Going to See Emperor Taizong

At the imperial residence.

Someone brought the news to Li Jiqing. By now, Li Jiqing looked thoroughly aged; he even needed someone to support him just to walk steadily.

Leaning against his chair, he weakly raised his eyes and glanced at the person reporting to him.

"Where is Li Heng?"

"This..."

"Your Majesty... did not come."

"Your Majesty?"

Hearing the subordinate's form of address for Li Heng, Li Jiqing let out a cold laugh.

At his laugh, those below lowered their heads as well.

By now, Li Jiqing was no longer emperor. This had practically become everyone's shared understanding, whether or not they served under Li Heng.

They were all merely outdated old men.

Li Heng possessed Emperor Taizong's bloodline and such strength besides. If he became emperor, who could say no?

Better to recognize reality early.

"He did not come. Then whom did he send?"

Li Jiqing continued asking.

The person below replied, "The Xichuan Military Governor appointed by Your Majesty."

"The Xichuan Military Governor?"

Hearing this, Li Jiqing suddenly coughed several times. "It seems he truly does not want me to remain here!"

"..."

No one spoke.

After a pause, Li Jiqing said, "Fine! Fine, then!"

"Since they have come, give up the place so that this Xichuan Military Governor may stay in peace."

"Go make preparations! We... should return to Chang'an as well."

"Yes."

Everyone nodded.

Li Jiqing met the Xichuan Military Governor.

"Your subject, Xichuan Military Governor Lu Yuanyu, greets the Holy Duke!"

Lu Yuanyu bowed to Li Jiqing in greeting.

"Rise!"

Li Jiqing glanced at him.

But Lu Yuanyu had not knelt in the first place, so what was there to rise from?

He straightened and said, "Your Majesty has already prepared a palace and attendants for the Holy Duke in Chang'an. My subordinates will