Secure Peace

It's been about a week and I am officially 3 months with child. So I have decided now is the time to tell both the Emperor and the Empress Dowager, everyone else can find out in time. I don't want Sister Ning to be hurt too much by this news so hopefully we can keep it quiet til I really start to show. I will join the them for breakfast today and I am headed there now early so I can tell the Empress Dowager first. She will appreciate this.

When I arrived I noticed how sad she seemed, it tugged at my heart. "My Queen Mother I hope you are well. I have some good news that I hope will make your day" I said bowing and greeting her. "Oh child please sit down and tell me, I have been so weary these days. Such bad luck with your sisters. I know you feel their pain as well but don't let it weigh to heavily." She said in reply.

I did as she instructed and told her promptly "Queen Mother I am 3 months with child" I said with a smile. Her face immediately rose and she said "Really!? Oh thank the gods." Then grabbing my hands she said "You have always been our luck my child. I am so happy to hear this. And if you have a prince...you shall have a better chance to reach the top" I quickly replied " Queen Mother you must know that has never been my intention. I just want to have a peaceful harem filled with many heirs. What's best for our Emperor of course" it's true, my goal has never been power, just peace but I suppose being in the highest position will provide a more secure peace. Hmm.

"I know my child and that's exactly why I have always had my eye on you. One day I won't be here and my son hasn't given me much time to find and groom someone to rule the harem. An Empress, who shall rule with grace and breed prosperity in the palace." Patting my hand she then said "But that's a position you must earn. Prove to me you are the one and I shall make sure that seat is yours." I nodded in reply. I shall prove it to her and the Emperor, for the sake of my children. Putting my hand on my stomach and smiling.

Then the Emperor joined us and the Empress Dowager shared the news before I could. Which is fine, I won't spoil her excitement. "My lotus blossom this makes me so happy. You always brighten my day." He said smiling at me and placing a hand on my stomach.

We enjoyed breakfast and the conversation was nice and light, thank goddess the gloom has lifted. After the Empress Dowager appointed the best imperial physician to take care of me and insisted the princess will spend more time with her. That way she doesn't wear me out. This was hard to hear but I understand her intentions are well meant. I swallowed my words in protest for the sake of our new bond I felt was forming.

We then took our leave and the Emperor said to me "Take care and I will come for dinner in 2 days time" touching my cheek slightly and then leaving. I felt warm inside at his touch and smiled as I bowed at his departure. Huiqing then said "Miss let's return Miss Meili is waiting for you" so we departed.

Upon arriving I noticed Sister Meili crying, I quickly ran over to her and ordered for calming tea with sweet cakes. She finally calmed down and told me "My Mother wrote to me and she's so worried because my father is sick and they don't have the proper medicine. I don't know how I'm suppose to help older sister" I know exactly what can help but she's gonna have to over come being so shy. The Emperors favor will also secure her money and he will of course want to take care of a beloved concubines family. "Sister it will be okay. I have a plan but you must trust me, okay?" She sniffles and nods. Then I continue "You will come over for a late lunch in 2 days, bathe in this calming sweet oil I'm going to send you home with before. It will help with your nerves. I promise I will make sure everything is okay" I squeezed her hands in comfort. "Thank you Older sister, I know you will take care of me. You have such a kind spirit." She said in such a quite and sad voice.

I sent her home with the oil but also more calming tea and cakes too. I'm not so sure about my plan but I will do whatever I can because she needs me more than before. I prayed before falling asleep. Oh goddess help soothe her worry and give her good rest tonight. And thank you for all you have blessed me with...