Zhu Yunying clearly had no idea what Xu Huizu was thinking. Or even if he did know, Zhu Yunying might not care.

Having a grandfather like Zhu Yunying, Zhu Yunying has indeed become somewhat domineering. As for being considerate, that's another story; being an emperor doesn't necessarily require consideration or taking into account the feelings of his subjects.

Moreover, Zhu Yunying was well aware that Zhu had summoned Xu Huizu this time.

To be honest, the decision to encourage Xu Huizu this time was made by Zhu Yuanzhang and Zhu Yuanzhang themselves. Xu Huizu was essentially a pawn, even though he was the Crown Prince's maternal uncle, the Emperor's brother-in-law, and a hereditary duke of the Ming Dynasty; he still couldn't escape the fate of being a pawn.

Since the emperor was the one holding the chess pieces, Xu Huizu had no reason to harbor any thoughts of resistance.

Xu Miaoqing was very happy at this moment. Since she married into the Tian family, it had been too difficult for her to see her family members.

But this time was different. The emperor specially hosted a banquet at the Eastern Palace, where Xu Miaoqing's three elder brothers, their wives, and her younger sister were all allowed to enter the palace. Even the legitimate sons of her three elder brothers were allowed to accompany them.

Not to mention the other concubines, even the Empress didn't usually receive such treatment. It was only because the Emperor was grateful for Xu Miaoqing's pregnancy and her devoted relationship with Zhu Yunying that she received this treatment.

"Uncle!" Little Zhu, who was specially waiting by the gate of the East Palace, called out happily, "Second Uncle, Little Uncle."

As for his three maternal aunts, Xiao Xiao Zhu was relatively unfamiliar with them. He had even met his youngest aunt only a few times. If his mother hadn't mentioned them often, Xiao Xiao Zhu might not have remembered them at all, especially since she was now married to Zhu Ying, the twenty-second son of Zhu Yuanzhang.

Actually, Zhu Yunying was initially quite curious about Xu Da's children. He seemed to have read in unofficial historical records that Zhu Di once wanted to marry his sister-in-law, but she became a nun in anger.

Xu Miaojin is a real person. However, Xu Da only had three daughters, not four. Their ages also don't match.

Xu Huizu and the others, mindful of their duties, immediately paid their respects, saying, "Your subject pays respects to His Highness the Crown Prince."

"Uncle, Mother is waiting in the palace." Little Zhu said impatiently, "The Empress Dowager has had many delicious foods prepared, all of which are our favorites. Father loves them too, and we all like them."

The Emperor and Empress were deeply in love, which naturally made Xu Huizu and others happy. The Empress's extraordinary status and the Crown Prince's stable position also made the Xu family proud and filled them with great expectations.

Little Zhu ran happily ahead. If anyone knew the palace best, it was definitely Little Zhu. Neither Old Zhu nor Little Zhu understood the palace as well as Little Zhu.

There was no way around it; whether it was due to age, status, or mental state, Old Zhu and Young Zhu wouldn't run around the palace.

But Little Zhu is different. He's quite curious, and given his young age, there's not much to be afraid of. Besides, everyone knows this person is the Emperor Emeritus's most beloved son; who wouldn't fawn over Little Zhu upon seeing him!

"Second Uncle, Dad said that Second Uncle is a great hero!" Little Zhu, who was running ahead, turned around and grabbed Xu Yingxu's hand. "Dad said that Second Uncle is a model of military merit. Born into a military family, he is willing to risk his life on the battlefield and can be of great use!"

Xu Yingxu was somewhat proud. Back when he launched the Northern Expedition against the Tatars, he had used himself as bait, leading a small army to drag down the Tatar army.

Although he lost two fingers for it, he was also granted a title of nobility. He was not a wicked son of a tiger father; he did not tarnish the reputation of Xu Da, the Prince of Zhongshan.

Xu Yingxu smiled and said, "Your Highness, I have only done my duty. Your Majesty is too kind."

“That’s no compliment!” Little Zhu said seriously, his chubby face stern. “Many noble families are spoiled brats, and some pampered sons are hopeless! My grandfather’s family has strict rules, and my uncles are all successful. My father said so!”

Xu Huizu felt a surge of pride; he, as the eldest brother, certainly had some ability. Xu Da himself was respectful and strict in managing his household. Even after Xu Da's death, Xu Huizu, the eldest brother, did not forget the Xu family's traditions, making him a rare exception among the nobility.

Little Zhu, the enthusiastic host, led the way, chatting with his uncles and also taking care of his cousins.

Seeing her brothers and nephews, Xu Miaoqing was naturally very happy. As for these relatives bowing to her, she was used to it all. Especially her eldest brother, who was fifteen years older than her, bowed very formally; Xu Miaoqing was truly used to it all.

Ultimately, it all comes down to status. She is now the Empress, she is the Emperor.

"Alright, no need for such formalities." Zhu Yunying, sitting in his chair, laughed and said, "Today's banquet is a family gathering. If we were to hold a formal discussion between ruler and subject here, this family banquet wouldn't be very appropriate."

Xu Huizu and the others naturally agreed hastily, but it was merely a superficial agreement. While the emperor could be polite, for them, as his subjects, to be 'sensible' and immediately agree would be utterly foolish, and the most inappropriate thing to do. (Gu Xun)

Looking at nine-year-old Xu Qin, Zhu Yunying said with a smile, "Qin'er, you're going to have your wedding this year, aren't you?"

Xu Qin is nine years old, but generally speaking, he is ten years old according to the traditional Chinese age reckoning. Most importantly, according to the tradition of his hometown, boys have a birthday banquet when they turn nine, which is usually hosted by their maternal uncles.

Xu Huizu immediately stood up, but Zhu Yunying raised her hand to stop him, saying, "You're not allowed to get up when you're talking to us today."

Although Xu Huizu sat down, his bottom barely touched the chair. "Your Highness, my son is preparing to hold a birthday banquet in June."

My dear reader, there's more to this chapter! Please click the next page to continue reading—even more exciting content awaits!