After the court's year-end sealing, the capital was harmonious, with no disturbances. Everyone was eagerly preparing for the New Year, and all the schemes and plots seemed to dissipate unnoticed.

 

The days passed by, and as always, the relaxed days flew by quickly. In the blink of an eye, it was the end of the year.

 

The Emperor declared that there would be no grand celebration for his longevity festival, so the Ministry of Rites put all their effort into the New Year's Eve banquet. Since the New Year's Eve banquet was close to the longevity festival, making it grand would serve the same purpose.

 

The officials of the Ministry of Rites naturally wanted to showcase their capabilities, so they put a lot of effort into preparing the New Year's Eve celebration. As for whether the Emperor was satisfied, no one could tell, but at least on the night of the New Year's Eve banquet, the monarch and his ministers enjoyed themselves, laughing and chatting merrily. Even the princes appeared harmonious, including Xiao Xian, whose mother was still under house arrest. He wore an expression appropriate for his age, showing little enthusiasm but not stepping out of line.

 

No one would dare to displease the Emperor at this time. Whether sincere or not, everyone had to face the crowd with a smile today.

 

Xiao Shan particularly enjoyed the palace cuisine. Although many dishes were cold by the time they were served due to various poison-testing procedures, the taste was undeniably excellent.

 

Knowing Xie Zhui's preferences, Xiao Shan would always place the dishes Xie Zhui liked into his bowl as soon as he saw them.

 

Occasionally, the two would lean in close and whisper to each other. Their expressions were minimal, and their actions were not overtly intimate, but they exuded a warm and serene atmosphere.

 

The seats of the princes were relatively close, with Xiao Jin, being the Crown Prince, seated in the highest position. The others were Xiao Rong, Xiao Shan, and Xiao Yi. As for Xiao Xian, being underage and without the company of Consort Xian, he sat beside the Emperor.

 

Because of the proximity, Gu Linglong could see Xiao Shan and Xie Zhui's table with just a slight movement. Ever since Xiao Shan came to their residence to trouble Xiao Rong, Gu Linglong gained a deeper understanding of him and felt a sense of helplessness.

 

However, seeing the two of them whispering to each other, she couldn't help but feel a bit envious.

 

She always noticed how Xiao Shan publicly defended Xie Zhui. Although many people did not think highly of Xiao Shan, she always felt that Xie Zhui was very fortunate. Xie Zhui was surrounded by various rumors, and a single misstep could lead to a different outcome, but Xiao Shan always protected him. Perhaps because she was also a wife, she thought that if one didn't have a high position, it would be nice for a couple to live their lives like this.

 

Gu Linglong was somewhat lost in thought. Xiao Rong, having watched a performance and drunk two cups of wine, noticed that she was still glancing occasionally at Xiao Shan and Xie Zhui's table. He quietly nudged her and asked in a low voice, "What's the matter? What are you looking at?"

 

He himself was determined not to even glance at Xiao Shan, wanting to show through his actions that he intended to completely ignore him.

 

Gu Linglong lowered her gaze and took a sip of tea, saying, "It's nothing."

 

Xie Zhui, having eaten enough, put down his chopsticks. He now ate small amounts many times a day.

 

Seeing that Xie Zhui stopped eating, Xiao Shan did not force him to continue.

 

At this moment, the hall was filled with ministers toasting each other, creating a harmonious atmosphere.

 

Xiao Jin stood up and toasted the Emperor, then poured another cup and walked over to Xiao Shan. Looking to both sides, he smiled and said, "I toast my elder brother, third brother, and fourth brother."

 

Xiao Rong and Xiao Yi quickly stood up to return the toast, their faces full of joy. However, both knew that this toast was primarily meant for Xiao Shan, with them merely included as an afterthought. Regardless of whether it was sincere or not, they had to put on a show of brotherly affection for everyone to see, including themselves.

 

In contrast, Xiao Shan was much more casual. He didn't drink wine but instead picked up a cup of tea. Standing up, he smiled playfully at Xiao Jin and said in a low voice, "Second Brother, Xie Zhui can't stand the smell of alcohol lately, so I won't drink. I'll toast you with tea instead, and we'll have a proper drink together another day."

 

Xiao Jin rolled his eyes at him. "Fine, fine, whatever you say. We'll make up for it with a few more drinks in the future."

 

Xiao Shan chuckled, tilted his head back, and drank the tea, while Xiao Jin drank his wine.

 

Xie Zhui said, "Your Highness, it's really fine..."

 

Xiao Shan glanced at him and replied, "How is it fine? If you feel unwell because of it, I'll feel uncomfortable too."

 

Xie Zhui said nothing more, and Xiao Shan and Xiao Jin stood aside, chatting.

 

Watching this scene, Xiao Rong felt a pang of jealousy. He sat down and quietly nudged Gu Linglong, muttering, "Did you hear what Third Brother said? Xie Zhui can't stand the smell of alcohol, so he drinks tea instead? I think he's just henpecked*."

