The Prince's Beloved Little Wife

After all the imperial edicts concerning rewards and punishments were arranged in an orderly manner and solemnly delivered to their respective locations by designated personnel, the entire palace seemed to breathe a sigh of relief, only to be about to welcome an even more special grand event.

This disaster relief operation was of great significance. The Crown Prince, the Prime Minister, and the Minister of Works, despite their hardships, personally went to the disaster area to bring hope and assistance to the affected people. Emperor Mingsheng deeply appreciated their efforts and achievements. To solemnly commend their heroic actions, he specially invited them to stay behind. In the Imperial Study, Emperor Mingsheng, with a solemn yet kind expression, deeply understood their hard work and dedication, and decided to host a banquet to share a sumptuous lunch with them, to express his profound respect and gratitude.

However, Emperor Mingsheng's intentions went beyond this. He knew the banquet held extraordinary significance, not only as a reward for his ministers but also as a perfect opportunity for family reunion, especially since his three sons were not in the capital during the Mid-Autumn Festival. Therefore, he personally picked up his phone, skillfully opened WeChat, and sent invitations to his children, daughters-in-law, and sons-in-law, as well as the highly respected Grand Tutor and his family. Emperor Mingsheng hoped they could all come to the palace to gather and enjoy this warm and joyful reunion dinner, making this special day even more perfect and beautiful.

Upon receiving the news, everyone felt deeply honored and excited. They dared not delay and immediately began preparations, eagerly setting off for the palace. Along the way, they were filled with joy and anticipation, imagining the reunion that was about to take place.

Meanwhile, in the palace, Emperor Mingsheng had begun meticulous preparations for the banquet well in advance. He knew that every detail of this banquet was crucial and had to be perfect. Therefore, he issued an order to the imperial kitchen well in advance, requiring them to devote all their efforts to preparing an extremely sumptuous lunch. Every dish had to be carefully selected and cooked, not only to be excellent in color, aroma, and taste, but also to reflect the nobility and luxury of the imperial family.

In addition, Emperor Mingsheng, taking into full account everyone's high spirits, specially instructed the imperial kitchen to prepare a lavish buffet dinner that evening, inviting all the ministers to enjoy it together. It would be a feast for the senses, with all sorts of delicacies laid out on the long table, a truly dazzling spectacle. Emperor Mingsheng hoped that this would be a way to reward those who had made great contributions, allowing them to feel the emperor's love and care.

Immediately afterward, Emperor Mingsheng called Chen Mengyao. He hoped she could make proper arrangements for her art gallery staff to enter the palace and organize a spectacular performance to add more festive atmosphere to the grand event. Knowing the weight of her responsibility, Chen Mengyao acted without hesitation upon receiving the Emperor's call. She quickly dialed Liu'er, the head of the art gallery, and explained the situation in a firm and clear voice. She emphasized the importance of the performance, requiring them to bring all necessary items and arrive at the palace gate as soon as possible to assemble and await orders, ensuring a smooth entry into the palace for all pre-performance preparations.

The entire palace, both inside and out, was bustling with activity due to this grand gathering. Inside the palace, a scene of bustling activity unfolded. Upon receiving orders, the guards immediately sprang into action, beginning the construction of the stage. They carefully measured the dimensions, piecing together the wooden planks to ensure its stability and safety. The palace maids and eunuchs were also busy, helping to place various lamps in different locations, meticulously adjusting the angles and brightness to create a warm and romantic atmosphere. Others were responsible for setting up the banquet hall, moving between rooms, carrying tables, chairs, tableware, and decorations—everything proceeded smoothly and efficiently.

Chen Mengyao and her companions, along with the princes and princesses, soon entered the palace. Their arrival at the palace gates immediately caused a small commotion. The royal family gathered together in the dining hall of Emperor Mingsheng's palace, each face beaming with joy and anticipation. They greeted each other, chatted, and shared their recent news and anecdotes, creating a warm and harmonious atmosphere.

