The Empress Dowager did not sleep for long today. Upon hearing that the Emperor was coming, she called for Chen Jing to assist her in getting up.
"Has the Emperor eaten?" The Empress Dowager, slightly weary, covered her mouth with a handkerchief and yawned, asking hoarsely.
"I have not heard of any meal being sent ahead, so it seems he has not yet eaten."
Chen Jing tended to the Empress Dowager, helping her rinse her mouth and wash her face, until she gradually regained her energy. She pressed her temple gently with her hand and said warmly, "Then inform the Imperial Kitchen to send the meal."
"Yes," Fuli responded with a courteous bow.
The Empress Dowager ate vegetarian meals, but the Emperor was occupied with state affairs. She couldn’t bear to have the Emperor eat only vegetarian meals with her, so every time the Emperor came for a meal, she would instruct the Imperial Kitchen to send a meal, while she accompanied him by eating some vegetarian dishes.
Chen Jing called a little palace maid to notify the Imperial Kitchen.
"Ordinary clothes are fine, just arrange my hair simply, and do not make the Emperor wait long."
When the Empress Dowager came out tidily prepared, Yan Xiu had already finished a cup of tea.
"Your son greets the Empress Dowager, hoping you are well-rested? Truly, it is my fault to have disturbed your rest," Yan Xiu rose and respectfully addressed her with clasped hands.
"Where is the Emperor being so formal? Please sit quickly."
The Empress Dowager and Yan Xiu sat together, and she looked at Yan Xiu with loving eyes: "These past two days, I have heard of the busy affairs of the court, and the Emperor has not been eating regularly. I am quite worried. I have already ordered the meal, and the Emperor must not refuse; you must eat before discussing other matters."
"Yes, I heed the Empress Dowager’s arrangement," Yan Xiu did not decline.
Though he had not felt hungry during his busy day, upon seeing Lady Li, a sudden desire to dine with her arose, causing his stomach to growl.
"Empress Dowager, Lady Li is still waiting outside. Why not let her in?"
Yan Xiu gently suggested.
The corner of the Empress Dowager’s eye twitched fiercely. Though she had specifically mentioned eating first before addressing other matters, the Emperor spoke of Li Yuyu regardless. She was truly...
"Alright, as the Emperor wishes." The Empress Dowager showed no sign of her thoughts, smiling warmly, "Chen Jing, please invite Lady Li inside."
"Your humble servant greets the Empress Dowager, and greets the Emperor."
Li Yuyu lowered her head slightly, taking small, measured steps as she performed a polite greeting.
Yan Xiu’s lips curved slightly: "No need for formalities, have a seat."
The Empress Dowager pretended not to see.
"Thank you, Empress Dowager, thank you, Emperor," Li Yuyu maintained her manners perfectly, then sat properly on the chair.
Yan Xiu picked up his tea bowl, taking a sip to cover the uncontrollable curve of his lips.
Acting again, isn’t she tired? He was tired on her behalf.
The Empress Dowager and Yan Xiu spoke a few more words, also observing Li Yuyu. They found that regardless of what was discussed, Li Yuyu maintained an impeccable posture, leaving no room for criticism.
This made her slightly irritated.
The Empress Dowager, somewhat displeased, stood: "Emperor, let’s eat first."
"Please, Empress Dowager, allow me to assist you," Yan Xiu rose as well, offering his arm as they moved toward the side hall.
Li Yuyu had already stood by the time the Empress Dowager got up, not looking at the pair at the forefront but rather intently counting the petals embroidered on her shoes out of boredom.
As Yan Xiu supported the Empress Dowager past Li Yuyu, he spoke in a deep voice: "Lady Li, you should join us."
The Empress Dowager’s lips moved, but she ultimately didn’t say, "Your Lady Li has already eaten at Jingxiang Palace."
Her brows arched gently, her face embodying kindness and harmony, as she praised, "I have heard that Lady Li is most adept at serving the Emperor during meals, so it’s perfect for watching her skills firsthand."