amaotonovel Chapter 114
Chapter 114
On the morning of March 18th, three-quarters of an hour before sunrise, drums began to beat before the Meridian Gate, and all civil and military officials were already lined up in formation. The Ministry of Rites led all the officials into the palace, with civil officials on the east side and military officials on the west side, standing in awe outside the Hall of Supreme Harmony. Kangxi then left the palace in his carriage and ascended the throne at the Hall of Central Harmony.
After three drum beats, the melodious Shao music began to play, and Kangxi arrived at the Hall of Supreme Harmony. Then, the grand music from the Danbi began, its sound stirring the hearts of the people. All officials gathered in the Hall of Supreme Harmony and, in turn, saluted Kangxi, presented memorials, read memorials, and delivered eulogies, all shouting "Long live the emperor!"
Soon, Shao music sounded again and Kangxi got up from the throne.
In the main hall of the Qianqing Palace, a grand birthday banquet was held. All the ministers stood in awe, and in order of rank, presented birthday gifts to the Emperor, performing the ritual of three kneelings and nine kowtows to congratulate him.
Kangxi sat steadily in the chair, his fingers gently fiddling with the Buddhist beads.
Qingyao stood up with the wine glass in hand: "Your Highness, I respectfully wish you a long and blessed life."
Kangxi looked at Qingyao affectionately and reminded her with concern: "Queen, it is better to drink less wine. Don't drink too much and hurt your body."
Qingyao: "I understand. I'll just give you a glass of fruit wine to wish His Majesty a happy birthday."
All the concubines stood up and respectfully toasted Kangxi to express their blessings.
Chenghu and his eldest sister, along with their younger brothers and sisters, stood up and said in unison: "Your sons and we respectfully wish Your Majesty a long life, a long and secure reign, and may your majesty reign supreme throughout the world and your virtue command the whole world."
Kangxi: "Everyone, get up quickly."
Chenghu: "Father Your Majesty, this is a picture of your longevity that I, Yinreng, and Yinzhen painted together. We are giving it to Your Majesty as a birthday gift."
Kangxi waved his finger gently, signaling Liang Jiugong to present the scroll. He took it, examined it carefully, and expressed a hint of approval: "It is clear that Chenghu and Yinreng's calligraphy has improved. However, Yinzhen still needs to practice diligently to catch up with his brother."
Little Yinzhen responded respectfully: "Your Majesty, your words are absolutely right. I will work diligently and strive for excellence."
Kangxi nodded: "You three brothers, please sit down."
When the banquet ended, Qingyao gently supported him and said softly, "Your Majesty, I will accompany you back to the inner hall to rest."
Kangxi: "Tonight I will go to your Kunning Palace to rest."
Qingyao leaned forward slightly, lowered her eyebrows and looked pleasing to the eye, her voice soft but firm: "I will obey the will of His Majesty." After that, she stepped forward lightly and carefully helped him onto the dragon chariot, her movements showing respect and consideration.
July 25th Kunning Palace
Chunyu whispered softly, delivering the news: "Your Majesty, over in the side hall of Xianfu Palace, Concubine Dai Jia is showing signs of being about to give birth."
Qingyao: "I understand. Let Madam Ling go and take a look on my behalf."
Chunyu: "Yes, Madam, I will tell Madam Ling right away."
After a long wait, Nanny Ling finally returned to Kunning Palace, her steps heavy. She bowed her head and reported, "Your Majesty, Concubine Dai Jia has given birth to a little prince. This is a joyous occasion, but..." Her words suddenly broke off, as if she had some unspeakable secret.
Qingyao frowned slightly and looked directly at Madam Ling. "Madam Ling, if you have anything to say, feel free to say it. Why are you hesitating so much?"
Matron Ling: "Your Majesty, I have examined the young prince for you. He has a disabled leg."
Qingyao politely instructed, "Thank you for the careful diagnosis and treatment of the young prince by the imperial physician who is an expert in pediatrics. Madam Ling, I would also like to trouble you to go to the Qianqing Palace in person and report this matter to Liang Jiugong, and have him pass it on to His Majesty.