Chapter 9: The Inner Palace, Part 4
“I’m going to the backyard. Make sure no one approaches without my orders.”
“Miss, what are you going to do in the backyard?”
Yu Qingyan frowned at her clothes. In a few quick motions, she cut off the hem of her skirt and tied up her sleeves, finally making her attire less cumbersome.
“Miss—”
“Silence. You’re not allowed to follow me either.”
After all, she was not truly Yu Qingyan. Married to the Idle Prince? She had no intention of marrying anyone. Yet now, trapped in this body, she was at the mercy of others. No matter the plan, regaining her strength was the priority.
After moving around for a while, Yu Qingyan was drenched in sweat. Watching her trembling hands, she smiled bitterly to herself. Running away was impossible—four days simply wasn’t enough time.
Three days later, Yu Qingyan emerged from the backyard again, soaked in sweat. The bruises on her face were barely visible now, and Cui’er followed cautiously behind her.
“The water is ready, Miss. You may bathe and change clothes. Lunch is also prepared; you can eat as soon as you finish bathing.”
“Thank you.”
Yu Qingyan nodded with some satisfaction. “By the way, find me an outfit. After lunch, I need to go out for a while.”
“Yes.”
After lunch, Yu Qingyan, accompanied by Cui’er and Magpie, headed to the Jingfei Palace—the place Yu Qingyan used to live, now called Fengming Palace.
“Why is it you?”
Yu Qingyan smiled. She held grudges deeply. Though this woman was merely a pawn used by others, she had crossed her, and now she had to pay.
“Tomorrow is an auspicious day. I thought, since I might never see Consort Jing again, I should come to say farewell today.” Yu Qingyan glanced at the cat in Consort Jing’s arms. “That’s a beautiful cat. Was it a gift from the Emperor?”
“The Emperor gave you to the Idle Prince, and you’re still so happy? Truly shameless, you wretched woman!”
“Your Highness, saying that will displease the Emperor.” Yu Qingyan entered the palace confidently, with Cui’er by her side.
“Magpie, wait for me outside.”
Consort Jing smiled venomously. “Close the doors!”
Yu Qingyan frowned. Was she about to come to blows?
Perfect. That way, no one would witness it.
As the palace gates shut, the hall darkened considerably.
“Guards! Beat this shameless wretch brutally—beat her nearly to death! But don’t hit her face; she’s getting married tomorrow.”
“Miss—”
Yu Qingyan spoke softly, “Stand back. Watch as I put on a show for your lady.”
With that, she eyed the palace maids rolling up their sleeves and stepping forward. Under her sleeve, she flipped her hand, skillfully flicking several small stones.
“Ouch!”
“You little brat!”
“Ah…”
“Meow!!!”
“Ah, get away! Damn cat, go away!”
“Meow…”
“…Ha ha.”
“…”
Chaos erupted in Fengming Palace. Fifteen minutes later, Yu Qingyan emerged with Cui’er.
“The Emperor has arrived—”
A harsh, guttural shout rang out, leaving Yu Qingyan stunned. The Emperor? So soon?
Outside the palace, Magpie was nowhere to be seen. She must have gone to find Chu Yuheng.
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