Why Harem Intrigue When You Can Just Raise a Dog Instead

Chapter 11

After another month, Emperor Zhouwus body was already much sturdier. His hearing and smelling was more sensitive than before, and his ability to go about BiXiao Palace alone was definitely not a problem. Recently, he has been pacing around the entrance of the palace anxiously because his body has already been in a coma for around two months. If he doesnt wake up soon, internal turmoil in Zhou will soon escalate. Furthermore, Grand Preceptor Shen and Huiru have gradually become more daring and open with gathering power to the extent that he now sense a thread of threat from their actions. If he allows the situation to continue, they may soon try to steal his throne. He already cannot doubtlessly trust the Shen family.

But even more anxious than him is Nurse Feng. Seeing that since the day the emperor put the master under house arrest he has not even asked of her, as if he has completely forgot that such a person exists, the nurse couldnt just sit around anymore.

Your Ladyship, why dont you make an embroidered purse for the emperor. Then he would know that you are always thinking of him. If not, when would this house arrest end? Nurse Feng encouraged as she massaged Meng Sangyus shoulders.

Emperor Zhouwu who just ran into the the bed chamber hearing so immediately dangerously glared at Head Nurse Feng. The Virtuous Consort is his woman. How dare this servant tell her to make a purse for that fake!

Dont worry, Ill be able to go out soon. His Majesty has not visited the inner palace in two months. Recently, there have been rumored that His Majesty has harmed his stem and can no longer produce offspring. Minister Lis party has recently been advising His Majesty to style an empress and heir. The best option for the title is naturally Noble Consort Li and the second prince. The gracious consort has long viewed the empresss seat as her own. Not only so, but she is also very intelligent and sharp, well versed in how to use others to balance powers. She will definitely let me out to muddy the waters. But it really is too bad that I never cared for that seat. Its not possible for me to fulfill her wish of fighting Noble Consort Li for it. Id rather she not let me out, I can just relax then. Meng Sangyu waved her hand, her voice full of powerlessness.

The one who made His Majesty punish you is her, the one that wants to make His Majesty let you out is her as well, Since when has she had such a huge influence on His Majesty? Its only been a blink of an eye and she has already gained such favor. It couldnt be that she used some hex on His Majesty could it? With Noble Consort Li, Worthy Consort, and Your Ladyship, no matter what the person for the empress seat couldnt be her! Nurse Feng could not understand where the gracious consort came from in the line for empress.

She doesnt have any magical powers, youre overthinking nanny. Meng Sangyu laughed. Then in a barely audible mumble, This empress seat has always been hers, who else would it before.

What? Your Ladyship what were you saying? Nurse Meng hurriedly asked, not having heard clearly.

The hearing of the dog kind has always been better than that of humans. Emperor Zhouwu heard Meng Sangyus mumble clearly. His body froze as his heart shook. Hearing this conversation, this woman couldnt have already seen through our feelings for the gracious consort could she? How sharp is she?

He first became angry at being seen through, but then his heart was filled with a heavy guilt. Emperor Zhouwu swung his tail and ran away. He didnt know how to face this woman. She clearly knows much more than he had thought. So she never cared for the empress seat. All the guard he had put up against her has become a complete joke.

Not having noticed the little fur ball who came and left, Meng Sangyu waved her hand toward Head Nurse Feng, not wishing to continue this topic.

In the court, the Shen family and Li familys battle has escalated more and more. Minister Lis network was deeply rooted while Grand Preceptor Shen held the emperors favor. The two parties just barely even out in power. This deadlock is heard to break, one would have to come in from the side.

And at this time, Shen Huiru, as expected, wanted to leverage the forces, telling the fake emperor to release the virtuous consort and letting her join this battle. The virtuous consort had never viewed her as a threat, she definitely would not be considered an opponent. The virtuous consort would definitely scheme against Noble Consort Li. Then all she would have to do is watch on the side and wait to reap the profits.

As expected, in just a few days Meng Sangyu received her mothers request to visit and the emperor allowed it. This was a sign that her house arrest was over.

Mother Meng was thirty-some nearing forty. About 60 70 percent similar to the virtuous consort, still considerably young and beautiful, except for the few deep wrinkles on her forehead. The wrinkles on her forehead appear as if they had formed over years of furrowing her brows, from which how much she worries is evident.

Lin (TN: Meng Sanyus mothers maiden (family) name) pays her respects to Your Ladyship seeing that her daughter entered the main hall, Mother Meng quickly got up to pay her respects but was was quickly stopped by Meng Sangyu before she could.

Mother pay no heed to formalities, sit! Meng Sangyu helped her mother to the guest seat, after which she sat in the head seat.

Head Nurse Feng picked up ABao intending to carry him out and leave the room for the mother and daughter, but ABao started whimpering. He pawed at Nurse Fengs arms as he looked teary eyed at the virtuous consort, his unwillingness clear to see. After interacting with the virtuous consort for so long, he has long discovered that she could not resist this expression. As long as he pulls out this expression, the virtuous consort immediately abides his wishes.

