My Darling, Coax Me.

CHAPTER 9: Traditional Chinese Medicine.

　　A bright moon hung high above the withered branches.

　　Yun Ling looked up quietly.

　　Her master had once said that after death, people would turn into stars in the night sky, continuing to watch over and protect the people they worried about and cared for. Perhaps her master was up there in the heavens, also worried about her future.

　　After several doses of medicine, the Sixth Prince's health wasn't exactly good, but his face had regained some color, and he no longer coughed up blood constantly.

　　She actually knew his illness was strange, but that wasn't her concern. She simply kept a watchful eye on the Sixth Prince, holding a cloak in her hand to prevent the cold wind from bothering him.

　　There couldn't be a more loyal and attentive servant than her.

　　And as a mere palace maid, that was all she could do for the Sixth Prince.

　　Diligence was all she had left to offer.

　　The Sixth Prince was confined to Jingxiang Palace¹. Although winter had long arrived, the palace had not sent him new winter clothes. His only large cloak had a tear in it. Yun Ling carefully mended it with needle and thread, her stitches so fine that she even replicated the cloud pattern on the cloak, doing her best to make it look as good as new.

　　A few days later, an imperial edict arrived, granting the Sixth Prince, Xie Jue, permission to leave the cold palace and offer sacrifices at the Empress Zhaohui's memorial service on the anniversary of her death.

　　The current emperor is a man of deep affection. When the previous empress passed away, he was inconsolable for three days, neglecting even his court duties. Ever since, on the anniversary of Empress Zhaohui's death, he not only holds a grand religious ceremony in the palace, inviting priests to perform rituals, but also throws a lavish feast as a way to comfort her spirit in the afterlife.

　　Finally, on the anniversary of the late Empress's death, Eunuch Huang, a eunuch in the emperor's service, personally came to escort him.

　　The sound of footsteps echoed from outside the door. Xie Jue set down his teacup and said, “They're here.”

　　Eunuch Huang's shrill voice pierced through the air from outside the door.

　　Yun Ling hurriedly draped the thick black cloak over Xie Jue's shoulders. “Your Highness, I'm so happy that you can leave the palace to pay respects to the Empress. But please be careful, as your health is fragile. You must avoid the wind and refrain from drinking, as it could harm you. I can't accompany you this time, and for some reason, I feel a bit uneasy…”

　　Xie Jue lowered his gaze and said, “Enough with the chatter.”

　　Yun Ling, taking his cue, fell silent and carefully adjusted his outer robe.

　　When the door opened, Eunuch Huang, seeing the scene, stepped forward to bow and directed two young eunuchs to present a brand-new, exceptionally fine fox fur. He bowed low and said, “Your Highness, even though you've been confined here to reflect, the Emperor thinks of you every day. He obtained this exquisite fox fur and wanted to give it to you.” With a wave of his hand, he said, “What are you waiting for? Put it on His Highness.”

　　He continued, “Regarding Gao Chang's disrespect towards Your Highness, His Majesty has already dismissed him from his post. I apologize for the inconvenience caused to you.”

　　As they spoke, several nimble young eunuchs stepped forward to help Xie Jue change into the fur.

　　Soon, the relatively worn black cloak was removed and discarded on the floor.

　　Clad in the fox fur, Xie Jue's face was like jade, his bearing aloof and elegant. The soft fur enveloped his chin, lending him an innate air of nobility.

　　He stood passively, allowing them to change his clothes, only glancing at them once.

　　It was truly exquisite material.

　　He had been confined here for over half a year, with no one sending him so much as a single garment, yet today, he was given such a luxurious fox fur to wear before the court officials.

　　Eunuch Huang swept the air with his whisk. “It's getting late, Your Highness. Please.” The procession began to depart.

　　Yun Ling picked up the black cloak and held it in her arms, quietly standing behind and watching.

　　Xie Jue glanced back for a moment before turning and walking forward.

