Gu Jiu counted the days and went to the palace to pay his respects.
As soon as they met, Empress Pei asked Gu Jiu, "I heard that there was a big commotion in your courtyard a few days ago, and you even ordered the guards to seal off the entire upper room. Could it be that something was lost, or someone committed a crime?"
Gu Jiu pursed his lips and smiled, "My Queen Mother is indeed well-informed. No matter how small the matter in the palace is, it cannot be hidden from her ears and eyes."
After saying this, she glanced at her sisters-in-law with a half-smile.
Several sisters-in-law said: This is the truth, and we can’t blame others for secretly telling the palace.
Empress Pei said sternly, "I'm asking you why you made such a fuss. Please stop talking about irrelevant things."
Gu Jiu coughed lightly. "It's nothing serious. The child was just naughty and rummaged through the boxes and cabinets, leaving the whole house in disarray. I kicked him out because I didn't want anyone to see my daughter-in-law scolding the child. As for having the guards seal off the yard, it was actually to give the child some respect and prevent anyone from hearing his cries."
Queen Pei frowned, she didn't believe what Gu Jiu said.
"Is it really that simple?"
Gu Jiu smiled and said, "Of course it's that simple. Could it be that someone whispered something in Mother's ear, saying that I'm doing something shameful behind people's backs?"
"Ahem...don't make wild guesses. No one is whispering anything in my ear. Don't believe everything you hear."
Gu Ji smiled: "..." The person who believes everything he hears must be the queen mother herself. She comes to question without even investigating the matter clearly. Aren't you afraid of being killed in return?
I have always been prudent in my work. How could I ever give anyone a handle?
Gu Jiu glanced at the sisters-in-law again, "My dear brothers and sisters-in-law, are you dissatisfied with me?"
"Sister-in-law is such a joker. We only admire you and have no complaints. We all rely on you to earn some pocket money." Ouyang Fu spoke first.
Gu Jiu smiled brightly, "I'm relieved that my brothers and sisters-in-law are not dissatisfied with me. Mother, you see, this is clearly a misunderstanding. The person who spread the news should be severely punished."
Empress Pei hummed, "Alright, I'm just concerned about you. I just casually asked, and yet you've caused so much complaints. Is this true? From now on, I'm not allowed to ask about your affairs."
"Mother, you have misunderstood. Your daughter-in-law just doesn't want to be wrongly accused." Gu Jiu looked submissive.
"Hmph! If you had been more cautious, there wouldn't have been all these rumors. Don't forget, Liu Zhao is still imprisoned in the Zongzheng Temple. As his wife, you should behave yourself during this period and stop trying to stir up trouble."
Gu Jiu nodded in response, "What the Queen Mother taught me is that my daughter-in-law must promise not to make any big noise in the future."
Then, she glanced at her three sisters-in-law.
You keep telling tales all day long, do you really think I don't mind?
The three sisters-in-law all bowed their heads and remained silent.
Empress Pei was very unhappy when she saw the cowardly looks of her three daughters-in-law.
She said impatiently, "Alright, alright, if you have nothing else to do, please leave. I'm tired!"
"Mother, please have a good rest. The daughters-in-law will take their leave now."
Everyone filed out of the Weiyang Palace.
Gu Jiu was walking in front. She turned around suddenly and her eyes swept across everyone's face.
"My brothers and sisters-in-law, you all look guilty!" She said with a half-smile.
"Sister-in-law is really good at joking. We don't feel guilty at all." The third wife, Cui, smiled and replied neither lightly nor seriously.
Gu Jiu glanced at Third Madam Cui's big belly and said, "Third sister-in-law is about to give birth."
The Third Madam Cui nodded and said, "She's due in about a month."
"Third sister-in-law is so impressed. She married the Third Prince and soon became pregnant successfully. Among us, only Fourth sister-in-law can compare with you."
Third Madam Cui subconsciously looked at Xiao Qin'er.
She looked down on Xiao Qin'er and didn't want to have the same blessing as Xiao Qin'er.
Xiao Qin'er was unhappy, "What's that look from Third Sister-in-law? Are you looking at me with displeasure?"
Third Madam Cui said calmly, "Fourth sister-in-law, you've misunderstood. How could I dislike you? We should live in harmony and there will be no conflicts."
Oh!
Xiao Qin'er just let out a sarcastic laugh, which made Cui very embarrassed.
Cui rubbed her brows. The biggest difficulty she had in getting married into the royal family was that her sisters-in-law were too blunt in their words and deeds, and were all very straightforward.
If you say he's simple-minded, he's the best at scheming. If you say he's scheming, he never reads people's expressions, says whatever he wants, and doesn't seem to know how to hide anything.
They were all girls from wealthy families who married into the royal family, so she didn't believe that the nannies from her sisters-in-law's families all taught them the same way.
So there is only one conclusion: the three sisters-in-law did it on purpose.
