The Rebirth of the Malicious Empress of Military Lineage Chapter 231: Return Of An Old Friend (Part 8)

"The Emperor has departed, leaving BenGong unsure of what to do next. The women of the Inner Palace have all been dismissed, and the once vibrant palace is now so desolate and silent that it evokes a profound sense of loneliness. BenGong wonders if it would have been better had I never met His Majesty in the first place. Like you, I would have preferred to contend with the Imperial family and protect the Shen family with all my might, rather than endure such a heartbreaking and sorrowful conclusion."

Her words were steeped in such sadness, so utterly despondent, that Shen Miao offered words of comfort. "This official wife feels the same. In truth, no one experiences a life entirely free of hardship or entirely smooth. From the moment this official wife was born, aside from the care of my parents and Eldest Brother, the Heavens have bestowed no particular blessings upon me. This official wife dares not anticipate much and thus, relies solely upon herself for everything. Meeting His Highness was indeed this official wife's good fortune, but even without His Highness, this official wife would still forge ahead, no matter the arduousness of the path." She paused, then continued, "Your Ladyship the Empress, you too must think the same. Even though His Majesty has passed first, Your Ladyship must consider yourself and live for your own sake. No matter how formidable the road may be, you must tread upon it and see where it leads. This is what His Majesty would desire to witness."

Empress Xian De remained in silence for an extended period, so prolonged that Shen Miao began to suspect she hadn't truly heard her words. Finally, the Empress responded, "WangFei, thank you."

"BenGong comprehends all the logic you have presented."

"It is simply… it is just too difficult. Terribly difficult."

That night, Shen Miao sat with Empress Xian De for a considerable duration. Their conversation was sparse, yet it felt as though volumes had been exchanged.

After Shen Miao's departure, Empress Xian De remained seated alone for a long while.

It was only when Tao GuGu arrived to encourage her to rest that Empress Xian De finally rose. Tao GuGu personally attended to her, ensuring she washed and retired to bed before taking her leave.

Once the doors were shut, the figure on the bed stirred and sat up once more.

She lit a lamp and began searching through the cupboards and clothing. What she sought was not the Empress's ceremonial attire, but a simple, moon-white gown. Such plain, refreshing colors were her preference, yet upon ascending to the position of Empress, she could no longer don such styles. To do so would be seen as lacking in grandeur or exquisiteness, failing to 'suppress' the other consorts.

She presented an image of magnanimity and composure, but in reality, she was merely an introverted young lady who found solace in quietude.

Donning the simple dress, she sat before the mirror, her brows delicately drawn. A touch of rouge applied, and she appeared strikingly beautiful.

She then retrieved a brush and paper from a drawer, commencing the composition of letters, which she subsequently placed into envelopes.

Finally, Empress Xian De withdrew a small jade box from the depths of a cabinet. A faint layer of dust coated the modest container.

From the moment she was wedded to Emperor Yong Le, she had been aware of his precarious medical condition. To commit to marrying a man whose lifespan was uncertain required immense fortitude.

Yet, she was the most courageous young lady of the Historian's residence, one who admired heroes. Although Emperor Yong Le could not be classified as a traditional hero – he wielded political influence, manipulated interests, and lacked uprightness – Empress Xian De still perceived him as her hero.

From beginning to end.

Within the jade box lay a slender vial. She carefully extracted it, resting it within her palm.

On the very day of her marriage to Emperor Yong Le, Empress Xian De had prepared this bottle of potent medicine for herself. She had spoken to her reflection, adorned in the Phoenix crown, saying, "Qing Zhen, those within the martial world conduct their affairs with integrity and clarity, prioritizing righteousness above all. They dare to love and dare to hate. Though you were born into an official's family, your heart leans towards the ways of the martial world."

"Should the day come when he, unfortunately, departs this world, you must follow him. This is your solemn decision."

For countless years, Empress Xian De would retrieve this bottle annually, gazing upon it with a sense of profound fortune that she had never had to utilize its contents. Each passing year felt like a precious gift, pilfered from the Heavens, bringing her extraordinary joy.

Now, it appeared the time had finally arrived for its intended purpose.

She was inherently timid. So much so that after Xie Chi's departure, she lacked the courage to navigate the remainder of her life.

Yet, she was also remarkably audacious. So daring, in fact, that knowing from the outset there would be such an inevitable conclusion, she still chose to proceed nonetheless.

"Xing Zhi, I shall come to see you," she whispered, before drinking the contents of the vial.

The moon gradually emerged from the veil of clouds, ascending high above the willow branches. It seemed to cast a smiling gaze upon the world's tapestry of joys and sorrows.

Its perfect roundness evoked a poignant longing, a desire to weep.

