The Grand Empress Dowager was critically ill, but Prince Yue and Prince Duan's entry into the palace went without any complications.
Both were Emperor Shenzong's sons, which meant the Grand Empress Dowager was their grandmother.
However, because of Xu Yue's frightening words earlier, Prince Duan had already abandoned any thought of tattling. He obediently entered and paid his respects.
He also presented the thousand-year ginseng, earning a reluctant smile and praise from the bedridden Gao Shi.
Emperor Zhezong Zhao Xu, standing nearby, wore a somewhat heavy expression as well.
Strictly speaking, Gao Shi had been his political opponent. Yet he had ascended the throne at nine years old, and if Gao Shi had not kept such a firm grip on the court, his throne might not have been so secure.
Now that the old woman was about to pass away, even an emperor said to be devoid of familial affection could not help feeling somewhat emotional.
"Prince Yue, didn't you have something to say to The Emperor? Why aren't you saying it?"
After presenting the ginseng and receiving praise, Prince Duan could not help growing smug again. He turned back to Xu Yue, seemingly intending to mock him.
"Thank you for the reminder. This subject has a matter to report."
Prince Duan had never expected Xu Yue to actually dare speak. He had merely wanted to mock him and trip him up a little. Who could have imagined that Xu Yue would immediately take him up on it?
"Oh? We are brothers, after all. Speak freely."
The emperors of the Song Dynasty were among the most easygoing of all dynasties. In private, they rarely put on imperial airs.
Yet while Emperor Zhezong Zhao Xu asked with a friendly expression, Prince Duan beside him looked as though he had seen a