The unique atmosphere of the palace has made everyone develop a domineering character.
The third wife, Cui, glanced secretly at Gu Jiu. She guessed that the source of this strange atmosphere was the first wife.
The eldest lady is too strong.
No!
To be precise, it is too powerful.
It is so powerful that even the important officials in the court cannot ignore it.
That’s amazing.
It’s nice to have such a strong role model living under the same roof.
It is conceivable that the atmosphere in the palace will be lifted, and no one will be afraid of anything.
The master is domineering, and the servants are also domineering.
Gu Jiu broke the awkward atmosphere. "Since all my brothers and sisters think I'm joking, then I'll say something more. Everyone should live their own lives and don't bring trivial matters to the palace. If you are bored, find something to do. Or I can help you find something to do."
Xiao Qin'er asked, "According to what my sister-in-law said, can we bring important matters to the palace?"
Gu Jiu looked at her with a half-smile, "I wonder what kind of thing is considered a big deal in the eyes of Fourth Sister-in-law?"
Xiao Qin'er pursed her lips and smiled, "That depends on what my sister-in-law thinks."
Gu Jiu smiled and said, "What I mean is that as long as it doesn't involve your fourth room, it's not a big deal. Is Fourth Sister-in-law satisfied?"
Xiao Qin'er was unhappy. "His Highness was imprisoned in Zongzheng Temple. According to what my sister-in-law said, it's not a big deal?"
Gu Jiu said lazily, "It's a big deal for me, but it's not a big deal for you four families."
"My cousin must be sad after hearing what my sister-in-law said. Because the eldest prince was imprisoned in the Zongzheng Temple, my cousin has been very worried." Xiao Qin'er stood up for Liu Yi.
Gu Jiu snorted, "Thank you for your concern, Fourth Prince, but his concern is completely unnecessary. That's all I have to say. My brothers and sisters, take care of yourselves from now on."
After saying this, Gu Jiu was the first to leave the palace.
Third Madam Cui patted her chest and said, "My eldest sister-in-law has a bad temper. She even thinks other people's care is unnecessary. I don't know what I can do to satisfy her."
Xiao Qin'er was dissatisfied and angrily turned to the Third Madam Cui, "Why should I satisfy her? Is it just because she's the eldest sister-in-law? How ridiculous!"
Ouyang Fu stepped in to smooth things over. "Alright, alright, everyone, keep your mouths shut. From now on, everyone, please be more tactful when speaking and doing things, and don't provoke the eldest sister-in-law. The eldest prince has been imprisoned in the Zongzheng Temple, and she is furious right now. Please be understanding."
Xiao Qin'er snorted, "I see that my eldest sister-in-law is living a carefree life. She goes out every few days. How can I tell that she is angry? I know that my second sister-in-law is close to my eldest sister-in-law, and I am counting on her business dividends to make some pocket money, but I can't lie with my eyes open."
Ouyang Fu stamped her feet. "Forget it, forget it. Whatever I say is wrong. I can't please anyone. You guys chat. I'm going to see Mother."
After saying that, she flicked her sleeves and left.
Xiao Qin'er snorted and turned to go to the Cining Palace.
The third wife, Mrs. Cui, was left alone there, with no one to greet her.
The third wife, Mrs. Cui, stamped her feet and left the palace.
She came in last and became the punching bag.
Gu Jiu took a carriage back to the palace.
As the weather warmed up, she became a little irritable and didn't want to move.
After washing up and changing into home clothes, I curled up in the soft couch and read a book.
Even the account book that he loved to read was thrown aside.
The maid Xiaoyu fanned her.
It wasn't hot enough to put out an ice basin at this time of year, but it didn't feel cool either. It was a bit stuffy and irritating.
Qingzhu cooked half a pot of mung bean porridge and served a bowl to Gu Jiu.
"I've specially cooled it in well water, and it's just right for drinking now. Would you like to try it, Madam?"
Gu Jiu sat up and took a sip with a spoon. "Hmm, it tastes just right. Qingzhu, your cooking skills are getting better and better."
Qingzhu pursed her lips and smiled, "Madam has lost her appetite these days, and I'm worried sick. Madam clearly told us not to worry about what's going on outside, so why is she worried about it herself?"
Gu Jiu smiled and said, "Why should I worry? You must be seeing things. I just feel annoyed by the hot weather. And His Highness is not at home, so I don't even have anyone to vent my anger on."
The maids all laughed.
"Madam is using Your Highness as a punching bag. Your Highness must be very sad."
"Your Highness will not be sad, I'm afraid he will be happy with it."
"Go away! How dare you tease the Madam and His Highness? You are so bold!"
Qingzhu sent all the maids away and replaced Xiaoyu to fan Gu Jiu.
"I left the house yesterday to visit Qingmei."
Gu Jiu perked up when he heard this. "How is Qingmei now? I've only seen her once since she got married."
