Palace maids and eunuchs watched from outside, witnessing the palace’s unprecedented twenty consecutive gifts. Some observed with interest; others, with anger. Xu Qiu’er knew this was due to Xiao Ju’s request and generously rewarded the servants with many nice things. The Fu Qiu Hall became the center of attention that night.
Xu Qiu’er felt anxious, sensing something was about to happen. She called Guan Yue, “Are they still here?”
Guan Yue nodded.
What could happen? She sighed, perhaps she was overthinking. Xu Qiu’er smiled and prepared to attend the gathering. Just as she turned the corner, she saw Xiao Rong rushing towards her, pale-faced and gasping, almost colliding with her.
Ning’er scolded, “Watch where you’re going!”
Xiao Rong looked up, “My lady, hurry to the Lan Ju Hall…”
A chill enveloped Xu Qiu’er. “What’s wrong?” she asked.
“Consort Ye… is not going to make it. Please hurry.”
Xiao Rong’s words struck Xu Qiu’er like thunder, leaving her speechless and cold. She had seen Xiao Ju happily preparing for her birthday that morning. How could this be happening now?
“My lady…” Xiao Rong rushed to support Xu Qiu’er as she trembled. Guan Yue advised, “Perhaps we shouldn’t go…” but Xu Qiu’er firmly shook her head, “Support me.”
Xu Qiu’er was nearly carried by Guan Yue and Cang Yue to Xiao Ju’s palace. Servants knelt outside, some crying. Inside, there was complete silence. Xu Qiu’er nearly fell but was caught by someone. Looking up helplessly, she wanted to smile but couldn’t.
“This servant greets the Young Prince.”
In the palace chamber, the Emperor seemed to have aged significantly, holding Consort Ye silently. The Empress and Old Buddha waited outside, anxious. Xu Qiu’er didn’t want to think at that moment. The Old Buddha noticed Hao Li supporting Xu Qiu’er and frowned but said nothing.
“The Crown Princess has arrived.”
The Emperor looked up at Xu Qiu’er, nodding, “Consort Ye wants to see you. Come and send her off one last time.”
Xu Qiu’er approached, noticing that the face which had been radiant that morning was now ashen. She called out, “Xiao Ju, your sister has come to see you…”
The Emperor closed his eyes, his voice choked with emotion. “Consort Ye has already gone.”
