The Valued Lady is Truly Dominant

After some idle chatter, and three rounds of drinks, Duke of England shifted the topic to Emperor Chu.

”During this morning’s court, I noticed that the Emperor’s complexion was still somewhat pale, as if he hasn’t fully recovered his vitality and is merely forcing himself to attend. Yunzhi, can you give us some certainty, is the Emperor’s illness truly not a concern?”

Song Zhiyuan held a jade wine cup and sighed, ”At this point, there’s nothing to hide. The Emperor’s illness this time is an epidemic, swift and fierce, accompanied by fever. It was barely brought down, only to rise again, causing a lot of suffering. Fortunately, Master Buhui sent over a prescription specifically targeting this epidemic, which is somewhat different from past years, allowing for more effective treatment.”

He spoke selectively and calmly, not completely disclosing the dangers involved. Some things need not be said entirely and in detail, even if the Duke of England were by the Emperor’s side, it would be impossible to explain everything clearly.

”Indeed, after enduring a serious illness, he hasn’t fully recovered yet. Even once recovered, careful and quiet recuperation is required to ensure complete safety.” Song Zhiyuan said, ”But then, you know what our Emperor is like, diligent and caring for the people, with a heap of memorials and state affairs waiting. How can he really become a carefree shopkeeper and rest at ease? Even if it means forcing himself, he needs to attend court to handle state affairs.”

The Duke of England nodded, ”The Emperor is indeed a wise ruler.”

”Exactly, so you could say he is forcing himself, and you wouldn’t be wrong. As long as he recuperates carefully, there should be no worries,” Song Zhiyuan said with a smile.

The Duke of England exhaled in relief, his eyes darted around, then sighed, ”That’s good. The Emperor is the ruler of a nation, the supreme sovereign, and the whole Great Qing relies on him to lead, especially now with the Eastern Palace vacant, the world cannot afford chaos. If he is well, it is great assurance.”

Song Zhiyuan smiled faintly, ”Could I think any differently from you? However, after this incident, I’m afraid the Emperor has probably made up his mind.”

The Duke of England’s heart felt like it was being scratched by a cat, itching with curiosity, and he asked through gritted teeth, ”In your view, Yunzhi, who does the Emperor favor?”

Song Zhiyuan: ”The thoughts of an emperor are always difficult to fathom, and I dare not speculate on the imperial intent. But regardless of whom it may favor, for those of us who are neutral, it doesn’t matter. After all, in this vast empire, whichever prince it is, they all bear the surname Chu.”

The Duke of England’s eyes flickered as he pondered Song Zhiyuan’s words, Prince?

Song Zhiyuan had already changed the topic, looking toward his son-in-law, who was humbly standing by as a servant, and said, ”Qi Zhen, you got this Commander position that originally belonged to the Wen Family. The Wen Family has already allied with Prince Zhou, and now that this position is taken away, you might face some obstacles when you go to take over. Before Jin prepares the feast, you should make a move early, manage well, and take over this position. Otherwise, the longer it drags on, the more unfavorable it will become.”

Speaking of serious matters, the Duke of England had to temporarily set aside the issue of the Eastern Palace and said to Qi Zhen, ”Your father-in-law is right, this position originally belonged to the Wen Family. Currently, the Governor of Jiangnan is also from the Wen Family. A strong dragon does not overpower the local serpent. Be mentally prepared and handle it well.”

Qi Zhen hurriedly stood up, cupped his hands and said, ”I understand, Father.”

Song Zhiyuan squinted and said, ”This position is indeed unforeseen. I didn’t expect the Emperor to make this appointment; it seems the Emperor also intends to move against the Wen Family to intimidate Prince Zhou. As for whether the position can be firmly held and truly inherited, it will depend on your abilities.”

”Rest assured, Father-in-law, I will not let you or Father down,” Qi Zhen said proudly.