Indeed, in the Empress Dowager's eyes, Jing Le and the others were only meant to live a little longer.

[Oh dear, the old witch's eyes are like they're coated with poison when she looks at my mother and me. How many kilograms of arsenic did she swallow to achieve that?]

Jing Le sat obediently to one side, her eyes crinkling slightly with a smile.

The Imperial Concubine glanced at the Empress Dowager not far away and saw her venomous gaze. She sneered inwardly.

Just as Lele said, she really is a living, breathing old witch.

Emperor Jing subtly blocked the Empress Dowager's gaze.

He was also displeased, thinking to himself: Now that you've made your move, don't expect anything good.

He's been portrayed as a tyrant for so long; how could he not do something to live up to that reputation?

"My beloved ministers, please be seated. The Empress Dowager has been away from the palace for several months, praying for the prosperity of the Great Yong Dynasty at Fahua Temple. Today, we hold this banquet to welcome her back and wash away the dust of her journey."

Grateful for the Empress Dowager's concern for the people of Dayong...

Emperor Jing spoke words of gratitude as if he were an emotionless machine.

It was all just a show, but fortunately everyone was very accommodating, praising the Empress Dowager for her kindness and so on.

"Another thing is that the carefree prince, who has been away from the capital for many years, has finally returned. Now the Empress Dowager can finally enjoy a life of comfort."

Emperor Jing spoke in the direction of the Prince of Xiaoyao.

"Your Majesty, I have been studying abroad for many years. I am grateful for your care of the Empress Dowager. I have brought you a gift on my return to the capital. I hope you will accept it."

The carefree prince stepped forward with a smile and bowed, displaying an air of nonchalance.

His handsome appearance made the young ladies of the officials present blush.

[Oh, is the Imperial Uncle preparing to send a beauty as a gift?]

Jing Le's eyes widened instantly, darting around with obvious amused expression.

Fifth, Sixth, and Eighth Princesses: Is the Imperial Uncle really going to send a beauty to us?

Third, fourth, seventh, and ninth princes: The imperial uncle sent a beauty to the emperor? What's going on? Did they miss something?

Imperial Concubine: Ha, they really are still determined to get that chair.

Emperor Jing: Do they think I'm a lecherous devil who takes any woman?