Song Dingxiang [Completed]

C65. Recognize Relatives.

Chapter 65

Eunuch Wang continued, "For so many years, the eighth prince has been searching for the eldest son, but has not been able to find him. Although General Zhou was raised by others, it is still unclear if he is truly the eighth prince's child."

The emperor said, "I just feel that he looks quite similar."

Eunuch Wang sighed, "There are many people who look alike, who can really confirm that General Zhou is the eighth prince's child? Your Majesty, this matter requires caution, extreme caution."

The emperor also felt a bit distressed, "Do you have any good ideas? I always feel indebted to the eighth uncle. Although the eighth uncle has never said anything over the years, there has always been a knot in my heart."

Eunuch Wang thought for a moment and said, "The lotus flowers in the Qing Garden are in full bloom now. Why not invite them to come and admire the flowers, arrange for them to meet. They say that the bond between a mother and child is inseparable, perhaps without Your Majesty worrying, the eighth prince and princess will be able to recognize him."

*

On this side, Zhou Yinuo had already completed his tasks at the military department and was planning to go home with Song Dingxiang. Unexpectedly, the emperor suddenly issued an order, inviting the court officials and the princes to the Qing Garden to admire the lotus flowers.

The Qing Garden, a serene oasis nestled just beyond the imperial palace, surpassed even the grandeur of the Imperial Flower Garden. Its expansive waters invited leisurely boat rides, while its meticulously crafted mountains, adorned with delicate winter plum blossoms and vibrant summer lotus, painted a breathtaking tableau throughout the year. The garden's harmonious blend of natural beauty and human artistry created a haven of tranquility where emperors and their court could escape the rigors of governance and immerse themselves in the poetic elegance of nature.

Moreover, the Qing Garden was open to the public twice a year, allowing the common people to enter and enjoy the scenery, making it a lively event.

Although it was already late summer, the lotus flowers in the Qing Garden were in full bloom. From afar, they appeared delicate and radiant against the red sun, truly exquisite.

During this lotus viewing event, the emperor simply said it was to lift the spirits, allowing officials of the fourth rank or higher in the capital city to attend, and they could also bring their families.

Song Dingxiang was not actually interested in looking at lotus flowers, as her family had a large pond of lotus plants, so she could see flowers every year. However, since the emperor had just bestowed gifts upon their family and granted her the title of county princess, it would be inappropriate not to go.

The emperor seemed to know that she didn't have many fancy dresses, so he specially sent a few complete outfits. From head to toe, everything was well-prepared, obviously intending for her to wear them to the lotus viewing.

Zhou Yinuo couldn't evade this task either and could only wear his official attire to accompany his beautiful wife.

At the entrance of the Qing Garden, many sedan chairs and carriages were parked, and eunuchs and guards were busy shuttling back and forth. Song Dingxiang alighted from the county princess's ceremonial carriage bestowed by the emperor and was immediately greeted by numerous curious gazes.

The fact that the emperor granted the title of county princess to a peasant girl had become a well-known topic of gossip in the capital city. It was known that such titles were usually reserved for daughters of imperial relatives and nobles.