　　……

　　Having finished sweeping the courtyard, Yun Ling sat beneath the eaves, watching the leaves swaying precariously in the distance, seemingly on the verge of falling at any moment. Yet, despite observing for a long time, the leaf remained stubbornly clinging to its branch.

　　After the Sixth Prince left, the deserted palace felt even more desolate. A piercing cold wind whipped through, sending a shiver down one's spine with its hollow whistling sound.

　　But Yun Ling wasn't afraid.

　　She had never been afraid of these things, nor did she believe in ghosts or spirits, not since she was a little girl.

　　After sitting for a while, Yun Ling got up to tidy the sleeping quarters, and found a book lying closed on the table.

　　There are some abandoned books in this Jingxiang Palace. Yun Ling usually doesn't touch them except for cleaning. The Sixth Prince would read some profound and obscure books, but this book in her hand was a travelogue about mountains and rivers.

　　Yun Ling sat down and began to read. The book not only described the customs and people of each place, but also contained simple illustrations.

　　For a moment, she was captivated.

　　Except for a few complex characters she didn't recognize, she could read most of it quite smoothly.

　　Yes, Yun Ling could read. When she was little, she begged her master to give her a copy of the Thousand Character Classic. Although her master was a horse breeder, he understood a few characters. Whenever she encountered ones she didn’t know, she would ask others, and after going back and forth, she was able to recognize most of the characters in the Thousand Character Classic.

　　On one hand, she knew that as a servant, she needed to have value to be useful to her master. On the other hand, it was said that literacy brought understanding, and she didn't want to remain forever a dull-witted servant who only knew how to sweep and clean.

　　Captivated by the mountains and rivers depicted in the travelogue, she turned to the next page, where the words ‘Peng Ze’ were written. It felt familiar…

　　Peng Ze, wasn't that her master's hometown?

　　She remembered that every full moon, her master would always lament that if he were to die one day, he wished his body could be buried back in his homeland.

　　Her master had been sold into the palace by his uncle at the age of eight, after his parents had passed away. He had gone to rely on his uncle's family, who had taken his family's deed to the land and promised to raise him, only to sell him into the palace to become a eunuch.

　　He spent decades in the palace, while his uncle's son, using his family's land deed and the money from his sale, passed the civil service exams, became a scholar, and even held a minor government post. His family was now rich and prosperous, but the master, at his age, was still stuck with horse manure every day.

　　“Selfish, wicked people always seem to have it better,” Yun Ling thought.

　　With the Sixth Prince gone, she settled in and leisurely read through the entire travelogue, page by page.

　　——

　　Empress Zhaohui was the Emperor's first wife, and they had a deep bond. Even though she passed away eleven years ago, the Emperor still held a grand ceremony for her every year on the anniversary of her death, offering prayers to her spirit in heaven. They say it takes twelve years for the ceremony to be truly complete.

　　For an emperor to have such deep and lasting love is truly commendable, even the court officials praise him for it. It's a shame though, that Empress Zhaohui's only son, the Sixth Prince, has a cruel and violent nature. He's not a kind man, and he's failed to live up to the Emperor's love and care as a father.

　　At the foot of the altar, Xie Jue stood in white robes, kneeling at the center. Behind him, the court officials who had come to pay their respects stood in formation.

　　Some wondered why the imprisoned Sixth Prince was present. A kind soul nearby explained the reason.

　　“The Emperor is so kind and benevolent. He carefully nurtured the Sixth Prince from a young age. Yet, the prince is so obstinate and unruly. It's a shame that he's wasted the efforts of the Emperor and Empress Zhaohui,” someone sighed.

　　“It's infuriating, and pitiful,” someone else said.

　　“Thankfully, the Seventh Prince, while young, is pure and kind. He's completely different from the Sixth Prince,” another voice chimed in.

　　The hushed whispers of the court officials, filled with pity and disappointment, drifted into Xie Jue's ears.

