We Agreed On Experiencing Life, So Why Did You Immortals Become Real? Chapter 402: I Have to Go Into the Palace and See

The Zhou royal palace was in a state of reality.

Resting on the bed, Xiao Mo appeared to be asleep, but in actuality, he was immersed in a life within the Book of a Hundred Lives.

“Your Majesty... Your Majesty...”

Soon, Wei Xun’s voice was heard from beyond the door.

“Enter.”

Xiao Mo’s consciousness returned from the Book of a Hundred Lives. He slowly opened his eyes and sat up from the bed.

Wei Xun rushed towards Xiao Mo and then knelt in a state of panic. “This old servant deserves death! I disturbed Your Majesty’s rest—please punish this old servant!”

“That is enough. You old scoundrel, cease this act in front of me.” Xiao Mo rubbed the corner of his eye, moved to a chair, and poured himself a cup of tea. “Speak. What is it so early in the morning?”

Xiao Mo’s tone was undeniably tinged with impatience.

Although the Fifth Life’s experience within the Book of a Hundred Lives was detached from Reality—and upon exiting, Xiao Mo would forget everything contained within it—he still harbored a premonition.

This particular life-experiencing journey was nearing its conclusion, and within the Book of a Hundred Lives, there remained a crucial task he still needed to accomplish.

“Reporting to Your Majesty...”

Wei Xun carefully chose his words as he spoke.

“Following the morning court session, the Minister of Rites requested an audience with Your Majesty to deliberate on the impending wedding rites and the bestowed consort titles for the two consorts.

“The morning court has now concluded. Minister Yan is presently awaiting Your Majesty in the Imperial Study.

“Furthermore, the residences for the two honored ladies have been prepared. It would be beneficial for Your Majesty to inspect them for any necessary adjustments, ensuring a flawless arrangement.

“Lastly, the selection of palace maids, occurring once every four years, is fast approaching. The Empress Dowager extends an invitation to Your Majesty; she wishes to discuss this matter.”

“I understand.” Xiao Mo nodded. “Assist me in dressing.”

“Yes, Your Majesty.”

Wei Xun promptly rose and signaled for the maids standing by outside to enter and attend to His Majesty’s attire.

After dressing, bathing, and attending to his grooming, Xiao Mo stepped out the door and stretched languidly.

A gust of winter wind swept past. The penetrating cold seeped into his collar, instantly awakening Xiao Mo fully.

“Let us proceed. We mustn’t keep my esteemed father-in-law waiting any longer.”

Xiao Mo smoothed his robe and walked forward with purpose.

Wei Xun kept his gaze lowered, remaining two steps behind Xiao Mo, following closely.

A question lingered in Wei Xun’s mind, unsure if it was mere fancy.

He consistently felt that His Majesty had recently acquired the demeanor of a seasoned military commander. At times, a mere glance from His Majesty would cause Wei Xun’s heart to flutter with apprehension.

It was as if His Majesty were a general who had endured a hundred battles—a figure who had emerged from a mountain of fallen foes.

Then again, ever since His Majesty commenced his cultivation, the aura he exuded had undergone continuous transformations.

Initially, he resembled a master swordsman.

Subsequently, an erudite scholar.

Following that, a ruthless blade demon capable of killing without hesitation.

And now, he projected the image of a powerful martial cultivator, akin to a general.

In any case, he had never truly given the impression of a tranquil Daoist practitioner.

It was rather peculiar.

However, Wei Xun dared not inquire nor utter a single word.

Approximately fifteen minutes later, as Xiao Mo approached the entrance of the Imperial Study, he observed a man standing erect within.

“I have kept Minister Yan waiting for an excessive duration. Minister Yan, I trust you will not hold it against me.”

Xiao Mo entered with a smile, his tone laced with a playful warmth and a subtle hint of familiarity.

“Yan Zhen of the Ministry of Rites pays his respects to Your Majesty.” Upon hearing Xiao Mo’s voice, Yan Zhen promptly turned and bowed. “Your Majesty must not utter such words. It is this humble minister who has disturbed Your Majesty’s repose—please grant this humble minister forgiveness!”

“Hahaha. We are becoming family—there is no need for such formal discourse. Your daughter will enter the palace before long. When that time arrives, we shall all be united as one family.”

Xiao Mo settled onto the plush couch, then chided Wei Xun. “You old fool—have you no discerning eyes? Why have you not offered Minister Yan a seat?”

