TSNCWEM Chapter 52

“Matron Su, how can a matter involving only a few people be considered too complex?” Song Yunzhao tried to appear less aggressive but firm in her stance, “Zhang Momo, don’t you agree?”

Matron Zhang, not aligned with Matron Su, nodded, “Miss Song makes a valid point.” Turning to Matron Su, she added, “We only need to verify Miss Luo and Miss Zhao’s statements. Such a minor issue should be manageable, right?”

Matron Su, internally alarmed, responded firmly, “Matron Zhang, we can’t make such a judgment on our own for a serious matter like this. It must be reported to the higher authorities for the consorts to decide.”

Hearing this, Song Yunzhao felt a pang of concern. If the matter reached the consorts, she might lose control, given her insignificant status. However, she could still maneuver.

Realizing Matron Su’s tactic to target her weak spot, Song Yunzhao looked at Zhang Momo, saw her displeased expression, and quickly said, “Matron Su is right. Serious matters must be taken seriously. Therefore, I suggest reporting this directly to His Majesty and awaiting his decision.”

Matron Yin, who had been silent, looked at Song Yunzhao with a slight twitch of her lips. This girl was fearless, suggesting they go straight to the Emperor. This would derail Matron Su’s plan to involve the consorts.

Realizing she had to support Song Yunzhao to counter Su, Matron Yin said, “Matron Su, if you insist on reporting it, let’s follow protocol. The Chief Eunuch at Taichi Palace recently inquired about the selection process. With this incident, it’s appropriate to inform him.”

Matron Su, unable to argue further, had no choice but to comply.

Her expression changed slightly, and she remained silent in thought.

The tension among the three matrons created a subtle and tense atmosphere.

Song Yunzhao noticed Song Qinghan’s gaze and turned to smile broadly at her, thinking that if she didn’t get her expelled from the palace, she’d take her own surname.

Song Yunzhao had exposed their strained relationship publicly upon entering the palace to make it clear they were not on good terms. She had been waiting for Song Qinghan to make a move, knowing her sister’s personality well. She had prepared for this moment, waiting for the opportunity to strike decisively.

Feeling Song Yunzhao’s cold smile, Song Qinghan felt a chill down her spine. She quickly looked away, her mind racing to find a way out.

She had already offended Zhao Xiaoyu and Luo Xiuying. Although Luo Xiuying had promised not to betray her, who knew what would happen if things escalated?

The more Song Qinghan thought about it, the more frustrated she became. Why was Song Yunzhao so troublesome? Why did she pursue them? How did she know to wait in the lotus field?

Her carefully guarded actions had been discovered by Song Yunzhao, leaving her even more frustrated as she hadn’t prevented her from joining the selection in the first place.

Helan Yun grew impatient with the matrons’ hesitation and turned to Song Yunzhao. “When will we get a resolution? This is exasperating.”

“All we can do is wait,” Song Yunzhao replied. As someone without much say in the matter, she could only hope that the evidence and her status as the victim would work in her favor.

Helan Yun sighed, “How long will we have to wait?”

At this moment, Han Jingyi turned to Helan Yun. “County Princess, seeking justice varies depending on the person involved.”

Helan Yun looked at Han Jingyi with a twisted expression. What did she mean?

Was she implying that Helan Yun was a troublemaker because of her influential background?

In the past, Helan Yun might not have thought much about it, but after spending time with Song Yunzhao, she had developed a habit of scrutinizing people’s words for hidden meanings.

She was no longer as naïve as before and said, “I have no problem with it. I wonder if Miss Han dares to stand up for justice. Besides, my power alone isn’t enough.”

Han Jingyi was taken aback by Helan Yun’s words.

Seeing her expression, Helan Yun raised her head slightly. What, do you underestimate me?

Han Jingyi couldn’t help but smile and softened her tone. “The County Princess is right. I didn’t explain myself clearly. I meant that we should join forces. How can I let you bear the burden alone?”

Satisfied, Helan Yun nodded and stepped forward, with Han Jingyi following. They approached the matrons together. “Matrons, we’ve had several incidents since entering the palace. Could you please report this promptly? I’m worried more trouble will arise. I don’t mind being eliminated, but I fear for my life. My parents are waiting for me to reunite with them.”