　　Indeed, these were the thoughts echoing throughout the court. Everyone, it seemed, held the same opinion.

　　After the ceremony concluded, the court officials slowly dispersed. An old man, his beard now white with age, approached Xie Jue. He offered incense, then shook his head in disappointment, seeing Xie Jue kneeling there, seemingly resigned to his fate.

　　Xie Jue went to his room to change out of his white robes. Just as he was about to leave, the elderly man pushed open the door and entered. From his sleeve, he pulled out a rolled-up book. “This is the book you requested, Your Highness.”

　　The book was one Xie Jue had used for his studies as a child. It was filled with his notes, his handwriting still quite immature.

　　Xie Jue didn't reach for the book. Instead, he looked up at the elderly man, Grand Tutor Xiao. “Master, did you look through it before bringing it to me?”

　　“I did,” Grand Tutor Xiao replied, his voice heavy with disappointment. “They say a child prodigy doesn't always become a great man. But this student of mine, he was a prodigy, a brilliant mind. Then, after Empress Zhaohui passed, he just... faded. And now he's like this. If the late Empress knew, she wouldn't rest in peace.”

　　“If you're asking me to plead your case, I'm afraid I can't help you,” Grand Tutor Xiao said.

　　“Though I'm the Grand Tutor, I have no real power. I can't influence the Emperor's decisions, and I certainly wouldn't help someone who treats human life so lightly.”

　　Xie Jue shook his head. “Don't trouble yourself, Master. I'm in Jingxiang Palace, and it doesn't matter.”

　　“You just want a book?” Grand Tutor Xiao asked, his voice laced with confusion.

　　Grand Tutor Xiao's gaze settled on Xie Jue, his eyes filled with a mixture of sadness and concern.

　　Xie Jue didn't answer directly. “Master, you once said I was your most promising student. You taught me to be kind, compassionate, and wise. You know my talent and my nature better than anyone. I know you have the best interests of the country and its people at heart. Do you truly believe I've simply lost my way?”

　　Grand Tutor Xiao fell silent, lost in thought for a long moment.

　　Grand Tutor Xiao's mind wandered back to a time when Xie Jue was a young boy, a child prodigy. He had learned to read at three, write poetry at six, and his insights were beyond his years. Though somewhat solitary, he was not cruel. He was the Emperor's eldest legitimate son, destined to be the future heir. At that time, Grand Tutor Xiao had felt a sense of hope, believing that the Great Jin Dynasty would one day be ruled by a wise and virtuous emperor. But then, Empress Zhaohui passed away, and within a few short years, the young prince underwent a dramatic change. He became cruel and ruthless, a far cry from the boy Grand Tutor Xiao had known. The Emperor, despite his affection for his son, was powerless to stop the transformation. In the end, he had no choice but to confine Xie Jue to Jingxiang Palace.

　　Grand Tutor Xiao had once held immense admiration for this student.

　　But what did Xie Jue mean by his words today? Grand Tutor Xiao was confused.

　　Xie Jue tugged at his thin lips, a hint of a smile playing on them. “Master, you have always been loyal to the Emperor and dedicated to the country. You are honest and righteous. But have you ever considered why the Emperor is so wary of you, why he doesn't value your opinion?”

　　Grand Tutor Xiao’s family, the Xiao clan, had a long history of producing brilliant minds, but with the exception of Xiao Qi Bai, none of them had ever held a position of true power.

　　And even Xiao Qi Bai, the top scholar of his year, the number one in the imperial examinations, was merely a lowly editor, his talents not fully recognized.

　　The Emperor Jingning favored sycophants and kept true talent at arm's length. He promoted smooth-talking, self-serving individuals, levied exorbitant taxes that burdened the people, and embarked on lavish construction projects that drained the treasury. Grand Tutor Xiao had repeatedly spoken out against these policies, only to be met with the Emperor's displeasure. The court was now filled with sycophants, leaving little room for honest and upright officials like him. Moreover, the Emperor held a grudge against Grand Tutor Xiao because he had been his teacher, had praised him highly, and had even suggested that he be named heir apparent at a young age.

