But that was only directed at the lowly palace maids and eunuchs.
The Imperial Guards had also received some news, but to become a guard, one had to be sharp-witted, not to mention the leaders.
Without the need for their leaders’ restraint, they had already fallen silent.
How many could be fetched into the palace by the Empress’s Phoenix Carriage and personally received by Eunuch Dezi?
They were not fools, to offend the rising power of the future.
Although she was still a woman now, by the time she left the palace, she might already have her title conferred.
With the Emperor on her mind, the Empress Dowager was unable to sleep, her thoughts a tangled mess, particularly after learning of Noble Consort Wang’s foolish actions, she exclaimed angrily, "I thought she had a clear head, but it turns out she’s stupid!"
"The Noble Consort merely had a moment of confusion!"
"A moment of confusion, not necessarily so!" the Empress Dowager snorted coldly, then commanded, "Convey my solemn decree, let her seclude herself to reflect and pray for the Emperor’s health, and before the Emperor has recovered, no meat or strong-smelling foods are to be allowed in Ganyu Palace!"
Such punishment was not too severe.
At least the Noble Consort’s position was preserved.
The Empress Dowager then asked, "Have the people who served His Majesty last night been dealt with?"
"Replying to the Empress Dowager, they have all disappeared!"
The Empress Dowager quickly understood upon reflection.
At that time, with the Emperor unconscious, the only person who could have made arrangements was Eunuch Hai. It was likely the Empress knew nothing of this.
"Let it be, do not bother with this matter anymore. Go to the storeroom and pick some items to be sent to Weiyang Palace for that girl—nothing too expensive, but also nothing too light; just appropriate," she instructed.
When Yun Jinnian awoke, Shaoyao personally attended to her and informed her of the disappearance of the three women who had served at night.
Yun Jinnian was startled for a moment, then nodded slightly, "I understand!"
After washing her hands, she began to examine the red Poisonous Insect.
She then made a list of the required medicinal ingredients and sent Shaoyao to fetch them from the Imperial Medical Bureau.
Soon, the ingredients were brought over. Yun Jinnian had requested double the amounts of each ingredient, a seemingly haphazard collection, and no one could discern exactly which ingredients Yun Jinnian truly needed.
With Eunuch Dezi personally attending to it, who would dare to skimp?
Not only was the quantity sufficient, but there was also a surplus.
After the Empress was informed, she just laughed, "Let her be. Whatever she needs, have Dezi fetch it from the Imperial Medical Bureau. If they don’t have it, she can come to me!"
After pondering, she added, "Have her check in on the Emperor later, and once she returns, there’s no need for her to leave Weiyang Palace again. If she wishes to go out and enjoy herself, she can do so tomorrow. Instruct the Imperial Kitchen to prepare some exquisite pastries and delicate, fresh meals, and have her join me for dinner tonight!"
Mama Ma responded, "Her Highness’s kindness will be understood by the Fourth Miss!"
"She’s a child to my liking, well-behaved and sensible, yet she’s not a pushover to be kneaded at will. I’m just curious how such a good-natured girl clashed with Chief Pan and even spoke those words!"
"Should Her Highness ask tonight?" suggested Mama Ma.
"No need to ask. It’s a trivial matter. However, Chief Pan did take things too far in using his power to bully others. He didn’t expect to hit a soft nail—I’m quite looking forward to seeing how he will break this impasse!"
A misstep could very well lead to the extermination of a family.
"Her Highness can rest assured, this old servant will keep an eye on things. Regarding the Marquis Residence, should we send a message and ask the Marquess to..."
"There’s no need. For such a trivial matter, why should my brother step in? Be assured, the Imperial Medical Bureau is not so clean; there are people who want to take the Chief’s position. Previously, they had no chance, but now the opportunity has arrived, and they will certainly make a move. Let’s just wait and see!"
Upon hearing this, Mama Ma knew it to be the truth.
"This old servant was too anxious!"
The Empress smiled mildly and said no more.
"Reporting to Her Highness the Empress, the Empress Dowager has bestowed some gifts upon the Fourth Miss. Eunuch An is waiting outside right now!"