Chapter 11

CHAPTER 11

It was the day of the tea party, and the atmosphere in Shangguan Ning's chamber was charged with a mix of anticipation and anxiety. The sunlight streamed through the ornate windows, casting a warm glow over the room, but it did little to calm his nerves. Today would be a test of his composure and poise, especially given the political nuances that surrounded the gathering.

"Cong," Shangguan Ning called out, turning to his loyal attendant who was busy arranging the delicate porcelain tea set on the table. "Fetch me a formal outfit, but something that's not overly formal. I don't want to appear as if I'm trying too hard, yet I need to maintain a dignified presence."

Cong nodded with a knowing smile, already understanding his prince consort's desire for balance. "Of course, Your Highness. I'll find something that strikes the perfect tone." He quickly left the chamber, moving with the practiced efficiency of someone well-acquainted with the routines of royal life.

As Shangguan Ning prepared himself for the day, his mind raced with thoughts about the tea party and the role he would play. He had heard whispers of the empress's intentions and knew that today's gathering would be anything but simple. Each detail mattered—every word, every gesture—would be scrutinized by those present, especially the empress, who was known for her sharp observations.

Moments later, Cong returned, carrying a beautifully folded robe in his arms. "Your Highness, I believe this will suit you perfectly," he said, unfurling the fabric to reveal a deep indigo robe adorned with subtle silver embroidery that shimmered like stars against the night sky. The sleeves were elegantly wide, but not overly extravagant, and the design was both regal and understated.

Shangguan Ning's eyes lit up as he examined the robe. "This is beautiful, Cong. It strikes just the right balance between formality and approachability," he said, appreciating the craftsmanship.

"I'm glad you like it, Your Highness. Let me help you put it on," Cong said, stepping forward to assist.

As he dressed, Shangguan Ning took a moment to breathe deeply, steadying himself for the gathering. He knew that he needed to project confidence, both for himself and to reassure those who might doubt his position. After a few moments, he was dressed and looked every bit the dignified prince consort.

"Do I look ready?" he asked, turning to Cong, who stood back, admiring his handiwork.

"Absolutely, Your Highness. You look resplendent," Cong replied with an approving nod. "The empress will certainly take notice."

"Let's hope it's for the right reasons," Shangguan Ning murmured, a hint of apprehension creeping back into his voice.

Cong offered a reassuring smile. "Just remember, Your Highness, you have every right to be here. You belong in this court, and you've already proven yourself time and time again. Just be yourself, and don't let anyone intimidate you."

Shangguan Ning took a deep breath, feeling a wave of gratitude for Cong's unwavering support. "Thank you, Cong. Your words mean a lot to me."

With that, they made their way to the gathering. As they walked through the corridors of the palace, Shangguan Ning felt the weight of the moment pressing down on him. The vibrant decor, the murmurs of servants, and the soft sound of flowing water from the gardens created an atmosphere that was both inviting and suffocating.

Finally, they reached the designated hall for the tea party. The large doors were adorned with intricate carvings, and as Shangguan Ning pushed them open, he stepped into a world filled with elegance and expectation. The room was filled with nobles, all dressed in their finest attire, chatting among themselves. At the center of it all stood the empress, regal and poised, exuding an aura of authority that commanded respect.

As Shangguan Ning entered, he felt a mixture of excitement and trepidation. All eyes turned toward him, and for a moment, time seemed to stand still. He straightened his back, lifting his chin with determination, and stepped further into the hall, ready to face whatever challenges awaited him.

"The Sovereign Consort has arrived!" a palace maid announced, her voice ringing clear through the elegantly decorated hall.

All at once, the nobles in attendance turned and bowed deeply, greeting him with the utmost respect, except for the empress herself, who remained seated, her gaze sharp and unyielding. Shangguan Ning's eyes briefly swept across the room as he made his entrance, taking in the gathering. Not only were the unmarried noble ladies present, but he also noticed the presence of several legal wives and concubines of various nobles. Among them were lowborn male concubines—illegitimate sons of noble families or commoners with striking features, invited solely because of their beauty. Their presence further highlighted the varied status and roles within the demon court's intricate hierarchy.

