The Rebirth of the Malicious Empress of Military Lineage Chapter 231: Return Of An Old Friend (Part 12)

The old physician, Gao Zhan, stroked his white beard and declared with a shake of his head, “This old physician gave his utmost to preserve her life. Her body was tragically withered, yet her sheer will to live prevented her final breath. With but a gasp remaining, I managed to seal her acupuncture points, saving her life, though it was merely her life that was salvaged.”

“Zu Fu, what do you mean by that?” Gao Yang’s voice trembled slightly at the term. Having been estranged from the family for many years, he had defied the Gao family’s rules from the outset of his official career, leading to his expulsion and a subsequent decade of silence. The address 'Zu Fu' caused Gao Zhan to quiver.

“It signifies that she may slumber eternally. Though her breathing persists and her pulse can be felt, she may never awaken, never flutter her lashes. And should she miraculously rouse,” he glanced at Gao Yang, “Much like how you treated the Young Master of the Ye family, no one can predict her state upon awakening.”

In essence, upon Shen Miao’s potential return to consciousness, she might become as simple-minded as Ye Hong Guang. Or, more likely, she would remain in this somnolent state, year after year, her eyes refusing to open even when greeting Xie Jing Xing in her twilight years.

“Isn’t that akin to being a…” Ji Yu Shu hesitated, the words ‘living dead’ clinging to his tongue. Yet, even unspoken, the implication resonated with everyone present.

“In such a dire situation,” Gao Zhang inquired of Xie Jing Xing, “Is Your Highness prepared to wait?”

“The duration is of no consequence,” Xie Jing Xing stated firmly. “She honored her promise and awaited my return; why should I demur at dedicating my entire lifetime to her? Her existence belongs to me. Without my decree, even the King of Hell dares not claim her.” As he spoke, his eyes held an icy coldness, reminiscent of Emperor Yong Le’s stern gaze, yet imbued with an unshakeable arrogance that dismissed all other concerns.

A heavy silence descended upon the gathered individuals.

Shen Miao’s eyes remained closed, oblivious to the exchanged words, appearing to be in a deep, peaceful slumber. Luo Tan softly suggested, “Let us depart and allow her some time to rest. She has not experienced a moment of true repose throughout the past year.”

*****

Xie Jing Xing exhibited an unexpected tenderness towards the pair of infants.

His long-serving subordinates and trusted companions were utterly astonished, their jaws practically touching the floor at the sight of him. It was commonly understood that while new fathers might experience joy, their typically rough and unpolished nature often led to an initial reluctance in the direct care of newborns.

Furthermore, given Xie Jing Xing’s formidable personality, the very notions of ‘patience’ and ‘gentleness’ seemed antithetical to his character. Nevertheless, he defied all expectations, dedicating his time to the two children. He showed no aversion to their bodily functions and was even discerning about their nursemaid, engaging in tasks rarely associated with men. The children, as yet unnamed officially, bore only appellations bestowed by Xie Jing Xing: ‘Chu Yi’ and ‘Shi Wu’.

Many found these names excessively casual, but Xie Jing Xing countered with unwavering conviction, “The moon is at its fullest on the first and fifteenth day. Moreover, they are my sons; their names are of no concern to you. Be gone.”

Chu Yi (初一) signifies the first day of the lunar month, and Shi Wu (十五) denotes the fifteenth, the day of the full moon. The round moon symbolizes familial reunion, a sentiment Xie Jing Xing evidently wished for his own family’s future.

With no recourse, everyone dispersed.

Regardless of personal opinions on naming conventions or childcare duties, certain critical matters demanded attention.

Emperor Yong Le’s imperial edict regarding succession was public knowledge, and with the realm enjoying peace, Xie Jing Xing’s enthronement was a foregone conclusion. However, the crucial question remained: who would be appointed Empress?

With Shen Miao in her current state—perpetually unconscious or potentially mentally impaired upon awakening—there was no historical precedent for a monarch to elevate an Empress in such circumstances. The prospect seemed highly improbable. The future stretched endlessly, and a heart could easily waver. While Xie Jing Xing professed unwavering devotion to Shen Miao now, the long road ahead held uncertainties.

Upon learning of this development, Luo Tan felt a profound sense of injustice. The Shen family’s army, alongside the Great Liang troops, had yet to reach Long Ye, remaining unaware of Shen Miao’s predicament. As Shen Miao’s sole surviving family, Luo Tan was indignant at the thought of her being wronged and unable to reap any reward after such immense sacrifice.

