[1]The Consort is Both Charming and Scheming, Rising Through Palace Intrigue

English Translation:

The next day, after the morning greetings, the Empress sent over the Bi Xiang Ning Sha and Bi Xiang Ning Jin fabrics that she had mentioned at the summer palace.

There was no denying that the fabric was of exceptional quality—intricately patterned, incredibly soft, and comfortable. It also carried a faint fragrance, reminiscent of sweet floral scents.

Ning Shuyan caught the scent and immediately grew cautious. "Qiu Le, come take a look."

Qiu Le understood at once. She picked up the brocade, examined it carefully, and then reassured her, "Master, you can rest assured, there is nothing impure about it."

Qiu Le's family had been doctors for generations, and she had been influenced by medical knowledge since childhood. She was particularly interested in the study of medicine and often read medical texts whenever she had free time at the marquis' residence. Because of this, she could easily distinguish whether the scent contained musk or any poisonous substances.

"In that case, send two bolts to the Imperial Household Department to have a dress made, and keep the remaining two in storage."

Since the Empress had gifted her these fabrics, it was necessary to wear them publicly to show respect for her kindness.

July 29 – Consort Zhuang's Birthday Banquet

Before long, it was July 29, the birthday of Consort Zhuang. She had coquettishly pleaded with Xiao Yu, and he finally agreed to hold a birthday banquet for her.

This left Consort Rong feeling uneasy. She had entered the prince's manor before Consort Zhuang, yet the Emperor had never hosted a birthday banquet for her.

At the banquet, all the consorts were present, waiting for Xiao Yu and Consort Zhuang to arrive.

"The Emperor truly dotes on Sister Zhuang, going so far as to hold a banquet for her at Yingchun Hall," Consort Rong said sourly.

Today, she was exceptionally radiant. Her elaborate coiffure was adorned with a golden butterfly hairpin inlaid with pearls and jade. With every slight movement, it seemed as if a butterfly were taking flight, shimmering with golden hues. She wore a crimson-purple palace robe, making her fair, lustrous skin appear even more radiant.

Ning Shuyan observed her—no wonder she was known as the most beautiful woman in the harem. With jade-like elegance, arched brows, and delicate rosy cheeks, her exquisite appearance clearly aimed to outshine Consort Zhuang.

The Empress, sitting at the head of the banquet, smiled gracefully. "Consort Zhuang has been in the palace for many years, and His Majesty holds her in special regard. Hosting a banquet for her is only natural. Didn't His Majesty also recently celebrate the First Prince's birthday?"

The Empress had not dressed to stand out today. However, her crimson-red robe and phoenix-adorned crown symbolized her supreme status. No matter how lavishly the other consorts dressed, her attire remained unparalleled.

Even so, Consort Rong still felt uneasy—after all, the Emperor had never hosted a birthday banquet for her. She forced a smile and turned to caress the First Prince's cheek.

The Empress then turned her gaze to Ning Shuyan, who was dressed in a pale lilac palace gown that complemented her fair skin, making her appear both enchanting and alluring. The Empress nodded approvingly and smiled. "I suppose this must be the Bi Xiang Ning Jin. The color suits you well."

Ning Shuyan stood up and bowed. "I have yet to personally thank Your Majesty for this generous gift."

The Empress shook her head. "We are all sisters here; there is no need to be so formal."