On the day of the Birthday of the Empress Dowager, Yun Qingyu carefully dressed up and rode into the palace in a carriage.
Along the way, Xin Yao kept looking at her with a hesitant expression. Yun Qingyu encouraged Xin Yao to speak, teasingly asking, "Could it be that you are captivated by this Palace's beauty?"
After a moment of silence, Xin Yao replied, "My lady's beauty lies in her bone structure, not just her appearance."
Although Yun Qingyu was indeed very beautiful, Xin Yao had never thought much of her looks before; she was merely a stunning yet fierce facade. But now, her lady was truly beautiful, breathtakingly so.
Hearing Xin Yao's thoughts, Yun Qingyu's eyes curved into a smile as she said, "I take that as a compliment. However, this Palace was not originally ugly either. If there’s a chance in the future, I can take you to see it."
Xin Yao's heart stirred as she asked, "Are you saying you will take me to Dongling?"
Yun Qingyu nodded and replied, "This Palace has already sent word to my father and elder brother. They know I am safe here, so I am not in a hurry to return. We will discuss it once matters here are settled."
Xin Yao gently nodded, feeling warm inside as she thought: My lady must have been extremely beautiful before, even more so than her current face. Moreover, my lady said she would take me to Dongling.
Yun Qingyu glanced at him and secretly mused: This Shadow Guardian’s inner thoughts are becoming more elaborate, yet he says nothing and allows the carriage to carry them toward the palace gates.
After settling down in Renshou Palace for a moment, Yun Qingyu stepped forward a short distance from the main seat and slightly bowed, saying, "I wish the Empress Dowager blessings as vast as the East Sea and longevity like the South Mountain. A few days ago, I acquired a little pet that I find very adorable; today I present it as a gift to the Empress Dowager."
She gently took out the curled-up Little Spirit Beast from her sleeve and slowly placed it before the Empress Dowager.
The Little Guy immediately shouted in a soft and tender voice, "Long live the Empress Dowager!"
The Emperor and the Empress Dowager both sat up in surprise, their eyes wide as they looked at the Little Guy on the table, each feeling a jolt of astonishment: this little pet could actually speak human language.
As if to confirm this, the Little Guy called out, "Long live the Empress Dowager! You are so beautiful, may you be joyful and healthy, and may all your wishes come true!"
The Emperor and the Empress Dowager couldn't help but exclaim in delight, their faces lighting up with affection. They had only heard that parrots could mimic speech; they had never seen other small animals talk.
At that moment, Yun Qingyu heard the familiar voice of the Little Guy by her ear: "Long live the Princess! Long live the Princess!"
Startled, Yun Qingyu thought to herself: What has Hong Yu taught it? In such a setting, saying "Long live the Princess" isn't very appropriate.
She glanced toward the main table and saw that neither the Emperor nor the Empress Dowager reacted unusually; Little Guy was winking at her, indicating that this phrase was something only she could hear.
This little creature was interesting; it could transmit sound, allowing only designated individuals to hear.
Today’s family banquet was sure to be anything but dull.
The Empress Dowager was amused by Little Guy, her gloomy mood from recent days finally lifting a bit. She asked Yun Qingyu, "What kind of animal is it? It shouldn't be a cat, right?"
Yun Qingyu replied, "It's not a cat, but if you like it, Your Highness can think of it as a kitten."
Finally, a smile appeared on the Empress Dowager's face as she said, "I really like this gift of longevity; you are thoughtful."
Once again, Little Guy cutely shouted at the Emperor, "Long live Your Majesty! May you be auspicious and healthy!"
The Emperor was greatly pleased and cast an appreciative glance at his daughter. He had initially worried that she might offend the Empress Dowager, but seeing her now, he felt that the family banquet would likely proceed in a joyful manner.
The Empress Dowager's birthday celebration was significantly uplifted by the Little Spirit Beast presented by Yun Qingyu.
The Emperor, in high spirits, said, "Today, Mother is the guest of honor. The Empress and all the concubines must take good care of the Empress Dowager and ensure she is happy."
The Empress Dowager forced a professional smile and replied, "As long as the Emperor governs diligently and cares for the people, and as long as the harem is peaceful and harmonious, I will be content."
However, she secretly resented the Emperor for not allowing her daughter, Lu Zhaoyi, to join on such a significant day. How could she be happy under these circumstances?
Maintaining a facade of maternal kindness, she subtly hinted to the Emperor, "It has been a long time since I last saw Yiling. How has she been lately?"
The Third Prince felt a tightening in his chest and instinctively turned to gauge the Emperor's reaction. The Emperor responded calmly, "I often summon the Imperial Physician to inquire about her condition. They say Yiling still needs to rest and cannot be disturbed; otherwise, it might undo all her progress. Mother need not worry; after all, Yiling is also my daughter, and I will not treat her harshly."
Seeing the Emperor's attitude, the Empress Dowager recognized his resolve. Though displeased, she chose to remain silent.
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