Scolding or blaming Xie Jing Xing was not the right approach, as he himself had done nothing wrong. Therefore, Luo Tan poured out all the efforts Shen Miao had invested over the past year. She recounted how Shen Miao, even with a pregnant abdomen, had guarded Long Ye, protected the Imperial Palace, and upheld the dignity of Great Liang’s Imperial family. Even during critical and perilous times, Shen Miao had managed to hold things together, a burden she need not have carried.

Xie Jing Xing listened to Luo Tan’s words in silence. After observing her for a while with a half-smile, he inquired, “So?”

Luo Tan found herself at a loss for words. “So, you should understand in your heart.” She couldn't quite articulate her feelings, a sense of blockage she couldn't identify or resolve. Turning to leave, she bumped into someone and looked up to see Gao Yang.

Gao Yang, with curiosity, asked what was amiss. Luo Tan shot him a fierce glare before quickly departing.

Xie Jing Xing walked towards the pond, initially intending to have tea. However, he ultimately dismissed Deng GongGong, clearing away the tea and ordering a pot of wine instead.

By the pond, within the cooling pavilion and bathed in moonlight, was the very spot where Empress Xian De and Emperor Yong Le had shared their last snow wine. The world lamented the heavens’ unfairness to the deep love between the Emperor and Empress. On the surface, he was indeed more fortunate than Emperor Yong Le; at least he was alive, and as long as he lived, anything was possible.

But what if Shen Miao never awakened in this lifetime? To continue living like this, wouldn't one lose so much in life? Xie Jing Xing harbored little enthusiasm for becoming Emperor of this empire. If the person beside him were lost, a life lived so blandly would be a truly sorrowful existence.

The sound of approaching footsteps reached him. Looking up, he saw Pei Lang.

The moonlight illuminated Pei Lang, who appeared as a modest gentleman. He seemed as if he had never touched wine in his life. Such an individual might be perceived as a proud literati, one who would sip tea and play the Qin. Yet, he sat before Xie Jing Xing, located a wine cup, and poured himself a drink.

The jade wine cups shimmered under the moonlight, possessing an enchantment that could intoxicate one even before drinking.

Pei Lang spoke, “Tomorrow, you will ascend the throne. Congratulations.”

Xie Jing Xing’s lips curved, but no genuine happiness accompanied the gesture.

“And her?” Pei Lang directly inquired, “What are your intentions?”

Xie Jing Xing slowly turned his head, fixing his gaze upon Pei Lang for a moment before remarking, “Gentleman Pei shows such concern?”

“I once shared a teacher-student relationship with WangFei,” Pei Lang remained unfazed and continued, “Subsequently, the Imperial city faced danger, forging friendships in troubled times. I harbor no intention of assigning blame or altering circumstances. I am merely curious.”

“Oh?” Xie Jing Xing lowered his head and asked faintly, “What do you believe should be done?”

“WangFei once stated she had no desire for the position of Empress or any position of power. However, if it became her responsibility, she would accept it. She is not someone who can worry for everyone under Heaven, but she is willing to shoulder the responsibility for the important individuals in her heart.”

“And those important individuals include the Shen family, the children within her womb, and you.”

Pei Lang continued, “WangFei mentioned that her life has been extraordinarily arduous, and the Heavens have been severe with her. Sometimes, reflecting from the beginning, it seems she encountered no good fortune at all. Thus, she has never dared to expect anything from the Heavens. Her sole wish is for all her loved ones to be safe and happy.”

Xie Jing Xing’s gaze shifted slightly.

Pei Lang turned to face him, a gentle smile gracing his features. “She has not experienced any good fortune. The things others attain with ease, she had to strive diligently for. Even her modest wishes were more difficult for her to realize than for others. Now that her hardships have concluded, before she could savor the fruits of her labor, she has fallen into a deep slumber. The Heavens are truly unkind to her. However, it is precisely because she has never asked for anything that one feels both respect and pity.”

“Your Highness,” Pei Lang raised his wine cup and said with a soft smile, “Now that your grand endeavor is complete and you are poised to ascend the throne and command the Empire, perhaps beautiful women will grace your life in the future. Yet, I wish to remind you not to let yourself harbor regret.” His voice was exceedingly gentle, “Once regret sets in, there is no opportunity for a do-over, and the daily suffering it inflicts is a form of torture.”

