Chapter 169: No one defies the palace
The First Consort strode hastily through the winding corridors of the imperial palace, her silk robes billowing behind her as her entourage of maids and attendants struggled to keep up with her hurried pace.
The golden embroidery on her attire shimmered under the palace lanterns, reflecting her elevated status, yet the tension in her brow betrayed the urgency that drove her forward.
The Yard of Grace had not been enough to contain her fury, nor had the humiliating tale of Madame Lin and Madame Qiao’s disgraceful expulsion from Hua Jing’s residence satisfied her. No, this matter needed to be brought before the Empress herself.
As she neared the Empress’s palace, the guards stationed at the entrance bowed low, stepping aside without a word.
The First Consort’s visits were common, her authority second only to the Empress within the inner palace, and none dared hinder her passage. A eunuch rushed ahead to announce her arrival.
The Empress resided in Yongle Palace, a grand and imposing courtyard that stood at the heart of the imperial harem. Unlike the other consorts’ residences, which were scattered across the inner palace, Yongle Palace was a magnificent structure built with exquisite golden roof tiles and crimson pillars, symbolizing her supreme authority. The entrance was flanked by towering white jade lion statues, their fierce expressions a silent warning to those who dared step out of line.
A vast, intricately carved courtyard stretched before the main hall, where koi ponds shimmered under the sunlight, their stillness only disturbed by the occasional ripple caused by the breeze. Delicate pavilions framed the perimeter, their silken curtains swaying gently. The scent of osmanthus and peonies filled the air, blending with the faint aroma of incense that wafted from within the grand chamber.
Inside the lavishly adorned chamber, the Empress sat serenely on a cushioned dais, her expression calm yet unreadable as she idly turned a jade ring on her finger. Her crimson and gold robes exuded majesty, and the pearls woven into her intricate hairpiece gleamed under the flickering candlelight. She looked up as the First Consort entered, her sharp gaze assessing the other woman’s demeanor.
There was a sharp glint in the Empress’ eyes that flashed by in an instant.