The moment labor began at Jianzhang Palace, a swift eunuch came to report. The Empress giving birth was not just a matter for the harem, but a major event for the imperial court. No one was destined to sleep well tonight. Xie Che rose to change. Without even time to properly wash up, he rushed to Jianzhang Palace with Jiang Xian.
Princess Consort Zhang and Noble Consort Rong lived closer and had been waiting for some time.
Upon seeing the Emperor, they knelt to welcome His Majesty.
"All of you, rise." Xie Che had no mind for such empty formalities. He waved his hand, motioning for everyone to rise and be seated, then took the seat of honor himself. He was so agitated he wanted to get up and pace, but if he stood, everyone else in the room would have to remain standing. The sight of them all standing there like statues would only irritate him more. So, he sat down, poured a cup of tea, and forced himself to calm down.
"Is the Empress all right? Why is it so quiet in there?"