Mother Meng must have brought news of Meng Changxiong with her. He must stay to listen on the side. Remembering that Meng Changxiong is the virtuous consorts father, his feelings become incredibly complicated. But he already could not allow himself to take advantage of and hurt the virtuous consort as he had before. As long as Meng Changxiong is willing to give away his military power, he probably wouldnt take back the favors he has given to the virtuous consort. Not only so, but he also would compensate even more for the past. In the back of his mind, he didnt want to picture the virtuous consort living a desolate and cold lifestyle in the future. An exuberant smiling face suits her much better.

Nanny, give ABao to me. You dont have to leave either, stay and serve us. As he expected, Meng Sangyus expression softened. She immediately took ABao into her arms and gave him a kiss.

Getting his way, ABaos tail uncontrollably started wagging. He was getting better and better at pleasing his master now.

Yes. Nurse Feng gave a surprised expression, but inside she was quite happy. Usually when the duchess comes to the palace, master never lets her serve on the side. She had thought that master doesnt trust her.

So this little thing is the culprit of your house arrest? Mother Meng asked, pointing at ABao. Seeing that her daughter was still all smiles, cheerful as before she married, Mother Mengs serious face also softened.

It doesnt have to with ABao. The gracious consort has hated me for a long time, ABao was just an excuse. Even without ABao, she would still find another reason to find trouble. Meng Sangyu stated with a careless attitude as she rubbed ABaos little paws. Evidently, she wasnt bothered at all by her house arrest.

Emperor Zhouwu perked up his ears to listen to their conversation as he laid in Meng Sangyus arms. His heartbeat no longer quickens at the mention of gracious consort, instead he felt warmed by the gracious consorts protectiveness.

What right does she have to hate you? Mother Mengs voice was full of anger, In these three years, how much danger have you shielded for her, how many enemies have you gotten rid of for her? All she has had to do is comfortably stay in Zhongcui Palace and sit there waiting for the emperors love and care. What does she have to be unsatisfied about?

ABaos ears twitched and the paws on the virtuous consorts arms stiffened.

Nurse Feng, on the other hand, had only a confused expression. She couldnt understand what the masters words meant. What do they mean that Her Ladyship has been shielding danger for the gracious consort?

Its because shes unsatisfied that she hates me! My position as the head of the four consorts was supposed to be hers, my right to manage the inner palace was supposed to be hers, my BiXiao Palace my LinYun Hall my private treasury, my everything was originally all supposed to be hers. Wouldnt she hate me? Meng Sangyu gave a scornful laugh. Her voice full of powerlessness and disdain made Emperor Zhouwus heart tremble.

Ridiculous! How come she doesnt see how many times youve been fed poison, how many times youve tripped up by the others, how many times youve been fed birth control medication*? Lets see how long she would live in this palace if she swapped with you! Members of the Shen family are all so lowly, yet they all make it seem as if theyre saints! The emperor must be blind! Mother Mengs face flushed red and her voice got angrier as she spoke.

Emperors Zhouwus body stiffened a bit more at every word Mother Meng said. Fed poison, tripped up, birth control medication, he knew of all these things, but now hearing about it was as if a knife was carving away at his heart. A painful guilt and shame stuffed his chest.

Mother! Watch your words! Meng Sangyu quickly shook her hand to awaken her careless mother.

Mother Mengs face stiffened and she immediately calmed her angry expression.

Why must my poor daughter who should be living a pampered life be sent to this palace to be desecrated Mother Mengs voice choked up. She shook her head unable to speak another word. Her haggard face face looked as if it just aged another ten years.

Emperor Zhouwu used his paws to cover his ears, he didnt dare to listen anymore. Desecrated. What he has done is worthy of this description. He didnt have to right to be angry at Mother Mengs words.

Father maintains an army of a million men. Whoever marries me would basically have married a lifted knife. In this Zhou empire, who would dare marry me other than the emperor? Meng Sangyu laughed with self disdain. Her voice relaxed, Do not be upset for me mother, Im well. Power, servants, riches, I already have what any woman could ever want, what is there to be unsatisfied about? Dont you see that even Shen Huiru who is the sole love of His Majesty is jealous of me?

Her voice was so casual and her expression so relaxed that even Mother Mengs expression softened.

Emperor Zhouwu laid in her arms. He didnt even know how to describe this woman anymore. She seemed as if she viewed all the troubles around her as a sort of blessing, a sort of challenge she must overcome to grow. She didnt have any hate nor dissatisfaction. Being by her side, every day is enriched and happy. Even the greatest frustrations could be forgotten. Without her company, he doesnt know if he could have gotten through these sixty some days a becoming an animal.