The art gallery staff arrived at the entrance shortly after Chen Mengyao entered the palace. Leading them was Liu'er, a woman of graceful figure and beautiful face, her eyes radiating confidence and professionalism. Ouyang Han personally led them to Changchun Palace, where, with the enthusiastic help of the palace maids and eunuchs, they successfully retrieved the equipment previously stored there to the Imperial Garden. The art gallery's backstage staff were all highly skilled; they expertly installed all the equipment, each step proceeding smoothly and meticulously, every detail handled perfectly.

Next, Liu'er had the performers announce their acts. She listened attentively to each performance, jotting down relevant information in her notebook. Based on this information, she created a simple program schedule. Finally, she sent the schedule to Chen Mengyao. Chen Mengyao carefully reviewed it and nodded in satisfaction. She then asked Ouyang Han to print several copies, specifically instructing him to find an opening and closing script for the evening's performance and to print several copies for the hosts. Similarly, she asked Ouyang Han to provide the necessary props to the props team to ensure everything went smoothly.

Following her instructions, Ouyang Han completed everything meticulously. His movements were swift and efficient, his eyes filled with focus and seriousness. Chen Mengyao nodded in satisfaction upon receiving the items and then passed them to Liu'er. Liu'er immediately handed the program to the performers, instructing them to familiarize themselves with their performance order and content beforehand; the props were given to the props team for management and distribution. Finally, she gave the program and the host's script to the hosts, ensuring they were also well-prepared.

After explaining these important matters, Chen Mengyao finally breathed a sigh of relief. She instructed the imperial kitchen to send them a sumptuous lunch as well, so that everyone could enjoy the comfort of good food amidst their busy preparations. Only after arranging everything did she feel at ease going to Emperor Mingsheng's palace for lunch with Ouyang Han.

When Chen Mengyao and Ouyang Han entered Emperor Mingsheng's palace, they found everyone gathered around, their laughter and chatter filling the air. Consort Lan, with her sharp eyes, spotted her and quickly went to greet her, carefully helping her to a seat. She then inquired about Chen Mengyao's health, especially whether her troublesome morning sickness had lessened.

Chen Mengyao smiled and replied softly, "Thank you for your concern, Mother. Aside from being a bit sleepy, I'm otherwise fine. As for morning sickness, it's not too severe. I only experienced occasional vomiting around two months into my pregnancy, but that's mostly stopped now. My appetite has also improved considerably, and I can eat all sorts of food." Hearing this, Consort Lan nodded slightly, feeling much relieved. After all, when she was pregnant with Ouyang Han, the suffering from morning sickness was unforgettable, especially in the first three months, when she vomited uncontrollably and suffered terribly.

Just then, a group of palace maids and eunuchs rushed in to report that the meal was ready. Everyone present stood up and headed towards the dining hall. Chen Mengyao became the focus of everyone's attention; Ouyang Han and Consort Lan stood on either side, supporting her tightly, as if afraid she might stumble or fall. This display of care left Chen Mengyao feeling somewhat amused and exasperated, but she didn't want to offend their kindness, so she could only let them protect her as they proceeded.

The group walked with leisurely steps into the spacious and magnificent dining room. Upon entering, the rich aroma of food wafted through the air, making one's mouth water. The long dining table was already laden with a variety of delicious dishes. The delicacies from land and sea were arranged in a pleasing and orderly fashion. The tender, juicy braised pork glistened enticingly, while the delicate flesh of the steamed fish shimmered in the steam, releasing a fragrant aroma; and there were also plates of colorful seasonal vegetables.

Emperor Mingsheng slightly raised his head, glanced around at everyone present, and then slowly sat down. His dignified posture exuded an imposing aura, yet also carried a touch of kindness and approachability. Seeing this, the others also quickly found suitable seats. Due to the large number of participants, the spacious dining hall was soon divided into several tables. Each table was full, and the atmosphere was warm and harmonious.

Emperor Mingsheng picked up the wine cup on the table, gently swirling the wine within, its liquid shimmering with a captivating luster. He broke the silence first, his voice loud and heartfelt as he spoke: "This is truly a rare and precious reunion dinner. You have all devoted so much effort to the peace and development of the Eastern Ling Kingdom. Especially the Crown Prince, the Prime Minister, and the Minister of Works, you tirelessly rushed to the disaster area for relief. In those difficult circumstances, you disregarded your personal safety, working day and night, all so that the affected people could escape their plight as soon as possible and return to a peaceful life. I will forever remember your benevolence."

