Chu Heng had never spoken these words to Emperor Huian before. As he gazed upon his father's pale complexion, the resentment that had just begun to form in his heart gradually dissipated. He was well aware that being born into royalty meant there was often no choice; there had been only one emperor since ancient times who abolished the harem and solely favored the empress, and that was Emperor Taizu from the previous dynasty.
Looking at his son, a spitting image of his wife, Emperor Huian masked the pain in his eyes and said with a heavy gaze, "I promise you! But you must also promise me that if he ever develops a disloyal heart, you must not show mercy."
A glimpse of joy flitted across Chu Heng's face as he solemnly said, "Your Humble Son promises you!"
...