Indeed, the poem circulating among scholars was deliberately released by her to create waves. The palace tutor, at her father’s request, had taught her when she was young, even declaring her a genius after reading the poem. After the tutor’s death, she concealed her talents, knowing that male discrimination still existed. At that time, she was young and needed to hide her brilliance, as too much light would attract trouble. She remembered her elder sister, once a prodigy and everyone’s goal, who died mysteriously, suggesting the presence of an earth-shattering secret.
Long Hanxie cherished talent, or even resented it. Although inadequate in addressing his own issues, he was a fair and just crown prince, which secured his position. With the empress’s support, he would face minimal resistance when ascending to the throne. Xu Qiu’er considered the emperor’s serious illness and the possibility of his imminent death.
The emperor allowing the crown prince to preside over the morning court suggested that the crown prince would succeed him.
On the 17th of the eighth lunar month, the emperor’s birthday, the palace prepared for the occasion. Feeling the people’s goodwill, the emperor gradually recovered and surprised imperial physicians by moving freely.
A red carpet stretched from the palace gate to the main hall. During the early morning court session, the emperor returned to his throne after months of absence, supported by Long Hanxie.
In high spirits, the emperor rewarded generals and met newly appointed scholars, feeling refreshed and free from his previous illness.
As night fell, court officials gathered in the rear garden to celebrate. Each prince put effort into preparing their gifts, while palace ladies and concubines awaited the emperor’s recognition. Fireworks burst into the sky, illuminating the joyous occasion.
Long Hanxie, representing the crown princes and brothers, raised his wine cup and shouted, “Wishing the Imperial Father longevity and unified rule!”
The crowd erupted in response. Court officials, princes, lords, the empress, and concubines all raised their cups to congratulate the emperor.
The emperor drank, and the empress cautioned, “Your Majesty, you’ve just recovered. Please drink less.” He patted her hand, acknowledging her care by his bedside. As music played, attention shifted to the central stage where dancers performed a new choreography.
Everyone soon realized the mastermind was the Crown Princess. The emperor laughed, “Where is Qiu’er?”
