“I think this dance is quite good. Although the Emperor is young, his intentions are clear. This is a matter of the imperial family, and the ministers need not worry or interfere. Please be seated.”
The dance continued, and the performers removed their terrifying masks, revealing weapons hidden in their robes.
With over a hundred dancers and only women and officials present at the Taiji Hall, the scene silenced everyone. Wang Ling’s expression darkened, Wei Fengzhi sat stoically, and Wei Linxia smiled slightly.
The dancers knelt in unison, blades gleaming in the candlelight.
“We request the Empress Dowager’s permission for the Emperor to take personal rule!” Their commanding voices resonated in the hall.
After the banquet, as the guests dispersed, Wei Linxia returned to the inner palace.
Feng Shou was waiting at the palace gate with his attendants. Upon seeing Wei Linxia return, he knelt and whispered, “Your Highness, the Emperor and the Princess are inside having an argument…”
Wei Linxia nodded and dismissed her attendants before entering the hall. She could hear Xi Yaya’s voice: “Ungrateful! How dare you say you’re not ungrateful? Fine! You’ve read the history books and learned some tricks, wanting to be a brilliant emperor? Who’s stopping you? You have three years until you come of age, yet you’re so impatient? Why did you choose your mother’s birthday? Are you trying to upset her for a lifetime? You heartless beast!”
“Elder Sister, I just don’t want Mother to work too hard,” replied Xi Qi.
“Nonsense. If you want the throne, tell Mother directly. You’ve been misled by rumors. If she wanted female rule, would she have waited until now? You’re heartless. If Mother gets sick with anger, I’ll deal with you. Why are you still here? Hoping to upset her even more?”
Wei Linxia shook her head, wondering whom her daughter had inherited her fiery temper from.
Xi Yaya pushed Xi Qi out and was stunned to see Wei Linxia. She quickly kicked Xi Qi’s knee, causing him to kneel before Wei Linxia.
“Mother, this is their doing. Xi Qi knows nothing. He came to discuss this with me, fearing you might misunderstand,” Xi Yaya said.
“No, this was my doing,” Xi Qi replied, straightening his back.
