Song Ci’s body may be old, and his mind doesn’t work as quickly as before, but it’s not muddled or confused either. With a little thought, he figured out the Emperor’s Heart Technique.

“In that case, if their family can be selected among the candidates, does the palace aim for balance, or does it want to pull the Song Family?” Song Ci asked, “Was Zhilan chosen by the Crown Prince himself, or someone else?”

Song Zhiyuan leaned on the large pillow beside him, one hand resting on his knee while playing with the bead necklace, and said lightly, “It was chosen by the Empress.”

Song Ci’s heart sank slightly. If the Empress chose her herself, balance might be a part of it, but there might also be personal motives, mainly aiming at the Song Family.

Imagine it: the Crown Princess Consort is from the Duke Ying Mansion, and their family ally is the Song Family. Now, choosing a concubine who is the Song Family’s niece, in case of future disputes, which side the Song Family will take, or they might serve as a central knot connecting both sides.

Seeing Song Ci deep in thought, Song Zhiyuan smiled and said, “Mother, there’s no need to worry. The harem also values balance, and choosing a Lin Family woman doesn’t matter. Besides, even if she’s my niece, she’s just a niece.”

A niece, if useful, then use her; if not, no matter how close, she’s useless. A farsighted and wise Family Head will naturally make choices for the greatest interest of the family.

Song Ci said, “As long as you know what you’re doing. You hold a high position, and our family has long said we won’t participate in the selection of consorts, that’s our way of preserving ourselves. But others may not be willing to see us staying clear, so we can only work from the sidelines.”

A trace of coldness flashed in Song Zhiyuan’s eyes—indeed, wasn’t it?

Everyone is caught in the vortex, and the Song Family alone stays outside the whirlpool; how could it be? It’s better for everyone to be caught in the whirlpool together!

Since so, it doesn’t matter. After all, having an insider in the harem to deliver information isn’t unappealing.

“The Duke Ying Mansion produced a Crown Princess Consort. Without accidents, they’ll enjoy thirty to fifty years of wealth and honor. I suppose the Duke Ying Mansion now welcomes many honored guests. As their ally by marriage, have the Gu Family choose a suitably fitting congratulatory gift.” Song Ci instructed.

Song Zhiyuan smiled and said, “Mother needn’t worry; your son will have it well arranged.”

Song Ci nodded and continued, “You probably received the news upon returning to the mansion. Jie’er’s wife gave birth to a pair of twins, a boy, and a girl. It’s truly delightful and congratulatory.”

Song Zhiyuan also has sincere affection for Song Lingjie, and upon hearing this, he said, “I heard about it on my way back to the mansion. This kid indeed has some ability; they’ve been married for years without any sign, and now, in one go, double blessings—better than his older brother.”

Song Ci, hearing this, said, “Everyone has their fortune; you shouldn’t be too demanding. Although Su’er doesn’t hold a government post, being a renowned scholar isn’t bad either. His personality actually doesn’t suit the officialdom.”

“Mother, I understand, but bringing it up always leaves a feeling of unease.” Song Zhiyuan was somewhat dejected.

Song Ci glared at him without much anger: “Is there a rule that if the father is a high official, the son must follow in his footsteps? You should learn to accept the fact that your children might be mediocre. Take Su’er, with his temperament, if he were an official, he might even cause trouble. Don’t expect your two sons to become officials. Focus on cultivating Yuan’er to carry on the family legacy instead.”

Currently, having produced a Song Lingjie means somewhat having someone to take over. And with Yuan’er, the Song Family can truly achieve that unshakeable prosperous household.

“Don’t be upset. I haven’t forced them.” Song Zhiyuan immediately tried to soothe her.

Song Ci gave a soft snort and was about to speak when Jiang Fula came to seek an audience.

“Prime Minister, news came from the palace. It seems Prince Min is not going to make it, and the Emperor has already gone to Prince Min Mansion.”

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