The Beloved Concubine of the Eastern Palace (book 2)

Chapter 380 - All Just a Show

"There's no joke here. I was praising our son Ji'er to the Empress," Pei Yao said warmly, looking at Fang Yun.

The Empress nodded in agreement.

Meanwhile, the neglected Fourth Prince tugged at Pei Yao's robe.

"Father, I want to go play with Big Brother!"

Seeing this, Fang Yun intervened, "Ji'er, don't make a fuss."

"No, no, it's fine," Pei Yao waved his hand nonchalantly. He then turned to the First Prince. "Yan Che, take your brother and sister out to play for a while."

The First Prince stood up, bowed respectfully, and nodded in agreement.

Despite his careful demeanor, it was evident from his face how delighted he was to be granted permission—truly endearing.

Meanwhile, the Second Princess hadn't forgotten to stop by the Princess Consort of Dun, bringing Jin Yi along.

Seeing Zhao Fei's children so comfortably at ease with the Emperor, everyone could surmise Zhao Fei's favored status.

The Fourth Prince being her biological child was one thing, but the Second Princess was adopted. Those who knew more details were aware that the Second Princess's birth mother, Lady Zhou, was a criminal.

Despite this, the Second Princess, raised by Zhao Fei, was dearly loved by the Emperor.

Even if the reality was different, Pei Yao was naturally affectionate toward his children. Yet, to outsiders, it appeared as Zhao Fei's influence.

Uninvolved outsiders might sigh in admiration, but those already resentful of Fang Yun felt it even more.

Yang Fei, watching from her seat, scoffed internally at Pei Yao's affection for the Fourth Prince.

A sickly child, raised in a protected environment, might fare well for a couple of years. Was he really worth such love?

Under the table, Yang Fei caressed her belly, a determined glint in her eyes.

She thought to herself, once she bore a healthy prince, she'd gradually contend with the rest of the harem.

As for the Empress's belly...

Even if the child was born, it might not survive.

With these thoughts, Yang Fei was even more eager to speak with her brother.

She glanced at the opposite seat, meeting Yang Chengyu's gaze.

Their brief eye contact communicated their intentions.

Yang Fei stood and smiled at Pei Yao, "Your Majesty, I feel a bit stuffy in the hall. I'd like to step out for some fresh air."

"Alright, go ahead. If you feel unwell, have the physicians check on you. If you're tired, rest early," Pei Yao said gently.

In public, with Yang Fei's pregnancy and her brother's merits being celebrated, Pei Yao wouldn't let her appear neglected.

Thanking him, Yang Fei, supported by her maid, exited through a side door.

Fang Yun silently observed. As expected, Yang Chengyu left shortly after.

It was only natural. How could the siblings miss such an opportunity to meet?

But the people in the hall wouldn't pay too much attention. Pei Yao had already shifted the conversation to the meritorious officials.

First up was Huo Mingxuan.

"A hero in youth, a tiger father breeds no dog sons. The Qin family has been loyal and courageous for generations, and you have added glory. The Huo men sacrificed for the country, securing the northern frontier. I toast to you, your father, and your brother, as well as the souls of thousands of martyrs," Pei Yao said solemnly, raising his cup.

Huo Mingxuan immediately stood, respectfully drinking the toast.

"My father and brother, serving Your Majesty, were naturally loyal. Great Qi is the land that raised me. Since donning this armor, I am bound to defend Great Qi's land and people. I am deeply grateful for Your Majesty's wise and decisive leadership, which inspired the army and led to such a victory."

Though there was mutual flattery, it was sincere.

Huo Mingxuan's words showed he was both brave and wise, not a mere warrior.

His expression of gratitude to Pei Yao was a clear pledge of loyalty, indicating no arrogance.

This mutual respect was because Pei Yao, as Emperor, had shown proper regard for his minister.

Loyalty and respect go both ways.

After praising Huo Mingxuan, it was natural to mention Liu Qin, who had partnered with him on the battlefield.

Technically, Liu Qin's rank wasn't high enough to attend the banquet. His special status had granted him an invitation.

Pei Yao addressed Liu Qin with more casualness.

"You've got some nerve, scaring your sister. When I told her about you, Zhao Fei was worried for a long time, saying she didn't keep an eye on you. Fortunately, nothing happened."

"I acted on a scholar's impulse without considering much. Driven by my aspirations, I headed north. I beg Your Majesty's forgiveness," Liu Qin said, standing and bowing, smiling all the while.

Pei Yao replied, "Don't apologize to me; say that to your sister."

With that, he turned his gaze to Fang Yun.

Everyone's attention followed.

Liu Qin, unphased, displayed the demeanor of a typical younger brother, smiling as he bowed to Fang Yun.

"Sister, forgive me."

"You deserve punishment!" Fang Yun feigned anger, glancing at him. "If I'd known you'd cause such worry, I'd have married you off first, letting your wife keep an eye on you!"

"Without status, how could I marry? Sister, don't be angry. I won't be reckless again," Liu Qin bowed deeper, appearing contrite.

Their interaction showcased a close sibling bond.

Who would know they'd only met a handful of times in the past year?

It was all just a show, as long as no interests were threatened.

Pei Yao seized the moment to bring up marriage, a topic Fang Yun had mentioned.

Surveying the room, he smiled.

"I see many young and outstanding men among our honorees who have yet to start families. The ancients said to cultivate oneself, manage family, govern the country, and bring peace to the world. You've achieved everything but family. There are many suitable young ladies in the capital. It's time to consider settling down."

Hearing this, Huo Mingxuan immediately spoke up.

"Your Majesty, I appreciate your kindness, but I am currently in mourning for my father. Perhaps Your Majesty should consider my friends, Ye Yunxiao and Liu Qin, instead."

As he spoke, he stepped aside, subtly pushing Ye Yunxiao and Liu Qin forward.

The two young men exchanged awkward smiles.

At that moment, Yang Chengyu and Yang Fei returned from outside.

Pei Yao glanced up, catching sight of Yang Chengyu, and said, "I was just thinking we were missing someone. Here you are. Among this group, you're the eldest and should be the first to consider marriage."

As he spoke, everyone's eyes followed his gaze to Yang Chengyu.

Though unsure of what had transpired in the hall, Yang Chengyu understood from Pei Yao's words and quickly bowed.

"Thank you for Your Majesty's concern, but with the current situation stabilized, I am not yet inclined towards marriage."

Before Yang Chengyu could finish, Pei Yao raised his hand to interrupt.

"Yang Fei has already given me the Third Prince and is now pregnant again. You, as his elder brother, have yet to marry and have children. How can this be? If there is no suitable young lady in Huizhou, I will select one for you from the noble families of the capital. What do you think?"