My Darling, Coax Me.

CHAPTER 18: Train. Teach.

　　Yun Ling lowered her eyes, her expression unchanging. She slowly withdrew her hand and said, “Are you threatening me, Ming Gugu?”

　　Ming Jin said, “You're a clever woman. Do I need to say more?”

　　Yun Ling showed no fear, maintaining a calm and slow tone. “I came to see you, Ming Gugu, out of gratitude for your kindness back then. But you think you can use this to threaten me? But do you think His Highness knows my identity? And why haven't I sent a single message?”

　　Ming Jin looked at her with surprise and uncertainty.

　　Yun Ling continued, “I know that Zhang Guifei asked you to send your niece to the Sixth Prince's side to spy. It was because your niece is intelligent, obedient, and easily controlled, allowing her to relay messages for Zhang Guifei. But several palace maids sent there before her have died. Ming Gugu, you couldn't bear to let your niece suffer, or to risk her life near the Sixth Prince, so you had me take her place instead. You ensured Zhang Guifei that you could control me and that I would send messages. But the truth is, I'm alone and not under your control. Perhaps during that time, you fabricated the messages yourself and passed them to Zhang Guifei, figuring the Sixth Prince was already dying and nothing could go wrong, is that right?”

　　Ming Jin remained silent.

　　Yun Ling continued, “It's not difficult to find a controllable palace maid in the palace—perhaps by offering a large reward or threatening their family. But those sent to the Sixth Prince's side all died shortly after. Ming Gugu, you've already committed many killings for Zhang Guifei, and you couldn't bear to continue. That's how I knew you still possessed a sliver of compassion.”

　　Ming Jin was stunned for a moment, then gave a wry smile. She never thought that, even today, someone would say she still possessed a sliver of compassion.

　　Compassion. Kindness.

　　After so many years in the palace, she'd almost forgotten how to write those two characters. In this ruthless imperial palace, if she didn't kill others, others would kill her.

　　Seeing Ming Gugu's softened expression, Yun Ling gently lowered her voice. “Ming Gugu, you gave me a chance back then, a chance I've been grateful for ever since. I'll do my best to help you fulfill one wish.”

　　“My niece... she's gravely ill, and I fear she doesn't have long to live. My brother and sister-in-law only have this one daughter. Having her summoned to the palace by Zhang Guifei was unavoidable; it was all my fault,” Ming Jin said, producing a small pouch and tears welling in her eyes. “My sister-in-law made this pouch for her when she entered the palace.”

　　“Our parents died early, and my brother and sister-in-law worked tirelessly to support our family, their lives barely sustainable. They never stinted me of food or drink. I didn't want to burden them, so I secretly entered the palace, breaking their hearts. A few days ago, they sent a letter, hoping my niece and I could return home. But I don't know how I could ever face them again!”

　　“I only ask you... help me get Yanlan out of the palace.”

　　Within these high palace walls, everyone has their own inescapable circumstances. Even though Ming Gugu holds the position of Shanggong, she’s still not entirely her own master.

　　Yun Ling handed her a handkerchief to wipe away her tears. “This won't be easy, Ming Gugu. Let me think about it.”

　　——

　　Back in the Shanggong Bureau, Yun Ling still had many things to attend to. This matter couldn't be rushed.

　　Haste makes waste.

　　Right now, her priority is to quickly take control of the Six Bureaus.

　　Everyone in the Six Bureaus knew that the newly appointed Shanggong, Yun Ling, was working tirelessly, neglecting sleep and food, even staying in the Shanggong Bureau's study for half a month straight.

　　……

　　In the study.

　　In the study, the Minister of Rites' Vice Minister, Xiao Qibai, presented the gathered intelligence. “The Prefect of Jiangzhou and the Deputy Prefect of Huai'an are both people loyal to Ping Wang. General Cao Rui, the Protector-General of the West, has been secretly meeting with these two. On the third of next month, the three are scheduled to meet secretly in Jiangzhou. Furthermore, according to my understanding, a plague broke out in Jiangzhou two months ago. The Jiangzhou Prefect, in pursuit of a better political record, concealed the outbreak and killed nearly a thousand innocent villagers, resulting in widespread resentment and suffering among the people.”

