Rebirth of His Royal Highness Prince Chenghu

The next morning, sunlight streamed through the exquisite windows of Kunning Palace, illuminating the entire chamber. Kangxi slowly opened his eyes, the first thing he felt was the gentle breath and warm body heat of the person in his arms. He looked down and saw that beautiful, familiar face resting peacefully in his arms, sound asleep. Unable to resist, he raised his hand and gently stroked her delicate cheek. The touch of her delicate, silky skin sent a ripple through his heart, as if that single touch could convey endless tenderness and affection.

Qingyao whimpered softly, her delicate body trembling slightly before she huddled into his warm embrace like a lazy kitten. Her long, silky hair brushed gently against his chest, bringing a tingling sensation. Her tightly closed eyes remained peaceful, her long eyelashes fluttering softly in her sleep like two small fans, as if she were in the midst of a sweet dream.

Kangxi's lips curled up into a faint smile. He didn't want to disturb this beautiful moment, so he just stared at her quietly. However, not long after, Liang Jiugong's voice came from outside, saying softly, "Your Majesty, the morning court is almost here." Kangxi frowned slightly, his heart filled with reluctance, but as an emperor, he could not neglect the affairs of the court.

He carefully pulled his arm out from under Qingyao's neck, moving extremely gently, fearing to wake her. Qingyao seemed to sense something, her small hands clawing at the air twice, but she didn't wake. Kangxi put on his dragon robe, tucked her in, and glanced at the person still sleeping soundly on the bed before turning and leaving the palace.

Not long after, Qingyao's thick, long eyelashes trembled slightly a few times before she slowly opened her eyes. "Hmm..." Accompanied by a whimper, Qingyao moaned softly, seemingly still not fully awake from her coma or deep sleep. She subconsciously rubbed her eyes and sat up. Turning to look at the empty bed beside her, a sense of loss welled up in her heart. But she quickly pulled herself together and called for the palace maids to dress her.

Chunyu approached the palace cautiously and asked the empress sitting on the couch softly, "My empress, do you need food served now?

Qingyao: "Prepare something light. Oh, Chunyu, have someone go to Yinreng's residence and tell Yaliqi to rest assured and take care of her pregnancy. She doesn't need to come to the palace to pay her respects."

Chunyu took his orders and left. After Qingyao finished her meal, she decided to take a walk in the Imperial Garden. As she entered, she saw several concubines of lower rank enjoying the flowers and chatting. Seeing Qingyao approach, they hurriedly bowed and greeted her. Qingyao nodded slightly, signaling them to stand.

At this time, one of the charming maids said, "Sister, you look so radiant today. I believe you received the emperor's favor last night." Qingyao just smiled faintly and didn't answer. Everyone chatted for a while and then dispersed.

Qingyao walked slowly along the path, her thoughts drifting away. She knew that in this palace, it was easy to gain favor but difficult to maintain it, and she had to be cautious at every step. Although her heart was with Yaliqi, she also understood that in this deep palace, her own position would be more secure so that she could better protect others.

Suddenly, a butterfly flew by and landed on a beautiful flower. Qingyao couldn't help but reach out to touch it. Just as her fingers were about to touch the butterfly, the eunuch's shrill voice came from behind her: "Your Majesty has arrived!"

Qingyao bowed respectfully and said, "Your Highness, I pay my respects to you."

Kangxi gently helped Qingyao up and looked at her tenderly, "My dear, there's no need to be so polite."

Qingyao stood aside with her head bowed, but Kangxi took her hand and walked towards the flower where the butterfly had landed. "I see this flower is so beautiful and charming, just like you, I love it."

Qingyao smiled shyly, "Your Majesty, thank you for your praise."

Kangxi plucked the flower, put it in Qingyao's bun, and said with a smile: "This flower is suitable for a beautiful woman."

Qingyao blushed and said softly, "Thank you, Your Majesty, for the reward."

Kangxi took Qingyao's hand and strolled through the Imperial Garden, admiring the scenery. As they walked, they encountered a palace maid who came to deliver some snacks. The maid placed the exquisite snacks on the stone table and then withdrew.

Kangxi pulled Qingyao to sit down, and personally picked up a piece of dessert and handed it to Qingyao's mouth, "Qingqing, try it, this is newly made by the imperial chef."

Qingyao took a small bite and praised, "Husband, this dessert is sweet and delicious, very tasty."

Kangxi: "As long as you like it. I specially ordered the Imperial Kitchen to make it because I knew you like sweets."