*****

Throughout the night, Shen Miao experienced a deep sense of unease, her dreams a tangled, chaotic mess. She yearned to discern clarity amidst the confusion, but understanding eluded her.

It was not until Jing Zhe roused her that Shen Miao noticed the bright skies outside. She discovered a sheen of cold sweat on her forehead and a disquiet in her heart.

Luo Tan burst in from the outside, her eyes red. She looked at Shen Miao and spoke in a hushed tone, "Her Majesty the Empress has departed!"

The handkerchief that Shen Miao had taken from Jing Zhe slipped from her grasp and fell to the floor.

*****

In less than a month, Emperor Yong Le and Empress Xian De passed away one after another, leaving the entire realm in shock.

The passing of Emperor Yong Le and the subsequent departure of Empress Xian De struck a poignant chord. Those imperial consorts, who had ceaselessly vied for power within the palace walls, all hurried to pay their respects upon hearing the news. During Empress Xian De's tenure as Empress, she had maintained a generous demeanor. Furthermore, Emperor Yong Le had not shown her excessive favour, which meant the other consorts harbored no direct animosity towards her. Thus, upon learning of her death, they could only offer sighs of lament.

Empress Xian De’s father remained outwardly calm throughout the entire affair, as if he had long anticipated his daughter's final decision. While his words conveyed pain, his demeanor suggested a certain level of acceptance.

Shen Miao oversaw the Empress's burial rites according to protocol, interring Empress Xian De alongside Emperor Yong Le within the Imperial tombs. Thus, a wise monarch and a virtuous Empress became mere figures etched in the annals of Great Liang's history.

What followed were numerous complex affairs.

When Emperor Yong Le passed, Empress Xian De still remained, but with Empress Xian De now gone, who would steer the ship of state? Although Emperor Yong Le had left a succession Imperial Edict, Xie Jing Xing had yet to ascend the throne, making it impossible for Shen Miao to be formally recognized as Empress. Nevertheless, Emperor Yong Le had no other siblings, and Xie Jing Xing was his sole blood relative.

No imperial court enjoys absolute stability, especially during a period of imperial absence.

The previously tranquil Imperial Court began to stir once more. There were always a few ambitious officials, lacking both courage and conviction, who sought to exploit the situation. They harbored aspirations but were unwilling to relinquish this opportune moment.

Shen Miao inquired of Deng GongGong, "Is the Imperial Court currently in a state of intense discord?"

Deng GongGong responded, "Precisely. The court officials are advocating for the appointment of a regent to temporarily oversee the Empire, with plans to be made anew upon His Highness Prince Rui's return."

"Insolent," Shen Miao’s lips curved into a sneer. "They truly believe they can usurp the throne and establish themselves as dukes!"

Deng GongGong was silenced.

For reasons unknown, he had always perceived this young WangFei to possess an extraordinary temperament. This disposition bore a striking resemblance to the late Empress Xian De, yet it was considerably more formidable. While she typically appeared warm and approachable, any matter she disapproved of could transform her expression into an icy facade that instilled a sense of dread.

This very feeling was uncannily similar to that of Prince Rui, Xie Yuan.

However, Emperor Yong Le had meticulously instructed Deng GongGong several times before his passing: upon Xie Jing Xing's return, Deng GongGong was to provide his full assistance. Having been raised within the Long Ye Palace since his youth, Deng GongGong possessed extensive knowledge of its workings and could offer assistance in myriad ways. Now, with Xie Jing Xing still absent, Deng GongGong naturally would not dare to falter in executing Shen Miao's directives.

"Deng GongGong. Organize the affairs. I shall attend the Imperial Court," she declared.

Deng GongGong was taken aback. "Furen..."

"For chaos to erupt in court at this juncture is critical. If word spreads, it will sow unrest and inevitably lead to discontent among the populace of Long Ye, potentially inciting further disturbance. It is better that I assume the role of the villain. Regardless of external perceptions, the immediate priority is to quell the restless hearts of the people."

"But," Deng GongGong glanced at Shen Miao's lower abdomen, "you are still with child."

"It is precisely because of this child that I can command the Imperial Court," Shen Miao said with a slight smile. "With the Imperial bloodline, they must remain mindful of their reputation if they intend to take any drastic actions. While they might use my origin in Ming Qi to stir up trouble, the child within my womb carries the Imperial bloodline, ensuring they would not dare to show me disrespect under any circumstances."

Deng GongGong contemplated this for a moment. "This may indeed pacify the situation temporarily, but in doing so, WangFei will be unable to conceal your pregnancy."

"I originally chose to keep it hidden to prevent His Highness from being unduly concerned on the battlefield. Now that the war is drawing to a close, and victory is within grasp, there is no longer a need for concealment." She then looked at the still-frowning Deng GongGong and smiled, "You fear that this Palace will become unstable and that someone might seek to harm me."

