Yang Xiayu emerged from the Royal Armory.
The maidservant waiting outside hurried forward and carefully helped her along.
"Your Highness, shall we return to your chambers?"
"No need. Go directly to Nurturing Heart Palace to see Father."
"Yes."
Yang Xiayu glanced back at the Royal Armory. As if she had thought of something, the corners of her lips unconsciously lifted into a faint smile.
After walking for a quarter to half an hour, Yang Xiayu reached the entrance to Nurturing Heart Palace and stopped.
She explained the reason for her visit, and the eunuch guarding the palace entrance hurried inside to announce her arrival.
"Your Majesty, Princess Jianing requests an audience."
Nurturing Heart Palace was where the emperor cultivated his mind and nurtured his nature. At that moment, Yang Yuanchu was seated on the Jade Couch inside, gathering his spirit.
Hearing the announcement, he slowly opened his eyes and said, "Let her in."
"Yes."
Having received permission, Princess Jianing hurried into the palace, gathered her skirts, and bowed. "This daughter pays her respects to Father."
"Rise." The Shenwu Emperor asked, "What did you gain from visiting the Armory today?"
"Reporting to Father, I encountered the Duke of Zhenyuan at the Royal Armory today." Princess Jianing straightened and continued, "I gained quite some insight into cultivation and state of mind."
The Shenwu Emperor nodded, neither approving nor disapproving. "Did you come here for some reason?"
"There is indeed something. The Duke of Zhenyuan said he wished to return to his homeland soon to sweep his ancestors' graves and visit his neighbors, so he asked me to convey his request."
"It is only human nature." The Shenwu Emperor turned to Liu He beside him and asked, "Has the court decided on the Duke of Zhenyuan's ennoblement and rewards?"
Liu He hurriedly replied,