The Rebirth of the Malicious Empress of Military Lineage Chapter 231: Return Of An Old Friend (Part 5)

As if struck by a sudden thought, Empress Xian De declared, “Tomorrow, we must unearth the two earthen jugs of snow wine I buried beneath the plum trees last year. Their fragrance should be exquisite when opened. Your Majesty, please accompany me to rebury this year’s batch. WangFei and Young Lady Luo should also join us. After we retrieve the wine, we shall adjourn to Cui Hu Pavilion in the evening to drink and admire the lotus blooms.”

Luo Tan, ever inclined towards indulgence, readily agreed. Shen Miao offered a nod in assent, though Emperor Yong Le appeared somewhat resigned. Empress Xian De, whose sole passions were brewing tea and wine, exhibited a childlike joy when pleased. Nevertheless, he eventually acquiesced. Witnessing his consent, Empress Xian De beamed with satisfaction and resumed her meal, engaging Shen Miao in lighthearted conversation about various intriguing topics.

The following day dawned bright and sunny. While summer typically arrived early in Long Ye, the mornings retained a delightful coolness. Shen Miao and Luo Tan arrived promptly. Due to her advanced pregnancy, Shen Miao could not personally assist Empress Xian De in the excavation. Fearing Luo Tan’s boisterous nature might lead to mishap, Empress Xian De and Tao GuGu undertook the task themselves.

Emperor Yong Le advised, “Hurry and rise; it is not good to injure your hands.”

“In past years, it has always been ChenQie and Tao GuGu who dug these out together,” Empress Xian De replied, a sheen of perspiration on her brow, yet her smile remained radiant. “Snow wine must be personally unearthed to achieve its peak fragrance. Should Your Majesty ever develop an interest in the future, you could also personally bury and then retrieve a batch, and you would then comprehend the experience.” As she spoke, she and Tao GuGu had successfully unearthed another jar.

Emperor Yong Le suddenly knitted his brows, paused, and then pressed a hand to his chest in silent discomfort.

Empress Xian De lifted one of the earthen jugs. This particular vessel was charmingly small, requiring little effort to carry. Unconcerned by the clinging soil or the potential soiling of her attire, she handled it as if it were a precious artifact. Presenting it to Emperor Yong Le, she uncorked the jug and inquired, “May His Majesty sample its fragrance?”

“It is indeed very fragrant,” Emperor Yong Le responded, his brow still furrowed.

Empress Xian De observed him closely. “Does Your Majesty not find it pleasing? Your expression suggests otherwise. Could it have spoiled?” A flicker of suspicion crossed her face as she leaned in to take a whiff herself.

Emperor Yong Le offered a gentle smile, and just as he was about to utter a word, his vision suddenly blurred, he lost his footing, and stumbled to the ground!

“Your Majesty!” Empress Xian De cried out in alarm, the small jug of snow wine slipping from her grasp and shattering on the ground. The potent aroma mingled with the scattered earth, imbuing the vicinity with a faintly bitter scent.

“Quickly summon the Imperial Physician!” Shen Miao commanded urgently, though an unsettling premonition began to stir within her heart.

*****

The silk screen was lowered, and the patriarch of the Gao family had finally arrived. This distinguished individual was none other than Gao Zhan, Gao Yang’s grandfather.

The Gao family was renowned throughout Long Ye for their distinguished lineage of medical practitioners. Among the younger generation, Gao Yang possessed the most exceptional medical acumen. However, driven by an restless ambition and a fervent desire to enter officialdom, he had been met with his family’s disapproval. The leader of the Gao clan, observing his unyielding resolve, had ultimately expelled him from the family estate. Empress Xian De, recognizing Gao Yang’s innate talent, later arranged for his relocation to Ming Qi, where he became a trusted companion and aide to Xie Jing Xing.

