The diplomatic missive from Southern Chu was presented.
Li Yuanjing's expression darkened as he opened the letter from Southern Chu, scanning its contents swiftly. The faint fragrance of red plum blossoms drifted through the chamber as his lips pressed into a thin line.
After reading the missive, he set it aside carelessly.
Beside him, the chubby-fingered Li Chengtai reached out and flipped open the document. His voice was soft and sweet: "Southern Chu wishes to discuss border trade with Da Qing. They plan to send an envoy next spring to negotiate the details. Additionally, they request permission to visit the Autumn Cool Palace to pay respects to their ancestral ruins."
The Autumn Cool Palace—once the residence of Southern Chu's founding empress.
It still stood, untouched by time.
Li Chengtai asked, "Father, is Southern Chu seeking peace?"
Li Yuanjing nodded slightly. "In a manner of speaking."
