Although the Emperor was taking all these initiatives, Ru was worried it would escalate into something big later, introducing discord among the Emperor and his other sons. Ru couldn't allow that. All his brothers belonged to powerful families capable of overthrowing the Emperor. If the Emperor sided with Ru publicly, it would look too suspicious.
"Your Majesty," Ru called him formally, "There is no need for a bodyguard. Mother is taking good care of me."
The Emperor looked at Ru with surprise, "What do you mean?" He asked skeptically, "The Empress isn't fond of you. Everyone knows that."
Ru faked a smile and shook his head, "That is just a front," He covered for the Empress, "Mother doesn't want people to think she cares for me. She kept me company all day yesterday. You may ask anyone. I'm sure a lot of people saw her going to my quarters."
The Emperor still had a skeptical look on his face, "Seriously?"