It was none other than Gao Zhan himself who initially diagnosed Emperor Yong Le’s poisoning. Had it not been for Gao Zhan’s profound medical expertise, Emperor Yong Le would likely not have survived for so many years. Yet, after the passage of thirty-five years, those aware of the situation considered his continued survival a miracle—a miracle that had demanded immense effort to sustain.

Gao Zhan met Empress Xian De’s gaze and slowly shook his head.

Empress Xian De’s tears began to fall uncontrollably.

Although Luo Tan had not remained, Shen Miao was present. Witnessing Empress Xian De’s grief, Shen Miao’s heart ached. To those with discerning eyes, Empress Xian De’s deep affection for Emperor Yong Le was plainly evident. Furthermore, Emperor Yong Le was not an unfeeling ruler. Despite their reserved natures, their bond was one of profound tenderness. The loss of one would undoubtedly inflict a devastating blow upon the other.

“Venerable Sir,” Empress Xian De implored, stifling her sobs, “His Majesty… how much time does His Majesty have left?”

Gao Zhan, having assessed the grim situation, sighed heavily. “At most, one month.”

“How can this be…” Shen Miao exclaimed in shock.

“The Emperor’s illness stemmed from his early years. Over the past year, the poison has deeply infiltrated his internal organs, and he is sustained only by his own powerful will. The Emperor has endured immense suffering to last this long,” stated Gao Zhan. “I had observed the Emperor’s condition previously; he is a resilient man who has borne far too much. Even now, he clings to his strength. If Your Ladyship possesses a compassionate heart, I implore you to persuade His Majesty. He has walked an arduous path and is in profound agony. He has dedicated his entire life to planning for others; sometimes, one must be selfish.” He then bowed respectfully to Empress Xian De, speaking with solemnity, “In these coming days, may Your Ladyship remain by His Majesty’s side.”

After Gao Zhan departed, Shen Miao wished to offer solace to Empress Xian De but found herself unsure of where to begin.

In the face of profound pain, the comfort of others often proves futile. A wound that does not pierce one’s own flesh cannot be truly understood. Words of consolation, spoken lightly, are rarely sufficient to mend a broken spirit.

Empress Xian De managed a forced smile. “You may return now. BenGong… BenGong is well.”

Shen Miao offered no further words, merely urging her to take care of her health before she withdrew.

Upon her return to her chambers, Shen Miao couldn't resist the urge to gently caress her abdomen before opening a sachet placed upon the table.

The red beans within were smooth and perfectly formed.

Life in this world is fraught with innumerable separations, both in life and in death. One moment, a person may be beaming with joy, only to collapse in the next. The Heavens are excessively cruel, unwilling to grant humans a reprieve of good fortune. Ultimately, one can only rely on oneself.

She vowed to protect her lover and her cherished ones.

*****

Empress Xian De sat by the bedside as Emperor Yong Le stirred and awoke.

Her gaze drifted downwards, lost in thought, her face radiating a gentleness that seemed to turn back time, as if evoking the very beginning.

“Jing Zhen,” Emperor Yong Le softly uttered her name.

Empress Xian De returned to the present, her attention focused on him. “His Majesty has awakened. Do you feel discomfort anywhere?”

“No,” Emperor Yong Le responded, shaking his head.

A period of silence settled between them before Emperor Yong Le spoke again. “Jing Zhen, Zhen does not have much time remaining.”

Empress Xian De regarded him, her silence unbroken.

“Zhen…” He paused, then continued, “It seems I will not be able to accompany you to partake in the snow wine this winter.”

“Even if one jug was smashed, another can be found. If Your Majesty does not find it undesirable, I can seek a cool day to visit Cui Hu Pavilion. ChenQie is willing to share a drink with Your Majesty. It is merely that there will be no portion for WangFei and the others. The scenery at Cui Hu Pavilion is truly exquisite, with the lotus flowers blooming this year…” It was as if Empress Xian De had not truly heard Emperor Yong Le’s words, continuing her own thoughts aloud.

