Perhaps because of the New Year, the Emperor seemed unusually spirited. He put on his emperor's robe, sat upright, and was surrounded by his imperial concubines, who chatted with him warmly and humorously. The lively atmosphere cheered him up considerably.
Concubine Yu brought the Sixth Imperial Prince over. The little fellow was half a year old, puffy face and wide-set eyes peeking out from the crimson swaddling cloth, looking adorable and charming.
After all, the child was his own. The Emperor broke into a rare tender paternal smile, playfully teased him for a while, and bestowed many gifts upon the Sixth Imperial Prince.
The other concubines watched in sheer envy.
The Emperor was growing older, his energy subpar and his physical strength deteriorating. The odds of him fathering another child with his concubines were getting slimmer by the day.
Concubine Yu was truly fortunate.