　　Grand Tutor Xiao was now an old man, his son was mediocre and incompetent. The only hope for the family was his eldest grandson, Xiao Qi Bai, who had inherited his grandfather’s brilliance. But due to Grand Tutor Xiao’s stubborn integrity, his grandson was unable to find a way to serve the country.

　　Xie Jue pressed his fist against his lips, suppressing a cough. A slow smile crept across his face as he bowed slightly, performing the respectful gesture of a student. “Master, I only need you to say one thing.”

　　With those words, Xie Jue turned and left.

　　He had already wasted too much time. Since he had come today, he was prepared to face any consequences.

　　He had come this far, he didn't need to come here, he didn't care about the reputation of Patricide and Fratricide.

　　He was the son of the Empress, the rightful heir. His claim to the throne was inherently legitimate.

　　Grand Tutor Xiao was stubborn and old-fashioned, but he was a veteran of three dynasties, a leader of the upright faction, a respected mentor to countless officials. He held immense influence in the court, and Xie Jue had to come in person.

　　……

　　After the memorial service, Emperor Jingning hosted a banquet in the Imperial Garden. The sounds of silk and bamboo filled the air, creating a serene atmosphere.

　　Xie Jue was ushered to a seat on the left side, his sharp features and pale complexion attracting numerous curious glances.

　　Emperor Jingning narrowed his eyes, raised his wine cup, and addressed the assembled ministers with words of profound grief. His voice trembled with emotion as he spoke of his late consort. “Every time I think of Wan Zhi, my heart aches with sorrow.” His tone shifted, landing on Xie Jue. “Jue'er is the only child of Wan Zhi and I. He is frail and sickly. I cannot bear to see my son suffer in confinement any longer…”

　　His words hinted at the possibility of releasing the Sixth Prince from his confinement.

　　The ministers, sensing the emperor's intentions, remained silent, merely expressing their admiration for his love for the Sixth Prince. They marveled at his compassion, releasing the prince after only a year of confinement, out of respect for the late Empress Zhaohui.

　　But before the ministers could express their thoughts, the Minister of War stepped forward and vehemently opposed the emperor's suggestion. “Your Majesty, I believe this is inappropriate.”

　　Emperor Jingning turned his gaze toward the Minister of War, Gao Yan, whose expression was serious. He bowed deeply and began, “Your Majesty, I—”

　　But before Gao Yan could finish his sentence, Xie Jue, across the table, suddenly slammed his wine cup to the ground, his voice laced with venom. “What's inappropriate? You old fool, you clearly harbor resentment towards me! It was your son who deserved to die!”

　　Gao Yan, startled by Xie Jue's outburst, turned back to the emperor. “Your Majesty, you have seen for yourself that even after half a year of confinement, the Sixth Prince shows no remorse. He remains cruel, ruthless, and lacking in virtue. With all due respect, even out of love for Empress Zhaohui, Your Majesty should not be so lenient as to lift his confinement. Otherwise, who knows how many more will fall victim to his wrath?”

　　Several officials chimed in, “Indeed.” They nodded in agreement, their expressions grave. The tension in the air thickened as the emperor's decision hung in the balance.

　　”Your Majesty, please reconsider!” The plea echoed through the hall, a chorus of voices urging the emperor to think carefully before making a decision that could have far-reaching consequences.

　　The ministers understood perfectly well that Gao Yan wouldn't back down. The Sixth Prince had publicly humiliated his son, whipping him in the street. Such a public insult was a stain on his honor, a wound that wouldn't easily heal. There was no way he'd simply let it go.

　　Amidst the chaos, a soft, weeping voice suddenly broke through. Empress Li Lian'er, standing beside Emperor Jingning, dabbed at her tears. “It's all my fault,” she sobbed. “I have failed my late sister, Wan'er. I failed to properly guide my son, allowing him to commit such a grave error.”

