The Valued Lady is Truly Dominant

To Song Zhiyuan, the Emperor avoiding meeting others like this would make anyone anxious. If it were him, he would be scrambling like an ant on a hot pan.

So he quite understands the thoughts of the people outside.

”No wonder they’re anxious, as the news here has been completely blocked from spreading, and if you don’t appear soon, they might storm the palace.” Song Zhiyuan commented neutrally.

Emperor Chu curled his lips and was about to speak when another call for an audience with the Emperor sounded from outside, louder than ever before.

Song Zhiyuan felt his temples throb and glanced at Emperor Chu. It was about time.

Emperor Chu saw his expression, which resembled that of a pug raised by a concubine in the harem—pathetic and cute. He couldn’t help but smile, ”You go out and deal with them first.”

Song Zhiyuan exhaled lightly; he could finally go home.

Outside Yangxin Hall, the number of people requesting an audience with the Emperor this time was indeed greater than previous waves—several princes were all present, along with key ministers, their faction members, and several Chiefs of Staff, each standing in formation.

Song Zhiyuan swept his gaze; several in-laws were present, but Duke Dingguo was absent, as was Duke Yingguo. Yet Marquis Loyal Brave was among them, along with his own third brother—is his brain caught in a door?

Song Zhiyuan’s gaze turned slightly cold.

Song Zhiqing shrank his neck, hiding among the crowd, feeling desperate; the gaze of the elder brother seemed pervasive.

”Prime Minister Song, we have an urgent confidential letter requesting an audience with the Emperor; please convey it.”

Song Zhiyuan clasped his hands behind him, speaking coolly, ”The Emperor is feeling unwell and is currently receiving treatment from the Imperial Physician. If you have any urgent matters, you can inform me directly.”

”Prime Minister Song, Father Emperor hasn’t attended court for several days; we are concerned about Father Emperor’s health and even suspect someone is attempting to detain him, with intentions of wrongdoing. We request an audience with Father Emperor.” Prince Zhou stepped forward, saying, ”If Father Emperor is well, I am willing to plead guilty before him.”

”Indeed, Prime Minister Song, please allow us to see Father Emperor.” Prince Xiao and others spoke as well.

Song Zhiyuan replied blandly, ”If I don’t convey this matter, are you intending to storm the palace?”

”If Prime Minister Song insists on blocking us, we may have to offend you.” Prince Zhou’s eyes flashed lightly.

Song Zhiyuan glanced at the ministers and asked, ”Is this your intention as well?”

One Imperial Censor stepped forward with righteous indignation, ”The Emperor, as the monarch, has not appeared for days, which has sparked numerous speculations, causing unrest within the court and constant disputes. Some even speculate secretly that the Emperor might be held captive by Prime Minister Song. To clear doubts, it would be best if Prime Minister Song lets us have an audience with the Emperor.”

Song Zhiyuan squinted slightly without speaking, just looking at the crowd coldly.

The aura pressing down on them was intimidating.

Some were already unable to resist the cold sweat on their foreheads, their legs weakening, feeling doomed.

How could Prime Minister Song be so arrogant without confidence? There must be some backing; perhaps the Emperor is indeed fine?

Prince Xiao and others were also doubtful, wondering if they were overthinking, seeing Prime Minister Song remain unmoved. Could it be that they were mistaken?

No, Prime Minister Song is known for theatrics, surely engaging in pretentious tactics; the more obstructed, the worse Father Emperor might be?

With this thought, they couldn’t help feeling somewhat excited and restless.

”Prime Minister Song, apologies.” Prince Zhou stepped onto the stairs, shouting loudly, ”Father Emperor, your son has a report.”

He moved up, while Song Zhiyuan remained completely unmoved. Seeing this, Prince Yan’s gaze flickered, halting his steps, saying, ”Third brother, maybe we should wait a bit.”

Just as he finished speaking, Duke Zhou stepped out, flicking the horsetail whisk in his hand, and shrilled, ”The Emperor decrees that the princes and Chief of Staff may have an audience.”

Everyone: ”...”

Damn, doomed!