In Jingxiang Palace, upon hearing of Yan Zixuan’s arrival, Consort Zhuang quickly ordered fruits and pastries to be served.
Yan Zixuan was not particularly interested in the pastries, but each time he visited, Consort Zhuang would have them prepared, fearing he might go hungry.
He understood Consort Zhuang’s heartfelt intentions, so he would always eat some to make her happy.
“Your son greets Mother Consort, wishing her good fortune.”
Yan Zixuan bowed in salute.
Consort Zhuang quickly rose from her seat, walked briskly to Yan Zixuan’s side, and held his wrist, slightly displeased, “I’ve told you we’re family; there’s no need for such formalities.”
“What Mother Consort says is true, but this is the Imperial Palace,” Yan Zixuan softly reminded.
Consort Zhuang paused her step, glanced at Yan Zixuan, and grumbled, “It is the Imperial Palace indeed, but here, it is Mother Consort’s Jingxiang Palace.”
Yan Zixuan shook his head helplessly, no longer continuing the topic.
“Mother Consort heard you came from Jingxin Palace?” Consort Zhuang seated herself and pushed the pastries towards Yan Zixuan.
“Yes, your son went to Jingxin Palace to help Vice Minister Sun deliver some silver notes to Talented Lady Sun.”
Yan Zixuan picked up a pastry and took a bite, sharing the proceedings along the way.
“If you went directly to the Cold Palace, isn’t that openly telling the Emperor your relations with Vice Minister Sun are deep?” Consort Zhuang furrowed her brow, “You must realize that in the Ministry of War, Vice Minister Sun is the only reliable one.”
“That’s what Mother Consort thinks.” Yan Zixuan chuckled softly, “Mother Consort need not worry; Vice Minister Sun lacks ability and is somewhat timid. Many matters I don’t let him know or touch too much, lest he ruins them.”
“Since you have plans in mind, Mother Consort won’t worry blindly anymore.”
“Yes, Mother Consort shouldn’t be overly anxious, your son is in charge.” Yan Zixuan suddenly thought of Beauty Qing and softly asked, “Mother Consort, what do you think of Beauty Qing?”
“Her?” Consort Zhuang chuckled, “We must say, Academician Han truly knows how to raise daughters.”
Yan Zixuan also laughed, “As it seems, Mother Consort has a high opinion of Beauty Qing. In the palace, indeed your son lacks someone like her.”
Upon hearing Yan Zixuan speak so, Consort Zhuang’s smile waned.
“Xuan’er, don’t you already have Xiyue? Han Yiqing is the Emperor’s woman, how can you develop feelings for her?”
Yan Zixuan felt his face flush at Consort Zhuang’s words, he rose with slight embarrassment and anger, “Mother Consort, what are you saying?”
“Beauty Qing managed to reach her current position in just a few days, showing her prowess. Your son merely thinks if she could be used by your son, then the harem could fall under his control.”
Consort Zhuang sighed in relief, walked closer to Yan Zixuan, showing a gentle, apologetic smile, “It’s Mother Consort’s mistake, don’t get upset, Xuan’er.”
Yan Zixuan ultimately did not want Consort Zhuang worrying, softly said, “It was your son who failed to explain clearly.”
“Mother Consort overthought, it’s just that Han Yiqing’s mind is deep, unknown if she could be utilized, besides she is the Emperor’s concubine, the risk of your actions is too high, but Li Yuyu’s situation is truly… alas…”
Initially, Li Yuyu seemed the best choice, but her recent transformation filled Consort Zhuang with apprehension.
She dared not risk.
Mentioning Li Yuyu, Yan Zixuan’s expression changed subtly, unconsciously raising a hand to his heart, where a piece of cloth from Li Yuyu’s garments rested.
He pursed his lips, tentatively asked, “Mother Consort, do you know to what extent Yuyu and Brother have progressed?”