　　“This has nothing to do with Her Majesty, the Empress.”

　　“Your Majesty, you mustn't blame yourself.”

　　“……”

　　Words of comfort poured forth, one after another.

　　Emperor Jingning picked up his wine cup, bringing it to his lips. He concealed a fleeting smile, taking a sip before finally speaking in a weary tone. “Alright, alright, my subjects, there's no need to bicker.” Turning to Xie Jue, he said, “Jue'er, stay in Jingxiang Palace and reflect on your actions. Don't slack off!”

　　“Your Majesty is wise,” they all echoed in unison.

　　The scene was one of harmonious unity between ruler and subjects.

　　Xie Jue, standing amidst the broken cups and scattered food, remained silent, his gaze cold.

　　……

　　As evening descended, Emperor Jingning ordered Xie Jue to rest in the Bai'en Palace for the night, with his escort back to Jingxiang Palace to take place the following day.

　　The night was thick with a silent, pervasive darkness, the dew heavy and the air still. It was the hour when all the world seemed to hold its breath.

　　The candles in the room had been snuffed out, plunging the space into utter darkness.

　　A figure on the bed rose and fell with the rhythm of steady breaths, seemingly lost in slumber. Suddenly, almost silent footsteps echoed from outside the door, followed by the shattering of the windowpane as a cylindrical object smashed through. A wisp of thick white smoke drifted into the room.

　　In the darkness, a pair of deep, narrow, phoenix-like eyes slowly opened, their gaze flicking towards the window with an unreadable stillness.

　　About half an incense stick later, the door creaked open and shut.

　　A slender woman, her movements sinuous as she shed her garments, sauntered towards the bed, her voice a soft, teasing murmur, “Sixth Prince…”

　　The air around her was heavy with the cloying scent of perfume.

　　Finding the man on the bed unresponsive, she gleefully threw back the covers and prepared to slip in. But in the next instant, a hand clamped around her throat, her body collapsing to the floor with a silent thud.

　　Xie Jue sat up on the bed, his gaze fixed on the woman sprawled on the floor, his eyelashes casting a shadow over his eyes.

　　Li Lian'er is truly calculating; even while he's under confinement, she won't let him be. Unless something unexpected happens, a grand spectacle awaits him tomorrow morning. On the anniversary of his mother's death, they intend to force him into a sexual act with a woman, staging a live pornographic performance.

　　It will be a scene of utter depravity and moral decay.

　　It will be his ruin, the ruin of his mother, and the ruin of the entire Duke Chen's Manor. Their reputations will be shattered.

　　Such viciousness. Such cruelty.

　　His handsome brow furrowed, Xie Jue let out a muffled groan, one hand bracing himself against the bedpost as he gasped for breath.

　　The incense smoke had been laced with a potent aphrodisiac. Ordinarily, he would have been able to hold his breath and resist its effects, but his current weakened state, due to the debilitating medicine he was taking, made him completely vulnerable to this powerful drug.

　　The Empress, no doubt, is confident in this scheme. She'll surely find an excuse to send people to catch them in the act. But she, always playing the role of a benevolent mother, would never come herself. That can only be…

　　It seems there truly will be a grand spectacle tomorrow. Xie Jue's narrow eyes veiled his thoughts.

　　An intense, maddening itch spread throughout his body like parasitic worms, crawling across his limbs and every inch of his being. Xie Jue broke out in a cold sweat, an uncontrollable surge of arousal flooding his lower body... It was relentless, threatening to overwhelm his reason.

________________

T/N: From several translations I've done for this novel, I suspect Jingxiang Palace¹ is a location within the Cold Palace, perhaps the name of the courtyard where the Sixth Prince currently resides. I understand the Cold Palace is quite extensive; therefore, this seems plausible.

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