At this point, Emperor Mingsheng paused slightly, his eyes revealing approval and gratitude, and continued, "And Han'er, you were brave and fearless on the battlefield, leading your soldiers to fight valiantly against the enemy, ultimately routing them and forcing the signing of a peace treaty. This battle not only protected our country but also allowed the people of Dongling to live a peaceful life. Without your hard work, there would be no such peaceful and prosperous era we enjoy today!"

Emperor Mingsheng's voice was full of power, each word striking the hearts of the people with a resounding thud. He raised his wine cup high and declared, "On behalf of all the people, I thank you for your hard work!" With that, he downed the wine in his cup in one gulp.

The men quickly stood up, their faces showing humility, and said in unison, "Your Majesty/Father, this is what we should do." Their voices were filled with firmness and loyalty. Afterward, they clinked glasses, finished their wine, and then slowly sat down.

Emperor Mingsheng smiled and nodded, then said again, "Today is a family banquet, so please don't be shy and enjoy yourselves." Everyone picked up their chopsticks. The dining hall quickly became lively, filled with laughter and cheerful conversation.

Sitting in the corner, Chen Mengyao's bowl was quickly filled with various delicacies. Ouyang Han and Consort Lan beside her were very attentive, constantly piling food onto her plate. Ouyang Han said with a smile, "Yaoyao, you're usually so busy with various affairs, you should nourish yourself properly today." Consort Lan nodded in agreement with a smile, "Yes, eat more, don't be shy." The two continued to pile food onto her plate until it was completely full.

Everyone enjoyed the meal very much, and happy smiles filled their faces. In this warm atmosphere, Chen Mengyao suddenly remembered something. She put down her chopsticks, bowed slightly, and sincerely invited Prince An and his wife, "Fourth brother, fourth sister-in-law, I would like to invite you to be the martial arts teachers at my school and academy."

Prince An and his wife were slightly taken aback, then exchanged a smile. Prince An asked with a smile, "Why did you think of asking us to do this?" Chen Mengyao replied earnestly, "You two are highly skilled in martial arts and kind-hearted. It would be wonderful if you could teach children and women martial arts at schools and academies." Prince An and his wife exchanged a glance and readily agreed, "No problem."

This incredibly lavish and delicious family feast finally came to a slow and peaceful close in such a warm and harmonious atmosphere. After the meal, Emperor Mingsheng did not rush to leave, but instead rested with everyone present in the spacious and bright hall, where they engaged in a pleasant and harmonious conversation.

During this period, Emperor Mingsheng first dispatched his attendants to deliver the generous rewards that had been prepared in advance to the residences of the various ministers. These rewards included not only valuable items such as gold and silver, but also some rare and exotic treasures, demonstrating the emperor's care and high regard for his subjects.

Immediately afterwards, Emperor Mingsheng specifically instructed his personal eunuch to go to his private treasury, which contained countless treasures, and carefully select many novel and interesting items, as well as extremely rare and precious medicinal herbs and tonics, to bestow upon the Prime Minister and the Minister of Works respectively. This special favor undoubtedly overwhelmed the two men with gratitude, leaving them deeply moved.

After everything was arranged, Emperor Mingsheng rose and returned to his study, where he began to bury himself in reviewing the mountain of memorials and handling state affairs. The Chancellor and the Minister of Works sat in the hall for a short while longer before bidding farewell to the Emperor and returning home, satisfied with the abundant rewards bestowed upon them. Throughout their journey, both men beamed with undisguised joy.

Seeing this, the other princes and princesses knew that a grand banquet awaited them that evening, so they decided not to return home but to stay in the palace to continue chatting and reminiscing. Before long, everyone rose and headed straight for their former palaces. Ouyang Han also took Chen Mengyao's hand and returned to his old palace, intending to rest and recharge for the lively banquet that evening.