Deng GongGong quickly adjusted his sleeves, proclaiming, "This humble servant will undoubtedly safeguard the safety of WangFei and the young heir!"

Shen Miao offered a bow, replying, "It is a difficult task for you."

After Deng GongGong departed, Shen Miao finally exhaled a sigh of relief before settling herself into a chair, gazing at the leaves drifting down outside.

Empress Xian De’s departure had been too abrupt, leaving many issues to surface. In this vibrant Palace, usually bustling in spring, a desolate chill now permeated the air. Yet, she understood that the struggles were far from over. Before Xie Jing Xing's return, it fell upon her to stabilize this somewhat chaotic court.

"Ever since you've been within my belly, there have truly been no easy moments," Shen Miao murmured softly to her abdomen. "But everything will improve."

*****

Five days later, an Imperial Edict of succession was publicly disseminated throughout the Imperial Court. Though whispers of doubt arose, the high-ranking officials served as witnesses. Emperor Yong Le, prior to his departure, had meticulously arranged all affairs, leaving the assembled officials without recourse.

With no clear leader among the officials, proposals emerged for several ministers to act as regents and oversee the court's proceedings. However, these requests were denied, as Rui WangFei, Shen Miao, was designated to manage court affairs.

Instantly, a deluge of memorandums flooded in, and rumors began to circulate wildly. The prevailing narrative painted Shen Miao as an individual from Ming Qi, an obvious spy dispatched by that very state. Now, it was suggested, she sought to exploit the court’s vulnerability in the absence of a strong leader. Such ambition was likened to that of a ravenous wolf.

This particular rumor spread with remarkable speed but was also quashed just as swiftly. Shen Miao, visibly pregnant, presented herself before the Imperial Courts. Furthermore, Deng GongGong, Tao GuGu, and a retinue of individuals corroborated that Empress Xian De had brought Shen Miao into the Palace to ensure the well-being of the sole remaining Imperial bloodline.

With the child secured, the matter of succession, at least on paper and by name, faced no further challenges. Moreover, on the day Shen Miao appeared, her approach was measured, and her handling of affairs was executed with exquisite balance, effectively silencing those who had sought to cause trouble. She bestowed punishments and rewards judiciously, instilling a sense of unease that any further disruption would lead to severe consequences upon Xie Jing Xing's return.

Half of the court envied Shen Miao, while the other half harbored apprehension towards Xie Jing Xing, causing the burgeoning storm to quickly subside.

Nevertheless, Shen Miao’s days were far from leisurely.

When it came to fulfilling her responsibilities, the weighty burden she now carried was not merely a matter of words. For days on end, she immersed herself in reviewing memorandums. Following Emperor Yong Le’s passing, a substantial backlog of official documents had accumulated, further compounded by Empress Xian De’s demise. The piles of memorandums grew significantly. She diligently perused each one, often working late into the night.

Watching her in such a state caused Jing Zhe and the others considerable distress. Despite their earnest pleas, Shen Miao remained steadfast in her decision. Thus, they could only remain by her side in silent companionship.

Luo Tan, stifling a yawn, inquired, "Youngest Biao Sister, why must you pore over these documents yourself? If you harbor distrust for those officials, surely you can place your faith in the late Emperor’s trusted confidants. Wouldn't it be more sensible to delegate these memorandums to them for review? Why insist on handling them personally, especially with a child on the way?"

Shen Miao shook her head. "Hearts are fickle, and power should not be carelessly delegated. I am not native to Long Ye, and in such a brief period, it is impossible to truly discern others' intentions. Given the unpredictability of future events, it is best that I review these matters myself. Mistakes are not easily rectified."

While Emperor Yong Le may have had trusted confidants, following the deaths of both Emperor Yong Le and Empress Xian De, it was impossible to ascertain whether these individuals would remain steadfast or develop ulterior motives. Had this been Ming Qi, Shen Miao would have possessed an innate understanding of these people, and navigating the situation would have presented no major obstacles. However, this was Long Ye. Her time in Long Ye had been neither extensive nor profound, making it impossible to accurately gauge the character of its people within such a limited timeframe.

In the end, she found herself with no one truly trustworthy.

Deng GongGong, attending to her, nodded in agreement. At the time, Shen Miao had spoken with such conviction, leaving Deng GongGong filled with a mixture of doubt and admiration. If it were merely a matter of speaking, it could easily be seen as undermining the Imperial family in front of numerous officials. Women were traditionally considered delicate, and Empress Xian De had wielded authority previously due to her status. However, Shen Miao, despite her lack of prior experience in such matters, diligently studied the memorandums late into the night, much like the male officials, and concerned herself with the empire's strategies. To him, this undertaking seemed extraordinarily demanding.