Ninth Imperial Glorious Phoenix Chapter 752

Chapter 752 Yearning

<Previous Chapter<Table of Contents>Next Chapter>

Mingzhu gratefully looked at Yuwen Chu, who smiled back at her, as if he knew everything and nothing at the same time.

Fu Cong carefully sat down, smiling, “Bring Millet over so I can see her.”

Mingzhu quickly brought Millet over but was hesitant to let Fu Cong hold her, fearing the child might accidentally hurt him.

Fu Cong insisted, “Grandfather almost didn’t get to see Millet. Let me hold her while I still can. Otherwise, it’ll be a shame if her brother gets to be held by grandfather, but she doesn’t.”

Reluctantly, Mingzhu gently placed Millet in his arms. Fortunately, Millet was feeling lazy and stood quietly in Fu Cong’s lap, staring at him with her bright, curious eyes. She had a small, shiny drool at the corner of her mouth due to teething.

Fu Cong laughed heartily, “Have you decided on her formal name?”

Yuwen Chu, who had several names in mind, felt a moment of inspiration and smiled. “I thought of a few but wasn’t fully satisfied. Father-in-law, please give her a name.”

Fu Cong stroked his beard and said, “Let’s call her Yin Yin. It symbolizes a prosperous nation and a wealthy populace.”

“A great name!” Mingzhu immediately agreed, wanting to fulfill her father’s wish. She laughed, “Her nickname is Millet, signifying a precious grain. The name Father gave fits perfectly and carries a wonderful meaning.”

Yuwen Chu smiled, “Indeed, it’s a wonderful name. Thank you, Father-in-law.”

Satisfied, Fu Cong gently patted Millet’s head and softly said, “Only with a prosperous nation and a wealthy populace can my little Millet live a peaceful life.”

Mingzhu now understood the deeper meaning behind the name. A prosperous nation meant stability and peace, which would ensure that Millet would not have to be used as a political pawn, living a carefree life. The thought of Millet potentially becoming a Wangfei was not something Mingzhu dwelled on much, knowing that Yuwen Chu’s ambitions would either elevate the family or result in their collective downfall.

Millet seemed to enjoy Fu Cong’s gentle touch, closing her eyes in contentment and making happy cooing sounds. Fu Cong laughed and kissed her, “Such a lovely girl, just like a little kitten.”

Millet suddenly started to move excitedly, and Mingzhu quickly took her back before she could hurt Fu Cong. “Time to change her diaper.”

Fu Cong smiled and accepted Mingzhu’s thoughtful gesture, then asked her about their journey. The family enjoyed a harmonious dinner together. Later, an aide came to fetch Fu Cong, who said, “It’s been a long time since my daughter saw me off. Mingzhu, walk with me.”

Understanding that her father had something to discuss, Mingzhu happily draped a warm cloak over him and helped him into the soft sedan chair, walking beside it as they headed towards Shanhai Residence.

Fu Cong asked, “Have you met Ji Hui?”

Mingzhu smiled, “Yes, Father. Do you know about her situation?”

Fu Cong smiled, “It seems His Highness has informed you, so I am relieved. I’m getting old, and I often find myself struggling. I want to tell you, no matter what happens, staying alive and healthy is most important. Don’t be too obsessed with anything.”

Mingzhu pouted, “Are you advising me to be gracious and magnanimous?”

Fu Cong laughed at her tone, “I am your father, not your enemy. I’m advising you to cultivate your inner self and not let others affect you. Remember, life isn’t about one single purpose. There are many meaningful and beautiful things in life. Relax, don’t be too fixated, and keep a broad perspective and an open mind. That way, you won’t get stuck on one thing and find your world shrinking.”

Mingzhu felt that her father was hinting at something deeper. His words were indeed wise, perhaps something he had wanted to tell her for a long time. She nodded vigorously, “I’ll remember everything.”

Father and daughter chatted about family matters as they walked slowly to the residence. The aides greeted Mingzhu warmly and respectfully. She kindly spoke with each of them, reminding those attending to Fu Cong to be careful. She personally covered Fu Cong with a blanket and made him tea before leaving.

Fu Cong maintained his composure until Mingzhu left, then relaxed, signaling an attendant to help him lie down. Smiling, he apologized to the aides, “I’m sorry, gentlemen. These old bones need to lie down to speak with you.”

The aides, aware of his poor health, didn’t mind. Mingzhu, who had seen this from the doorway, couldn’t help but tear up. Back at the main residence, she put on a brave face, staying with Madame Cui and the others until it was time to light the lamps, making Madame Cui very happy before she left.

The two children were exhausted and fell asleep as soon as they were in the carriage. Leaning on Yuwen Chu’s shoulder, Mingzhu wanted to discuss her father’s condition but felt it was hard to start. The Great Empress Dowager’s refusal to release Jiang Zhouzi while her father needed him was a painful topic. Determined, she decided to get Jiang Zhouzi out by any means necessary.

Suddenly, Yuwen Chu said, “I’ll find a way to get Jiang Zhouzi out of the palace tomorrow.”

Once again, he knew what she was thinking. Mingzhu poked him in the side, muttering, “Thank you. I can do it myself.”

Yuwen Chu smiled, “You don’t have as many ways as I do, and the palace personnel have changed several times while you were away. I know them better. If you’re free and in a good mood, you can take the children to visit my mother.”

Mingzhu replied, “I’ve already planned it. Tomorrow, I’ll visit Mother-in-law. The day after, I’ll start receiving guests and catching up with old friends. Then, I’ll invite Little Gu and Seventh Sister-in-law for a gathering.”

Seeing her well-organized plans, Yuwen Chu nodded, “Alright. I’ll be busy from tomorrow onwards. With spring coming, there’s spring plowing to oversee. The Xiongnu suffered a snow disaster last winter and will likely cause trouble this spring. Zhongshan Wang might conspire with them…”

“Your Highness, focus on your important tasks. Leave the household matters and other minor issues to me.” Mingzhu had meticulously planned everything that morning, from entertaining guests to visiting the palace. Reestablishing connections wouldn’t be difficult; she just needed to start.

The husband and wife returned to the mansion hand in hand, naturally indulging in affectionate intimacy once again. The next morning, when Mingzhu woke up, she didn’t see the shadow of Yuwen Chu as usual. Zhou Nushi, Ping Nushi, and Li Quanxin were waiting in the corridor. Seeing Mingzhu eating and drinking well, the three of them approached to pay their respects and curry favor, each highlighting their achievements over the past few days. Li Quanxin said that he managed the servants in the mansion very efficiently; Zhou Nushi modestly stated that she managed the interpersonal relationships in the mansion without any mistakes; Ping Nushi proudly claimed that she fulfilled her duties faithfully and kept the mischievous girls in check.

Can’t wait until next week to see more? Want to show your support? Come to my Patreon where you can get up to 10 more chapters of Ninth Imperial Glorious Phoenix right away ! Or go donate at Paypal or Ko-fi to show your appreciation! :)

<Previous Chapter<Table of Contents>Next Chapter>