With graceful poise, Shangguan Ning walked towards his designated seat, which was placed just beside the empress. His calm composure did not betray the subtle tension he could feel in the air as eyes lingered on him. Jealousy and envy rippled through the room, especially from those who resented his highborn status and noble lineage. Despite being new to the court, his position as the Sovereign Consort—and his unparalleled bloodline—drew both admiration and hostility from all corners.

Reaching his seat, Shangguan Ning turned to the empress, bowing slightly but with all the dignity his rank afforded him. "Greetings, Your Majesty the Empress. Apologies for being late," he said, his voice smooth and respectful, yet holding the subtle authority of his position.

The empress looked at him for a brief moment, her expression unreadable, before offering a slight nod in acknowledgment. "You are just in time, Sovereign Consort," she replied, her tone formal, though there was an undercurrent of something more—something sharp, perhaps a reminder that this gathering would be far from casual.

Shangguan Ning seated himself beside her, already aware of the glances being exchanged around the room. This tea party, he knew, was more than just a social affair. Hidden beneath the polite conversation and elegant manners were the intricate politics of the court, with every word and gesture scrutinized by those who sought to gain favor or undermine him. But Shangguan Ning remained calm, his mind as sharp as ever, ready to navigate the complexities of the day.

As the tea party began, the air filled with light chatter and polite conversation. The guests—nobles, concubines, and attendants—were all engaged in their own discussions, though many kept a wary eye on Shangguan Ning, who sat beside the empress with quiet composure. It was clear that his presence commanded attention, whether out of respect or curiosity.

Breaking through the low hum of conversation, the empress turned her gaze to Shangguan Ning and a young woman seated across from him. Her voice was smooth and authoritative as she spoke. "Ning'er," she began, using the familiar term in a way that felt slightly forced, "allow me to introduce you to my niece, Liu Jing Wei."

The empress gestured toward a striking young woman seated near her, who immediately looked up at Shangguan Ning with a polite smile. "Wei'er, this is Shangguan Ning, the Sovereign Consort and your cousin's legal spouse."

Shangguan Ning shifted his attention to Liu Jing Wei, taking note of her elegant appearance. She was refined, with a grace that hinted at her noble upbringing, though there was something about her smile—calculated and a touch too perfect. Her eyes, though polite, held a subtle sharpness that made it clear she was no mere passive participant in this gathering.

"It is an honor to finally meet the Sovereign Consort," Liu Jing Wei said with a soft voice, dipping her head slightly in a show of respect.

Shangguan Ning returned the gesture, his expression neutral yet courteous. "The honor is mine, Lady Liu," he replied, his tone even but polite. He already sensed the underlying currents of the empress's introduction, understanding that this was not just a casual meeting. Liu Jing Wei, niece of the empress and a figure of importance in the court, was likely involved in some larger scheme, one that could challenge his position if not handled carefully.

As the two exchanged pleasantries, Shangguan Ning could feel the eyes of the other guests watching closely, eager to see how this interaction would unfold. The empress's gaze lingered on him as if assessing his every move, while Liu Jing Wei's smile remained fixed in place, carefully measured. Whatever this tea party was meant to be, it was clear that this introduction was only the beginning.

As the conversations in the tea party ebbed and flowed, the empress turned her attention back to Shangguan Ning and Liu Jing Wei. Her tone softened, almost nostalgic, as she began to recount the past.

"Ning'er," the empress started, her eyes briefly drifting toward Liu Jing Wei before settling back on Shangguan Ning, "you may not know this, but Wei'er and Qiang'er practically grew up together. They were inseparable in their youth. Wei'er has always held a special place in his heart, like a dear friend... or perhaps something more."

Liu Jing Wei smiled demurely, lowering her eyes modestly as though this history was an old, cherished secret. Shangguan Ning listened, keeping his expression calm, though inwardly, he felt the weight of where this conversation was likely heading.

The empress's voice dropped slightly, taking on a more serious tone, her smile never quite reaching her eyes. She folded her hands elegantly in her lap, her next words deliberate and clear.

