(no subject)

[shangba]

( Midday, past lunch observed with Xichen: )


How fared the children this morning?

Comments

[shangba]

The first test is not definitive.

Some children show their core by the second test.

[emperorssmile]

Right. I won’t get my hopes up too soon. I won’t be disappointed if he can’t form a core, but I’m worried he’ll suffer being raised in a cultivation family if he can’t.

[shangba]

Should we... hesitate to adopt children of uncertain cultivation potential?

[emperorssmile]

I don’t think I could turn down a child who needs a home; but if we’re looking actively, it’s something we should consider.

[shangba]

...I apologise.

[emperorssmile]

What for? I love both our sons to bits. I wouldn’t change a thing.

[shangba]

Did not consult. Did not study.

Returned with a child and allowed Wei Ying to get close.

[emperorssmile]

Like I said, I wouldn’t be able to turn a kid down. You did the right thing taking him under wing.

[shangba]

I should have taken precautions.

[emperorssmile]

Just look at A-Liang’s little face when you see him next. It’ll erase any doubts you have.

[shangba]

I love him better than myself.

[emperorssmile]

You could say the same about Sizhui and me, too.

[shangba]

...at the first benchmark, then.

[emperorssmile]

Lan Zhan, do you believe me when I say I love you lots?

[shangba]

Unflinchingly.

[emperorssmile]

Good, because I do.

Does it make you feel as happy as your love makes me feel?

[shangba]

It does not absolve me of responsibility.

[emperorssmile]

No, it doesn't. But I don't resent you for choosing A-Liang. I'm glad we have him no matter what.

[shangba]

A cultivator daughter.

[emperorssmile]

Our next child? We’ll raise her to be just and good like our other two.

[shangba]

But pretty, like Wei Ying.

[emperorssmile]

She'll have two brothers to help protect her honor.

[shangba]

She will protect her own honour.

[emperorssmile]

Maybe she’ll be the one protecting her brothers’ honor.

[shangba]

Do you know why I desire a daughter so?