After settling matters at Huayao Palace, Chen Sanshi returned to Boundless Hall, halted the puppets, personally handled some state affairs, then summoned Little Bamboo.
"Reporting to His Majesty."
Dongfang Jingxing reported every detail meticulously. "Personnel have been selected and trained for the paths of alchemy, talisman drawing, and formations. The list is here for Your Majesty's review."
"Zhu Chichi."
Chen Sanshi saw that Zhu Tong's second daughter was now cultivating the Puppet Technique in Tianyong City. The descendants of some people, including Zhao Kang and Feng Yong, were also in Tianyong City.
But most people were not so fortunate. They either lacked spirit roots or possessed poor martial talent, and could only serve in ordinary armies.
Only after managing Tianyong City did Chen Sanshi return to the inner palace.
It was now May of the twelfth year of Tianwu, and the Imperial Noble Consort was in the tenth month of her pregnancy. If nothing unexpected happened, she would give birth very soon.
Chen Sanshi did not wish to miss his child's birth, so he simply remained in the palace for several days.
About five days later.
He was carving a puppet in his bedchamber when Nianxia suddenly hurried in. "Your Majesty, Her Ladyship is about to give birth."
"Oh? Take me there quickly."
Chen Sanshi immediately set down his work and followed the female official to Yonghe Palace, where he saw the Empress waiting as well.
"Your servant-wife greets His Majesty."
"No need for formalities."
After asking about the situation, Chen Sanshi waited quietly.
Half an incense stick later, the palace doors opened. The maidservant responsible for the delivery bowed as she said joyfully, "Congratulations, Your Majesty! Her Ladyship has given Great Han a princess."
"Excellent."
Chen Sanshi stepped across the threshold and entered with the Empress to visit the