The matrons’ faces turned pale.

Han Jingyi sighed and added, her face still showing traces of fear and helplessness, “The County Princess is right. I’m also very scared. Though I’m not talented and don’t expect to be selected, I still hope to leave the palace safely. Today’s incident truly frightened me. I request your compassion to allow me to leave the palace.”

Now the matrons’ faces turned not just green but black.

Song Yunzhao glanced at Han Jingyi, who she had never paid much attention to before. In the novel, Han Jingyi was portrayed as elegant and uninterested in competition or power, a rule-abiding character.

Such a portrayal was appealing to readers, and anyone who wasn’t an enemy of the protagonist could be considered half a good person.

Seeing this supposed “good person” behave unexpectedly made her curious.

In the book, the storyline closely followed the protagonist, and supporting characters like Han Jingyi, though present, were underdeveloped. Han Jingyi was merely a flat character, but now she seemed much more dynamic. Her actions didn’t match her established persona in the book.

Song Yunzhao glanced between Helan Yun and Han Jingyi. Could it be that the characterizations in the book were subject to change?

Previously, she would avoid anyone associated with the protagonist to prevent becoming a cannon fodder. However, if she could influence the narrative, it might not be as daunting.

She couldn’t pinpoint Han Jingyi’s motives for her recent actions, aligning with her and standing by her side, which deviated from her rule-abiding nature depicted in the book. They were, after all, breaking the rules now.

Faced with potential danger everywhere, she thought, life was full of surprises.

Resisting the protagonist’s influence and safeguarding her own fate was the greatest respect she could offer her status as cannon fodder.

“County Princess and Miss Han are right, Matrons. Others might be concerned about potential danger, but I’ve already faced real harm several times,” Song Yunzhao said, her eyes reddening further. “While others worry about possible threats, I’ve experienced them. I’m scared, truly scared. If the Matrons don’t provide justice, I’ll have to seek it myself.”

Matron Zhang quickly reassured her, “Miss Song, don’t act rashly. We will thoroughly investigate today’s events and give you an explanation.”

“Matron, I’ve always trusted you. You said the same last time.”

Zhang Momo’s face reddened with embarrassment. The last incident had indeed wronged Song Yunzhao.

Matron Su, displeased, remarked, “What a sight, I’ve served in the Spring Palace for many years and have never encountered someone as defiant as Miss Song.”

“Threatening the managing matrons, are we? You’ve really gone too far.”

Song Yunzhao could sense Matron Su’s hostility. “Madam, you’re right. If you stood firm, we wouldn’t need to fight for ourselves.”

Matron Su, feeling insulted for being called weak, responded sternly, “Miss Song, some things are better left unsaid. The world is unpredictable, wouldn’t you agree?”

“Why not seize the wind and soar high?” Song Yunzhao smiled sweetly, but her words were anything but kind.

Helan Yun looked at Han Jingyi suspiciously and whispered, “What does she mean?”

Han Jingyi shook her head. “I’m not entirely sure.”

Matron Su was present, and she couldn’t openly say that Song Yunzhao was telling her to fly to heaven if she was so capable. It wasn’t exactly a blessing, and she didn’t want to provoke Matron Su further.

She knew that if she did, the entire Spring Palace would hear about it by the next day, damaging Matron Su’s reputation and creating a lasting enmity.

Han Jingyi was now sure that following Song Yunzhao was the right choice. Given Song Yunzhao’s sharp tongue, not coming along would mean trouble later. She might end up being targeted with stinging remarks herself.

Matron Su could tell it wasn’t a compliment, but without much education, she couldn’t fully understand it. Her expression soured as she said, “Miss Song, we matrons will discuss this matter. You should go back and rest.”

Helan Yun noticed Song Yunzhao’s stern expression and got excited. She recognized this face; it meant someone was in trouble.

Han Jingyi, puzzled by Helan Yun’s sudden excitement, then heard Song Yunzhao speak, “Discuss it?”

These words made her scalp tingle.

