PM - 53

At first, she pretended not to care, only giving him a disdainful glance. Seeing her lack of reaction, he felt somewhat hurt and hesitated for a moment before standing up. “It’s about time. I should return home for my afternoon nap. Your Majesty need not detain me.”

Who said anything about detaining him? She looked at him with an ambiguous smile, and his disappointment grew. He straightened his sleeves, preparing to leave, but then remembered her injury and turned back to remind her, “Don’t wet your wound while washing. A damp wound won’t heal easily.”

She propped herself up, tilting her head to look at him. “Does Father Chancellor take a nap every afternoon? What a coincidence—I have the same habit. In that case, why don’t you stay? Let’s rest together.”

He shuffled his feet awkwardly. “I already said there’s no need to detain me…”

She couldn’t hold back any longer and lunged at him, pulling him back and pressing him down onto the reed mat beside the long desk.

“So you finally admit you’re jealous,” she teased, rubbing his face as she spoke. “You’ve been suppressing Shangguan Zhao at every opportunity all this time because of this, haven’t you? You look so dignified on the outside, but deep down, you’re petty and jealous. I find you more and more adorable.”

The Chancellor flushed red from her teasing. What did “adorable” even mean when applied to him? If the feudal lords heard it, they’d probably vomit their breakfasts. He dodged left and right, trying to escape her relentless hands. “Be careful with your wound. If it opens again, it’ll bleed.”

“I don’t care,” she declared. “What’s a little blood compared to tears? Rú Chún, when will we have a royal heir? I can’t wait any longer.”

He was deeply embarrassed. How could a young woman speak so directly! Still, when it came to the process of producing an heir, he had to admit he was quite intrigued. Thus, he decided to discreetly consult Lian Zheng, asking whether a woman would change after… well, after certain experiences.

Lian Zheng grinned mischievously. “Oh yes, she’ll change—she’ll become tender and affectionate. Just one glance at you in court could drown all the officials. And her figure—before, she was like an unripe fruit; afterward, she’ll be fully ripe. Do you know what a perfectly ripe plum looks like? Red to the point of purple, so plump the skin nearly bursts—that’s the difference between the charm of a maiden and the allure of a married woman. You’ll feel such a sense of accomplishment, like planting flowers—you know, except for that fake flower of yours. Watching her grow from a tiny sprout into a bountiful tree, tell me, wouldn’t that make you happy?”

He didn’t want to hear Lian Zheng ramble on. He just wanted to know if… hypothetically… after losing her virginity, would observers notice any changes?

“That’s hard to say,” Lian Zheng replied, drawing an arc across his chest with both hands. “Maybe these will get bigger.” Then he twisted his waist and slapped his own buttocks. “And these might become fuller.”

Instantly deflated, he decided to temporarily abandon the idea. The risks were too great—he couldn’t gamble with his life for fleeting pleasure. So when Fúwēi asked him when they’d have children, he reluctantly said, “Let’s wait two more years. Your Majesty is still young.”

Fúwēi was thoroughly disappointed, tapping her fingers and muttering, “Having children later is fine, but I’m curious—when will you consummate our relationship?”

Wasn’t this moving too fast? The Chancellor’s heart was a whirlpool of emotions. He tried to sit up, but she pressed him back down. Eventually, he lay flat and consoled her, “Your Majesty doesn’t know me well enough yet. I think it’s better to give you a bit more time.”

“I’ve known you for fifteen years—isn’t that long enough? I know all the bad things you’ve done. No one understands you better than I do,” she said passionately. Ignoring his protests, she lifted her skirt and straddled him. “Tell me—are you seeing someone else behind my back?”

He felt utterly wronged. “What nonsense! I’m exhausted every day. Where would I find the energy…” He paused, searching for the right word, but found himself at a loss.

Fortunately, the Young Emperor had a rich vocabulary. She finished his sentence for him: “To cheat.”

The Chancellor nodded. “Exactly. No time for that.”

“But if you did have time, would you consider trying?” she teased, sitting harder on his stomach. “I know men like you are very popular. At the peak of your prime, handsome, wealthy, and with a solid family background—you’re exactly the kind of son-in-law many fathers dream of.”

She shifted her weight deliberately, eliciting a groan from him. “Y-Your Majesty…”

“You talk big, but where’s the action? Words alone don’t make a hero,” she taunted.

He often felt helpless around her. Back in the day, she used to fear him like a mouse fearing a cat, bowing respectfully and calling him “Father Chancellor.” Now, things had changed. She rubbed his face, sat on his stomach, and accused him of cheating—all dignity of a powerful minister gone.

As she wriggled aimlessly, he hurriedly gripped her waist, gritting his teeth to endure. “There are too many prying eyes. This is the main hall, not the private chambers!”

