Ministers Begging Me to Ascend the Throne Chapter 1127 - 144: Reunion of Mother and Son

Sun Kui could keenly sense the Emperor's exceptionally cheerful disposition today. Unlike most mornings where he would grumble after breakfast and reluctantly head to Zichen Hall, the Emperor today was positively buoyant, even humming a tune and whistling as he briskly walked towards the hall.

"Your Majesty, Prince Han has returned, and it seems your mood has lifted considerably."

"Is that so?" The Emperor, hands tucked within his sleeves, a faint smile playing on his lips, replied, "My mood is always good."

"Your mood is particularly splendid today, Your Majesty."

The Emperor playfully kicked Sun Kui’s rear. "You do chatter too much."

"This servant deserves punishment, Your Majesty."

"After the court session concludes, fetch that rascal back here. Xiao Xiao is eagerly awaiting him."

Sun Kui mused internally: Your Majesty, it is *you* who are eagerly awaiting him.

Previously, the Emperor had seemed quite detached regarding Prince Han's fate, even stating that if Prince Han couldn't return to the capital safely, it would simply prove his inadequacy. Yet now, with Prince Han's safe return, the Emperor was beaming.

At times, Sun Kui genuinely wondered if the Emperor cherished Prince Han or merely viewed him as a pawn.

"Your Majesty, Prince Han has just returned and may be fatigued from his journey. If you summon him after the court session, the Prince might not yet be awake," Sun Kui suggested thoughtfully. "Perhaps I could invite Prince Han over at noon, allowing you, the Prince, and Lady Liang to share lunch together?"

"I never said I would be having lunch with that brat," the Emperor scoffed. "Then, ensure he's here before noon."

"As Your Majesty commands."

Inside Zichen Hall, the civil and military officials were already assembled, their robes neatly arranged. Upon the Emperor's entrance, they promptly bowed in unison. "Greetings, Your Majesty. May you reign forever, long live, long live."

"You may rise."

From the Emperor's tone, the officials quickly discerned his excellent mood today.

The ability to gauge the Emperor's mood was a crucial skill for any official. Although they couldn't always fathom his true intentions, they could reliably ascertain his state of mind by observing subtle cues.

It appears the Emperor is in exceptionally high spirits today; has some wonderful news transpired?

I heard Prince Han arrived in the capital last night. Could he have brought back numerous treasures?

Has Prince Han truly returned?

Indeed, he is currently staying at Prince Chu’s Mansion.

The officials possessed another unspoken talent: the ability to communicate volumes with just a glance, no words required.

It was already the twelfth lunar month, and the imperial court was nearing its recess. During this time, numerous critical matters demanded attention. Each morning session customarily lasted no less than two hours.

Today's agenda was particularly packed, and by the time the court session concluded, it was nearly midday.

Without even pausing for a sip of tea, Sun Kui hastened to Prince Chu’s residence to find Prince Chu.

Upon learning that Sun Kui was seeking Zhao Yao at his mansion, Prince Chu personally escorted him back.

During their journey to Prince Chu’s Mansion, Prince Chu engaged Sun Kui in conversation, discussing family matters.

Zhao Yao had only just awakened, anticipating Prince Chu's return for lunch, when he was instead whisked away to the palace by Sun Kui.

Upon their arrival at the palace, Zhao Yao bypassed Sun Kui and an audience with the Emperor, heading directly for Kunde Hall.

"Your Highness, are you not going to see the Emperor?"

"I will see my mother first," Zhao Yao replied to Sun Kui as he hurried along. "I'm famished; let me have a meal with my mother first."

"Your Highness, please wait..." Before Sun Kui could finish his sentence, Zhao Yao had already disappeared from view. Even if Sun Kui had wished to pursue him, it would have been futile.

Seeing Sun Kui return unaccompanied, the Emperor immediately inquired about Zhao Yao’s whereabouts. Sun Kui relayed the truth, which instantly ignited the Emperor's fury towards his youngest son.

"Your Majesty, will you be dining alone, or shall we proceed to Kunde Hall for lunch?"

"I am so full of anger, I have no appetite for food." The Emperor's displeasure was evident, having his youngest son return to the palace without paying his respects first.

"Shall I fetch Prince Han from Kunde Hall, Your Majesty?"

"I have no desire to see him," the Emperor huffed.

Sun Kui, suppressing a chuckle, offered, "Then allow me to assist you with your lunch, Your Majesty."

"I am not eating."

After considerable gentle persuasion, Sun Kui finally managed to convince the Emperor to proceed to the dining hall for his meal.

The Emperor opted not to have lunch at Kunde Hall, implicitly wishing for Lady Liang to have a private conversation with Zhao Yao.

Within the confines of Kunde Hall, the reunion between mother and son had already taken place, marked by a touching exchange of tears.

Following their heartfelt reunion and catching up, Zhao Yao began to eat with immense gusto.

"The dishes prepared by Mother are always exceptionally delicious."

Hearing his words, Lady Liang felt a mingled sense of joy and sorrow.

"Eat slowly, my child, lest you choke."

"Mother, I am truly starving." He had slept soundly until midday, and his stomach was audibly rumbling from hunger.

Lady Liang, concerned he might choke from eating too hastily, promptly served him a bowl of soup.

"Quickly, drink some soup."

After a few gulps, Zhao Yao eagerly returned to his meal.

Observing her son devour his food, Lady Liang experienced a surge of both helplessness and tenderness.