Before she could gather her thoughts, Song Yunzhao continued, “I may be insignificant, and it’s understandable that you don’t take a Miss like me seriously. However, today’s incident has clear evidence, and your reluctance to provide justice is suspicious.”

“Miss Song, please be careful with your words.”

“So you know the importance of careful words, Matron? Rest assured, I may lack many things, but I still have my integrity. I almost lost my life at Kunlun Lake today. If you won’t give me justice, I’ll seek it myself.”

Matron Su almost laughed, “And how do you plan to seek justice, Miss Song?”

Song Yunzhao smiled, “That’s not for you to worry about.” With that, she turned to leave.

Matron Zhang, worried, exchanged a glance with Matron Yin. Matron Yin quickly stepped forward to stop Song Yunzhao, “Miss Song, this matter isn’t for her to decide alone. Matron Zhang and I will ensure you get justice.”

“I trust you, but I can’t bear to see you troubled on my behalf. I’ll take it upon myself to seek justice from the Emperor.”

Song Yunzhao’s voice was light but carried significant weight.

Matron Su couldn’t believe her ears. What did she say?

“Miss Song, do you think you can just see the Emperor whenever you want? Are you still dreaming?”

“Matron Su!” Madam Zhang was genuinely anxious. “When Miss Song was ill, the Chief Eunuch himself inquired about her. Have you forgotten?”

Matron Su’s smile froze. She hadn’t thought much of it at the time. The Chief Eunuch’s inquiry might have been a casual question, but now it made her wary.

Matron Yin, irritated, glanced at Matron Su and said sternly, “Since Matron Su disagrees, we’ll handle this separately.”

Matron Yin saw an opportunity and said, “Miss Song, rest assured, we will thoroughly investigate this matter.”

Without giving Matron Su a chance to respond, she immediately sent someone to the Palace Bureau to request assistance.

Matron Su’s face darkened. Seeing Matron Zhang and Yin join forces, she realized she couldn’t oppose them alone. She feigned anger, saying, “I don’t agree with today’s actions. Since you’re determined, I shall withdraw.”

With that, she left.

Song Yunzhao guessed that she was going to inform her backers.

The other two matrons looked displeased, but remained composed. Matron Zhang’s gaze fell on Luo Xiuying and Zhao Xiaoyu, making them shrink back.

Song Qinghan, seeing Matron Su leave angrily, felt even more uneasy. She regretted acting hastily, unsure how to salvage the situation.

The officials from the Palace Bureau arrived quickly, conducted the interrogation, recorded statements, and obtained signatures. Luo Xiuying, initially defiant, crumbled when faced with two imposing matrons from the bureau and confessed everything.

Song Qinghan had bribed her with money and promises of family protection after she left the palace. Hearing this, Song Yunzhao worried about her father’s potential involvement, though she believed Song Qinghan wouldn’t care about their father. Song Yunzhao, however, couldn’t let him suffer.

When it was Song Qinghan’s turn, she tried to deny responsibility, but Zhao Xiaoyu and Luo Xiuying’s testimonies, combined with Song Yunzhao’s watchful presence, cornered her. Despite struggling, she couldn’t escape the truth and glared at Song Yunzhao with burning hatred.

After the interrogation, the matrons had to report the matter. Song Yunzhao and the others watched as Song Qinghan and the others were taken away, temporarily isolated.

Once they left, Matron Zhang sighed with relief, holding the testimonies. She turned to Matron Yin and asked, “We need to report this. Who will go?”

Yin Momo replied, “One can’t trouble two masters. You go.”

Matron Zhang laughed, “You’re good at dodging work.” She added, “Su won’t give up. You can’t avoid this. I’ll report to Consort Shu, and you inform Consort Zhuang.”

Matron Yin nodded, “Fine. As long as Consort Shu doesn’t interfere, this matter can pass. But if she insists on getting involved, it might get complicated.”

“The end selection is soon. Consort Shu might not act rashly. Matron Su won’t go overboard with things, as Consort Zhuang is there to keep her in check. We can manage.”

“Let’s hope so.”

They split up. When Matron Zhang didn’t find Matron Su at Cuiwei Palace she reported everything clearly and thoroughly to Consort Shu.

