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

Xiao Yu swept his gaze across the gathered crowd, his expression seemingly calm, but beneath that stillness lay a sharpness like a blade.

"Normally, I turn a blind eye to your petty jealousy and backhanded schemes. But to harm an imperial heir and frame a consort—such vile women, I will never tolerate! If anything like this happens again, no matter who is responsible, they will be sent straight to the Cold Palace."

Though Xiao Yu was usually stern and cold, he had never before reprimanded them so harshly. The consorts were all terrified and immediately knelt in fright. "This concubine dares not!"

Xiao Yu lightly tapped his fingers on his knee. "Zhao Jieyu and Lady Xue have both suffered grievances. They shall each be promoted one rank. Zhao Jieyu will be promoted to Xiuyi, and Lady Xue to Baolin. The fifteenth day of the second month is an auspicious day; the promotion ceremony will be held then."

Xiuyi was one of the nine imperial consorts—an honored title. Unlike lower ranks, those of third rank and above required a formal ceremony, complete with a golden scroll and seal. These women were referred to as "niangniang" and held a main position in a palace.

The Empress quickly agreed, "That is only right—especially Xiuyi Zhao, who has been wronged. Your Majesty should make proper amends."

At this point, the Empress could no longer concern herself with others' promotions or demotions. She clearly felt the Emperor's dissatisfaction with her. If another such incident occurred, even her position as Empress might be in jeopardy.

Since the Emperor was clearly partial to and guilty toward Zhao Jieyu, the Empress had no choice but to act favorably toward her too.

But the other consorts were not pleased. In just a year, she had risen from a Cairen to the head of a palace—a position many could not reach in a lifetime.

Why? Just because she suffered injustice?

Ning Shuyan bowed. "This concubine thanks His Majesty for the grace."

Xiao Yu said calmly, "That is all. You may leave."

He then rose, sleeves fluttering, and walked to Ning Shuyan's side, extending a hand. "Let me escort you back."

Ning Shuyan allowed him to help her up, but after standing straight, she said, "I promised Jieyu Xi that I would visit her palace. I'm afraid I cannot return with Your Majesty."

Everyone turned to look at Ning Shuyan in surprise. She had actually rejected the Emperor! Being escorted back to one's palace by the Emperor was a coveted honor—who would dare decline it?

Yet the Emperor didn't seem angry. On the contrary, he appeared calm, even a bit gentle. "Very well. I will visit you another day."

To Xiao Yu, the fact that she extended her hand to him showed that her hurt and sadness had eased somewhat. That alone pleased him greatly.

As they left Fengqi Palace, Cheng Yin chuckled. "You're truly bold—rejecting the Emperor again and again, even using me as an excuse."

Ning Shuyan smiled. "Good thing you didn't expose me on the spot. I haven't actually visited your palace before. Would you let me sit for a while?"

Since she had mentioned it, she had to follow through and play the part.

She had deliberately extended her hand so Xiao Yu would think she forgave him, yet refused to return with him. She had grown tired of being the obedient type; now was the time for a more elusive approach.

Cheng Yin smiled sweetly. "Of course. I sincerely invite you, Lady Xiuyi."

Ning Shuyan playfully scolded, "So you're making fun of me now?"