On the day of his childhood sweetheart's wedding, Gu Jiu was ambushed while riding in a carriage back to the palace.
Some people say that Qingmei's marriage is unlucky, and by extension, Qingmei herself is also unlucky.
Qingmei was worried to death, but she was afraid that it would bring bad luck to her, so she didn't dare to visit the prince at his palace.
Later, Gu Jiu learned about the situation and asked Qingmei to go to the palace to talk.
Qingmei only came that one time.
She said she was afraid of bringing bad luck to Gu Jiu. If there was anything, she would let Qingzhu pass on the message.
Gu Jiu didn't force her, for fear of adding to Qingmei's psychological burden.
I plan to wait a year or two, when this rumor has gradually faded, and then invite Qingmei into the palace.
Qingzhu said, "Sister Qingmei is doing well. She is pregnant for just over a month. Because the pregnancy is still young, she asked me to keep it a secret and not to tell anyone. I thought that Madam's situation couldn't be kept secret either."
Gu Jiu laughed heartily, very happy, "Qingmei is pregnant, this is a good thing. Zhao San will probably die of joy."
Qingzhu pursed her lips and smiled, "I've been so happy for a long time."
Gu Jiu said, "Open the warehouse later and pick up some herbs and cloth that she might need and send them to her. Tell her to take good care of the baby and not to worry about the affairs of the palace. I will go visit her after she gives birth."
Qingzhu nodded, "I'll listen to Madam. Sister Qingmei is worried about Madam. The Grand Prince has been imprisoned in Zongzheng Temple, and we don't know what's going on."
"Tell her not to worry. I'll take care of this little thing. The most important thing for her right now is to take good care of the baby and stop worrying about it all the time."
"I will persuade her well."
Qingzhu opened the warehouse and picked up medicinal herbs and cloth.
Wang Yi clamored to go too.
"I haven't seen Sister Qingmei for a long time. I miss her so much."
Gu Jiu waved his hand, "Go ahead. I'll give you half a day off. Go early and come back early. Don't stay outside. Be careful."
"Don't worry, Madam. I will definitely be back before dark."
After sending away the two maids, Gu Jiu curled up on the soft couch and took a nap, having a bizarre dream.
When I woke up, I could no longer remember the scenes in my dream.
"What time?"
The maid Xiaoyu said softly, "Madam, it's just the evening hour."
"Are Qingzhu and the others back?"
"Not yet. But Eunuch Qian came back, saw Madam resting, and left again."
"Has Qian Fu returned? Send someone to check if he's still there. If he is, ask him to come see me."
Gu Jiu hasn't seen Qian Fu for many days.
She knew that it must be Liu Zhao who sent Qian Fu out.
She didn't ask about the specifics, but she couldn't help but feel a little worried in her heart.
She was also still thinking about what Qian Fu had said last time, that he had already found out about Concubine Wang's background.
Xiaoyu asked a little maid to invite Eunuch Qian.
Qian Fu was resting and when he learned that Gu Jiu had woken up, he rushed to the upper room.
"This old servant greets the Madam."
"No need to be polite, sit down and talk."
Qian Fu didn't hesitate and sat down on the round stool.
Gu Jiu asked straight to the point: "I shouldn't ask about that matter. You just need to tell me if it went well."
Qian Fu nodded, then shook his head, "Things are still under control."
Although there is no clear answer, it is good news that it is under control.
Gu Jiu was obviously relieved. "Alright, I won't ask about this anymore. Last time you said that Concubine Wang's background had been checked. Has the news reached the capital? What's the situation?"
Qian Fu straightened his back. "Even if Madam doesn't ask, this old servant is going to tell me about this matter. Speaking of which, Concubine Wang and Madam do have some connection."
"Related to this lady? Are you sure?" Gu Jiu looked surprised.
Qian Fu nodded, "How dare this old servant joke about such a thing? Concubine Wang was originally the daughter of a local wealthy man, and logically she was not qualified to enter the palace for selection.
However, the Wang family had a relative who was a prominent official family. They had a daughter who was among the candidates. Concubine Wang took her place and entered the palace to participate in the selection. Surprisingly, she won the favor of His Majesty.
Gu Jiu asked casually, "Does this have anything to do with this lady?"
Qian Fu said softly, "The one who's involved is Concubine Wang's brother. Concubine Wang has a brother from the same mother, known as Wang Wu. Wang Wu is a lazy man who, relying on his relatives being from an official family, is quite domineering in the local area. Most of the neighbors avoid him.
Wang Wu was a spendthrift, and his family was only modestly wealthy, unable to afford such lavish spending. Add to that the large sum of money spent on Concubine Wang's arrival in the palace, and Wang Wu's finances became even tighter. He then developed a sinister plan, targeting nearby toll booths and rest stops.
So what Qian Fu meant by "having some connection" was toll booths and rest stops?
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