“Yes, yes, yes.” Wei Xun nodded repeatedly and even struck himself twice. “This old servant genuinely lacks perception. This old servant shall fetch a chair for the minister immediately.”

Without delay, Wei Xun retrieved a chair from behind a screen and positioned it behind Yan Zhen.

“Thank you for the offered seat, Your Majesty.”

Yan Zhen expressed his gratitude with a bow, adjusted his robes, and took his seat.

Observing Xiao Mo, Yan Zhen perceived that His Majesty’s bearing seemed distinctly altered from before.

“What urgent matter brings Minister Yan to my presence?” Xiao Mo directly inquired, cutting to the chase.

“Replying to Your Majesty, two months from now, the Qin Eldest Imperial Princess, Qin Mujiu, and this humble minister’s daughter, Yan Ruxue, shall enter the palace. However, since the founding of Great Zhou, there has indeed been no precedent for bringing two women into the palace before an Empress has been established. For a time, we were uncertain how to set the appropriate rites.

“This humble minister, along with my colleagues in the Ministry of Rites, discussed this matter at length. Referencing the rites and laws from past and present across various states, we have drafted a wedding ceremony that ranks second only to the establishment of an Empress, yet surpasses that of a Noble Consort.

“This document also addresses the consort titles for the two ladies.

“I humbly request Your Majesty’s review.”

With that, Yan Zhen produced a memorial from his sleeve.

Wei Xun swiftly accepted the memorial and presented it to Xiao Mo.

Xiao Mo began to read it with great care.

Since Xiao Mo was taking consorts without first establishing an Empress—and moreover, taking two at once—this was truly a rare occurrence in the world.

Consequently, the Ministry of Rites was compelled to establish new rites.

These new rites required ancient precedents for backing and more recent examples for citation.

Yan Zhen had indeed invested considerable effort into this task.

Ultimately, the newly drafted rite was quite satisfactory.

Regarding the consort titles for the two women—

In most dynasties of the Ten Thousand Laws world, a structure of Four Consorts and Nine Concubines was observed, with the Noble Consort holding the foremost position among the Four Consorts, second only to the Empress.

However, it was deemed unsuitable for either Yan Ruxue or Qin Mujiu to be granted the sole rank of Noble Consort.

Therefore, the Ministry of Rites proposed that both be bestowed the rank of Noble Consort. To differentiate them, in accordance with Zhou rites, each would receive a distinctive title: Yan Ruxue would be Noble Consort Snow, and Qin Mujiu would be Noble Consort Ablution.

“Proceed according to this,” Xiao Mo declared, setting the memorial aside after his perusal. “When an Empress is eventually established, we shall compensate with a proper Empress-establishment grand ceremony.”

“Your Majesty is too kind. This is precisely what the Ministry of Rites is tasked with. If we can earn Your Majesty’s approval, then no matter the exertion, it is our duty fulfilled.”

Yan Zhen rose and offered a deep bow.

“If Your Majesty has no further directives, this humble minister shall proceed to prepare the rites as outlined herein.”

“No problem,” Xiao Mo nodded. “Ah, yes. This year happens to be the Year of the Snake. I possess a spirit-snake jade token here. I shall bestow it upon your daughter.”

Xiao Mo removed a jade token from his waist and personally handed it to Yan Zhen.

Yan Zhen hastily stepped forward, overwhelmed by the Emperor’s favor, and accepted it. “This humble minister accepts this on Ruxue’s behalf and expresses deepest thanks to Your Majesty.”

After a brief exchange of pleasantries, Yan Zhen withdrew from the Imperial Study.

Once Yan Zhen had departed to a sufficient distance, Xiao Mo gazed at his retreating figure and inquired of Wei Xun, “What are your thoughts on Minister Yan?”

“Huh?” Wei Xun faltered for a moment, then quickly stepped forward, answering with his head lowered, “The Minister of Rites conducts affairs with meticulous care, his talent is exceptional, and he is profoundly knowledgeable in rites and law…”

“Hmm?” While Wei Xun continued his praise of Yan Zhen, Xiao Mo turned and glanced at him pointedly.

Wei Xun’s expression stiffened. He immediately closed the Imperial Study door, approached Xiao Mo’s side, and lowered his voice.

“Although Minister Yan hails from the Yan clan, he genuinely passed the imperial examination through legitimate means. He even secured the top position—his talent is undeniable.