Her expression darkened. “Without my orders, who dares to barge in here? Besides, you haven’t answered my question yet.”

He sighed. “Whether others see me as a desirable son-in-law isn’t something I can control. Your Majesty worries too much. Reaching my level in office actually makes marriage difficult. Most families want stability for their daughters. If they marry me, they risk great ups and downs in the future. Who’d want their beloved daughter to suffer alongside me?”

Great ups and downs indeed. As he spoke, his heart must have felt a mix of helplessness and sorrow. She grew uneasy, leaning down to embrace him and gently reassure him, “If I hadn’t taken an interest in you, your future might have been uncertain. But now that I’ve chosen you, you’ll thrive for generations to come.”

The Chancellor looked as though struck by lightning. “Please, Your Majesty, choose your words carefully.”

“Did I say something wrong?” she shrugged nonchalantly. “I’m the first emperor in history to have relations with my father-in-law. It’s groundbreaking, and I’m thrilled about it.”

He had no idea what she was so pleased about. Such a scandalous reputation, if recorded by historians, would surely go down in infamy for millennia. But thinking so far ahead wasn’t on his mind right now. His immediate concern was her uninhibited behavior—it could lead to embarrassment for both of them. After all, he was still a man, and she, inexperienced in worldly matters, failed to understand his plight. Sensing danger, he subtly adjusted his legs for protection, only for her to notice and mockingly shift backward. “Your legs are more comfortable than a desk. They’re like my dragon throne.”

The Chancellor grew increasingly distressed. “Your Majesty, could you please get off?”

Fúwēi completely ignored him, adjusting her posture and giving him a shy smile. “I saw this position in a fire-avoidance scroll. It looked pretty good.”

A wave of metallic bitterness rose in his throat—he almost spat blood. As she swayed casually, his mind overheated, and his soul began to drift away from his body.

“Rú Chún…” She leaned close to his ear and sighed softly. “How strange—I feel warm all over. So this is a good way to keep warm.” Seeing the blush on his cheeks, she knew he felt the same way.

When she liked someone, she wanted to possess them entirely. That’s how greedy she was. Sometimes, she feared he might suddenly leave her—their bond was still too fragile. To strengthen it, she needed to cling to him, giving him everything she could offer. Love was like a pilgrimage—the final step had to be completed. Before, he had threatened to abandon her and the heir. But now? Did he still think that way?

She captured his lower lip, gently sucking on it twice. His breath trembled, and his hands tightened around her waist beneath the ceremonial robe. She whispered into his ear, “Rú Chún, do you truly care for me?”

He opened his eyes, his usually sharp gaze clouded with confusion. With great effort, he nodded once. “Absolutely.”

“Will you ever marry another woman?”

“No.”

“Even if we can never openly call ourselves husband and wife, will you regret nothing?”

Imagine this: in her advanced age, she sits on the throne, and he is still the Chief Minister. The old man with white hair looks up at her with eyes full of love, a sight that is deeply moving in its own way.

He closes his eyes again, a smile spilling over his lips. “For a lifetime, without regret.”

She knows he doesn’t make promises lightly; when he truly loves, he throws caution to the wind.

She sighs deeply, pressing herself close to him, her voice thick with emotion. “Thank goodness you’re here. Even if I lose everything, I’ll still have you.”

He cups her face, kissing her forehead, then trailing kisses down to her nose, and finally her lips. “Your humble servant thanks Your Majesty for your great favor, allowing me this chance to be by your side—both in the court and in our private chambers…”

In truth, he’s not as proper as he appears. The difference between them in matters of love is that his words are veiled and suggestive, while her actions are direct and straightforward.

When they first fell in love, it was intoxicating, more potent than the strongest liquor. They longed to be inseparable, each other’s bodies like an antidote they couldn’t live without. She discovered new pleasures in their closeness, nibbling and licking his lips, which burned like flames, leaving her craving more.

The once cold and austere royal bedchamber had become filled with sensuality because of him. As the sky darkened outside, their passion grew hotter. When she could no longer catch her breath, she leaned back against him, resting on his lap. Fearing she might hurt him, she shifted slightly and suddenly felt something hard beneath her. Realizing what it was, she teased him playfully: “What’s this?”

One moment he was lost in a daze, and the next, he nearly choked on his words. Her actions were quicker than her teasing, and before he could react, it was already in her hand.

He sucked in a sharp breath. “Aying, don’t fool around.”

Curious, she pressed down on the outline beneath the silk, which stood out clearly. “Hmm, it seems quite impressive.”

The Chancellor hurriedly tried to cover himself. “You can’t do this!”

