Ministers Begging Me to Ascend the Throne Chapter 992 - 82: The Emperor’s Calculated Scheme (Part 2)

Zhao Yao propped up his chin, gazing at Tong Xi, and remarked, "If I seize the throne and ultimately become emperor, you'll rise as the Chief Eunuch and gain great prestige."

"Your Highness, my prestige doesn't matter at all; the key is your own wishes." Tong Xi's face held an unusually grave look. "Your Highness, if that's your desire, I'll back you with everything I've got."

Tong Xi's words stirred Zhao Yao deeply. "Tong Xi, in this world, you're the only one who lets me follow my heart." He knew his father schemed against him, and his mother likely knew too, yet she never cautioned him, seeming to side with his father's plans.

"Your Highness, isn't that exactly what your mother does?"

"My mother..." Zhao Yao shook his head, replying, "Mother follows father's lead, not always mine."

Tong Xi brimmed with curiosity: "Your Highness, isn't your mother the one who cherishes you above all? She'd surely stand by whatever you choose to pursue."

Zhao Yao abruptly inquired, "What are your thoughts on my second uncle?"

"Your Highness, why bring him up now? Is there an issue with the Second Lord?" Tong Xi remained unaware of He Lianfang's real background.

"Nothing at all." Since learning He Lianfang's true self, Zhao Yao understood their meeting wasn't chance. Even the initial encounter with his second uncle might have been fate, but all that followed was deliberate. Had he not entered that estate, a later arrangement would have brought them together. "My uncle, whom I've never known, is indeed impressive."

"An uncle you've never met?" Tong Xi was shocked. "Your Highness, since when do you have an uncle?"

"Why not? The late Prince Yi Yong was my uncle."

At those words, Tong Xi remembered Prince Yi Yong's existence.

"True, you do have an uncle, but why mention Prince Yi Yong out of nowhere?"

"I simply feel my unseen uncle is exceptionally outstanding." Prince Yi Yong had vanished years ago, yet his second uncle still honored him. "Sigh, serving as a stand-in brings such mixed feelings."

"Serving as a stand-in?" Tong Xi grew even more puzzled. "Your Highness, who stands in for whom?"

"No one. Keep what I said just now under wraps; don't breathe a word to others, got it?"

Tong Xi sensed some strain but nodded promptly. "I understand."

"I'm parched. Fetch me a bowl of sweet water."

"At once."

Once Tong Xi departed, Zhao Yao reclined, laying his head against the chair's back, and gazed vacantly at the ceiling. Moments later, he heaved a deep sigh. "Alas, what merits do I possess for this?" He grasped why his second uncle esteemed him—due to Prince Yi Yong. But his father? Was it merely because he was the offspring of his father's beloved consort?

From childhood, his aspiration had been to roam the world, sampling diverse cuisines. Though his current efforts in Swamp Prefecture appeared unrelated to that goal, they connected deeply. By opening trade to foreign nations in Swamp Prefecture, more outsiders would arrive, some settling there. They would introduce their homeland's dishes, traditions, and ways. Thus, locals in Swamp Prefecture or beyond could savor foreign flavors without venturing abroad.

After finishing Swamp Prefecture and Lingnan's developments, he'd chase his dream of wandering and feasting worldwide. Yet, this ambition faced obstacles ahead.

Given his father's shrewdness and profound schemes, a major trap might await. To stay secure, he needed a backup route prepared.

Soon enough, Tong Xi returned with a bowl of sweet water.

"Your Highness, I added just a little sugar, so it shouldn't be overly sweet."

"Perfect." Zhao Yao gathered his mind and started sipping slowly.

Tong Xi watched Zhao Yao, wavering inwardly, then ventured, "Your Highness, has something gone wrong?"

Zhao Yao saw his earlier remarks had concerned Tong Xi, so he offered a comforting smile. "Nothing's amiss."

"Your Highness, I might be slow-witted and offer little aid, but if trouble arises, don't shoulder it solo." Tong Xi believed Zhao Yao spoke with purpose; an event must have transpired. "If you prefer not sharing with the Second Lord, confide in Mr. Chu or Mr. Zheng. They're sharp and will devise solutions for you."

"Tong Xi, do you believe Chu Huan and the rest outsmart me?"

"No," Tong Xi answered, "but a group can generate more notions, possibly crafting a solid strategy for you."

"Fine, should anything truly occur, I'll inform them."

Relieved by this, Tong Xi relaxed considerably.

"Your Highness, with the football tournament tomorrow, focus on how to earn coin from those folks, not other worries. Profiting suits you best."

Zhao Yao shot Tong Xi a sidelong look. "You really are my trusted eunuch."

"I just think commerce and handling affairs fit you well."

"You're right." His inner resolve stayed firm. No one would sway his aspirations. "Next year, when we get a chance, I'll bring you to Annan and Siam abroad for some exploring."

Tong Xi's features brightened. "Truly, Your Highness?"

"Have I ever deceived you?"

"That's fantastic." Tong Xi paused, then inquired hastily, "Your Highness, can we really travel to those distant lands?"

Zhao Yao arched a brow. "Why not? You heard it—they've invited me. Next year, when possible, I'll go for sure."

"Your Highness, will next year actually free up time?" Since reaching Swamp Prefecture, he'd dashed about nonstop, and the pattern might persist. How could travel abroad fit in?

"I can carve out a few days."

"Then I'll eagerly await it." Visiting foreign realms was beyond his wildest dreams.

Having drained the sweet water, Zhao Yao dismissed Tong Xi, as pressing business demanded his attention.

Meanwhile, the Emperor in the far-off capital sneezed repeatedly, startling Sun Kui into summoning an Imperial Physician for a check.

"It has to be that scamp Xiao Shi badmouthing me."

Sun Kui chuckled through misty eyes. "Your Majesty, why not Prince Han fondly remembering you?"

"As if that scoundrel would think of me." Picturing his youngest son bonding with He Lianfang instead of him, the Emperor's chest burned with envy. "Disloyal brat."

Sun Kui mused quietly: The Emperor surely longs for Prince Han but won't admit it.