“Furthermore, I have heard that Minister Yan harbored ambitions from an early age to ‘order his household, govern the state, and bring peace under heaven.’ Throughout his years of service, while he frequently socializes and attends banquets, the majority of the expenses are covered by his clan or through the sale of his own calligraphy.

“Ah—Minister Yan’s calligraphy fees do not appear to involve any embezzlement. He was a renowned calligrapher throughout the land long ago. Many individuals offered substantial sums for a piece, yet still failed to acquire one.”

Xiao Mo smiled faintly. “Then, tell me—would someone like him harbor aspirations for the position of chancellor, and the leadership of the Yan clan?”

“This…” Cold sweat began to bead on Wei Xun’s forehead.

How could he not grasp the implication behind His Majesty’s words?

His Majesty was contemplating—

“Why are you so tense? I was merely engaging in casual conversation.” Xiao Mo offered a smile, as if it were indeed idle chatter. “Come. Let us inspect the palaces designated for the two future Noble Consorts.”

“Yes, Your Majesty.”

Wei Xun dared not utter another word and hurried to follow His Majesty.

Not long after, Xiao Mo arrived at the magnificent palaces that would serve as Yan Ruxue and Qin Mujiu’s future residences.

Upon arrival, Xiao Mo discovered that Yan Ruxue’s and Qin Mujiu’s residences were situated quite near his own—a mere quarter hour’s walk at most.

The interiors were fully furnished, and all daily necessities had been meticulously prepared, leaving virtually nothing to be desired.

Furthermore, the assignments for the palace maids were largely finalized.

Within the inner sanctum of the Zhou royal palace, there existed no eunuchs.

Eunuchs were restricted to the outer court environs.

The so-called outer court encompassed areas such as the court hall, the Imperial Study, and the Imperial Guard Barracks—places accessible to ministers and visiting envoys.

Consequently, all attendants within the inner palace were exclusively female staff.

A close confidant like Wei Xun, therefore, resided in the outer court. Should he need to enter the inner palace, he was required to remain in Xiao Mo’s immediate vicinity, forbidden from moving independently.

The prior summons of Wei Xun to the Spiritual Heart Hall was an exception, occurring when the inner palace genuinely lacked any consorts. Empress Dowager Yan merely sought to ascertain Xiao Mo’s current well-being. Nоvеlight #

However, with the imminent arrival and residence of Yan Ruxue and Qin Mujiu, Empress Dowager Yan would find herself unable to summon Wei Xun.

Regardless, Xiao Mo mused that Empress Dowager Yan would likely not feel pressed for time.

Even without Wei Xun, Yan Ruxue’s presence would serve as her eyes and ears, a confidante she trusted implicitly.

“Your Majesty, do these two palaces necessitate any alterations?” Wei Xun inquired.

“No, they are perfectly adequate,” Xiao Mo replied, then paused, a frown creasing his brow. “But may I ask why these two palaces are positioned symmetrically around my Hall of Nurturing the Heart?”

Xiao Mo’s Hall of Nurturing the Heart was situated directly between their residences, effectively bisecting the space. The distance from each palace to his hall was precisely equal.

Wei Xun offered a gentle smile. “Is it not… to ensure neither side feels slighted?”

“....”

For a moment, Xiao Mo was rendered speechless. A sigh escaped him inwardly.

Judging by this arrangement, it indeed seemed as though a deliberate effort was being made to “bisect the inner palace.”

His sole hope was for a more tranquil future existence.

Following the inspection of Yan Ruxue’s and Qin Mujiu’s prospective palaces, the hour approached noon. Xiao Mo then proceeded to the Spiritual Heart Palace to visit his Empress Dowager.

“This son pays his respects to Mother.”

Upon entering the Spiritual Heart Palace, Xiao Mo joined his hands and bowed before Empress Dowager Yan.

“The Emperor has arrived.” Empress Dowager Yan’s face brightened upon seeing Xiao Mo. She stepped forward, taking his hand. “Since you commenced your cultivation, Your Majesty, your complexion has steadily improved—and you appear even more distinguished.”

“I thank you for your kind words, Mother. This son diligently cultivates daily and nourishes his heart. One might say I have achieved some progress,” Xiao Mo responded with a smile. “However, compared to this son, Mother appears increasingly youthful. Were Mother to travel alongside a young lady of sixteen, no one would discern the difference.”

“Hehehe… Since when did the Emperor become so eloquent? I am already past forty. I am an old woman…”

Empress Dowager Yan chuckled behind her handkerchief. Despite her declaration of age, the lift of her brows and the crinkling at the corners of her eyes clearly indicated Xiao Mo’s words had pleased her immensely.