“Can’t do this, can’t do this,” he would say whenever he was cornered, but she never took his words to heart. The young empress was still the empress, and nothing shocked her. With gentle touches, she smiled sweetly, “Let me take a look, won’t you?”

The Chancellor firmly refused. “Please, allow me to keep some dignity.”

“Dignity? In front of me? Most of my knowledge comes from you. A good teacher should be willing to sacrifice.”

As she lifted the hem of his robe, she really startled him. He scrambled backward, looking at her as if she were a flood or a wild beast. She blinked innocently, hands hanging loosely. “I’ll be gentle.”

He still said no. “This is my last line of defense.”

She sneered. “A real man…”

“Even real men don’t have such habits. If you want to see, wait until the time is right.”

So, it would be a long wait? She felt disappointed. “I thought you, my esteemed Prime Minister, were a man who didn’t sweat the small stuff. Yet, at a crucial moment, you’re so stingy. When will the time be right? In my opinion, once you take a look, even unripe fruit becomes ripe.” She glanced at the area again, gesturing with her hands. “Like this… like this…” Slowly, her cheeks reddened, and she muttered softly, “It looks as big as my paperweight shaped like a tiger. Doesn’t it bother you, my lord?”

Paperweight shaped like a tiger? How apt! But the Chancellor’s focus wasn’t on her description. He was flustered. “What did you call me?”

She twiddled her fingers, looking shy. “My lord, though I’d rather call you my husband.”

He crawled over, pulling her into his arms, murmuring to himself, “I never imagined I’d have this day…”

He had never dared to hope for too much. She was different from ordinary girls. His fall was a reckless one, but she remained clear-headed. She rested in his arms, and he felt a surge of emotions. She was indeed worth exploring—adept at both political schemes and playful affection. If she were only filled with tender feelings, perhaps she wouldn’t captivate him as much.

“Do you think I’m too domineering?” She looked up at him. Love requires mutual effort; simply loving isn’t enough.

The Chancellor replied seriously, “No matter, my teeth are strong.”

Strong teeth, able to chew… Fu Wei’s thoughts wandered, and she moved closer to him, fantasizing about peeking under his robe. Once, the Chancellor was a renowned general. The last time he stayed overnight, she placed her hands on his chest through his thin undergarment, feeling the firm muscles beneath, making her mouth water.

She licked her lips, stealthily pinching the edge of his robe with two fingers, intending to pull it open. Suddenly, she heard someone clapping in the distance. Her mind, filled with lustful thoughts, instantly cooled. Frustrated, she quickly released him, retreating behind the long desk to kneel. Jianye’s voice came from the steps, “Your Majesty, I have a report.”

She smiled at the Chancellor, who was adjusting his robes, and raised her voice, “Enter.”

Jianye stepped onto the corridor, opened the door, and bowed his head before approaching the throne. “Your Majesty, just now, the Palace of Eternal Peace reported that the Empress fainted in the hall. This has alarmed the Empress Dowager, who is leading the imperial physicians to Longqiu Palace. If Your Majesty is free, we hope you’ll visit the Empress.”

Lingjun was a clever person, following her previous instructions step by step. Knowing the situation, she wasn’t worried, but she still needed to pay a visit.

She turned to the Chancellor, “Father Chancellor, don’t worry. I’ll send word about the Empress’s condition later. Regarding the matters we discussed earlier, please don’t forget. Everything rests on you.”

The Chancellor understood fully, bowing solemnly. “Understood. I will do my utmost. Please rest assured, Your Majesty.” Taking a slight pause, he slowly exited the chamber.

Fu Wei stood up, adjusted her crown, and stepped out of the palace. It was cold outside, and the wind made her shiver. She walked briskly through the passageway toward the Western Palace. Longqiu Palace lay behind the pavilion. Unlike the concubines’ quarters, the Empress’s residence had its own dedicated offices, placing it at the center of political affairs alongside the Cloud Terrace.

Fu Wei quickened her pace to appear anxious. Upon entering Longqiu Palace, the senior eunuch greeted her with a bow.

“How is the Empress?”

The eunuch replied, “Her Majesty has just regained consciousness. The cause of her illness remains undetermined by the imperial physicians.”

She frowned and cursed under her breath, startling the eunuch, who knelt trembling. She waved her hand dismissively, “Not you. Rise.” She lifted the curtain and entered the inner chamber.

True to expectation, the Empress Dowager was there, sitting on a jade seat, her brows furrowed with worry. Seeing her enter, the Dowager sighed, “No matter how busy you are with state affairs, you cannot neglect the Empress. She is young and newly entered the palace, needing your care the most. Where have you been these past few days? Not even a shadow of you! This won’t do!”