　　“Your Highness, using this matter will not only allow you to regain military control, but it will also win you the hearts of the people.”

　　Xie Jue finished reading the intelligence, a cold curve to his lips. “In a few days, I will go myself.”

　　Putting away the papers, he asked, “How are things with the investigation you were tasked with?”

　　Xiao Qibai stood respectfully, head bowed, and reported formally, “Li Youfu claims that others were involved in the death of Empress Zhaohui, but he was only a low-ranking eunuch at the time and wasn't nearby, so he doesn't know much. My investigation has revealed that a distant relative of a Senior Lady-in-waiting who served the subsequent Empress is still alive. This person might know something about what happened back then.”

　　“Mm,” Xie Jue said without looking up. “Continue the investigation. Do it openly and above board. You have to stir up the nest to flush out the snakes.”

　　“Yes,” replied Xiao Qibai.

　　Xie Jue's brows furrowed as he looked at the memorial on the desk. “Chen Zhan will stay in the capital. You will come with me to Jiangzhou.”

　　Xiao Qibai was only momentarily stunned. “Thank you, Your Highness!”

　　He continued, “Your Highness, there is one more matter I wish to report.”

　　“Speak.”

　　“……”

　　The candlelight flickered in the study. An attendant carefully entered and trimmed the excess wick, making the study even brighter.

　　A young eunuch followed and presented tea.

　　Lightly sipping his tea, Xie Jue granted Xiao Qibai's request, then casually asked, “How is Grand Tutor Xiao's health recently?”

　　Xiao Qibai replied, “Grandfather's physical health is passable, but his spirits aren't very good.”

　　Xie Jue asked, “Is something troubling him?”

　　“He's burdened by family matters; it's an old problem.”

　　Xie Jue, not having a habit of prying into the private affairs of his ministers, didn't press further. Setting down his teacup, he said, “Grand Tutor Xiao is a man who cherishes the past; he must be very concerned about this matter. But worrying too much is never a good thing.”

　　The young eunuch quickly stepped forward to refill the teacups.

　　Warm tea flowed smoothly from the spout, the temperature perfect—not too hot, not too cold.

　　A crack finally appeared in Xiao Qibai's calm facade. “Such actions only serve to please our enemies and cause pain to those close to us. I will urge my grandfather to reconsider when I return home.”

　　Xie Jue responded with a noncommittal sound, showing no further interest in continuing the conversation. His expression was distant, giving no clue to his thoughts.

　　Just as the young eunuch was about to refill the tea, Xie Jue gently set down his fine teacup, lightly stroking it. His voice was flat and unemotional, “Who recommended you for this position?”

　　The young eunuch, startled, nearly dropped the teapot; he fumbled and knelt down in a panic, spilling water everywhere.

　　Grand Eunuch An quickly stepped forward to apologize. “Your Highness, Xiao Xiangzi was recommended by Yun Shanggong to serve you. Lately, I've been training him, and it's my fault for not properly instructing him.”

　　Previously, Yun Shanggong personally attended to these matters, but now that she manages the Six Bureaus, she recommended Xiao Xiangzi to take her place.

　　Xie Jue: “How long has he been here?”

　　Grand Eunuch An: “For half a month.”

　　“Half a month…” Xie Jue's expression didn't change. “And yet he can't even manage such a small task.”

　　Cold sweat beaded on Grand Eunuch An's forehead. He quickly responded repeatedly, “I will select a new batch of more capable servants.”

　　Xie Jue lowered his gaze to Grand Eunuch An kneeling on the ground. After a long moment, he coldly uttered a single “Mm,” then abruptly asked, “How is the Shanggong Bureau lately?”