Consort Shu glanced at her and smiled, “Zhang Momo, I’ve heard you take good care of Miss Song.”

Madam Zhang quickly replied, “Niangniang[mfn]A honorific, used to refer to royal women. You could translate it to Your Highness[/mfn], I don’t dare overstep. I follow the rules.”

Consort Shu laughed lightly, not looking at the testimonies, and casually placed them aside, “Momo, you’re smart. You wouldn’t do anything foolish. You may go.”

Matron Zhang, sensing the underlying message, bowed and left.

Outside Cuiwei Palace, she sighed in relief and hurried back to Spring Palace.

In Song Yunzhao’s room, Song Yexi, Helan Yun, and Han Jingyi were waiting for news.

“I wonder what the outcome will be,” Song Yexi said softly, worried about Song Qinghan’s ruthless tactics.

“If it’s unfair, we’ll keep fighting,” Helan Yun said confidently.

Han Jingyi glanced at Helan Yun, recognizing that her boldness came from the power of the Zhenbei Prince Mansion. Although her own family background was better than Song Yunzhao’s, it wasn’t as strong as Helan Yun’s.

Thinking for a moment, she said, “If we continue to make a fuss, we need to plan carefully. Otherwise, it won’t be us who suffer, but someone else.”

Naturally, that “someone else” would be Song Yunzhao and Song Yexi, who had the weakest backgrounds.

Song Yexi was nearly frantic, wishing she could pummel Song Qinghan a hundred times to relieve her anger. Once she returned to the household, she would definitely tell her family about everything Song Qinghan had done.

Song Yunzhao’s decision to cause such a stir was based on the power dynamics described in the book. After the death of Imperial Noble Consort Chu, the three highest-ranking consorts each governed their own factions, all aiming for the position of Imperial Consort. Thus, no one could afford to let their actions be scrutinized or caught by the others, which created a mutual check-and-balance situation. This meant that even if someone wanted to take her away, they could only do it secretly, not openly.

She was confident that as long as the issue was brought to the attention of all three consorts, it would be the easiest to resolve. The fear was if they hesitated or became afraid to escalate, giving others the opportunity to act in the shadows.

“What do you think, Yunzhao?” asked Song Yexi.

Returning from her thoughts, Song Yunzhao said, “I think things might go more smoothly than we expected. The matter has already escalated, and with more than one consort in the palace, someone will ensure justice is served. Moreover, the Emperor hasn’t explicitly involved the consorts in the selection process, so they will act very cautiously.”

Han Jingyi found this reasonable and looked at Song Yunzhao again. Previously, she had only thought of her as someone with a bad temper but now saw her as someone with meticulous thoughts.

Half an hour later, the decision came.

Song Qinghan, Luo Xiuying, and Zhao Xiaoyu were all expelled from the palace—not just disqualified, but expelled for committing offenses. It was said that Zhao Xiaoyu fainted on the spot.

Luo Xiuying was slightly better off, keeping a close eye on Song Qinghan, who had promised her substantial rewards. Although leaving the palace wasn’t favorable, her family background wasn’t strong, so it didn’t affect her much.

But for Song Qinghan…

Song Yunzhao specially went to see her. When the two sisters met, Song Qinghan’s eyes were red with hatred, wanting to strangle her.

Seeing her expression, Song Yunzhao smiled slightly, “Song Qinghan, did you ever imagine this day would come? Being expelled from the palace like a stray dog?”

“Song Yunzhao!” Song Qinghan’s voice was sharp, like a knife.

“Does this anger you?” Song Yunzhao laughed. “Song Qinghan, you’ve harmed me repeatedly. Did you really think there wouldn’t be any consequences? This is your retribution—your reputation is ruined, you are expelled from the palace. I wonder what better marriage you’ll find after returning to the Song family. You wanted to step on me for life, to keep me down, but now that’s just a dream. For the rest of your life, this is how it’s going to be.”

Song Qinghan’s vision darkened, a surge of fury rising as she lunged at Song Yunzhao.

Anticipating this, Song Yunzhao kicked her away, thinking that their sisterly feud would end today.