Chapter 153: The Popular One, Eunuch Mei
The guards in the study are considerably stricter compared to those at the Nurturing Residence. You can frequently see the imperial guards coming and going, each with serious expressions and impeccable military attire—evidence of their rigorous training.
It’s not that the study holds more importance than the Nurturing Residence; rather, it’s because the Nurturing Residence is where Emperor Xia rests, so the imperial guards naturally keep a respectful distance.
Inside the study, numerous eunuchs are bustling about, tidying up the place.
Eunuch Mei, one of Emperor Xia’s favored ones and the deputy chief eunuch, may not wield real power like Shadow, but he’s definitely someone every prince vying for the throne would want to befriend.
However, Eunuch Mei is well aware of his own importance. If he remains loyal to Emperor Xia, his position will be secure. But the moment he entertains other thoughts—for instance, prematurely aligning with one of the princes to participate in the upcoming significant event in Great Xia, the party struggle!—things could change dramatically.
If he goes that route, Eunuch Mei knows that upon success, his status could soar to new heights, possibly allowing him to grasp genuine power, much like Shadow.
But he’s also aware that this is the best-case scenario; the more likely outcome is his demise.
Hence, compared to such risks, Eunuch Mei prefers to stay content with the status quo.
“Be careful! These are all ancient texts from the Ancient Beast Nation—treasures! If you damage them, our family won’t be able to bear the consequences!” squeaky shout
Eunuch Mei warns the young eunuchs carrying the books, his voice sharp.
Just then, Qin Bei walks in from outside.
Upon his entrance, everyone bows respectfully, addressing him as Prince Bei.
Eunuch Mei is no exception.
“Prince Bei, are you here to see His Majesty? He’s been preoccupied with the opening of the imperial mausoleum these days and hasn’t come to the study. If you wish to see His Majesty, you’ll need Lord Shadow to accompany you.” tentative tone
Eunuch Mei asks, testing the waters.
He suspects Qin Bei isn’t here on any other business.
“Oh, no~ I’m just wandering around. What are you all up to?”
Qin Bei replies, somewhat nervously.
At that moment, his eyes are already eyeing a multitude of paintings and calligraphy around him.
Though he has no idea how much they’re worth, to Qin Bei, these items are nothing less than spirit stones.
He envisions that once he captures the title of Emperor Xia, the value of these treasures will rise like hotcakes.
Though such thoughts are quite damaging to his personal image… sweat drop
But does that even concern Qin Bei?
After all, their image is Emperor Xia’s, and given his reputation, this little infringement is hardly a scratch on the surface.
Who knows, it might even elevate him to “people’s prince” status!
At that time, Emperor Xia would owe a huge thank you to this thoughtful prince for tirelessly working to maintain a good image.
Eunuch Mei, while puzzled over Qin Bei’s presence here, decides against pressing the matter.
After all, he’s someone close to Emperor Xia and is aware of the recent tension between Qin Bei and the emperor.
He’s also received certain commands, specifically, Emperor Xia’s internal orders.
Before the Imperial Mausoleum Trial begins, Qin Bei can stir up any trouble he likes within the palace—as long as it doesn’t spark an uproar, it’s all good; they’ll let him be.
This is the first time Eunuch Mei has encountered such a scenario, clearly indicating Emperor Xia values Qin Bei a great deal.
Thus, Eunuch Mei treats Qin Bei with a degree of warmth.
However, Eunuch Mei clearly possesses more insight than most.
Others merely perceive Emperor Xia’s command as a sort of indulgence toward Qin Bei.
But Eunuch Mei knows this leniency doesn’t guarantee future leniency.
To put it plainly, although Qin Bei seems quite relaxed now, freely entering and exiting the palace, even the Prince of Three Seals can’t boast such privilege.
Not even the Prince of Five Seals has such high authority.
Let alone, under Emperor Xia’s decree, Qin Bei can take whatever he wants from the royal treasury!
This level of power would be unheard of—even if the Ninth Prince were in his place.
But behind this glamorous façade lurks the reality that Qin Bei could easily lose favor in an instant.
To maintain this status, he must perform exceptionally well in the upcoming Imperial Mausoleum Trial, impressing Emperor Xia sufficiently that he overlooks Qin Bei’s recent antics.
Eunuch Mei assumes that Qin Bei must have a sense of this. So far, he hasn’t received any reports about Qin Bei causing chaos in the palace.
It seems unlikely Qin Bei would attempt anything reckless like storming the harem again.
This demonstrates that while Emperor Xia has shown Qin Bei special favoritism, Qin Bei himself also knows how to conduct himself.
He hasn’t lost his direction amidst the special treatment.
“I’m asking you a question! Why are you staring at me?”
Qin Bei frowns, sensing something odd in Eunuch Mei’s gaze.
He’s a person who lived in the 21st century and has some historical knowledge.
He’s heard tales of ancient eunuchs possessing peculiar tendencies, such as fantasizing they still have powers they’ve clearly lost.
And it seems this applies to both men and women alike.
Could this shameless old coot be enchanted by his handsome visage?
Yikes!
“I merely think that after the last incident, Prince Bei has become more composed. Despite enjoying His Majesty’s favoritism, you still manage to stay true to yourself. Coming here to learn more about His Majesty shows your thoughtfulness.” bends low, smiling
Eunuch Mei expresses politely.
Qin Bei: ???
What the heck? Why is Eunuch Mei’s thinking so erratic?
He just strolled in for a look at the study—how did that turn into wanting to understand Emperor Xia?
And how is that thoughtful?
He is thoughtful… thoughtful about stealing the calligraphy and paintings that Emperor Xia adores.
“Aren’t you here to understand His Majesty’s preferences, Prince Bei?”
Eunuch Mei asks in surprise.
In Eunuch Mei’s eyes, Qin Bei should be aiming to retain this unique favoritism by getting to know Emperor Xia’s daily life better, thus perfecting his flattery tactics.
After all, many princes have tried this strategy; he believes he’s quite experienced in this regard.
Eunuch Mei often pretends not to see such actions.
Of course, many princes have approached him for guidance on this matter, only to be met with refusal or topic evasion.
He would never provide any information of real value.
His goal is to maintain fairness while demonstrating his unwavering loyalty to Emperor Xia.
Facing Qin Bei this time, Eunuch Mei harbors the same thought.
He could pretend not to see Qin Bei, but he won’t offer him any helpful tips.
Until Qin Bei retrieves that item…
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