Xie Jing Xing regarded him thoughtfully and inquired, “Have you ever experienced regret?”

“I have, and I spent my entire life striving to rectify it. Although some things were recovered, that which was lost cannot be returned,” Pei Lang sighed.

A moment of silence passed between them, interrupted only by the hurried arrival of Tao GuGu. Noticing Xie Jing Xing and Pei Lang in deep discussion, she hesitantly addressed them, “Your Highness, the Young Masters have been crying incessantly, and the nannies are unable to pacify them. Perhaps you should see to them.”

Chu Yi and Shi Wu, constantly doted on by Xie Jing Xing, had developed somewhat proud temperaments. No matter how others tried to soothe them, they remained unresponsive until Xie Jing Xing personally attended to them. It was peculiar, as Shen Miao herself possessed a tranquil nature and rarely caused trouble. Yet, these two children she bore seemed to be here to collect on past debts. While things were manageable before, their true natures began to surface once Xie Jing Xing returned. Fortunately, Xie Jing Xing had boundless patience for the children. Any other young father might have long since washed his hands of the situation.

Xie Jing Xing rose, “I will go see them.” Then, as if recalling something, he turned to Pei Lang, “You are indeed an interesting person. However, I thank you for your reminder.” He finished the wine in his cup and continued, “I have never done anything I regret, nor will I do anything that would cause another to regret their actions. You worry unnecessarily.”

Xie Jing Xing and Tao GuGu departed, leaving Pei Lang to shake his head as he watched their retreating figures. He let out a self-deprecating laugh, “What am I thinking?” His expression gradually soured, “He truly doesn’t give anyone a chance at all. It’s truly wicked…”

*****

The day Xie Jing Xing ascended the throne dawned bright and clear, with warm weather gracing the occasion.

He was given the regnal name Xiao Jing.

Within the grand Palace, golden dragons seemed to dance around the opulent halls. Hundreds of officials stood assembled, their ranks surrounding the young Emperor. Clad in a resplendent golden robe intricately embroidered with dragon motifs, the corners of his attire exuded an exquisite and imposing aura that commanded attention.

His appearance was striking, crowned and adorned, yet his eyes held a cynical, peach-blossom charm. Nevertheless, wherever his gaze swept, a palpable undercurrent of killing intent seemed to emanate.

No one dared to underestimate this young Emperor. Despite being the youngest in Great Liang's history, he had personally led armies into battle, conquering the Qin and Ming Qi countries. His prowess extended to the court, where he skillfully employed schemes that left his rivals in disarray.

The Imperial Edict of Succession was finalized. With the transfer of the Imperial Seal, Great Liang and all under Heaven officially ushered in a new ruler.

Following his enthronement ceremony, he unexpectedly moved aside. The officials remained hesitant to look up, until the Emperor’s voice commanded, “Establishing the Empress.”

Everyone knew Rui WangFei was currently in a coma, so how could an Empress be established? Confusion rippled through the assembly. Upon looking up, they witnessed the young Emperor carrying a woman and tenderly placing her upon the Empress’s seat. His actions were so gentle, as if handling a priceless treasure.

Aside from Gao Yang, Ji Yu Shu, and a select few, the vast majority of officials were in utter shock. One stepped forward, “Your Majesty, this cannot be!”

“Oh?” Emperor Xiao Jing turned his head, his gaze shifting as he smiled, “And why not?”

“Wang… Furen has not yet awakened, how can she be the Mother of a Nation while unconscious?”

It was unprecedented for a nation's Empress to be someone who had not yet regained consciousness.

“Why not?” Emperor Xiao Jing seemed to deliberately provoke, “Zhen desires it so. What can be done to prevent it?”

The official, a seasoned courtier who had served Emperor Yong Le with great respect, held some influence. He ventured, “Could it be that Your Majesty intends to keep the Inner Palace barren for her sake?”

All the officials were stunned. To appoint someone in a comatose state as Empress, even nominally, carried significant implications. In the future, regardless of new beauties entering the palace, as long as this Empress position remained occupied, the children born to these concubines would never be able to surpass Chu Yi and Shi Wu in status.

Empress Xiao Jing smiled softly, a subtle expression that left the officials somewhat dazed. The official who had spoken earlier grew visibly flustered by this smile.

The Emperor’s voice then resonated, “The Inner Palace is empty? Zhen’s Inner Palace contains but one woman. Why then, is there talk of it being empty?”

Everyone was shocked!