“Enough of such talk. Today, I summoned the Emperor regarding the matter of palace maids. Once Ruxue and the others are settled, it will be time to select suitable young women to enter the palace. In our Zhou Dynasty, the selection of palace maids falls under the purview of the Empress. With the Empress’s seat currently vacant, I shall make this decision on the Emperor's behalf. What are Your Majesty’s thoughts on this?”

“Naturally, there is no objection. All matters are for Mother to decide. I must trouble Mother to undertake this task with care.”

What recourse did Xiao Mo possess? Even if he harbored reservations, they would be deemed inconsequential.

Furthermore, according to established rites, when new women enter the palace, it is indeed the Empress who oversees the examination and selection of palace maids.

Given the absence of an established Empress, it was entirely appropriate for Empress Dowager Yan to assume leadership, selecting women to join the imperial household.

Yet, Xiao Mo also understood that to bolster Yan Ruxue’s position, Empress Dowager Yan would likely avoid choosing excessively beautiful candidates—to prevent scenarios such as “the consorts have yet to conceive, but a maid finds herself pregnant first.”

However, Xiao Mo remained unconcerned.

He was already preoccupied with the complexities of managing two consorts. The last thing he desired was to involve himself in the selection of palace maids.

Witnessing Xiao Mo’s ready agreement, Empress Dowager Yan’s eyes widened slightly.

She had anticipated that upon the arrival of the Eldest Imperial Princess Qin, Xiao Mo might develop second thoughts and offer some resistance.

Yet, Xiao Mo remained as compliant as ever, filling Empress Dowager Yan with even greater delight—to the point where she questioned if she had perhaps been overly stringent with him in the past.

He had, after all, been orphaned at a young age, adopted into the palace where every turn was fraught with restrictions. Truly, a pitiable existence...

Yet, Empress Dowager Yan swiftly suppressed the welling sympathy in her heart.

Currently, the foremost priority was placing Ruxue on the throne of Empress. This was hardly the moment for tender feelings.

Empress Dowager Yan conversed with Xiao Mo for some time, and they subsequently shared the midday meal.

In the afternoon, Empress Dowager Yan dispatched an imperial decree throughout the Zhou domain, calling for women of reputable backgrounds to enter the palace.

And on the very day following the decree's issuance—

Before the notice board erected in the imperial capital of Zhou, a woman, her face partially obscured by a delicate veil, scrutinized the notice repeatedly.

Finally, she turned and made her way back to the courtyard.

“Wang Xin…”

The woman pushed open the courtyard gate, her veil removed, and spoke with evident joy.

“Sister Si Li, what is it?”

Wang Xin turned around. Little Chaos, lounging nearby, seized a pastry from the woman’s hand and devoured it in a single bite.

“Did we not ascertain, through a formation array, that Xiao Mo's reincarnation is most likely residing within the palace?” Si Li inquired.

“Indeed, but the issue remains: Sister Si Li has no means of entering, does she?” Wang Xin responded with a hint of bewilderment.

The formation array had indeed indicated the Zhou royal palace, and the current ruler of Zhou bore the name Xiao Mo. Both Wang Xin and Si Li entertained the notion that such a coincidence might exist in the world – that the Zhou ruler could indeed be Xiao Mo’s reincarnation.

However, the Zhou royal palace was protected by a formidable formation array; any clandestine infiltration would undoubtedly be detected.

Furthermore, Thunderclap Temple adhered to a strict regulation: monastics were expressly forbidden from entering the royal palaces of mortal dynasties. This prohibition stemmed from the fact that royal palaces were potent centers of dragon fortune and accumulated karma, environments where Buddhist disciples were exceedingly susceptible to negative influences.

As a monastic belonging to Thunderclap Temple, Wang Xin was, naturally, bound to observe these precepts.

Consequently, she was unable to seek an audience with the Zhou ruler and could only await an opportunity when he ventured outside the palace.

Not to mention, the process of confirming a soul’s reincarnation was inherently time-consuming. Wang Xin could not possibly remain within the confines of the inner palace indefinitely without exiting.

Thus, the two of them had found themselves in a state of perplexity of late.

“I have found a solution,” Si Li declared with a smile. “Just now, I observed that the Empress Dowager of Zhou is in the process of selecting new palace maids.”

“So, Sister Si Li intends to…”

“Precisely. I shall enter the palace disguised as a palace maid to investigate!”