Emperor Wu Su acted as if he had only just noticed them enter, slowly setting down his book scroll.
"There's no need for such formality. Please, sit."
From out of nowhere, Li Yuzong produced a small chair of huanghuali wood, inlaid with a "hundred treasures" flower and bird motif. With her short legs, Jiu Jiu sat down with practiced ease.
It was perfectly sized for her, looking just like her own personal seat.
Qingwu, meanwhile, sat down beside her, a touch reserved.
The Emperor's voice drifted down from the dais, clear and pleasing to the ear.
"Have you memorized today's lesson?"
Jiu Jiu confidently tilted her little head up and replied, "I can recite it backwards and forwards."
Emperor Wu Su then asked her a few questions, and the little girl answered them fluently in her bright, clear voice. It was no empty boast.
As Qingwu watched them, a gentle look softened her features, and she couldn't help but smile.
'I'm so blessed to have such a clever and adorable daughter.'
