The capital had been under a cloud due to the snow disaster, making the news of Prince Rui's victory in quelling bandits all the more uplifting.
Not to mention the vast amount of spoils seized; at least the court would have funds for post-disaster reconstruction.
In an instant, Prince Rui's reputation soared to its peak. The Emperor lavishly bestowed rewards upon his mansion, officials offered praises, and even the common folk spontaneously began to sing of this victory. Despite knowing nothing of the details, they fabricated countless thrilling tales. Storytellers at teahouses were animated, and renowned actors in the pear gardens rushed to rehearse, aiming to stage the opera of Prince Rui's bandit suppression as quickly as possible.
The Crown Prince smashed an entire study of precious porcelain in the Eastern Palace.
As loud as Situ Yan's prestige grew, so did the voices of dissent.
These voices, like slaps, landed hard on his face, making him wish he could tear Situ Yan apart. He, the Crown Prince, was still alive; when did it become Situ Yan's turn to steal the spotlight?
The Empress was also smashing things. She knew, that bastard's return brought nothing good. His mother was a jinx to the women of the harem, and he himself was born to be a jinx to his brothers.
Like mother, like son, neither of them was a good person.
Consort Jian, for once, did not rejoice in the Crown Prince's misfortune. She leaned on a chaise lounge, her newly manicured nails brushing against the silk, a growing malevolence in her brow. This could not continue. What incredible fortune had that wench's son stumbled upon to rise so rapidly in status? She had initially thought that without maternal support and married to a wife who offered no assistance, he was destined to be incomparable to her own son.
But reality proved otherwise; his current brilliance had completely overshadowed her son.
Even the Crown Prince had to concede ground.
First, there was his military achievement in resisting the Japanese pirates, and now he had single-handedly eradicated the bandit menace in Shanxi. Upon his return to court, his reputation would undoubtedly reach even greater heights.
With the Emperor's favor, a wealthy wife, coupled with fame and prestige, he would undoubtedly become the greatest obstacle to Jue'er's ascension to the throne. Tapping her vibrant red fingers on the table, Consort Jian asked in a low voice, "Where is Prince Ning? Summon him to see me."
Prince Ning had no interest in these courtly affairs; he was currently searching far and wide for renowned physicians.
After the temporary closure of Lingyan Pavilion, he had not broken contact with Sheng Ge. Now, the two were sitting in a private room at Zui Xiang Lou. "Sheng Ge, what news do you have about the doctor I asked you to inquire about?"
Sheng Ge replied, "There is some glimmer of hope. I've heard of a 'Ghost Doctor' in the capital, renowned for his skill in creating poisons and curses. Whether it's poison or medicine, if the price is right, he can create whatever you desire."
"I have heard whispers of the 'Ghost Doctor's' name. Are you certain such a person exists?"
"I would not dare to speak of uncertain matters before Your Highness. It's just..."
"Just what?"
"The Ghost Doctor's whereabouts are erratic and difficult to ascertain. Finding him may require considerable effort."
"Investigate! Dig three feet into the ground if you must, but bring him before me." This ailment cannot be delayed any longer, or even the matter of taking a new royal consort will become problematic. He would absolutely not consider a daughter of the Jian family again. The sister of the Minister of Revenue, however, might be worth considering.
Without money, nothing could be accomplished. If he could gain the support of the Minister of Revenue, the financial pressure would be significantly alleviated.
Sheng Ge responded softly, "Your Highness, rest assured, I will exert my utmost effort."
With the prospect of finding a doctor skilled in curses, Situ Jue's taut nerves eased considerably, and Sheng Ge's docile demeanor became even more pleasing to his eyes. He put his arm around her shoulder. "Handle this matter well, and I will not mistreat you."
Sheng Ge: ...
"Your Highness, Consort Jian requests your presence." Situ Jue's guard had rescued her from dire straits, and although Situ Jue was reluctant to go, his mother's command could not be refused. He begrudgingly rose, and before leaving, he couldn't resist pinching Sheng Ge's cheek. "Good girl, I'll come back to shower you with affection later."
Why did he have to disgust her like this when he was already leaving? Sheng Ge almost lost control of her expression.