"Given their closeness and shared history, I was thinking… why not let Wei'er become a noble concubine of Qiang'er?" The empress paused, watching Shangguan Ning closely for a reaction. Her tone was soft but firm, the suggestion laden with political intent.

At her words, a ripple of murmurs spread through the gathered guests. It was clear that this was no simple suggestion—it was a direct challenge to Shangguan Ning's position as the legal consort. Liu Jing Wei kept her head bowed, though a faint smile tugged at the corners of her lips, revealing that she was not as unaware as she pretended to be.

Shangguan Ning remained composed, his heart steady even as the empress's words confirmed the undercurrent of tension he had sensed from the beginning. The room seemed to hold its breath, waiting for how he would respond.

Shangguan Ning maintained his poise, his expression calm but his words calculated as he responded to the empress's suggestion.

"Your Majesty," he began with a graceful bow of his head, "I appreciate your concern for Li Qiang's well-being, and I understand the sentiment behind your suggestion. However, I have only recently married the prince. I believe it may not be entirely appropriate to consider such a proposal at this moment." His voice was smooth, yet firm, leaving little room for misinterpretation.

He continued, carefully measuring his words. "Furthermore, while I hold a place of responsibility in the household, the decision to accept Lady Liu as a noble concubine is not solely mine. It is, of course, a matter for both myself and the second prince to discuss and agree upon."

The empress's pleasant expression faltered for a moment, a flicker of frustration crossing her face as Shangguan Ning's respectful yet firm words settled in the air. Though she hid it well, the subtle tightening of her jaw revealed her displeasure. It was clear that she had not expected her suggestion to be met with such gentle defiance.

The other nobles in the room shifted slightly, sensing the tension between the empress and the sovereign consort, while Liu Jing Wei kept her gaze downcast, her hands clasped delicately in her lap, though her composure betrayed nothing of the ambition that lingered beneath the surface.

Shangguan Ning, meanwhile, sat calmly in his seat, awaiting the empress's response, fully aware that he had just drawn a firm line in this subtle battle of court politics.

The empress's eyes flared with anger as she leaned forward, her voice sharp. "This is for the future of the royal bloodline! How can you not see the importance of this matter?"

Shangguan Ning, however, remained composed, unfazed by the empress's outburst. He glanced at her with a cool gaze and responded with measured calmness. "Your Majesty, I understand the weight of the royal bloodline, but your words today carry a tone that borders on disrespect—not just to me, but to my dynasty. I wonder how my uncle, the emperor, would react upon hearing such disrespect toward his nephew."

The empress's face paled, and in a flash of fury, she stood abruptly, her finger pointing directly at him. "You...!" she spat, her voice trembling with barely restrained anger. "Shangguan Ning, are you really willing to risk the peace treaty that our races have worked so hard to build? Do you think such a careless threat will go unnoticed?"

Shangguan Ning, still seated calmly, met her eyes without flinching. "I have no desire to disturb the peace between our realms, Empress. I simply stated a fact. Disrespect towards my lineage is not something I take lightly."

The room had grown tense, the air thick with the weight of their confrontation. The other nobles watched in uneasy silence, unsure of what would happen next. At that moment, Liu Jing Wei, ever the opportunist, seized the chance to intervene. She spoke softly, with a feigned humility that dripped from her every word.

"Sovereign Consort, please, try to understand. My aunt, the Empress, only wishes for the best for the royal family," she said, her tone pleading.

Shangguan Ning slowly turned his gaze toward Liu Jing Wei, his eyes narrowing slightly as he regarded her. His voice, while still calm, carried a distinct edge. "Lady Liu," he began, pausing just long enough for the weight of his words to sink in. "Do you believe you have the right to interrupt this conversation between the empress and myself?"

A hush fell over the gathering. Liu Jing Wei's face paled at the direct challenge. She had overstepped, and Shangguan Ning's subtle reprimand was a reminder of the social boundaries she had just crossed. The empress glared at Shangguan Ning but remained silent for the moment, her anger simmering beneath the surface.

The tension in the room was palpable as Shangguan Ning held his ground, his authority as the sovereign consort firmly established.