Yuan Yunzhong arrived promptly.
Song Jiyun was accompanying the Eldest Imperial Son at a meal.
Steamed lion's head, dry braised shredded tofu, stir-fried mushrooms with greens, sweet and sour fish... a table full of Huaiyang Cuisine, predominantly vegetarian with fewer meat dishes.
The Eldest Imperial Son, engrossed in his meal, looked up, hesitated as he set down his chopsticks, stood up, and called out, "Lord Yuan," but his eyes seemed glued to the table, his gaze occasionally darting to the dishes. His expression was exactly like that of a little beggar who had gone hungry for days.
He must have been lacking food.
Even Yuan Yunzhong couldn't help but twitch at the corner of his eyes.
He asked, "Your Highness, do you recognize me?"
The Eldest Imperial Son nodded reservedly and said quietly, "I saw you talking to Father Emperor when I went to pay him my respects."
