They had forgotten that there was a prince present. Some of their words just now were really imprudent. If they were to reach the emperor's ears, they might be beheaded.
Moreover, since the emperor came to stay in the palace for a while, it was their duty to provide him with food and accommodation. The Sixth Prince's thanks made them feel ashamed.
"Your Highness, you are too polite. This really makes us panic!"
"Yes, Your Highness. We didn't bother with the Sixth Prince's guidance in the renovation of the palace and the official roads. We dare not take credit for it!"
Everyone spoke up and bowed in return.
The Sixth Prince became even more polite. "My Lords, you are too modest. I see all your hard work, and it is a contribution that no one can erase. I am truly exhausted today. Why don't you all go back first? I will continue to wait."
"If the Emperor summons you, I will take care of everything for you all. If the Emperor doesn't summon you, how about we gather here again tomorrow and wait?"
The officials were all delighted to hear this, especially the elderly ones, whose legs were so sore that they could hardly bear it any longer.
The Sixth Prince persuaded them a few more times, and they thanked him gratefully and went back.
Xizi appeared out of nowhere, approached his master, and whispered, "Your Highness, I've found out. The Emperor summoned his concubines and the singers and dancers, but it was just a show. In reality... the Emperor was too exhausted and had already taken medicine and gone to sleep."
"Tired?" A hint of doubt flashed in the Sixth Prince's eyes.
Although news had long since reached Kyoto that the Emperor's health was indeed declining year by year, he had never imagined that his addiction to alcohol and women would be so strong that he would be so exhausted after traveling less than ten miles in his sedan chair...
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