Chapter 1268 - 25: The Emperor Becomes a Dog
Chapter 1268: Chapter 25: The Emperor Becomes a Dog
"Also, once the dog tags are prepared, promptly deliver them and personally ensure they’re put on. Then go and inform all the palaces about this matter. Henceforth, when anyone sees the Princess’s puppy, they must carefully guard it and not obstruct its path," the Emperor solemnly instructed. This matter was indeed of utmost importance; he certainly did not wish to become a meal or be kicked again.
Eunuch Xue was filled with questions, but dared not ask them, and respectfully agreed.
After selecting numerous gifts, the Emperor, accompanied by attendants, proceeded to the Empress Palace.
He joyfully played with the Princess for quite some time, and the Empress’s gaze was somewhat complex. Despite harboring resentment for the Emperor’s years of harsh treatment towards her, witnessing his interactions with the Princess made him appear more pleasing to her.
The Emperor certainly noticed the Empress’s expression. Knowing her temperament well, he understood not to rush things and took a gradual approach, ultimately hoping to change her mind.
After leaving behind a plethora of items, the Emperor departed with his entourage. Instead of returning to his own chambers, he headed to see the Imperial Concubine Cao.
Imperial Concubine Cao was overjoyed upon seeing the Emperor.
After years, the Emperor finally came to see her!
The Emperor remained with Imperial Concubine Cao for quite some time, even complimenting her makeup and commendable tea-making skills, bestowing some gifts before taking his leave.
Thrilled after the Emperor’s departure, Imperial Concubine Cao’s face was flushed with excitement.
"Zi Juan, the Emperor finally remembers my goodness," she remarked happily, gazing at the cup the Emperor used, and continued, "That vile woman, the Imperial Concubine Shu, always monopolizes the Emperor and prevents him from visiting me, even while pregnant, she doesn’t settle down."
"Good times are coming, my lady," Zi Juan replied, equally delighted. As fortunes rise and fall together, she naturally hoped that her mistress would be favored, thus earning her some respect from the Palace Attendants in the harem.
Afterward, the Emperor visited the Empress Dowager to pay respects.
Tianmiao, sipping tea, asked in shock, "Emperor, you appointed Prince De as the Regent King?"
"Indeed, Mother. As they say, those capable should bear more responsibilities. I’ve been feeling unwell intermittently, so he, benefiting from royal privileges, should share the burdens," the Emperor replied with a justified tone.
Such an impeccable argument left her speechless. Tianmiao observed the Emperor’s joyful demeanor, realizing this cunning Emperor shifted to a new mode after learning his brother wasn’t inclined toward the throne. This new mode might cause Prince De simultaneous joy and lament; joyful since the elder brother no longer harbored suspicions, alleviating some gloom and anxiety from his life. Yet lamentable due to the demands of rising early and retiring late.
However, that concerns their brotherly bond, and it’s out of her hands.
"You visited the Princess and Empress today?" the Empress Dowager inquired further.
"Yes, the Princess was very obedient. I plan to find a teacher for her lessons. To avert the Empress’s worries, I will arrange for the teachers to conduct lessons in the Empress Palace. Do you have any recommendations, Mother? Since they will be teaching in the Empress Palace, all selected teachers must be women," the Emperor asked.
"Actually, I believe attending lessons in the Upper Study Room would be better," Tianmiao suggested. "In the future, you’ll have other children, and it’s better for them all to study together."
The Emperor contemplated this, realizing the truth in her words. Starting with the Princess as a precedent could complicate matters for future Princes and Princesses. Although he currently adored the Princess, excessively elevating her might not be beneficial.