If he had a pair of hands at this time, he would only wish to tightly hug this woman. At this moment, Emperor Zhouwus hope to return to his human body was stronger than ever before. Unknowingly, the impression Shen Huiru had on his heart has faded, and in its place is Meng Sangyus lively smiling face.

Mother Meng quietly adjusted her feelings for a moment. She wiped away the tears in the corner of her eyes and slowly began talking about the actual business, This time Im here for your brothers marriage.

Oh? Whos daughter is brother interested in this time? Meng Sangyu lightly squeezed ABaos ears and asked curiously.

Its not him, its me. Its the vice minister of the Ministry of Ceremonies, Fu Guangdas eldest daughter born to his first wife*. Although her appearance is a bit plain, but she has a strong personality and a bright mind. She began managing household matters and taking care of her baby brother at a young age. Shes been able to live quite comfortably under the oppression and cruelty of her step-mother. We need this kind of girl to watch after your brother, to make him cause less trouble! Mother Meng laughed, clearly very pleased with this lady Fu.

Its going to be hard to deal with if she has a plain appearance, brother loves beauties most, how could he possibly be interested? If it wasnt for this personality of his, he wouldnt have caused such enormous trouble half a year ago. Meng Sangyu rubbed her temples. Speaking of her older brother gives her headaches.

Emperor Zhouwu habitually put one of her fingers in his mouth and nibbled on it, wanting to make her happier. Meng Sangyu gave him a gentle smile.

How can he be blamed for that? If Shen Xiyan didnt steal Liu Qisis virginity yet refused to buy her out leading to her suicide, your brother wouldnt have beat him and made him scar his face. You just werent there to see it. Liu Qisis servant even brought out all those love letters with Shen Xiyans promises of saving her from that place. But then what happened? He took her virginity and then just disappeared! That Liu Qisi sowed the seeds to her own demise. Your brother wanted to buy her out back then but she adamantly refused. Dont know if shes regretting it now! Mother Meng waved her handkerchief, reflecting on the event.

She had also been the daughter of an official and had received a few years of education. How could she be interested in our unaccomplished brother? This is why they say that being too prideful is no good. If a person wants to live comfortably, they have to adjust to the times and be able to clearly recognize their situation, Meng Sangyu reflected.

Emperor Zhouwu again was stabbed by needles of regret and guilt. Its because of his trust for Grand Preceptor Shen and the gracious consort that he didnt deeply investigate this matter. He didnt even know that there was such a disgraceful secret to the event. Remembering how the gracious consort often complimented her brother, he felt even more disgusted. The gracious consorts poor brother was rewarded by him with a birching, leaving him unable to get out of bed for three whole months.

Seeing ABao squirm into her arms as if he was cold, Meng Sangyu quickly loosened her outer garment and snuggled him inside. The light flowery scent and warmth from her body healed Emperor Zhouwus restless heart.

Mother Meng also moved over to rub ABaos head. She spoke with a hopeful expression, Your brother being unwilling is exactly what Im afraid of. Thats why Im asking you to get a decree of marriage. I cant force him, only you and your dad can make him do anything. Your dad is far away at the border, mother can only rely on you now.

At this note, Meng Sangyu immediately nodded her head. Dont worry mother, Ill take care of it. Right now I havent entirely lost favor yet. Getting a decree of marriage from His Majesty is still possible. Official Fus family is only of scholars without any actual power. His Majesty should agree.

Hearing this Emperor Zhouwus chest got stuffy again. Just thinking of this women using that passionate and affectionate attitude to please that fake is unbearable, even if shes just faking it.

Notes and Blurbs

*TN: Didnt know quite how to translate this. The original phrase was (Bi Zi Tang) which basically means birth control soup. In ancient China, women who did not wish to have children often took lead, mercury, and arsenic for birth control, but many historical fiction novels claim that there are different herbal medications that can prevent pregnancy. So basically storyline-wise, Meng Sangyu cant have a child (and thus is unable to bear a heir to the throne) because of this.

*TN: The actual phrase used is (Di Zhang Nv) meaning of formal lineage (the children born by the first/official wife) meaning eldest and meaning female (child). All other children (children of concubines) are considered (Shu Zi), they are all considered children of the first wife. In a sense concubines are not considered wives, yet there is a recognition of the intimate relationship. Most concubines are considered servants of a sort at least to the first wife and the master of the household (husband). Things work kinda differently in the imperial family though since all offspring are of royal blood. Normally are kinda like half children, half servant to the children of the first wife. Marriage-wise, the ideal would be for the children of the formal line to marry in two families that have similar societal positions and for the children of concubines to marry in two families that have similar societal positions. In this case, even though Lady Fu has a step-mother (99% chance because of the death of her mother and not a divorce), her birth mother who was the first wife is still considered the formal wife. In social formality, the first wife (unless in a divorce which is like less than 0.001% chance) still stands above the step-wife. But in actuality the first wife is dead so all she can do for her kids now is having existed before the step-wife.