CHAPTER 595: CHAPTER 496: TAMING THE HORSE KING_2

Lu Yuan sighed helplessly upon hearing this: "Father fell gravely ill with a sudden high fever. As his son, I must prioritize his health above all. Winning or losing pales in comparison to Father’s well-being."

The Minister of Agriculture remarked with admiration, "Prince Changsun not only understands the people’s plight, but also possesses a mind of great depth and is learned beyond measure. He is a man of extraordinary grace, impeccable character, and utmost filial piety. Truly, he is worthy of our respect."

Cabinet Minister Meng stroked his beard thoughtfully: "Of all the virtues, filial piety comes first. Prince Changsun has acted rightly. If one cannot treat their own parents well, how can they be trusted to care for the common people?"

Duke Jiang chimed in, "Exactly, exactly! To neglect one’s own father for the sake of a competition—what kind of beast would do that?"

After speaking, he seemed to realize something and quickly turned to King Qi, saying, "Your Highness King Qi, I wasn’t referring to you."

King Qi: "..."

Lu Qi said to Lu Yuan, "After the competition, I’ll visit your residence to check on Uncle."

Lu Yuan smiled and replied, "No need. You’ll see him soon enough."

"Where is Mr. Zimu?"

Emperor Liang inquired.

A trembling hand emerged from the steps. "Y-Your Majesty... this humble one is here..."

Emperor Liang asked curiously, "What happened to you, sir?"

Lu Yuan responded with a calm demeanor, "Oh, we hurried to the palace; perhaps he caught a chill on the way."

Mr. Zimu inwardly grumbled: You carried this old man while leaping across rooftops, and you claim it’s just a chill?

Emperor Liang asked, "Do any of my beloved ministers have pressing matters to report?"

All present shook their heads in unison: "None!"

Emperor Liang stood up, saying, "To the horse grounds."

Having once been a Military General, Emperor Liang’s first act as ruler was to construct a vast riding ground within the Imperial Palace.

The foal chosen for Treasure Piggy was born and raised in that very riding ground.

Emperor Liang had set his sights on it from the first glance.

Thanks to today’s contest between the two Imperial Grandsons, the Empress and several concubines also gained the privilege to spectate.

To accommodate the noble concubines, the Household Affairs Office worked overnight to erect shaded pavilions.

The Empress was seated in the central pavilion.

On her sides were two other pavilions, occupied by Consort Hu and Consort Jiang, respectively.

In the pavilion next to Consort Jiang sat Consort Yu and Prince Ming’s mother, Consort He.

Meanwhile, in the pavilion adjacent to Consort Hu was King Qi’s mother, Shen Zhaorong.

Unexpectedly, two daughters-in-law of Consort Hu were present today—Princess Jin and Dou Qingyi.

For such an important occasion, typically only the primary wife would have the right to attend. Yet Prince Jin had brought his concubine, Dou Qingyi, and not only that—she was seated not below Princess Jin, but flanking Consort Hu alongside her.

This clearly demonstrated Consort Hu’s favor toward her.

Princess Jin rolled her eyes.

The Emperor and ministers sat far across, scarcely interacting with the ladies.

"Why aren’t they here yet?"

Consort Hu frowned and asked.

The little eunuch behind her replied, "It’s said the Crown Prince isn’t feeling well. His Majesty is holding court first."

Consort Hu snorted, "Such a troublesome child!"

Consort Jiang sneered, "More troublesome than you?"

The Empress sternly interjected, "It’s one thing for you two to quarrel in the inner palace, but don’t embarrass His Majesty in front of the civil and military officials."

Consort Jiang picked up her teacup and fell silent.

Consort Hu muttered under her breath, "It’s not even her grandson. What’s she so pleased about?"

Consort Jiang chuckled coldly, "As long as it’s not your grandson, I’ll be pleased no matter who wins!"

The Empress said sharply, "Did I not tell you to stop arguing? One more word, and I’ll send you both back!"

At this, the two finally fell quiet.

Amidst the restless anticipation, Emperor Liang at long last arrived at the riding grounds, leading a grand procession of civil and military officials.

By this time, Lu Zhaoyan and Liu Qingyun had also arrived.

"I’ll escort you over,"

Lu Zhaoyan said. "I’ve already informed Lady Hui. You’ll sit by her side."

Liu Qingyun extended a hand to refuse, saying, "I can go on my own."

Lu Zhaoyan frowned slightly. "You don’t even know Lady Hui."

Liu Qingyun arched a brow and smiled. "Leave it to me. I’m off now!"

Lu Zhaoyan had barely taken a step when Ji Feng stopped him. "Your Highness, you cannot go over there."

"Understood."

Lu Zhaoyan cast a long, lingering glance at Liu Qingyun. Only when Xiao Dazi came to rush him did he take a deep breath and join the officials.

The equestrian and archery competition consisted of three parts: horse taming, archery, and mounted archery.

Standing on the Emperor’s Platform, Emperor Liang surveyed Lu Yuan and Lu Qi, who stood ready. "Are you prepared?"

Lu Qi bowed respectfully and replied, "Yes, Imperial Grandfather."

Lu Yuan added, "Indeed, Imperial Grandfather."

Emperor Liang withdrew his gaze. "Set up the enclosure."

The civil officials were pondering how large an enclosure was needed for such a vast riding ground, when they saw the Imperial Army, clad in black armor, lifting barricades that encircled Emperor Liang and the civil and military officials instead.

A collective twitch ran through the crowd’s lips.

So it wasn’t the horses being enclosed, but them?

Wait, why did their foreheads suddenly feel chilly?

After the barricades were set, the Imperial Army lined up outside, armed with spears and shields, forming a second impenetrable barrier around the enclosure.