This year’s imperial feast had a new addition by Emperor Qin Yuanxi’s side, unlike previous years. Although they hadn’t held a wedding ceremony yet, Lu Bohuan had already taken on the title of the empress. Previously, there used to be a separate seat designated for him, but this year, it wasn’t needed anymore. He sat directly beside Qin Yuanxi, presiding over the feast as if he were the host himself.
The courtiers had transitioned from initial disbelief and confusion to gradual acceptance. Initially, they had mentally prepared themselves for Prince Lu potentially rebelling and aiming for the throne. However, after all the twists and turns, instead of becoming the emperor, Prince Lu unexpectedly became the empress. Though the title change seemed minor, its implications were entirely different.
No one had anticipated that the once entirely incompatible monarch and subject would have such a harmonious day. They even had a child together. Looking at the young prince, as he grew older, his features gradually emerged. He was remarkably handsome, with eyes resembling His Majesty and a nose resembling the Prince. Faintly, one could discern a combination of both.
Without a doubt, the child was their biological son. Despite not widely publicizing the prince’s origins, many people had a rough idea. When His Majesty temporarily resided in the villa, there were some rumors circulating. Even though these were later suppressed and no one mentioned the matter again, everyone who needed to understand had long since grasped the truth.
It could only be sighed that the world truly had its wonders. His Majesty was indeed the chosen one.
Leaving this aside for now, this year’s imperial feast differed from previous ones in some aspects. Previously, the courtiers could bring their families and showcase talents such as singing and dancing. Firstly, to add to the festivity and entertainment, and secondly, to display their abilities in hopes of gaining His Majesty’s favor. However, this year was entirely different. His Majesty’s previous edicts had already quashed any intentions of standing out. Who would dare to show off in such a situation now?
In case things turned sour and provoked the future empress, it would become troublesome. It wouldn’t be just about jealousy within the harem; everyone in the court, both civil and military officials, knew that although Lu Bohuan had transitioned into the role of empress, he was still Lu Bohuan. Offending him could lead to an uncertain demise.
All the intrigue and disputes that used to fill the atmosphere during previous feasts were non-existent this year. The banquet was harmonious, with everyone leisurely eating and drinking, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. Though peaceful, it felt somewhat desolate.
Qin Yuanxi didn’t care whether the banquet was bustling or quiet. For him, it was just like working overtime on New Year’s Eve. Fortunately, having his wife and child accompanying him during this overtime made his mood less gloomy. He could manage to put on a smiling face. If he were left alone to entertain the courtiers, he’d be quite annoyed.
“Xiao Bao can’t have that. Don’t feed him.”
Lu Bohuan intervened with a glance; as soon as Qin Yuanxi attempted to feed the child, Lu Bohuan quickly intercepted, “The nanny already fed him. Let him play here for a while; don’t keep feeding him. If he accumulates food at night, he won’t sleep well.”
“I’m just playing.”
Qin Yuanxi didn’t intend to feed the child for real; he was genuinely attentive to the little one. He was simply finding the baby amusing and wanted to play with him intentionally. Little did he expect Lu Bohuan to notice.
“Where’s my wine?” Qin Yuanxi held his wine glass, a bit displeased. “Why is it empty?”
“Don’t drink too much. Don’t get drunk so quickly.”
At this moment, Lu Bohuan was watching over the two children: one older and one younger. Ironically, the younger one seemed more well-behaved, while the older one kept looking for trouble.
“You can’t give me an empty cup. Can’t you at least give me something to drink?” Qin Yuanxi pouted, feeling wronged. “It’s New Year’s Day. How can you be so heartless?”
“I’ve already asked someone to bring it.” Lu Bohuan chuckled, looking down. “Why do you feel wronged? We prepared fruit wine for you. It tastes good and won’t make you dizzy. Just taste it, it’s a gesture.”
“Yeah, okay,” Qin Yuanxi nodded, and Lu Bohuan gave him a knowing look, reminding him, “Say something. The ministers are waiting.”
Indeed, all the ministers were waiting.
The annual imperial feast was more of a tradition, emphasizing the unity between the monarch and his officials. It wasn’t just about eating, drinking, and having fun. On New Year’s Eve, it set a good precedent, signifying a commitment to continue working diligently in the coming year.
The crucial part of the banquet was the Emperor’s speech. From Qin Yuanxi’s understanding, it was akin to a year-end review: discussing each department’s performance, acknowledging exemplary work, and then awarding year-end bonuses. It was almost like running a company as a CEO.
When Qin Yuanxi’s fruit wine arrived, he unreservedly filled his glass. Raising his cup, the courtiers followed suit. He started with some pleasantries, aiming to create a cheerful atmosphere. Once the pleasantries were done, Qin Yuanxi glanced at Lu Bohuan beside him.
Lu Bohuan was playfully interacting with their son, his expression tender. Qin Yuanxi’s demeanor softened considerably.
“Esteemed ministers, you’ve all worked hard this year. Today’s banquet won’t detain you for long. Let’s gather briefly, then you can all return home early to celebrate the New Year with your families.”
The ministers quickly agreed, “Yes.”
How could they not see that the Emperor’s heart wasn’t in the banquet? This Emperor was definitely a family-loving man. With such a role model, they naturally had to follow him.
“After the New Year, you’ll all have some time off. Departments must have someone on duty daily, don’t slack off in your duties,” Qin Yuanxi added, “Furthermore, during the New Year, each one must behave appropriately. If there are any disturbances, I want to be informed. We won’t tolerate any misconduct. When you return home, make sure to advise your families. Don’t excuse any illegal activities. Understood?”
