The butler served tea. Although Yu Jingchen didn't say anything, he was actually paying close attention to Nan Zhiyun, knowing she was suppressing her emotions.
"You can come back every month from now on," Yu Jingchen comforted her, pouring her a cup of tea.
"Mmhmm," Nan Zhiyun replied, her voice slightly nasal.
Nan Su watched their interaction without interruption, just sipping his tea.
"Father, I'll come back every month to keep you company, okay? You can't get tired of me," Nan Zhiyun said with a bright smile.
"Alright, my darling Yun'er, your father couldn't be happier," Nan Su said, looking at Nan Zhiyun with affection. She was his only precious daughter, whom he cherished dearly.
"May I ask why His Majesty has graced us with his presence today?" Nan Su finally asked.
"Does General know that Prince An is returning?" Yu Jingchen asked directly, not even sparing Nan Zhiyun.
Nan Zhiyun was a bit confused. Prince An should have returned long ago, but for some reason, he hadn't returned to the capital yet.
Nan Su, on the other hand, finally understood. There had been rumors about Yu Jing'an's private stockpiling of troops for a long time, but evidence had been hard to come by. Recently, an official had finally presented proof, and Nan Su knew that Yu Jingchen was behind it all.
His Majesty had long been aware of Prince An's actions. The previous events were likely orchestrated by him. Prince An had amassed a considerable number of troops, and now that his actions were exposed, it meant suppression and capture.
"It is a minister's duty to share the burden of the ruler. This old minister is willing to lead troops to quell this matter," Nan Su knelt down.
"Father..." Nan Zhiyun didn't understand the intricacies of the situation, but she understood that her father was about to lead troops into battle again.
"Minister Nan misunderstands," Yu Jingchen stopped him in time, which confused Nan Su.
"This time, Minister Nan need not go personally. I have made all the arrangements. Minister Nan only needs to focus on maintaining order in the capital," Yu Jingchen said.
"Your Majesty..." Nan Su was perplexed.
"Earlier, Minister Nan wished to resign from his post. After this matter is resolved, I... will grant your request," Yu Jingchen said after a moment's hesitation.
Nan Su was stunned for a moment. Granted?
"This old minister thanks Your Majesty!" Nan Su quickly expressed his gratitude.
"There is no need for thanks. Minister Nan has served the country his entire life, and it is I who should thank you," Yu Jingchen rose and personally helped Nan Su up.
"In the past, I have misunderstood Minister Nan greatly, and I realized my mistake too late. I know the hardships the Nan family has endured over the years. After this matter is over, Minister Nan can finally rest well. Yun'er also misses you dearly, and the Empress Dowager, though she never speaks of it, has been worried about you all these years. So, when you retire, you can spend more time with your family. Let Yun'er accompany you properly," Yu Jingchen said.
"I still remember that when I was young, the most you told me was that a ruler should govern the realm with benevolence and righteousness. I have truly failed to live up to that, letting down your teachings and your years of hard work. Here... I apologize to you," Yu Jingchen said, bowing his hands.
"Your Majesty... this..." Nan Su dared not accept such a bow. Even Nan Zhiyun was shocked.
"This is something I should have said," Yu Jingchen felt it was only right. Nan Su no longer demurred.
"Your Majesty..." Nan Zhiyun walked over to Yu Jingchen. He stroked her head. "From now on, you can spend more time with your father. Are you happy?" Yu Jingchen asked with a smile.