Li Yuanjing let out a long, cold hum.
The sky was still early, so Li Yuanjing first went to the training grounds to practice horseback archery and spar with military advisors. After exercising for about an hour, as dusk approached, he headed to Cining Palace to visit the Empress Dowager.
The princesses and princes were all studying at the Guangwen Academy, leaving Cining Palace exceptionally quiet. Nanny Qian was supporting the Empress Dowager as they strolled through the lush, flower-filled courtyard, admiring the blossoms.
"Has Mother's health improved?" Li Yuanjing stepped forward to greet her, and Nanny Qian tactfully withdrew to the side. Li Yuanjing took the Empress Dowager's arm, and the mother-son pair walked through the verdant rear garden.
The Empress Dowager smiled. "Noble Consort Chen has been tending to me every few days, meticulous in her care. I've been feeling much better."
