The Twelfth Consort didn't dare push further and gave an awkward smile, knowing that this sister-in-law was not someone to be trifled with. After sitting for only a short while longer, she gathered her children and left.
Qiqige, as always, maintained proper etiquette, courteously seeing her guest to the door. She watched as the palanquin swayed gently away into the distance. With a sigh, Qiqige turned and walked back inside.
Just as Qiqige stepped over the threshold, she heard the sound of approaching hoofbeats, drawing nearer. She could immediately recognize Dorgon's distinct footsteps, but the clattering of the horse's hooves… Unable to resist, Qiqige ran back outside, looking toward the direction of the sound. At the far end of the long road, she saw a familiar figure on horseback.
"Dorgon," she exclaimed, overjoyed, and immediately ran toward her husband.
Dorgon was surprised to see Qiqige waiting at the gate, but without hesitation, he quickened his pace, leaping down from his horse. Before he knew it, his wife had run straight into his arms, right there in the middle of the street.
This area was lined with noble residences, and though there were few people around, the display of affection caught him off guard. With a wry smile, he said, "Aren't you worried about people gossiping when you act like this?"
Qiqige shook her head, brushing her face gently against the armour on his chest. "Let them gossip if they want to."
"I'm exhausted," Dorgon admitted, leaning more of his weight onto her. "I've been traveling for two days and two nights." His tall, strong frame gradually leaned on Qiqige, and it was she who supported him as he said quietly, "I just want to sleep."
Qiqige was alarmed by Dorgon's state and quickly but steadily supported him, whispering, "Let's go home, you can sleep there."
That afternoon, after the midday meal, Hong Taiji returned from the imperial mausoleum and soon heard that Dorgon had arrived. Even more surprising was the sight of Qiqige waiting at the palace gates. She knelt to apologize, explaining that Dorgon was so exhausted he couldn't even stand, having fallen into a deep sleep, and therefore could not come to pay his respects to the Great Khan.
After Nurhaci's death, although Hong Taiji had been supported to inherit the throne, the other princes—such as Daišan, Amin, and Manggūltai—held considerable power, all of them being older than Hong Taiji.
To secure stability, Hong Taiji, after ascending to the khanate, had maintained a policy of sharing authority, sitting with the three Beile as equals during state ceremonies and discussions.
However, times had changed. Two years ago, Hong Taiji began sitting alone on the southern throne, marking a clear distinction in rank and authority between him and his brothers. The line between ruler and subjects among the brothers could no longer be ignored.
Qiqige understood this delicate shift in power. Seeing her husband in such a deep sleep and knowing the political implications of Dorgon's absence at such a key moment, she ordered two of the concubines to tend to him, while she personally went to wait at the palace gates.
Hong Taiji, of course, did not find fault with Dorgon's absence. Instead, he instructed gently, "Let him rest well. He doesn't need to worry too much about tomorrow's memorial ceremony. Just having him offer a stick of incense before Father's spirit will suffice."
Qiqige responded properly, "Rest assured, Great Khan, I have everything prepared."
Hong Taiji nodded silently and continued toward the Grand Politics Hall in the eastern route. As he entered, he casually removed his outer robe, and Niman hurried forward to take it from him. Their eyes met briefly, and Niman cautiously said, "Great Khan, I understand—according to the old customs."
Hong Taiji's gaze was ice-cold as he clasped his hands behind his back and proceeded further into the hall.
Meanwhile, in the western inner palace, Jeje had already learned about Dorgon's return. As she pondered over the situation, Adai arrived, bringing Hairanju with her.
Remembering how harshly she had spoken to her niece the previous night, and considering Hairanju's innocence in the matter, Jeje felt a twinge of regret. Her demeanor softened considerably as she asked, "Is there something you need? Why isn't Yuer with you?"
"She's putting Azhe to sleep," Hairanju replied, her eyes drifting toward the luxurious carpet of Qingning Palace. The intricate and ornate patterns seemed almost overwhelming the more she stared at them, making her slightly dizzy. Steadying herself, she said, "Aunt, could you please arrange for me to have a separate residence? I can't stay in Yuer's quarters indefinitely."
Jeje gestured for Adai to take the other maids and leave, and soon the hall was empty, leaving only the aunt and niece behind. She rose from her seat and walked over to Hairanju. "Do you still remember what Wukeshan told you?" she asked softly.
Hailanzhu pressed her lips together in silence, not daring to respond.
Jeje sighed, her tone softening. "Then stop dwelling on it. Stay here and keep Yuer company. After the winter passes, I will send you away."
Hairanju's face lit up with joy, her once dull eyes now gleaming with hope. "Aunt, are you serious?"