I let go of Claire and began pacing in front of the dragon couch, deep in thought. After a short while, I clapped my hands together, suddenly enlightened. As expected, although it seemed like I was toying with Charles Taylor today, in reality, everything had already been planned out by Charles Taylor long ago.

That old fox first advised me to work diligently for the good of the country, and when I reasonably refused, he brought up the Fengshan ceremony, directly pointing out that my reputation was too notorious. Yet he deliberately mentioned auspicious omens, leading me to think in that direction. In the end, he made me take the initiative to ask him to cheat, and even to have him take the blame. In this way, he could naturally put forward some small requests.

That damned old fox, putting on a bitter face—turns out it was all a trap for me. Now that I think about it carefully, every line he spoke was subtly guiding my thoughts. Impressive, that damned old fox.

Claire saw my expression shifting and came over to comfort me, saying, “Your Majesty, although Lord Taylor used all his cunning, he truly has your best interests and the country’s at heart.”

I nodded and smiled nonchalantly. “That old fox has lived decades longer than me; it’s only natural he’s become so shrewd. For the sake of the Great Wu’s empire, it’s been hard on him. If he were to serve a wise ruler, he’d probably be remembered as a great minister for generations.”

“In this servant’s eyes, Your Majesty is a wise ruler.” Claire snuggled obediently into my arms, her voice soft and gentle. “It’s only because petty men hold power at court that Your Majesty hasn’t had the chance to show your true abilities. This servant believes Your Majesty will surely cut down all obstacles and become a wise ruler for the ages. Lord Taylor will also be remembered for generations.”

This girl’s trust warmed my heart, and I replied gently, “My Claire is also a heroine who’s not inferior to any man. No matter how cunning that Old Fox Taylor is, he still couldn’t escape Claire’s sharp eyes.”

“Your Majesty!” Claire began to act coy in my arms, protesting, “How could you compare your servant to the Monkey King?”

“Ahaha, that was my mistake.” Looking at her delicate, rosy lips, fragrant as orchids, my heart fluttered and I leaned down to kiss her. In that instant, it felt as if only the two of us existed in the world. This sense of fulfillment can only be experienced when two hearts are truly in harmony. After a long while, I finally let her go, gazing at her dreamy eyes and teasing, “My dear Claire, how could you be the Monkey King? Clearly, you’re a little fox spirit—look, your eyes are so enchanting they’re practically dripping with charm.”

“Your Majesty is teasing your servant again.” Claire buried her pretty face in my chest, not daring to look at me.

“Claire jie-jie, you’re so mushy!” Grace covered her mouth, giggling, her big eyes sparkling with mischief.

“Good Grace, come here and let me dote on you too.” I beckoned to her with a smile.

“Your Majesty, th-there are others here…” Grace blushed, glancing shyly to the side.

Only then did I realize that Brian Bolton was still nearby. Wasn’t I just putting on a live spring palace show for him? I immediately let go of Claire and turned to look at him.

I saw that Brian Bolton, at some point, had already sat cross-legged on the floor, eyes closed, meditating. I walked over and patted him, waking him up. “Brian Bolton, what did you see?”

The boy looked bewildered, bowing in fear and trepidation. “Your Majesty, I have behaved improperly. Just now, I heard Your Majesty and Lord Taylor discussing important matters, full of Zen wisdom. Suddenly, I had an epiphany, and under the pull of my qi, I unconsciously sat down to meditate. It wasn’t until Your Majesty patted me that I woke up.”

Damn, an epiphany, qi pulling you into meditation. He can even make up lies like this—what a talent.

“Your Majesty, I suddenly remembered there’s still something I haven’t dealt with.” Brian Bolton showed no sign of guilt, speaking earnestly. “If there’s nothing else, may I take my leave?”

“Sir Bolton.” I patted his shoulder appreciatively. “You’re tired too, go back and rest.”

“Thank you for Your Majesty’s concern. To serve Your Majesty, no matter how tired or bitter, I am always willing.” Brian Bolton left, eyes brimming with gratitude.

This rascal really is sharp. I couldn’t help but smile knowingly.

Tomorrow is the day of the Fengshan grand ceremony. Fortunately, the Minister of Rites, Charles Taylor, that old fox, is very capable. Everything will be handled perfectly. All I need to do is wait for tomorrow with peace of mind.

Since there was nothing else to do, I might as well take a nap. With a wicked grin, I moved toward the two girls. Although I couldn’t really do anything, a little affection was inevitable.

The night passed without incident.

……

Chapter Four: Heavenly Auspices Descend (Part One)

Since I’d had enough sleep, I felt energetic when I got up. Today at noon is the Fengshan ceremony. By my nature, whether the ceremony happens or not doesn’t really matter. But if it’s handled well and I gain a good reputation, then even when I indulge myself, I can do so with a clear conscience—how delightful!

Claire got up an hour earlier than me, saying she wanted to help prepare my bath. The petite and adorable Grace was making the bed and folding the covers, looking charmingly lazy and alluring. This little vixen’s moans could arouse every bit of desire in me.

As for me, I was like a pig awaiting execution, doing nothing, just waiting to be bathed and plucked.

“Your Majesty, I found this under your mattress.” Grace came bounding into my arms, excitedly holding a stack of papers.