　　Grand Eunuch An, though young, had spent several years navigating the palace and developed a degree of shrewdness. Hearing the Crown Prince suddenly inquire about the Shanggong Bureau, he sensed something was amiss.

　　Before Yun Shanggong took over the Six Bureaus, she personally managed all affairs of the East Palace, including selecting Grand Eunuch An himself. Everything was meticulously organized. Since taking charge of the Six Bureaus and also acting on behalf of the Imperial Consorts, Yun Shanggong has temporarily entrusted the East Palace's affairs to him, and has not appeared in the East Palace for half a month.

　　Grand Eunuch An is wondering if the Crown Prince is asking about the Shanggong Bureau in general, or specifically about Yun Shanggong.

　　“Everything is proceeding smoothly in the Shanggong Bureau since Yun Shanggong took over. Please rest assured, Your Highness.”

　　Pausing, Grand Eunuch An dared not raise his head. “It's just that she's been very busy lately; Yun Shanggong hasn't been able to leave the Shanggong Bureau.”

　　“Unable to leave, what a convenient excuse,” Xie Jue's fingertips, which had been caressing the teacup, stilled. His eyelids lifted slightly in an expression that was both a smile and not a smile. “Tell her, since she can't even manage her own servants properly, she needn't bother coming anymore if she's so busy. This East Palace has no room for her.”

　　Grand Eunuch An was drenched in cold sweat, unsure why His Highness had suddenly become so angry. Lying prostrate on the ground, his voice trembling, he simply replied, “Yes.”

　　Exiting the study, Grand Eunuch An dispatched a young eunuch, whispering in his ear, “Go, tell Yun Shanggong that His Highness is exceedingly angry.”

　　……

　　Yun Ling had been occupied with the affairs of the Six Bureaus and the Harem for half a month, without a moment's rest.

　　She now has her own private room and a small courtyard, making her comings and goings much more convenient.

　　After a deep autumn rain, the weather turned noticeably colder. The remaining yellow leaves on the trees swayed precariously, a clear sign that winter had arrived in the capital.

　　As dusk settled, a lamp was lit in the room, and Yun Ling carefully examined the accounts by its light.

　　A young palace maid knocked on the door. “Yun Shanggong, Grand Eunuch An sent someone. It seems to be urgent.”

　　On the way to the East Palace, the young eunuch recounted everything to Yun Ling, his voice filled with anxiety. “That little eunuch, Xiangzi, I don't know how he angered His Highness. His Highness is furious and might take it out on you, Yun Shanggong. What are we going to do?”

　　Yun Ling calmed him, saying, “Don't worry. It was my oversight. I will take responsibility and apologize to His Highness.”

　　Internally, she mused that based on the description, little Xiangzi hadn't made any major mistakes; at most, he was simply a bit clumsy with serving tea and water. These people were all carefully chosen by her—honest, well-behaved, and most importantly, loyal and discreet. They wouldn't make serious errors.

　　It shouldn't be enough to provoke such a great outburst of anger.

　　But then again, it might be.

　　The Crown Prince these days isn't known for his good temper. He's unpredictable and moody, and no one knows when he might suddenly... have an episode.

　　Along the way, Yun Ling mentally prepared several drafts, thinking about how she could appease him and calm his anger.

　　As they neared the study, they met a young official emerging from it. He wore the robes of a sixth-rank official, his features refined and elegant—a true picture of refined grace and gentle demeanor.

　　It was Xiao Qibai, last year's celebrated top scholar and the grandson of the upright and incorruptible Grand Tutor Xiao.

　　Yun Ling heard that the Fifth Princess had done many daring things for this Lord Xiao.

　　The Great Jin Dynasty doesn't have any laws prohibiting a princess's consort from holding court positions; marrying a princess wouldn't hinder his career, in fact, it would likely benefit him. Yet, this Minister Xiao seems uninterested in the Fifth Princess, having refused her advances several times.

