The Valued Lady is Truly Dominant

Emperor Chu glanced repeatedly at his loyal and upright minister, Prime Minister Song, thinking slyly that this fellow seemed quite irritable today. Could it be mid-life crisis or unfulfilled desires, with no way to vent his frustrations?

Song Zhiyuan: “My old mother is near her end; I find no reason to smile.”

“If you have something to report, do so. Otherwise, the court is dismissed.”

All the officials sighed with relief, having finally endured another grueling session.

It was yet another day being tormented by Prime Minister Song, whose sharp tongue had become even more cutting, unbearable.

Emperor Chu signaled Song Zhiyuan to accompany him, but instead of discussing matters in Yangxin Hall, they went for a walk in the Imperial Garden.

Song Zhiyuan said, “Is Your Majesty wanting me to accompany you in admiring the flowers?”

Emperor Chu raised an eyebrow, feigning nonchalance, “What, Yunzhi, do you not wish to share this splendid springtime with me?”

Song Zhiyuan’s arm broke out in goosebumps as he looked at the Emperor, as if seeing a ghost in daylight.

They were not that close; there was no need for such pretense.

Emperor Chu: “…”

A little disappointed.

“Could it be that Aunt’s health hasn’t improved?” Emperor Chu asked.

The person beside him was indeed a filial son. Having now achieved success and seeing his family prosper, his only worry was probably Song Ci’s health.

Upon hearing this question, Song Zhiyuan, with his hands behind his back, sighed and changed the subject, “If Your Majesty trusts Zeng Guang, perhaps promote him to the Chancellor’s position by the end of the year.”

Emperor Chu paused, turned his head to look at him, as if trying to discern whether this was sincere or a test from his face.

Yet all he saw was a helpless sorrow.

Song Zhiyuan wasn’t jesting, he was seriously considering.

“No bad news has come from the Imperial Hospital. Why are you…?” Emperor Chu’s brows furrowed.

If Song Ci’s health hadn’t truly reached its limit, he wouldn’t be saying such ominous things, would he?

Song Zhiyuan, a bit forlorn, said, “My physical condition seems to worsen day by day, and besides, there is that unbreakable bond between mother and son.”

Ever since Song Ci fell into a coma, it’s been the same every year. He had mentally prepared himself, but seeing her endure made him hope she might recover.

However, after last night’s dream and seeing her this morning, he felt a sense of unease.

If Song Ci were to pass, he would inevitably have to observe mourning. Currently, he is the only Chancellor, and it wouldn’t be suitable for both Chancellor positions to remain vacant while he mourns.

Observing filial piety for three years post a parent’s passing; the court couldn’t halt its operations for his period of mourning.

Thus, he preferred to caution Emperor Chu in advance.

On the other hand, though he might mourn for three years, his fellow official Song Lingjie only needs one year. After mourning, he would need an external appointment to accumulate experience, all of which required prior planning.

Emperor Chu fell silent, saying, “Promoting to Chancellor isn’t urgent; we’ll discuss it when the time comes.”

“Your Majesty, Zeng Guangcong is loyal and, being allied with the Crown Prince’s family through a concubine, promoting him will only strengthen loyalty. The Left Minister position cannot remain vacant, as it undermines balance in the court.”

Emperor Chu chuckled lightly at his earnest admonition: “You are truly selfless.”

Song Zhiyuan responded righteously: “Your Majesty must not act impulsively.”

Emperor Chu: “…”

This was not what he wanted to hear.

Song Zhiyuan, thinking of returning home to accompany Song Ci for lunch, accompanied the Emperor for a brief moment before requesting leave to depart from the palace.

Watching his hurried steps, Emperor Chu sighed, “It seems that the health of Lady Song is indeed at the end of its strength.”

Eunuch Zhou, with something of pity in his eyes, held a good impression of Song Ci. Hearing these words, he naturally felt saddened and commented, “Lady Song is a great and kind person; we can only hope that Heaven shows more mercy towards her.”

At least, that she does not depart amidst suffering, which would be too cruel.