Chapter 163 Why are you staring at me? I have food on my face!

Qin Ye could vaguely see that beneath Yun Si's skin, there seemed to be a very faint, almost transparent aura flowing and lingering slowly.

Like ripples on water, or a thin mist, appearing and disappearing.

Wherever that aura passed, the blood vessels beneath the skin glowed faintly, presenting a vibrant yet mysterious scene.

"Yun Si?"

Qin Ye called her softly, his voice carrying a tension he himself was unaware of.

Yun Si remained unresponsive, still deep in sleep, as if the changes in her body had nothing to do with her.

Qin Ye dared not be careless and immediately reached out to check her pulse.

The pulse under my fingers was strong and vigorous, showing no signs of illness whatsoever; on the contrary, it was... excessively good.

This is not an illness.

Qin Ye frowned, his gaze fixed on the strange aura that seemed to exist around her.

He possessed profound inner strength and perception far exceeding that of ordinary people. He could vaguely sense that the aura contained a pure and gentle power.

What... exactly is this?

He remembered Yun Si saying that she had hardly eaten anything during this period, but her spirits were high, as if she had taken tonics while sleeping.

Qin Ye wasn't sure whether this strange phenomenon was a blessing or a curse for her and her child.

My heart was in my throat, and I was wide awake.

He stood motionless by the bedside, his sharp gaze fixed on Yun Si, observing the mysterious aura within her, not daring to look away for even a moment.

As the sky began to lighten, the strange aura receded like the tide, eventually disappearing completely into her body.

Yun Si's body temperature returned to normal, and her breathing became steady, as if nothing had happened.

She rolled over, reached out and touched the space beside her, finding it empty. She then frowned slightly, seemingly somewhat dissatisfied.

Qin Ye sat on the edge of the bed, taking in the expression on her face.

So, she was just touching... him?

Did you think he had already left?

Oh.

Qin Ye chuckled softly without realizing it.

Then, Yun Si was woken up by his laughter.

As soon as she opened her eyes, she saw him sitting in front of the bed, staring at her with an ambiguous look in his eyes, which were full of a mocking smile.

Why is he laughing so...slutty so early in the morning?

"you……"

Yun Si sat up in bed, feeling hot under his bright gaze: "What are you laughing at?"

"fine."

Qin Ye composed himself, his expression suddenly becoming serious: "How are you feeling? Is there anything that's bothering you?"

Yun Si felt that his question was a bit strange, but she couldn't quite put her finger on it. She stared at him suspiciously for a while before shaking her head.

"I feel fine."

She took a closer look and was surprised to find that her body felt exceptionally light and energetic today.

This condition is better than I've ever been since I became pregnant.

"Maybe you slept well last night."

Yun Si spoke in a light tone, somewhat surprised herself: "I feel so relaxed now, and I'm a little hungry. I want to eat something."

Seeing that her expression didn't seem fake and that she was truly radiant, Qin Ye finally felt a little relieved.

But he wasn't completely at ease; he simply kept his doubts to himself.

After thinking for a moment, I decided not to tell her about what happened last night, so as not to increase her worries.

It's not too late to tell her once he figures out what's going on.

"Then get up quickly. What do you want to eat? I'll have Lansing get it for you."

"Hmm... I want to eat crystal shrimp dumplings and fish porridge."

"good."

Qin Ye turned and went out, and soon returned with breakfast.

Lu Yu and Granny Qian helped her wash up and change into comfortable clothes before she sat down to eat.

Qin Ye skipped the morning court session today, so he simply sat down and watched her eat, also observing whether she had any other unusual behavior.

Yun Si indeed consumed significantly more than in the previous days, and did not feel nauseous again after taking it.

Even she herself found it strange.

Why aren't you eating?

Noticing Qin Ye's gaze, Yun Si said speechlessly, "Why are you staring at me? Do I have food on my face?"

"I enjoy watching it."

"..."

Upon hearing this, Lu Yu and Granny Qian couldn't help but chuckle to themselves.

Yun Si glared at him, feeling that he was acting strangely today.

After finishing the meal, Qin Ye finally left.

Yun Si touched her face, feeling a little hot from his stare.

"My lord, have you felt unwell after eating so much today?"

Lu Yu was not entirely at ease.

Because she ate quite a lot last time and then vomited afterwards, she was worried that she would vomit again after eating so much this time.

Yun Si shook her head: "I'm not feeling unwell, just a little full. I'm going to find something to do."

Upon hearing this, Lu Yu and Granny Qian were overjoyed.

As long as I don't throw up, that would be great.

Yun Si went to the small pharmacy in the East Palace.

She planned to take advantage of her good condition to prepare some medications to prevent miscarriage, as well as medications she might need during childbirth.

Incidentally, inspect all the precious medicinal materials bestowed by the palaces, process them as needed, combine them as required, and make them all into pills that are easy to store and take.