　　But his literary talent is outstanding, his brilliance undeniable; he's no ordinary person. Although the previous Emperor deliberately suppressed him, the current Crown Prince, despite his outwardly tyrannical behavior, is actually shrewd and adept at identifying and utilizing talent.

　　This Lord Xiao is highly favored by the Crown Prince, and it seems clear that he's on a path to a brilliant future, reaching the highest echelons of power.

　　As the man drew closer, Yun Ling bowed respectfully, “Lord Xiao.”

　　This was Xiao Qibai's first time meeting the female official who served beside the Crown Prince. He'd heard she'd accompanied the Crown Prince from the Jingxiang Palace, that she was capable and efficient, deeply trusted by His Highness, and had recently been appointed as the Head of the Six Bureaus. Upon seeing her, he was somewhat taken aback. He hadn't expected the Yun Shanggong to be so young, and so beautiful.

　　But he quickly recovered his composure, returned a polite bow, and left.

　　Yun Ling watched him go; although his demeanor was cool, he somehow gave off a gentle and amiable feeling. Unlike the person inside, whom one had to constantly treat with caution, he was cruel and merciless, ready to make others pay the price for even the slightest displeasure.

　　——

　　As soon as Yun Ling entered the study, Grand Eunuch An looked up at her, then quickly lowered his head, not daring even to exchange a glance.

　　But his expression clearly said, “Be careful.”

　　The study was silent, the flickering candlelight on either side casting an air of solemnity.

　　The Crown Prince, known for his furious temper, sat behind his desk. Clad in a dark-colored brocade robe, his face was cold and handsome, his expression unreadable as he reviewed the memorials.

　　Taking a deep breath, Yun Ling stepped forward and bowed. “Your Highness, I trust you are well. I heard you summoned me, Your Highness, and came immediately.”

　　“Xiao Xiangzi's service was lacking. It is my fault for not giving proper instructions. He is young and not very quick-witted; he needs further training.”

　　Grand Eunuch An, standing nearby, felt a cold sweat break out for Yun Ling. This time, having angered the Crown Prince, it wasn't just a matter of retraining Xiao Xiangzi; even if he had suggested selecting a few more intelligent servants, the Crown Prince wouldn't have shown any pleasure.

　　He feared that Yun Shanggong's words would not be enough to gain the Crown Prince's forgiveness.

　　As expected, the Crown Prince said, “He is young... Yun Shanggong is only two years older than him. In that case, Yun Shanggong, perhaps you also require further training?”

　　Although the Crown Prince was unpredictable and ruthless, Yun Ling had, over time, managed to understand his temperament to some degree. Unless absolutely necessary, she always tried to accommodate him, using every means of persuasion.

　　This sometimes avoided a great deal of trouble.

　　Immediately, without batting an eye, she replied, “Yes.”

　　“I implore Your Highness to provide further guidance.”

　　“……”

　　Closing the memorial and putting down his imperial brush, Xie Jue slowly raised his head. His tone was neither pleased nor angry. “Yun Shanggong is a busy person; how could I possibly offer guidance?”

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Glossary:

- Yun Gugu (云姑姑): This is a more informal and affectionate term, suitable for casual conversations or when speaking to or about Yun Ling among close acquaintances. “Gugu” is a respectful term for an older woman, implying familiarity and closeness.

- Yun Shanggong (云尚宫): This is the more formal and official title, appropriate for formal settings or when referring to her official position. It emphasizes her rank and authority.

Therefore, using “Yun Shanggong” is generally preferred when emphasizing her official role, while “Yun Gugu” might be used in more intimate or casual scenes.

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T/N: I keep creating glossaries about Gugu and Shanggong. To be honest, it's not for you, but for me, the translator. I keep feeling uneasy about the terms, so I create glossaries to remind myself to stick to the original text as much as possible! 🤣

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