Chapter Twenty-Eight: The Cold Palace

Since she was determined to find a powerful ally, she couldn't afford to be careless—if she was going to attach herself to someone, it had to be the most formidable figure. Relying on someone weak would be no better than solving her problems on her own. Yet, in this unfamiliar palace, she knew little about who held true power. Her instincts told her the Empress Dowager was already quite influential, but somehow, Ling’er felt she wasn't the most powerful; after all, if she were, she wouldn’t be confined to the rear palace as Empress Dowager—she’d be ruling from behind the curtain.

There was no rush. She had plenty of time. Still, the most important thing was to strengthen herself; as long as she was powerful enough, anyone wishing to bully her would have to think twice.

Since Yue’er arrived, Baili Xian had taken his leave, officially to discuss state affairs with the Emperor, but in truth, he was avoiding suspicion now that the Empress was present.

So, within the vast hall, only Ling’er remained, chatting with the Empress Dowager and the Empress. Neither of these women were simple; to reach such heights, one could hardly be ordinary. Ling’er had worried about handling their conversation, but thankfully, years of watching palace dramas as a child had prepared her well enough to avoid giving herself away.

After two cups of tea, the Empress Dowager, Chu Meier, suggested, “The peach blossoms in the Imperial Garden behind the palace are in full bloom. Since we are idle, why not go and admire them?”

Who would dare refuse the Empress Dowager’s suggestion? Even if Ling’er had an opinion, she wouldn’t dare voice it, so she dutifully accompanied the Empress Dowager to view the peach blossoms.

But nature calls for everyone; Ling’er was no exception. Looking pitifully at Chu Meier, she made her request and was led by a young palace maid to the lavatory.

When Ling’er emerged, however, the little maid was nowhere to be seen. She muttered, “I wasn’t in there that long! Did the maid have some urgent matter?”

Shaking her head, Ling’er headed back the way she’d come, but she underestimated both the complexity of the palace and her own terrible sense of direction. Before long, she realized she was lost.

It was early spring, yet the further she walked, the more desolate it felt, as if a chill of loneliness hung about her. Just as she was about to turn back, unable to bear it any longer, she caught sight of someone from the corner of her eye.

It looked like Baili Xian. Peering more closely, she confirmed it—there was no mistaking that distinctive mask. Ling’er’s heart filled with curiosity: Why was he here? And in such a hurry—could he be hiding some secret?

Silently, she trailed after him. She hadn’t gone far before he stopped. Ling’er ducked behind a tree, cautiously peeking out. Baili Xian had halted outside a palace hall.

The building was not new; in fact, it looked abandoned, devoid of the slightest trace of life. The silence was so profound she could hear the chirring of insects. Hanging above the entrance was a plaque that read: “Cold Autumn Palace.”

Suddenly, Ling’er understood—this must be the palace equivalent of the Cold Palace, a place for those fallen from favor. But what was Baili Xian doing here?

Curiosity is a powerful thing—especially for a woman. Ling’er’s mind was itching with questions.

Baili Xian did not disappoint her. She watched as he spoke to the doors, “Susu, I’ve come to see you. Are you well?”

Ling’er’s imagination ran wild: Could there be a secret lover hidden inside? But wasn’t the Cold Palace for the Emperor’s discarded consorts? Could this be some forbidden love between uncle and sister-in-law?

She shook her head, scolding herself for such thoughts: I am a person of pure intentions; I mustn’t jump to conclusions. But then Baili Xian’s words made it impossible not to speculate.

She heard him continue, “Don’t worry, Susu. I’ll take good care of Shuangshuang. When you come out, we can all live happily together. You and Shuangshuang will be together day and night.”

Ling’er’s eyes widened. All live happily together? You and Shuangshuang, together day and night? Was this the legendary ménage à trois, or perhaps a sapphic romance? Oh heavens, she’d long heard that the imperial harem was an abnormal place—clearly, the rumors were true!