As spring approached, the weather in Yan Jing grew warmer. However, turmoil brewed in the inner palace. The palace staff knew Empress Wei and Consort Zhao were not on good terms. Consort Zhao, bolstered by her father’s influence as a general, was arrogant. While Empress Wei initially showed restraint, she eventually asserted her position as the primary empress. The constant conflicts annoyed the Emperor, who stopped visiting the inner palace and often slept alone in the Taiji Hall.
During the silk-spinning ceremony, Consort Zhao publicly humiliated Empress Wei, leading to her reprimand and confinement by the Emperor. Consort Zhao then threatened suicide, prompting the Emperor to summon her father to calm her down.
Chapter 54
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This was Wei Linxia’s fourth time seeing Zhao Chengru, whose countenance was as expressionless as ever.
Before his arrival, Wei Linxia had been persuading Tai Qing about maintaining harmony in the inner palace, reminding her that they grew up together like sisters and shouldn’t fall out over this matter. She emphasized following parental orders, even if unwilling to enter the palace. Tai Qing then threw a teacup, criticizing Wei Linxia for prioritizing her husband’s throne over their sisterly bond, forcing her into this human prison.
As Wei Linxia remained silent, a palace maid entered to announce that Master Zhao requested an audience.
He arrived, paid his respects, and Wei Linxia nodded in return. Tai Qing leaned back in her chair, let out a “hmph,” and ignored her “father.”
Wei Linxia ordered tea, chatted briefly, then excused herself, wanting to leave quickly but maintaining her composure.
Taking a deep breath, she looked at the sky – blue, not turning blood-red.
That evening, as the sky began to redden, Xi Linxuan issued two decrees: Northern Army General Zhao Chengru, who entered the palace with weapons intending harm, would be executed according to law. Consort Zhao, who attempted to poison the Empress but accidentally poisoned her own father, would be sentenced to death and granted three feet of white silk.
An uneasy atmosphere permeated the palace.
Xi Linxuan dined with Wei Linxia and brought along a female official whose charm was evident despite her elegant attire.
“What a strong fishy smell. How can one eat?” the female official grimaced at the elaborate dishes.
