The morning court dispersed with Emperor Chongwen's ashen face.
After exiting the grand hall, ministers in twos and threes began to whisper amongst themselves, with those who were usually familiar with each other guessing Emperor Chongwen's intentions.
The group led by Lu Yuan was also not idle. The outcome of today's court session was within their expectations. Historically, the matter of establishing a crown prince always involved lengthy discussions and disputes. Of course, there were exceptions. It was not common for emperors and empresses to have such deep affection that the heir apparent was established upon the birth of a legitimate son, but it was not unheard of.
Lu Yuan thought of how his daughter had married Emperor Chongwen, and a bitter smile involuntarily surfaced. His daughter had gained the honor and status of being the mother of a nation, but in return, she had lost the emotional connection that ordinary couples could possess. Emperor Chongwen and Consort An were childhood sweethearts, and originally, the Gu family's daughter should have been the principal wife.
Of course, this was merely a momentary sentiment from Lu Yuan. His daughter's sacrifice was insignificant compared to what the Lu family had gained. Moreover, his daughter was also capable, having given birth to a prince. An obedient prince was more important than anything.
"Send word to the Empress, tell her not to worry. This old man will arrange everything!" Lu Yuan instructed.
"Duke Cheng'en, please rest assured."
Upon receiving the message from her father, Lu Linlang felt much more at ease and focused on arranging the provincial visits for the four consorts and Consort An.
What if they visited their provinces? She was now the most honored woman in the Great Zhou, and in the future, when her son became emperor, she would still be the most honored woman in the Great Zhou. At that time, Consort An, considering their many years of sisterhood, would surely be given a good home. Wasn't she deeply favored by His Majesty? Naturally, she should accompany His Majesty. Otherwise, how could she live up to His Majesty's favor?
To compete with her? Heh, Consort An was destined to be utterly defeated.
Empress Lu was in high spirits, so she first arranged Consort An's provincial visit.
After making the arrangements, she happily went to Emperor Chongwen to discuss the matter.
"The Empress presides over the six palaces; such matters do not require reporting to me again," Emperor Chongwen said with displeasure.
"My sister is not like others. I thought Your Majesty would be concerned, so I specifically came to inform Your Majesty," Empress Lu replied.
Emperor Chongwen's expression was unpredictable. "Is the Empress guessing my thoughts?"
Empress Lu's heart skipped a beat, and without thinking, she knelt down. "This concubine dares not!"
Empress Lu knelt on the ground, unable to see Emperor Chongwen's mocking gaze. She also thought about why Emperor Chongwen was in a bad mood; it must have been due to the discussion about establishing the crown prince in court. He was angry but had nowhere to vent it, so he was making things difficult for her.
"I was joking with you," Emperor Chongwen walked to Empress Lu and personally helped her up. "You are my wife, and naturally, you understand me best. Indeed, I am concerned about Ale's provincial visit. You know, Ale is extraordinary to me. Therefore, Empress, you must arrange it well and not make any mistakes."
Empress Lu rose with the help of Emperor Chongwen's hands. "Your Majesty, please rest assured, this concubine will arrange everything properly."
"I have always been a hundred percent confident in the Empress's handling of affairs," Emperor Chongwen said, looking at Empress Lu with gentle eyes.
"This concubine is humbled," Empress Lu replied modestly.
"Empress, talk with me," Emperor Chongwen pulled Empress Lu to sit with him. "I am unhappy!"
Empress Lu was flattered. "This concubine is willing to share Your Majesty's worries."
"Today, the court was in an uproar over the matter of establishing the crown prince. What is the Empress's opinion?" Emperor Chongwen put on a troubled expression.