In the palace.
When the eunuch did not respond, the Third Prince took two almonds from the plate and chewed them.
He had lean cheeks, jet-black hair, and finely sculpted features, making him an exceptionally handsome man. He also had the air of a rake, and his mannerisms were somewhat unusual.
The palace lamps flickered as a light breeze brushed past outside the window.
Lounging lazily on his couch, the Third Prince slowly lifted the teapot and commented, "This Little Prince Huai is shameless and vulgar, greedy and lustful, with a mouth full of lies. He's practically... cast from the same mold as me. A kindred spirit! A kindred spirit!"
Hearing this, the eunuch thought, Your Highness, you really do know yourself damn well. Your assessment of yourself couldn't be more accurate...!
"Where has he reached?" The Third Prince's conversational style was all about randomness and unpredictability. As he drank his tea, he abruptly changed the subject.
"Word is that he has passed Loushan Pass and should now be heading toward Hezhou Prefecture," the eunuch replied.
The Third Prince stroked his chin with his slender fingers, an exceedingly "wise" look in his eyes. "Go to Begonia Tower tomorrow and select a few dozen newly arrived virgins who are both talented and beautiful. Then have those experienced madams teach them everything they know to improve the girls' skills. Oh, and have Harimu prepare some treasures and playthings."
"Your Highness, His Majesty mentioned just recently that your health is nowhere near what it used to be. He meant for you to curb your desires...!" the eunuch advised tactfully.
"You don't know shit," the Third Prince said quietly. "The more Father forbids something, the more I want to do it."
"...!"
The eunuch had no response. He thought his master's greatest virtue was