She worked in the pharmacy for nearly an hour, her mind calm and her movements fluid and graceful, demonstrating a masterful understanding of the properties of various medicinal herbs.

There's even a sense of illusion.

It seems that the hands felt exceptionally good today, the prepared powder was fine and even, and the control of the heat was even more exquisite.

In short, they were full of energy.

Without realizing it, she reached out and touched her lower abdomen.

Even though she hadn't reacted at all, she still had this inexplicable feeling.

It was as if the baby in her womb had a telepathic connection with her, allowing her to sense the baby's presence.

So, was it the baby that made her feel better?

Yun Si thought about it and then felt it was somewhat absurd.

How could that be?

Perhaps it's related to the internal energy cultivation method she practiced.

After finishing preparing the medicine, she suddenly felt inspired and took out her silver needles to practice on the specially made practice target in the pharmacy for a while.

A flash of silver light, a subtle yet sharp sound as it cut through the air—almost every shot hit the bullseye.

The strength and accuracy are even better than before pregnancy.

Yun Si looked at the slightly trembling needle tip, her surprise growing.

She couldn't figure it out, and she was too lazy to think about it anymore.

It's a good thing overall, so why overthink it and add to your worries?

She had just come out of the pharmacy and washed her hands when a palace maid came to report: "Your Highness, Consort Zhen has arrived."

Yun Si has been in the palace for so long, and according to the rules, she should pay her respects to the concubines and empresses, especially the empress, but she has no idea about it.

After becoming pregnant, she was busy detoxifying the Jiaqing Emperor, and for a time no one in the palace mentioned the matter.

Behind her back, some people said she didn't know the rules and was arrogant because she was favored, but she didn't care. As long as no one dared to say it to her face, she was happy to have some peace and quiet.

Even the Jiaqing Emperor didn't interfere in this matter, so who would dare to have any objections?

Since Consort Zhen had come in person, Yun Si naturally couldn't turn her away: "Quickly, please invite Her Highness in."

When Consort Zhen entered, she was indeed as gentle and approachable as rumored.

"Your Highness, how is your pregnancy going?"

She first inquired about Yun Si's health with concern, then presented her with some exquisite pastries and soft fabrics made in her own palace. After exchanging a few pleasantries, she tactfully got to the point.

"Your Highness, there is another matter I have come here today..."

Consort Zhen spoke gently, with a hint of apology she found difficult to express: "It's about Miss A-Wu. I can see that Qin Yan cares a lot about A-Wu, but he's very clumsy and doesn't know how to express himself, which always makes A-Wu angry. As her mother, I'm very worried about him."

As she spoke, she observed Yun Si's expression.

"I know that A-Wu is a close confidante of the Crown Princess, and her background is quite special, not that of an ordinary young lady. However, Qin Yan likes her, and I also want to help Qin Yan. If the two children are willing to be together, it would be a good match. Therefore, I have taken the liberty of coming here to hear your opinion, Crown Princess?"

After listening, Yun Si understood.

She hesitated for a moment, her attitude respectful yet her stance clear.

“Your Highness Consort Zhen, A-Wu is temporarily residing in the East Palace and is close to me. I have never regarded her as a servant or subordinate. Her departure, marriage and other matters should be decided by herself.”

“Of course,” Consort Zhen nodded in agreement.

"To be honest, Your Majesty."

Yun Si continued, "A Wu's origins are shrouded in mystery, and her personality is unconventional and unrestrained. She is by no means an ordinary candidate for the principal wife of a royal family. I'm afraid she will be extremely difficult to pass His Majesty's test."

"Furthermore, the key to this matter lies in whether His Highness Prince Yu is sincere and whether A-Wu herself is willing."

"If they are in love and A-Wu is willing to marry into the Prince's mansion, I will not stop them. I will prepare a dowry for her and send her off in a grand manner."

"But if A-Wu is unwilling..."

Yun Si smiled gently, her tone mild yet undeniable: "Then, no one, no matter who, can force her."

After hearing this, Consort Zhen sighed softly, her face showing no displeasure, but rather a hint of appreciation.

"The Crown Princess is thoughtful and sincere, which is truly rare. You are right. In the end, it depends on their own fate and intentions. I was just too anxious."

"Your Majesty is too kind."

Yun Si nodded slightly: "You are also deeply concerned about your son."

After seeing Consort Zhen off, Yun Si gently rubbed her temples.

She glanced out the window: "Come in."

The next moment, A-Wu walked in from outside, went to Yun Si's side, and tugged at her sleeve: "Sister."

"You heard everything?"

"Um."

"Then tell me, what did you think when you heard what Consort Zhen said?"

Ah Wu's expression showed a hint of confusion.

Seeing her hesitation, Yun Si guessed that there was probably a chance.

Suddenly, she said, "Sister, I can't get married."

"Why?"

"Because...you said it."

"I?"

Yun Si looked puzzled: "When did I say that?"