*an informal term used to describe a man who is excessively controlled or dominated by his wife or partner

 

Xiao Rong initially intended to make a sarcastic remark, but as soon as he said it, he felt increasingly justified. Xie Zhui killed people on the battlefield and was highly skilled; it made sense for Xiao Shan to be afraid of him.

 

To be honest, if he had someone like that sleeping beside him, he would feel a bit intimidated too.

 

Gu Linglong: "..."

 

She looked at Xiao Rong as if he were an idiot. Xiao Shan, henpecked? He wasn't even afraid of the Emperor, so how could he be afraid of Xie Zhui? He was protecting Xie Zhui, genuinely caring for him, which was why he paid so much attention to even the smallest matters concerning him.

 

The idea of Xiao Shan being henpecked would make others laugh out loud. Only Xiao Rong could come to such a conclusion.

 

Xiao Rong couldn't discern the meaning behind Gu Linglong's look. He was particularly curious and asked, "Do you think I'm right?"

 

Gu Linglong, with a blank expression, poured him a cup of wine and handed it to him with a smile. "Your Highness, have a few more drinks."

 

When drunk and asleep, dreams could be anything, and whatever was said would seem true.

 

Xiao Rong felt that there was something off about Gu Linglong's attitude, but he was used to being flattered and pampered by her, so he didn't consider that she might be mocking him in her mind.

 

Thus, any sense of something being amiss was likely just his imagination.

 

Xiao Rong's uneasy feeling was quickly forgotten as he swallowed another cup of wine.

 

He averted his gaze, no longer looking at Xiao Jin and Xiao Shan.

 

On the other side, Xiao Yi also sat down quietly.

 

Recently, Consort Shu had been busy selecting potential brides for him. As a prince, he often had little control over his own life.

 

Situations like Xiao Shan and Xie Zhui's were rare, even considered out of place.

 

Xiao Yi felt envious but helpless. Consort Shu was already looking for potential brides, and he had no particular feelings about marriage, as if it didn't matter whom he married. Of course, he could insist on not marrying like Xiao Shan, but he wasn't Xiao Shan. A single look from the Emperor, and he wouldn't be able to withstand it. Moreover, Consort Shu was eagerly selecting candidates for him, just waiting to see him settle down and start a family.

 

Thinking about this, Xiao Yi sighed inwardly.

 

He then drank two more cups of wine, his cheeks turning red.

 

The thoughts of these two brothers went unnoticed by others, as Xiao Jin and Xiao Shan were engaged in conversation nearby.

 

Xiao Shan noticed the dark circles under Xiao Jin's eyes and said, "Second Brother, have you not been sleeping well lately? Your complexion looks terrible. Were you too exhausted from performing the ancestral rites on behalf of Father Emperor yesterday?"

 

Yesterday, on New Year's Eve, the Emperor, for the first time, commanded Xiao Jin to perform the ancestral rites in his stead.

 

This signified the Emperor's public declaration that Xiao Jin's position as Crown Prince was unshakable. As long as he did not commit treason, he would be the next Emperor.

 

This event was extremely joyous for those aligned with the Crown Prince. Even the Empress, who usually paid little attention to Consort Lan, wore a smile today. As for Consort Lan, she was genuinely happy and smiled warmly at the Empress.

 

Xiao Jin rubbed his forehead and said, "No, it's not that. Little Snowball has been sick these past few days. I've been worried and haven't slept well."

 

Xiao Shan frowned and asked, "Have you had the imperial physician take a look? What did they say?"

 

"The usual—weak constitution, cold weather, prone to illness, needs careful attention," Xiao Jin replied with a faint smile, his tone somewhat indifferent and his eyes a bit cold.

 

Xiao Shan, perceptive as always, noticed his demeanor and hesitated, unsure of what to say.

 

As far as he knew, Little Snowball was always personally cared for by Liu Jingyi, never entrusted to anyone else. But he also knew that the matter between Liu Jingyi and Lady Xu had always been a thorn in Xiao Jin's heart. He understood Xiao Jin well enough to know that if this issue wasn't resolved, he wouldn't be able to focus on the inner court. Moreover, with the year-end approaching, the Empress sent Lady Xu back to the Eastern Palace from her quarters.

 

The Empress meant that the incident between Liu Jingyi and Lady Xu occurred with only their personal attendants present, and there were no other witnesses. This matter needed thorough investigation.

 

Lady Xu, who was pregnant, suffered a fright after returning to the Eastern Palace, while Liu Jingyi had Little Snowball.

 

These princes grew up accustomed to the schemes for favor within the palace.

 

Xiao Shan didn't know whether Xiao Jin's attitude was due to discovering something amiss or if he was overthinking.

 

If it was the former, then the child was truly pitiable.

 

Xiao Jin grabbed Xiao Shan's elbow and said, "Don't say anything. I understand what you're thinking. I'll handle this matter." If Xiao Shan spoke out, who knew how things might get twisted if word spread.

 

There was no need for Xiao Shan to get entangled in these affairs.