Fu Wei apologized profusely, “It’s my fault, Mother. There have been numerous reports from the provinces, and I’ve been thoroughly investigating the currency issue. I’ve only just found some free time.” She glanced at the bed where the Empress lay, frail and pitiable, calling out softly, “Ah, Empress, rest well and recover.”

But the Dowager was displeased. “Just resting isn’t enough. If her spirit isn’t uplifted, even the finest medicine won’t work. Spend these next couple of days properly with her. State affairs are important, but harmony between husband and wife is equally vital. Moreover, now that you are officially married, producing an heir will stabilize the realm.”

Fu Wei nodded, “I will heed your advice, Mother.”

The Dowager rose, and Fu Wei hurried to support her. The Dowager pressed her hand gently, “Stay and talk with the Empress. I’ll return first.” Turning to the eunuch, she added, “Tonight, send for the Red Records Keeper. Tomorrow, bring me the daily records. No slacking.”

“No slacking” was directed both at the attendants and the young emperor. Everyone in the chamber bowed in acknowledgment. Fu Wei glanced at Lingjun, who lay there expressionless, seemingly gravely ill.

After seeing the Dowager off and dismissing everyone else, she sat beside him and remarked lightly, “You’ve worked hard, Empress.”

Lingjun remained silent for a long time before finally speaking, “Your Majesty is truly heartless. Here I am, suffering life and death, and yet you’re cozying up with my adoptive father.”

Planning to act spoiled and arrogant? Fu Wei raised an eyebrow. “What nonsense is this? Can you rephrase that more elegantly?”

Seeing her displeasure, Lingjun knew better than to fan the flames. Sitting up, he said, “Forgive my slip of tongue, Your Majesty. Just now, the Dowager commanded that you stay overnight in Longqiu Palace tonight. Did you hear? It’s been days since I’ve seen you. Do you miss me?”

Fu Wei looked at him hesitantly. “Not particularly.”

Lingjun’s smile faltered, and he sighed, falling back onto the pillows. “I’ve truly failed… Earlier, I heard about Princess Gai’s passing. Is your melancholy due to her death?”

She responded indifferently, “I was saddened, but considering the circumstances, it was unavoidable. If there had been any other way, I wouldn’t have resorted to this.”

“The princess couldn’t stay, and Lord Zhang also had to die. Next is Marquis Gai, isn’t it?” He pulled the brocade quilt tighter, his piercing gaze fixed on her. “If Your Majesty permits, I’ll go to the northern frontier. We won’t need to trouble the Chancellor. This matter can be quietly handled.”

Fu Wei was taken aback. “You mean assassination?”

He nodded. “Matters you can decide shouldn’t overly rely on the Chancellor. I know you and he are inseparable now, but remember, always be cautious. I originally intended to approach you under the guise of the Empress’s younger brother, but I doubt the Chancellor would approve. Since that’s the case, I’ll handle things secretly for you. Do you agree?”

The Empress was subtly changing. Fu Wei scrutinized him curiously. “You seem to trust the Chancellor less than before. Why?”

Leaning against a cushion, his long hair cascading across the pillow, he exuded a seductive charm. Meeting her gaze, he spoke softly, “Because of Your Majesty. Though I performed the grand ceremony with you, the one you truly favor is him. Someone like me is as insignificant as grass in your eyes. If I don’t risk my life for you, with just an empty title of Empress, you’ll surely forget me in time.”

His words were half-true, tinged with resentment, but Fu Wei sensed the gravity of the situation. Standing tall, she spoke coldly, “Lord Nie, you know why Princess Gai died. Learn from the past. I don’t wish to kill, nor do I desire a path stained with blood. But if anyone tries to use this against me, they’ve miscalculated. Both the Chancellor and I have kept no secrets from you. You understand the stakes, don’t you? I need not explain further.”

You can gauge whether someone cares for you by their tone. She may jest with you, but you mustn’t mistake that for affection or vulnerability. Once someone becomes expendable, they are discarded without hesitation. Currently, he held no value to her, which was dangerous.

Lingjun’s face turned pale. “Don’t misunderstand, Your Majesty. I merely wish to share your burdens.”

She dismissed the idea. “Lord Nie, you’ve done enough for me. Staying safely in Longqiu Palace is the greatest help you can offer.”

Lingjun fell silent, as if his fervor had been extinguished, leaving only muddy traces. Slowly folding his hands, his demeanor became calm. Changing to a lighter tone, he concluded, “Very well, I’ll focus on nurturing myself here. But please visit occasionally. The Dowager mentioned that she’ll periodically review the Red Records. Although they can be altered, it’s best if others see Your Majesty coming and going.” He smiled faintly, “Consider my request.”

Her brows knit slightly before she smiled and nodded. “As the Empress wishes.”