With a few words, he balanced kindness and authority. Lu Bohuan squeezed their son’s hand, a look of satisfaction in his eyes.
He was becoming more and more like what he was meant to be. From his initial timidity and discomfort in court, he had developed his own ideas and strategies, getting closer to being a wise and virtuous ruler.
Wonderful.
After the banquet, following Lu Bohuan’s instructions, a few ministers were specially presented with food boxes. One box was prepared specifically for Prime Minister Wang. Looking at the reward in his carriage, tears welled up in the old prime minister’s eyes, mixed with a myriad of emotions.
What he had been most concerned about had finally borne fruit. Henceforth, the Emperor and the Prince worked hand in hand, jointly governing the country. It was a blessing that the people of this world couldn’t wish for.
At the end of the imperial feast, Xiao Bao had fallen asleep in Lu Bohuan’s arms. Qin Yuanxi felt a bit disappointed, poking the little one’s cheek, not quite satisfied.
“What’s wrong with him? We agreed to celebrate the New Year together, but how can he just fall asleep? Didn’t he sleep all day long? How can he sleep so soundly now?”
“Don’t wake him up,” Lu Bohuan moved away with the baby, avoiding Qin Yuanxi’s playful pestering. “At this hour, children should be sleeping. Haven’t I kept you company? Besides, the little one was too excited during the day; he didn’t sleep at all. It’s already commendable he lasted until now.”
“Alright, when will he grow up? He can’t even share the burden with his father, and I still have to prepare diapers for him.”
“That’ll take many more years,” Lu Bohuan laid Xiao Bao on their big bed, arranged two pillows around him to prevent him from rolling, and then led Qin Yuanxi to the warm chamber to celebrate the New Year.
“Is Your Majesty planning something?”
Others at the imperial feast might not have perceived the underlying meanings behind those words, but Lu Bohuan understood. His Majesty was probably planning some other actions.
“Just some thoughts,” Qin Yuanxi poured some clear tea and nibbled on a plate of sunflower seeds. “Let’s prepare them preemptively, to prevent being caught off guard later. Any real actions will have to wait until after the grand wedding.”
“What’s your plan?”
“Cleaning up the bureaucratic mess isn’t easy. Those in power aren’t all striving for the betterment of the people; most are pursuing wealth and status. Especially the higher-ups, they tend to lose their principles. We need to instill in them the idea of being public servants truly working for the people.” Qin Yuanxi leaned on Lu Bohuan’s shoulder. “I’ll handle their salaries and benefits, but they can’t oppress the common folk anymore. Otherwise, don’t blame me for changing my attitude toward them.”
Previously, Qin Yuanxi didn’t have a clear understanding of being an emperor. He even felt a bit lost, not knowing what to do, especially without Lu Bohuan around to guide him, to the extent that even the primary duty of reviewing memorials had to be arranged by Lu Bohuan.
Later, when Lu Bohuan fell ill, many things required Qin Yuanxi to take charge by himself. Gradually, he found his way. It could be called a sense of belonging or a sense of responsibility.
Being the emperor is seriously no walk in the park, but Qin Yuanxi gradually figured out a trick or two. He treated it like running a company, positioning himself as the CEO. A CEO can’t do everything hands-on; you’ve got to delegate tasks, grasp the big picture, know how to manage your people, and then supervise their work. Throw in a bit of a carrot-and-stick approach – rewards for a job well done and punishments for slacking off. With the absolute authority of an emperor, it might even be a tad easier than being a CEO.
“In the future, we’ve got to bear this responsibility and make some achievements,” Qin Yuanxi clenched his small fist, full of ambition. “We need to set an example for Xiao Bao.”
“You’re such a good kid,” Lu Bohuan patted Qin Yuanxi’s head. “Enough of these serious talks. How do you guys celebrate the Lantern Festival over there?”
“Just eat, watch shows, and set off firecrackers,” Qin Yuanxi sighed. “But later, they stopped allowing firecrackers. The festive atmosphere dwindled a lot. Having a meal together as a family is considered celebrating the New Year. It’s not as lively as the palace.”
The liveliness wasn’t inside the palace but outside. Even through the palace walls, the sounds of firecrackers could be heard, occasionally accompanied by bursts of fireworks, the epitome of earthly joy.
“Why aren’t firecrackers allowed? What kind of rule is that?” Lu Bohuan couldn’t comprehend. “Setting off firecrackers during the New Year is a tradition. If there are no firecrackers, can it still be called New Year?”
Many questions couldn’t be explained in a few words, especially the countless changes in modern society. Qin Yuanxi had no intention of delving into deep explanations. Instead, he tugged on Lu Bohuan’s sleeve. “Can you take me to set off some firecrackers? It’s been so long since I’ve played. I used to do it a lot when I was a kid, let’s go set some off.”
Off they went. Lu Bohuan, always indulgent with him, took him to the Imperial Garden, bringing along a variety of firecrackers. With laughter and joy, they left behind a trail of happiness in the Imperial Garden.
Suddenly, a cold sensation touched Qin Yuanxi’s nose. He reached up to feel it, encountering a slight dampness. Looking up at the sky, a surprised expression spread across his face.
“Ah Tuo, look, it’s snowing.”
“Ah Tuo, Happy New Year.”
Hello, everyone ヾ(＾∇＾). I hope you enjoyed the story! If you’re feeling generous, please buy me a coffee, share/comment on my translated works! Check out the link below for early chapters. (๑>ᴗ<๑)
