’ve long harbored. Tonight, on this splendid occasion, I look forward to a delightful conversation with Madam Pei." With that, she took Jiafu’s hand, inviting her to enter together, and added to Madam Zhang with a smile, "Mother, do remember to seat Madam Pei near me later."
The crowd, witnessing the Crown Princess’s favor, cast increasingly envious glances toward Jiafu.
Jiafu declined, citing her insufficient rank, but Zhang Fengtong insisted earnestly. Realizing she could no longer refuse, Jiafu smiled and expressed her thanks.
Upon entering the banquet hall for the birthday celebration, seating arrangements placed Jiafu at Zhang Fengtong’s table—a position of the highest honor. Her fellow diners were either holders of Imperial Mandates beyond the standard ranks or venerable elders. Being the youngest, Jiafu was seated at the lower end, directly opposite Zhang Fengtong.
As the banquet commenced, everyone picked up their chopsticks.
Such occasions were hardly for satiating hunger. Having eaten beforehand, Jiafu was not hungry and thus proceeded with caution, following the lead of Madam, the Duchess of Qin beside her, taking only a couple of modest bites from the dishes within reach.
Zhang Fengtong smiled and said, "Today is my mother’s birthday, and I am deeply grateful for the esteemed elders and relatives who have come to celebrate with us. Though I bear the title of Crown Princess, I am young in years and dare not presume seniority before my elders. Let me first propose a toast to all."
As she finished, a palace attendant approached with a wine jug to pour for the guests at the table, starting with the Crown Princess’s cup before moving in turn.
The ladies at the table politely demurred.
Jiafu’s gaze swept over the jug in the attendant’s hand—unintentionally at first, but upon a glance, her heart stirred slightly.
The jug had a rounded belly and a pointed spout, its shape no different from ordinary ones, yet its base color was the imperial yellow reserved for royalty. Painted on its belly were intricate dragon-and-phoenix motifs amid auspicious clouds, so lifelike and exquisite that it was unmistakably a palace treasure.
Jiafu felt the jug looked familiar, as if she had seen it somewhere before, though she couldn’t immediately recall. Straining her memory as the attendant poured for each guest in turn, she finally remembered just as the attendant was about to reach her.In the previous life, the year after Xiao Yintang ascended the throne as emperor, he ennobled a Liang consort. The Liang family was then showing signs of rising prominence, often clashing with the Zhang family. That Noble Consort Liang was renowned for her virtue and talent, and within half a year of entering the palace, she became the highest-ranking consort after Zhang Fengtong. However, during the Mid-Autumn Festival that same year, at a grand banquet hosted by Zhang Fengtong for the imperial harem and the wives of ministers holding Imperial Mandate titles, that Liang consort got drunk. Not only did she speak inappropriately, but she also railed at the empress and stripped off her clothes in a disgraceful display, disrupting the banquet. When the news spread beyond the palace, the Liang family was utterly humiliated, and Xiao Yintang grew to despise her. Yet Noble Consort Liang kept protesting her innocence, claiming she had been framed—that after drinking, she had lost her senses. Xiao Yintang, being shrewd, sensed something amiss and ordered a thorough investigation. It was eventually revealed that a consort surnamed Zhu, out of jealousy toward Noble Consort Liang, had bribed a palace servant to use a specially crafted wine pot called the Mandarin Duck Universe Pot during the banquet. Outwardly, it looked like an ordinary pot, but inside, it had a hidden mechanism dividing it into two compartments, allowing different wines to be poured. Pressing a concealed button on the handle would dispense wine from one compartment, leaving none the wiser. Noble Consort Liang had unwittingly drunk the drugged wine, leading to her public disgrace.
Upon learning the truth, Xiao Yintang ordered Consort Zhu to be interrogated, but she had already taken her own life in fear of punishment. The wine pot was later given to Jiafu by Xiao Yintang for her amusement.
Now, Jiafu suddenly understood everything.
Why the invitation had explicitly requested her presence at the banquet. Why Zhang Fengtong had insisted she sit at the same table.
Maintaining a composed expression and the expected smile, Jiafu watched as the palace servant finished pouring wine for Madam, the Duchess of Qin beside her, then turned to her with the pot, extending its spout toward her wine cup just as before.
She saw it clearly—the servant’s thumb pressed a tiny button on the handle the moment the wine was poured. The movement was so subtle that had she not been paying close attention, she would never have noticed.
The golden wine was steadily poured into her cup. By now, everyone at the table had been served, and the palace attendant gently placed the wine jug in front of Zhang Fengtong before quietly withdrawing.
Suppressing the turmoil in her heart, Jiafu slowly raised her eyes to see Zhang Fengtong stand up, holding his cup. With a smile in his eyes, he glanced around the table before finally resting his gaze on her face. "This first toast," he said, "is to the prosperity of Great Wei and the boundless longevity of Your Majesty. Let us drink together."
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