"Your Majesty, it's time for the morning court."

I sat up, rubbing my temples.

This is the second year of my reign.

The war is ongoing, and there are many issues to be addressed within the country.

Every day starts with the morning court, followed by the Hall of Mental Cultivation and the sleeping quarters.

After the morning court, I went to the Phoenix Palace to see the Empress.

Recently, there was a great victory on the border, led by General Mu, who is her brother.

When I arrived, the Empress was busy writing at her desk.

"Greetings, Your Majesty."

I personally helped her up, holding her delicate hand, scanning the characters on the paper.

The style of writing seemed sharper compared to her usual elegant script.

"Changed your style?"

She smiled lightly, "I find this way more comfortable to write."

"I still think the previous style looked better."

I carefully examined the characters, noticing the strong and sharp strokes.

It didn't seem like something a woman who had been secluded in the inner chambers for a long time could write.

【The years have passed, how could one still write like a delicate lady in the inner chambers.】

The years have passed?

"What did you say?"

The Empress looked puzzled, "I haven't spoken."

I looked around, thinking it was just my imagination, then put down the paper, holding her hand and sitting on the couch.

"Wan'er, your brother's victory on the border, he is on his way back now, this time I must reward him well!"

She replied calmly, "Why not grant him retirement instead, Your Majesty."

I was about to ask the reason with confusion.

【Reward?】

【Perhaps it's a way to elevate him.】

【In the past life, it was because of such generous rewards and outstanding achievements that led to jealousy, ultimately resulting in the annihilation of a whole family!】

"How dare you!" I shouted in anger.

The Empress knelt down, "Your Majesty, forgive me for my inappropriate words."

I lowered my head, lifting her chin with one hand, gazing at her face.

She remained silent, but her voice echoed in my ears.

【Through thick and thin, in this lifetime, I must ensure the safety of my brother's family!!】

There was a hint of determination in her usually gentle eyes.

I narrowed my eyes, lifting her up.

"Always kneeling, what's wrong with you."

"You just mentioned letting your brother retire, why is that?"

The Empress lowered her eyes, saying softly, "It's just a woman's perspective, Your Majesty need not concern."

I tapped the table lightly with my finger, this was not the answer I wanted.

【Framing the Prime Minister, falsely accusing the brother of plotting treason. In your rage, you wiped out the general's family, not even sparing a dog!】

【I knelt in front of the Hall of Mental Cultivation for three days and nights, only to end up imprisoned...】

【Truly disregarding the bond between us as a young couple!】

I paused, directing my gaze towards her.

She still smiled calmly, but the handkerchief in her hand was crumpled beyond recognition.

It dawned on me that she was different today compared to before.

Although the previous Murong Wan was dignified and elegant, her eyes were filled with unmistakable love for me.

Now, there was a hint of resentment in her eyes.

I took her hand, opening her fingers to reveal numerous tiny scars on her palm.

Without waiting for her explanation, I had someone bring ointment to carefully apply on her wounds.

I truly had some feelings for her.

After bandaging her hand, she still looked a bit dazed.

"I will come to see you again tomorrow."

With that statement, I left.