[1]The Consort is Both Charming and Scheming, Rising Through Palace Intrigue

The next evening at dinner, Ning Shuyan learned that Xiao Yu would be coming to dine with her and specifically ordered his favorite fish dish.

As the emperor, he adhered to the principle of not indulging too often—no more than three times. Thus, when dining, Ning Shuyan usually dismissed the palace attendants, sometimes keeping just one maid.

Xiao Yu shared her taste for fish and also enjoyed antique soup.

When Xiao Yu arrived and saw the table full of dishes, he immediately knew the woman had put thought into it.

For instance, she usually preferred spicy fish, but today the dish was braised carp—his favorite. Also on the table were his preferred chicken soup, chopped chili beef, and blanched shrimp.

Looking at the spread, Xiao Yu smiled and said, "I really am a bit hungry."

He had just come in from outside, still radiating the chill of the cold. Ning Shuyan quickly said, "Your Majesty must be cold from the journey—have some chicken soup first."

As she spoke, she quickly served him half a bowl. Xiao Yu accepted it and drank it, genuinely feeling the warmth spread through his body.

After a few bites, he remarked, "Ever since Cheng Yin began raising the princess, she seems to have changed quite a bit. There's a maternal gentleness in her eyes and brows now."

Ning Shuyan smiled softly. "The princess and Cheng Yin get along very well. Your Majesty chose the perfect consort to raise her."

Xiao Yu's smile deepened as he looked up at her. "Sounds like you're praising yourself."

After all, it was Ning Shuyan's idea to have Cheng Yin raise Jin Ning.

Ning Shuyan gave a graceful smile, her features bright and elegant. "Not at all. The idea was mine, but it was Your Majesty who made the final decision, proving your excellent judgment."

She then placed a piece of fish belly into his bowl. Xiao Yu tasted the tender, flavorful piece and commented, "The cooks in your palace still make the best fish—tender and delicate. Excellent."

She then added a shrimp to his bowl.

"Sit down and eat, too," Xiao Yu said quickly. "Don't tire yourself out."

In truth, Ning Shuyan only meant to go through the motions at first—who would want to stand while staring at delicious food, only serving others? She sat down and began eating leisurely while chatting, "Let's have antique soup in a couple of days. It's perfect for cold weather. We could heat some beef slices or lamb..."

She suddenly paused. Ever since that one incident, she didn't dare mention lamb again to Xiao Yu. So she continued, "Or seafood would also be good. What do you think, Your Majesty?"

He didn't respond. Curious, Ning Shuyan looked up and saw him deep in thought, brows furrowed.

"Your Majesty..." she called softly.

But it was as if he hadn't heard her. Then suddenly, as if a realization struck him, his expression brightened with uncontrollable joy.

He called out loudly, "Summon the imperial physician!"

Ning Shuyan was startled. They were just eating—why call for a physician?

"Your Majesty... are you unwell?"

Xiao Yu shook his head and fixed his gaze on her, his eyes glowing like spring water under the candlelight.

He was filled with excitement, barely able to contain himself. "I remember your... monthly cycle is five or six days late?"