Everyone stood up.
Emperor Kang turned to the Empress Dowager and said, "Today is your mother's birthday. I wish you happiness as vast as the East Sea and a long life as long as the Southern Mountains!"
The Empress Dowager smiled from ear to ear, "Although I am turning one year older today, seeing the peace and prosperity in the country, the people living and working in peace, and the harmony in the harem, I feel happy in my heart!"
"I will never let my mother down! I will definitely be a wise ruler!"
The Queen Mother's eyes turned red and she gently patted Emperor Kangdi's arm.
The queen also came forward to present a birthday gift, followed by a bunch of auspicious words.
After the four concubines and some lower-ranking concubines presented their birthday gifts, Emperor Kang said to the Empress Dowager, "Mother, I heard that the princes have racked their brains to prepare birthday gifts for you!"
The Queen Mother smiled and nodded: "That's thoughtful!"
After the eldest prince and the second prince presented their birthday gifts, it was the fourth prince Xiao Rui's turn.
Qu Li frowned.
"Ever since Third Brother fell off his horse at the age of fourteen, he's never liked interacting with people! Father even wanted to arrange a marriage for him a while ago, but he made a scene."
A warm breath brushed against her ears, her whole body tensed up and her breathing became disordered.
"Oh, so that's how it is!" She touched her hot ears somewhat unnaturally and distanced herself from Xiao Xian.
Xiao Xian narrowed his eyes.
She hated his proximity so much?
Qu Li listened quietly to Xiao Rui reciting the poem specially written for the Empress Dowager's birthday and shook his head.
"Fourth brother is a famous talent in the capital. Are you shaking your head because you think his lyrics are not good?" Xiao Xian was not giving up and came closer again.
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