Empress Lu's face revealed a hint of satisfaction as she reflected on her earlier decision to confide in Xiao Yan, which had allowed her to extract information about his connection to the He family. Had she not done so, she might still be in the dark about his true identity.
She wasn't afraid of Xiao Yan; rather, she feared his indifference. If it weren't absolutely necessary, she preferred not to sever ties completely.
Jin Zhi hesitated, "But regarding His Fourth Highness, Xiao Yan didn't assist him..."
"He didn't help, but he also didn't add insult to injury. Otherwise, do you think Zheng'er could still be safely held in prison?"
Empress Lu's brows relaxed. She had been on edge recently, but now she truly felt a sense of relief. She had been tense, but now, with this understanding, she could finally relax.
Seeing Jin Zhi's confusion, she sighed, "It was my oversight. He was angered by my scheming against Song Tangning, yet he refrained from harming us because he knew I was aware of his identity. The previous events were likely his way of teaching us a lesson."
"I wondered why the court and the capital were in such turmoil recently. What seemed like simple matters became increasingly complicated, with more and more people involved in the Lingyun Temple incident. It turns out he was stirring the pot behind the scenes."
Jin Zhi inquired, "Then, regarding His Fourth Highness..."
"Xiao Yan won't let Zheng'er come to harm, but it's inevitable he'll face some repercussions. Since he allowed someone to deliver a message, it indicates he's signaling that this matter is behind us."
Xiao Yan was both comforting and warning her.
Jin Zhi sighed in relief. The past days in Fengxi Palace had been filled with tension, and their situation had been particularly challenging. She had feared they might be doomed this time, but unexpectedly, there was a turn of events.
Empress Lu smiled, "It's fortunate that I acted wisely and secured Xiao Duhu's support early on. I hope he can quickly quell his anger and release Zheng'er, allowing us to leave Fengxi Palace."
Empress Lu's expression faltered. While she had secured Xiao Yan's support, her actions against Song Tangning had indeed offended him. Xiao Yan was known for holding grudges; he had spared them due to her knowledge of his identity, but there would always be lingering resentment. Song Tangning might also harbor hatred towards them. Now, with the Fourth Princess's family turning against them, the Fourth Prince's remaining allies in the court were few. It was crucial that nothing went wrong on Xiao Yan's side.
She needed to find a way to appease both Xiao Yan and Song Tangning.
Turning her gaze to Jin Zhi, she asked, "Jin Zhi, you're thirty-six this year, aren't you?"
Jin Zhi was puzzled, "Why do you ask, Your Majesty?"
Empress Lu smiled gently, "I've come to realize that over the years, many have come and gone from my side, but you've always remained loyal. With His Majesty's current anger and the unrest in Fengxi Palace, those in the palace are eager to see me falter. Without your companionship, I might not have endured. Once this turmoil passes, I intend to arrange a marriage for you and your cousin."
Jin Zhi's eyes widened in surprise. "Your Majesty..."
Empress Lu's voice softened, "I owe you an apology. Years ago, you and your cousin were betrothed, but due to my circumstances, you remained in the palace. Your cousin married another, yet he never forgot you. Now that his family is well-off and his mother has passed, he wishes to marry you. Do you still have feelings for him?"
Jin Zhi blushed deeply. She and her cousin had grown up together, their engagement was arranged early on, but circumstances had kept them apart. Now, with his family's support, he sought to fulfill his promise.
"Your Majesty, I..."
Empress Lu smiled warmly, "It seems you still care. Once this matter is resolved, I'll arrange your marriage, fulfilling our years of service."
Jin Zhi hesitated, "But if I leave, who will attend to you?"
"Silly girl, though I'll miss you, I've already delayed your happiness. I only wish for your well-being in the years to come."
Jin Zhi's eyes welled with tears. "Your Majesty, thank you..."
Empress Lu smiled and said, "Go wash your face quickly, and go to the storehouse to sort things out for me so that I can choose your dowry for you.
Jinzhi's face flushed instantly, but she was also happy that the empress valued her. She kowtowed and then wiped her tears and went out.
When Queen Lu saw her leave, her expression turned cold.
Now that there was no one available, she had wanted to keep Jinzhi for a few more days, but unfortunately...
"Deshun."
Someone came in from outside immediately.
Deshun said respectfully: "What do you want, Madam?"
Queen Lu waved at him, and Deshun hurried over.
Empress Lu whispered a few words to him, and Deshun's face gradually became shocked. When Empress Lu finished speaking, he suddenly raised his head and said, "Your Majesty, you..."
Queen Lu looked at him and said, "I don't want to either, but I cannot lose Xiao Yan now, and neither can the Fourth Prince."
"Deshun, you have been in Fengxi Palace for many years. You should know that the palace is dangerous. Your life and death, honor and disgrace all depend on me. I have taken care of your brother for many years, allowing him to marry, have children, and live a rich life."
"Only if I and the Fourth Prince have a future together can you live well. But if it's me... I'm afraid your brother's family won't have anyone to protect him."
Deshun turned pale and knelt on the ground: "I dare not betray my master. I am willing to go through fire and water for you."
Empress Lu smiled when she heard this: "Of course I believe in your loyalty. As long as you do your job well for me, I and the Fourth Prince will not forget your contribution."
Deshun lowered his head even lower: "I understand."
"Go ahead, and do it properly over at Jinzhi's place, so as not to arouse suspicion."
"Yes, madam."
…
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