The birthday banquet had ended, but most of the palace lanterns in Taihe Hall were still lit. The officials filed out of the hall, the sound of their boot soles against the golden floor tiles gradually fading. A few elderly ministers supported one another down the steps beneath the covered walkway, still remarking that His Majesty had been in good spirits tonight and had drunk a few extra cups.
Qi Yu had sneaked some wine tonight too. He had hidden his cup behind his sleeve, thinking his deception flawless, but while his sleeve could conceal the rim, it could not hide his scarlet ear tips. Qi Xiao had noticed long ago and had not exposed him. Palace rules were strict, and the princes were ordinarily forbidden even a drop of wine. A festival was a rare occasion; he might as well let him drink.
Now the wine had taken effect, flushing the boy's cheeks and making his eyes brighter than usual. He followed Qi Xiao back to the West Warm Pavilion and sat down in a chair, cradling the sobering tea De'an had just brewed in both hands. There were hawthorn berries and honey in the tea, making it sweet and tart. He took two sips, then set it down.
"Father," he called, his voice softer than usual, its final note a little unsteady.
Qi Xiao leaned against the back of his chair, also holding a cup of sobering tea. His had no honey in it and tasted somewhat bitter.
"I know you're the emperor. You have a realm to govern and so many things to do. I won't take up too much of your time. I'll just come eat a meal with you every day and talk to you at night. If you're tired, I'll read quietly and won't