 

Seeing Xiao Jin's demeanor, Xiao Shan nodded and said, "Second Brother, you are the Crown Prince. As long as you understand."

 

Xiao Jin responded softly with a hum.

 

From his high seat, the Emperor noticed the two brothers whispering and couldn't help but comment with a smile, "Those two have always been close since they were young, and it seems nothing has changed."

 

Following the Emperor's gaze, the Empress saw Xiao Jin and Xiao Shan. Her smile froze momentarily before returning to normal.

 

Consort Lan, on the other hand, cheerfully remarked, "They are brothers, so naturally, they have a good relationship." After saying this, she seemed to want to curry favor with the Empress and added, "It's also because the Crown Prince, as the elder brother, is more tolerant of Shan's antics."

 

The Empress' smile remained unchanged as she said, "Xiao Jin, as the Crown Prince, treats all his brothers the same."

 

The Emperor laughed from the side, "The two of them are mutually tolerant. Let them be."

 

Sitting beside the Emperor, Xiao Xian lowered his head, feeling that as a child, he shouldn't understand the adults' veiled remarks.

 

Consort Shu, as usual, did not involve herself in such conversations. She sat quietly, her eyes full of affection for her son.

 

Seeing Xiao Jin and Xiao Shan, the Emperor was reminded of the Gu family, who were still in mourning. He called to Chang Le, "Select a few vegetarian dishes and have them sent to the Gu family. Zhen is thinking of them."

 

"Gu Yin has done well as the Prefect of Jiangnan, and Gu Yan's two sons are still at home, correct?"

 

Chang Le quickly replied, "Yes, Your Majesty. Gu Yan has two sons, Gu Zhou and Gu Yi, who are still in mourning."

 

The Emperor nodded, "Zhen knows. The places where they have served have always been rather harsh. However, the Ministry of Personnel's evaluations of their performance have been excellent. They are both honest officials, which is a blessing for our Da Zhou."

 

Chang Le quickly followed up with a few compliments. Seeing that the Emperor had nothing more to say, he bowed and withdrew.

 

Since the Emperor had spoken these words, they were certainly meant for the Gu family to hear.

 

Consort Lan showed no particular expression or thoughts upon hearing this, while the Empress glanced at her, her smile unwavering.

 

This New Year's Eve night passed quickly.

 

The Emperor drank a few more cups of wine, and since it was New Year's Eve, he stayed in the Empress' palace upon returning.

 

No matter how many people there were in the harem, the Emperor always spent the first and fifteenth of each month in the Empress' palace, and the New Year's Eve reunion night was no exception.

 

Xiao Shan and Xie Zhui returned to Prince Li's residence.

 

Once back in their room, Xie Zhui adjusted the silver charcoal* in the brazier and then suddenly said, "I'm a bit hungry."

*refers to a type of high-quality charcoal that is often used in traditional Chinese heating and cooking. It is known for its clean burn and minimal smoke, making it ideal for indoor use.

 

Xiao Shan quickly asked, "What would you like to eat?"

 

Xie Zhui replied, "I don't know." He was just hungry but couldn't pinpoint what he wanted to eat. In the past, he had experienced hunger, but it felt completely different. Back then, he could endure it, even getting by with just some water. Now, even a slight hunger made him feel unbearably uncomfortable.

 

Xiao Shan said, "Alright, wait here for a moment. I'll go see what I can get for you to eat."

 

Xie Zhui responded with a nod.

 

After the time it takes for an incense stick to burn, Xiao Shan personally brought a bowl of steaming hot wontons, drizzled with sesame oil and sprinkled with chopped scallions.

 

He placed the bowl on the table and said, "Eat it while it's hot."

 

Xie Zhui sat down and began to eat. He couldn't tell if it was his imagination, but the taste seemed a bit different from what he remembered.

 

Seeing him eat with such enjoyment, Xiao Shan smiled and asked, "Is it good?"

 

Xie Zhui nodded and mumbled, "Delicious."

 

Taking advantage of the warmth, the two of them washed up and went to bed.

 

The next day, Xie Zhui learned from Ji An that the wontons from the previous night had been cooked by Xiao Shan himself, though the fire had been tended by Ji An.

 

Hearing this, Xie Zhui's heart skipped a beat. So it wasn't his imagination that the taste was different.

 

Seeing Xie Zhui in such a good mood because of a bowl of wontons, Xiao Shan couldn't help but laugh and said, "Your standards are too low. The wontons were prepared by Xia He and the others and left outside. I just put them in the pot to boil. If you like, I can make them for you myself next time."

 

Xie Zhui thought to himself, Even so, not every man is willing to cook for his husband or wife.

 

Xie Zhui was happy not because Xiao Shan made the wontons, but because Xiao Shan was willing to do it for him.

 

Xiao Shan naturally understood Xie Zhui's thoughts and mused that if they met in modern times, Xie Zhui would know that many people, regardless of their status, were happy to cook for the ones they love.

 

It was a very natural thing and didn't necessarily warrant such gratitude.

 

However, since Xie Zhui liked what he made, he would try his best to fulfill his wishes.