The Sixth Prince's consort, Madam Mu, had adopted an air of grievance, as if the whole world owed her something, ever since the Sixth Prince took the blame for Prince Ning. She lived as she pleased and spoke without restraint. Even after the Sixth Prince's release and Prince Ning's death, she showed no improvement.
Lu Nianfu, who kept a low profile, had seen her clash with the Crown Princess a few times.
At the time, she had found the former Crown Princess's retorts refreshing. But little did she expect that fortunes would turn, and today it would be her turn. Madam Mu seized a lull in the conversation, instantly drawing everyone's attention, and said, "Your Majesty, I heard that Third Brother has been enfeoffed as a prince."
The rewards given to Situ Feng yesterday had been delivered with great fanfare. Situ Yan had even prepared the plaque for "Prince Jing's Mansion" in advance. Anyone with ears in the capital knew this news. Just moments before the Emperor and Empress entered the hall, people had already congratulated Prince Jing.
Lu Nianfu couldn't understand her intentions and replied, "Yes, the imperial decree was issued yesterday."
Madam Mu uttered an "Oh," and then continued, "Then why isn't my husband among them? We are brothers. You should speak to the Emperor about it. It's not right to be unfair."
Not only Lu Nianfu, but everyone in the hall was stunned. They all turned to look at the Sixth Prince, Situ Lang.
The several princes were standing with Situ Yan, discussing plans to visit the former emperor at the imperial retreat after the New Year. Madam Mu's sudden remark naturally made them stop.
Situ Lang chuckled awkwardly, but did not speak to stop her.
Situ Yan let out a cold laugh and showed him no leniency. "Perhaps Sixth Brother didn't see the imperial decree yesterday and doesn't understand why Third Brother was enfeoffed. Third Brother had merit in disaster relief. Does Sixth Brother have any? As today is auspicious, if you can state one or two, I will immediately grant you a similar title."
Meeting his icy gaze, Situ Lang's heart skipped a beat. He quickly knelt and said, "Your Majesty, my wife must have had a bit too much to drink in her joy, hence her inappropriate words and behavior. I beg Your Majesty's forgiveness."
Madam Mu also kowtowed to apologize, but her eyes still held a hint of defiance.
Situ Yan snorted. "Sixth Consort, for matters like enfeoffment, complaining to the Empress is useless. It is I who have the final say. As for Sixth Brother, since returning from the imperial mausoleum, you haven't properly handled any duties. With such behavior, even if I wanted to enfeoff you, I wouldn't find a reason. The court is busy now. Perhaps you should accept an assignment?"
Such good fortune?
Situ Lang quickly calculated in his mind.
After guarding the imperial mausoleum, he had decided that he would never lift a finger for Situ Jue again. Therefore, even after his release, he was reluctant to take on any duties. What was the point of doing more if it would only benefit others? His association with Prince Ning was too obvious, and he could only prove his severed ties with actions.
This way, no matter who ascended the throne, he wouldn't face too much trouble.
However, it wasn't until Situ Yan ascended the throne that he realized he had been marginalized from court affairs due to his prolonged absence from duty. Although he wasn't being purged, without even a title, wouldn't he just be a leisurely royal? That was why he had shamelessly remained silent when Madam Mu spoke.
He had thought that perhaps the Emperor, being thin-skinned, might grant him a title.
But the current outcome was also good. Although the Emperor had embarrassed him, he was willing to assign him a duty.
This was truly an unexpected joy.
He quickly kowtowed again. "This humble subject awaits Your Majesty's command."
Glasses clinked, and songs and dances filled the air.
Soon, it was time for the young ladies of various families to showcase their talents. The eligible young ladies of noble birth displayed their unique skills, adding much color to the banquet. Situ Yan was not very interested, but Lu Nianfu enjoyed the spectacle.
Frankly, she hadn't had the chance to sit down and appreciate singing and dancing like this for a long time.
Midway through the performances, Situ Yan, as usual, excused himself early. The joy of the emperor and his officials together was, after all, just a saying. With the emperor present, which minister would dare to relax and indulge? As he left, he conveniently took Lu Nianfu with him. They turned into a deserted corner, and Lu Nianfu felt her waist tighten as she was pressed against a thick pillar.
Situ Yan's voice, sour as a lemon, said, "The Empress seems to be greatly admiring the young ladies' talents. For half the night, you haven't spared your husband a glance."
Lu Nianfu was speechless and reminded him, "...Your Majesty, it is the young ladies of the families who are showcasing their talents, not the young gentlemen."
"Oh? The Empress seems rather disappointed."
Lu Nianfu stomped on his foot and huffed, "They are all here for you. I'm the one who should be jealous, alright?"