Chapter 14: Aftermath of Fear

A Chilling Realization

“As the saying goes, none know a daughter like her father.”
“But it works both ways,” Zhao Xingjin said, eyes glinting with amusement.
“Your grasp of Xie Mingchen’s mind prompted his actions.”
“His memorials filled my treasury handsomely.”
Xie Jiu’s back chilled despite his smile.
She didn’t fear him knowing she’d influenced Xie Mingchen’s court moves.
After all, it benefited him.
But Chun Rong hadn’t gone directly to the Xie family.
Instead, she’d used a tailor shop under their name, passing the message discreetly.
The intent was to make Xie Mingchen think Xie Jiu had risked much to glean the information.
Yet Zhao Xingjin knew.
Clearly, he watched her closely, tracking even her maids’ smallest moves.
Nothing escaped his notice.
Thankfully, her actions served him.
Had they not, could she stand here unharmed?

A Sobering Reminder

Though Xie Jiu didn’t expect Zhao Xingjin’s full trust in mere days, his leniency had lulled her.
His casual demeanor had softened her guard.
Now, she saw he never lowered his vigilance.
This was a stark warning.
The man before her had climbed a throne over blood and bodies.
He was no carefree nobleman.
She needed utmost caution.
“Go rest,” Zhao Xingjin said, patting her hand.
“I’m off to the Empress.”
He left, and Xie Jiu bowed, sending him off.
Back in the side hall, she shut the door and exhaled deeply.
“What’s wrong, Madam?” Qing Fang asked, offering water.
Xie Jiu sipped, calming herself.
“Fear,” she said gravely.
“Fear of what?” Qing Fang puzzled.
Chun Rong looked equally confused.
“I let my guard down with the Emperor,” Xie Jiu admitted.

A Renewed Caution

Initially, she’d been wary, mindful of the dangers of serving a king.
But Zhao Xingjin’s easy manner had dulled her caution.
A wolf in sheep’s clothing was the deadliest.
“From now on, stay sharp,” she instructed.
“Think thrice before acting.”
“Seek stability above all.”
“Trust no one but us three.”
Setting down the cup, her tone was firm.
Qing Fang and Chun Rong nodded solemnly.
Xie Jiu sighed, weary, taking their hands.
“I’m sorry you’re stuck in this ruthless place with me.”
Both maids shook their heads, loyal.
As dowry maids, they’d grown up with her.
Without Xie Jiu, they’d be lost.
Better to face danger together.
After talking, Xie Jiu steadied herself.
She grabbed the calligraphy books and headed to Princess Wenxi’s residence.

A Thoughtful Gesture

Again, she didn’t see the Princess.
Unfazed, Xie Jiu handed the books to Qin Lan.
She added two children’s books.
“The Princess is recovering, likely bored,” she said.
“These can entertain her.”
Qin Lan bowed.
“The Princess thanks you, Madam.”
Last time, Qin Lan had lied about the Princess’s health, fearing Xie Jiu’s reaction.
She worried Xie Jiu might complain to Zhao Xingjin.
Surprisingly, Xie Jiu hadn’t.
Instead, she returned with books, genuinely invested.
Qin Lan had reflected deeply.
Without her mother, Princess Wenxi relied on the Emperor’s favor.
Lady Xian Fei’s death was recent, so the Emperor still cared.
But as time passed and the harem grew, would he remember her?
The Princess, shy and reserved like her mother, wouldn’t seek favor.

A Strategic Ally

Royal sons could live quietly, later gaining titles and independence.
But a princess without favor faced grim prospects—perhaps a hasty marriage or an alliance abroad.
Qin Lan saw Xie Jiu’s influence with Zhao Xingjin.
She wasn’t just a fleeting mistress.
If Wenxi grew close to her tutor, it could be like a mother-daughter bond.
If Xie Jiu rose, the Princess might benefit.
If she fell, Qin Lan could use the Emperor’s displeasure to gain pity for Wenxi.
Either way, it was advantageous.
“It’s hot, and you came personally,” Qin Lan said warmly.
“I made ice cream for the Princess.”
“Would you like some?”
Her offer signaled goodwill.
Pleased, Xie Jiu accepted.
Leaving, Qing Fang carried a food box.

A Sweet Interlude

Xie Jiu saved some dessert for Zhao Xingjin.
The cool treat lifted her mood on the way back.
With time to spare, she wandered toward a lotus pond.
Palace lotuses were exquisite, perfect for a summer stroll.
She planned to return for lunch.
But reality disrupted her plans.
At the pond, she spotted a figure.
A palace servant whispered, “Madam, that’s Lady Wei.”
Xie Jiu understood instantly.
The only Wei in the harem was Wei Zhang’s daughter.
Her father’s rival.