Ah Wu thought hard for a while, but suddenly her head started to ache.

She clutched her head, looking pained, and said, "I can't remember, my head hurts so much..."

"Alright, alright."

Yun Si quickly interrupted her, gently rubbing her head: "Let's not think about it anymore. No matter when I said such things, you don't have to listen to me. You have to listen to yourself, understand?"

"No."

Awu stubbornly insisted, "I want to listen to my sister."

"……OK."

Yun Si changed her approach and asked, "Then I'll let you listen to yourself now. Do you want to marry Prince Yu?"

Ah Wu thought about this question carefully.

"If I marry Prince Yu, will I be able to see my sister all the time?"

"Of course."

Asking her like that won't get you any answers; she seems to be trapped in a fixed mindset.

Yun Si felt that this line of thinking was also related to herself.

Did Ah Wu and her have some connection from a long time ago?

Unfortunately, A-Wu's memories have always been confused, and there has been no sign of them recovering for so long.

Yun Si thought that she would give A Wu a proper check-up after the baby was born.

"Alright, I won't ask you anymore. Just remember, whatever you want to do in the future, I will support you."

"oh."

Awu nodded as if she understood: "I understand."

afternoon.

Today is the last day of acupuncture treatment for Emperor Jiaqing.

She waited until after his lunch break before going to him.

When he arrived at the entrance of the Hall of Mental Cultivation, he discovered that Eunuch Xu, who had always been by his side, was standing outside the door.

Yun Si walked over and asked, "Eunuch Xu, is His Majesty alone inside?"

"Your Majesty has driven this old servant out."

Eunuch Xu looked worried: "Your Highness, please think of another way to heal His Majesty's leg."

"I'm just a doctor, not a god."

Yun Si ruthlessly interrupted Eunuch Xu's fantasy.

"As I said, the damage caused by the cold poison is irreversible and cannot be cured. I have done my best to save His Majesty's life."

She could research ways to treat Emperor Jiaqing's leg, but not now.

Therefore, she would not leave Xu Gonggong with any hope.

If his leg is also cured, I'm afraid there will be more trouble.

"I'm sorry, it was this old servant who made things difficult for the Crown Princess."

Xu Gonggong was a reasonable man, so he didn't bring up the matter again. He only said, "Then the Crown Princess should persuade His Majesty to let this old servant go in and serve him."

I just said I wouldn't make things difficult for her, and now this again?

Will His Majesty listen to her?

I'll try my best.

Yun Si knocked on the door, and before anyone inside could answer, she pushed the door open and went in.

Emperor Jiaqing sat on the bed, drenched in sweat, his clothes disheveled, and his trousers dusty.

"Who let you in?"

Hearing the commotion at the door, Emperor Jiaqing looked up abruptly, a flash of embarrassment and rage in his eyes, and shouted sternly, "Get out!"

He quickly covered his disheveled legs with the quilt, but his haste only made him look more embarrassed.

Yun Si seemed not to hear his angry rebuke. Her gaze calmly swept over the water glass that had fallen to the ground and the slightly messy bed. She already knew what had just happened.

This once powerful emperor now struggles to even get out of bed to pour himself a glass of water; one can only imagine the frustration and anger he feels.

It has to be said that Yun Si felt a mix of pleasure and schadenfreude.

She did not retreat, but instead stepped forward slowly, her tone calm and even: "Your Majesty, it's time to administer the acupuncture."

"I told you to get out!"

Emperor Jiaqing grabbed a book from beside his pillow and threw it at her, but she deftly dodged it.

The book fell to the ground with a dull thud.

Yun Si walked to the bedside, put down her medicine box, and without even glancing at the book, washed her hands and took out the silver needles.

"Today is the last time acupuncture will be administered. It is up to Your Majesty to decide whether the cold poison will recur."

Her voice was devoid of any emotion, like a cold, sharp blade that precisely pierced Emperor Jiaqing's most sensitive nerve.

Emperor Jiaqing stared intently at Yun Si, his chest heaving violently, his eyes blazing with anger mixed with a hint of humiliation.

Finally, the anger dissipated slowly, like a punctured airbag.

He slumped back onto the pillow, closed his eyes, and squeezed out a single word through clenched teeth: "...needle."

Yun Si smiled almost imperceptibly before beginning to administer the acupuncture.

Throughout the entire process, the two did not exchange any further words.

A heavy silence filled the Hall of Mental Cultivation.

The acupuncture treatment ended quickly.

Yun Si finished packing her things, glanced at the Jiaqing Emperor who was still silent with his eyes closed, and said calmly, "The cold poison in your body has been basically cleared, but whether the remaining poison has been completely eliminated still needs to be observed."

"The detoxifying medicine prescribed by the imperial physician must not be discontinued. You need to continue taking it for another half month. After half a month, your daughter-in-law will come again to take your pulse and check on your condition."

After saying that, she turned and left without waiting for a response.

"Stand still!"