“Jing Zhen,” Emperor Yong Le interrupted her, his voice strained. “Zhen can no longer accompany you.”

His countenance was pale, yet it retained the same exquisite, flawless beauty as before. However, the imperious and cold demeanor of an Emperor was gone, replaced by the refined air of a noble gentleman. Yet, he was exceedingly thin, frail, and appeared deeply sorrowful.

Empress Xian De turned her head away, rendering her expression invisible to Emperor Yong Le. He could only discern her voice, which seemed to drift like mist, yet it sent a pang of sorrow through his heart as she spoke. “Your Majesty has always possessed such a discerning heart, unwilling to deceive ChenQie with even a single falsehood. This truth holds indeed. This is a beautiful dream, and now, it is time to awaken.”

Emperor Yong Le hesitated before murmuring, “Sorry.”

“Your Majesty need not apologize to ChenQie, for there is nothing to be sorry about. ChenQie shall live her own life, and it will have no bearing on His Majesty,” Empress Xian De stated. “Just now, Gentleman Gao visited and informed ChenQie that His Majesty has been struggling for this past year. ChenQie wishes to ask why Your Majesty endured such hardship? Why persist through such excruciating pain?”

“For Great Liang,” Emperor Yong Le answered. “Zhen desires to witness Xie Yuan conquer the Empire and safeguard Great Liang. Zhen longs to see the day when all under Heaven shall know peace. Regarding Imperial Mother’s wish, Zhen had hoped to fulfill it within my lifetime. It is just that… Zhen’s time is short, and I fear I cannot wait until that day.”

Empress Xian De remained silent for a considerable duration before replying, “In that case, ChenQie understands.”

“Jing Zhen,” Emperor Yong Le said, “You… You should make plans for yourself.”

“What plans does Your Majesty wish ChenQie to make?” Empress Xian De suddenly turned, tears welling in her eyes as she spoke. “Do you wish ChenQie to whimsically abandon my name and live an ordinary existence? Or perhaps simply remain within this Palace for the remainder of my days? Or should I find another husband and remarry?”

With every word she uttered, Emperor Yong Le's eyes deepened with pain. He clutched the blanket, his voice faint, “As long as you find happiness.”

Empress Xian De abruptly turned her head, but Emperor Yong Le saw a large tear slide onto the back of her hand. When she spoke again, her voice was surprisingly calm and steady, “This consort understands. Many thanks to Your Majesty for your thoughtful consideration of this consort. This consort will certainly comply. Your Majesty should consider how the Imperial Edict should be worded. Some arrangements need to be made in advance.”

She then rose, “This consort has other matters to attend to and will take leave now. May Your Majesty take good care of your health. Once your health improves, remember to join this consort for a drink at Cui Hu Pavilion.”

She then departed.

Empress Xian De rarely showed anger, especially these days when she had been getting along well with Emperor Yong Le, offering soft smiles daily. However, like water, no matter how gentle, it could turn into unyielding ice when angered.

Yet, it was difficult to remain truly angry with her.

After Empress Xian De's departure, Emperor Yong Le coughed violently, using the handkerchief from beneath his pillow to wipe his mouth. Deng GongGong, standing nearby, promptly offered hot water, “Your Majesty, please be careful.”

“Deng GongGong,” Emperor Yong Le frowned, “Was I wrong?” A look of rare, youthful confusion crossed his face, bringing a sting to Deng GongGong’s eyes.

Deng GongGong had served Emperor Yong Le for many years, watching him grow. The Emperor's current expression reminded him of a distant time when Emperor Yong Le, having been poisoned by Emperor Xiao Wu’s favored consort, was told by Empress Xiao, who had learned from the Gao family head, that he would not survive past thirty-five. Empress Xiao had cried painfully while holding the young Emperor Yong Le. Back then, it was the young Emperor Yong Le who comforted Empress Xiao and asked Deng GongGong with confusion, “Deng GongGong, is this Prince’s poison very serious?”

