Shu Fei observed with a cold gaze, unaffected by Consort Wei's animosity.
They had met before, but Consort Wei's temperament was too overbearing. How had she survived in the cutthroat harem for over twenty years?
It seemed the Duke of Wei behind her was the truly formidable opponent.
"Your Majesty, Sister Wei was merely overcome with emotion and spoke rashly. Please do not take it to heart."
Emperor Qi was naturally furious at Consort Wei's tearful departure, but he then considered that she was merely a woman. If she weren't so deeply in love with him, she wouldn't have acted this way. Recalling their past affections, he said to a nearby palace attendant.
"Go, present the Ice Jade Bracelets gifted by Xueyu Kingdom to the Hall of Glorious Achievements. Tell the Consort that my feelings for her remain as before. If she comes to her senses, she may see me."
After all, she had been by his side for many years, and it was not appropriate to be too harsh.
"Your Majesty is truly sentimental."
Hearing Shu Fei's teasing remark, Emperor Qi was captivated by her gaze, pulling her into his embrace. "It's all your fault, making me and the Consort distant. You even sent my trusted generals to the imperial mausoleum. They say beautiful women are the cause of trouble, and I see you are quite the troublemaker!"
"Hmph, Your Majesty made the decision and issued the decree yourself. Why do you blame me? If that's the case, I dare not attend the palace banquet with you, lest others, like Your Majesty, call me a troublemaker."
Her coy demeanor almost made Emperor Qi lose control. He whispered in her ear, "I am the Son of Heaven, the true dragon. Am I afraid of being unable to suppress a mere troublemaker like you?"
Shu Fei lowered her head and smiled gently, her beauty captivating.
In the Hall of Shining Radiance, when the Empress arrived with the other consorts, Emperor Qi and Shu Fei had not yet appeared.
A palace servant whispered to the Empress about Consort Wei's confinement, and a triumphant smile quickly spread across her face.
The First Prince's Consort beside her also rejoiced, "Indeed, the Empress Mother is wise and resourceful. She managed to bring down Consort Wei without a single soldier."
"It is too early to say she is brought down, but after years of her dominating the harem, it is time she learned what it means to suffer a loss."
The mother and daughter-in-law exchanged triumphant smiles, and then they heard a eunuch's voice from outside.
"His Majesty has arrived, and Consort Shu has arrived."
The Empress, leading the consorts, and the First Prince, leading the court officials and envoys, respectfully welcomed them. "Long live His Majesty, long live, long live."
Shu Fei, standing nearby, felt the overwhelming sensation of a roaring crowd's prostration for the first time. Although she had been a revered goddess, second only to one in Qingli, she had spent her days confined to the temple, interacting only with maids. Now, standing beside Emperor Qi, she felt the pulse of true power.
If being chosen for a "peace marriage" had initially brought her a sense of reluctance and obligation, it was this scene that ignited a deep yearning for power within her.
No wonder people across the land desired to become supreme rulers. How many could resist such a feeling?
"All officials, rise."
"Thank you, Your Majesty."
Emperor Qi led Shu Fei to the main seating area of the Hall of Shining Radiance. To the left was the Empress's throne, and to the right, further back, was the seat originally intended for Consort Wei, which was now empty.
The Empress stepped forward to greet Emperor Qi, casting a glance at Shu Fei with a dignified and graceful demeanor. Her eyes, filled with pleasant surprise, said, "Is this the newly enfeoffed Consort Shu, Your Majesty? Truly a celestial being descended to earth, outshining all the sisters in the harem."
Her sincere smile pleased Emperor Qi.
"The Empress is indeed the Empress."
The unspoken words were understood by everyone present.
"Your humble servant greets Her Majesty the Empress. May Your Majesty enjoy eternal bliss."
"Excellent, excellent! Not only are you outstanding in appearance, but your etiquette is also impeccable. His Majesty's discerning eye is truly extraordinary."
"Enough, Empress. Shu Fei can visit your palace tomorrow to pay her respects. Today is the palace banquet, and the envoys are waiting to celebrate."
Emperor Qi spoke, not elaborating on the Empress's words. She, however, acted as if nothing had happened. "Your Majesty is right. Sister Shu Fei, you may take that seat. It was originally prepared for Sister Consort Wei, but since she is unwell, you may sit there."
Shu Fei, a newly enfeoffed concubine, was granted such an honor, completely overshadowing Consort Liu, who had been by Emperor Qi's side for many years. However, her nature was not one for contention, so she merely lowered her head, remaining silent.
She glanced at Emperor Qi, as if asking if this arrangement was proper.
Emperor Qi pondered for a moment before saying, "Since the Empress has invited you to sit, then do so."
With his approval, Shu Fei respectfully replied, "Thank you, Your Majesty, thank you, Her Majesty the Empress."
Once everyone at the main table was seated, the First Prince, seated below, raised his cup. He had gained significant prominence today. With the Emperor absent, the Duke of Wei disgraced, and the Ninth Prince, his usual rival, nowhere to be found, he was the sole focus in the Hall of Shining Radiance. How could he not be excited?
"Father, Mother, your son today uses this humble wine to once again wish our Great Jin eternal prosperity and everlasting legacy."
"Good, my son's words are most comforting to my heart. Drink this cup to the fullest!"
He then raised his wine cup and drained it. The Empress beside him also drank, exchanging a knowing glance with her husband.
"My son has been very diligent recently, and he handled the imperial greetings quite well. The First Prince's Consort is also due to give birth soon. Since all is well, let us have double the joy. Issue my decree: enfeoff the First Prince as Prince Ke, to honor his achievements."
Prince Ke, the first prince of this dynasty. Although not the Crown Prince, he was ranked higher than his brothers. He had originally thought the Ninth Prince would be the first to be enfeoffed as a prince, but fate had favored him.
The Empress was overjoyed, and the First Prince's eyes gleamed with happiness. He and the First Prince's Consort knelt to express their gratitude.
As they rose, an official from the Ministry of Rites spoke, "Congratulations to Prince Ke, congratulations to Prince Ke."
The First Prince's smile remained from that moment on.
"Minister Zheng of the Ministry of Rites has also worked hard. Since the Minister has retired, you shall assume this position. You must be even more diligent in your duties from now on."
The appointment was swift and decisive. While it was anticipated, it was still gratifying to see it officially confirmed.
Zheng Junyi, the Vice Minister of the Ministry of Rites, immediately knelt to express his gratitude for the emperor's immense favor.
The Zheng family also became the center of attention, becoming the target of many officials' toasts.
"All my ministers need not be so reserved. Although this is a palace banquet, it is also a family gathering to welcome our envoys. Do not be bound by etiquette; be merry." Emperor Qi's command was followed by the sounds of music and the graceful dancing of performers, creating a relaxed and lively atmosphere.
Cups clinked, and drums and music filled the air.
Emperor Qi shared a few drinks with the Empress, then turned to Shu Fei with affectionate gazes. Consort Zhen also hurried to offer a toast, her soft, melodious voice making Emperor Qi even happier.
After three rounds of drinks, everyone was slightly tipsy. Suddenly, a figure entered from outside, his expression grave.