Emperor Jingde emerged from the Ancestral Hall with storm clouds gathering over his face.
He wanted to lay the imperial sword across that treacherous scoundrel's neck and force the beast to impeach the empress, but the beast still refused to act!
Upon reaching the Eastern Palace, Emperor Jingde and Empress Yin suppressed their emotions and strode toward the palace corridor.
The Eastern Palace was meant to house the heir apparent, symbolizing the rising sun in the east. The old bastard should have lived in the Supreme Pole Palace, also known as the Western Palace, symbolizing the sun sinking toward the western hills!
Yet at eighty years old, the old bastard remained hale and hearty, refusing to budge from the Eastern Palace!
Inside the great hall, the Prince of Zhennan was playing a game of chess with the Retired Emperor, father and son enjoying each other's company.
Hearing the announcement, the Prince of Zhennan rose. At the sight of the dragon-robed figure, he bowed respectfully.
"May Your Majesty enjoy good health, and may Your Highness enjoy every blessing."
The emperor and empress did not even glance at this ambitious younger imperial brother. They turned toward the Retired Emperor and forced smiles.
"Father."
The Retired Emperor did not even raise his head, continuing to study the chessboard.
Emperor Jingde paced over to the imperial throne and sat down as though it were only natural.
An eunuch brought over a brocade stool, and Empress Yin took her seat.
Emperor Jingde glanced at the Prince of Zhennan and said coldly,
"Have you forgotten the rules?"
The Prince of Zhennan's face stiffened, and he replied coolly,
"This subject will withdraw."
Bang!
The Retired Emperor slammed down a chess piece and said with unruffled composure,
"Stay. If we were truly discussing affairs of state, we would