The youth had transformed from a gentle and elegant Crown Prince into an unfathomable Emperor. Yet, there still came days when he would ask those beside him in bewilderment if he had done something wrong.

As Deng GongGong remained silent, Emperor Yong Le sighed again, “Zhen envies Xie Yuan.”

“Although Xie Yuan and Zhen have endured hardships, that young man has had slightly better luck than Zhen. If Zhen could live…” He trailed off, unable to finish.

So many things in this world ended with the word ‘if’.

This was because the condition for ‘if’ was absent.

*****

Within a span of ten days, Xie Jing Xing conquered Ding capital.

The Emperor of Ming Qi, Fu Xiu Yi, was struck by an arrow on the city tower amidst the chaos.

Interestingly, Fu Xiu Yi had become the ruler of a fallen nation. He had initially declared ambitiously that he would exist and perish with Ming Qi, vowing to fight to the very last moment with his troops. As long as the flame of Ming Qi still burned, he would remain its Emperor and refuse to surrender.

However, at the critical juncture, his resolve inexplicably shifted, leading him to attempt a clandestine escape, perhaps harboring hopes of a future resurgence.

Alas, despite Fu Xiu Yi's meticulous planning, he failed to account for the will of the people.

His advisors had long foreseen the dire state of Ming Qi. They knew that Fu Xiu Yi had orchestrated a facade of defiance only to flee, and their fury was ignited.

Indeed, Fu Xiu Yi found himself ensnared in his own scheme. The very advisors who had been swayed by his riches or charmed by his concubines—these so-called heroes who cared not for origins—were the ones who turned against him. Fu Xiu Yi, who prided himself on valuing talent regardless of background, had gathered individuals from all walks of life: robbers, mountain bandits, and even ruthless killers. With no regard for morality, these individuals followed Fu Xiu Yi because he provided them with wealth, women, and the illusion of a grand cause.

Now that the grand cause had crumbled and Fu Xiu Yi intended to flee, how could they possibly allow it?

The most audacious and ferocious among these advisors conceived a plan: to bind Fu Xiu Yi to the city tower and personally loose arrows upon him. In the end, he severed Fu Xiu Yi’s head, presenting it to Xie Jing Xing as a token of newfound allegiance, hoping for a chance to defect.

Perhaps throughout his lifetime of endless machinations, Fu Xiu Yi never once envisioned such an end. This was hardly befitting a Monarch; to perish alongside one's country would at least preserve a shred of dignity. Instead, he met his demise like a common criminal, felled by the very guards he had lavishly compensated, right before the eyes of the common folk of Ding Capital. He became but a pawn in the hands of his enemies.

The final image seared into his vision was that of a youth astride a magnificent steed, positioned before thousands of soldiers beneath the city ramparts. That youth, holding the reins with a casual grace, surveyed the scene with his customary air of playful indifference, yet an undeniable disdain glinted in his eyes.

Yet, before any coherent thought could fully form, his vision dissolved into darkness.

His grand Empire, his far-reaching ambitions—all extinguished in this singular moment. To his very last breath, incomprehension lingered. He, the Emperor, the architect of this elaborate plan, how could he possibly have been defeated by an adversary he had always intended to annihilate?

It must have been Heaven's capricious will. Or perhaps, it was simply his misfortune to have lost.

Below, Xie Jing Xing clicked his tongue, a hint of disdain in his voice, "To have inspired such wavering loyalty. Fu Xiu Yi truly possessed a unique talent for such things."

"Hearts swayed by the allure of gold and silver are inherently fickle," Gao Yang chuckled. "Let us proceed! We shall enter the city!"

"Indeed," Ji Yu Shu added. "Princess Rong Xin and the members of the Su family have been safely rescued. Now..."

Xie Jing Xing's expression remained impassive. "Ensure their protection. As for the others, let them fend for themselves."