My old man is just an old-fashioned fossil who would scold you for a wrinkle in your clothes, not to mention lectures about not showing teeth when laughing. Because of this, I’ve developed the habit of carrying a handkerchief—truly for covering my white teeth when laughing!
“Ahem, Father, you called for me? What important matter do you have?
“This is the ‘ancient Chinese’ I learned over fifteen years—truly awkward!”
“Ahem…” Father coughed uncomfortably. “The Emperor has heard you’ve returned and sent an envoy to summon you to the palace.”
I was stunned. The Emperor? What does he want with me?
Seeing my confusion, Father sipped his tea and explained: “The previous Emperor passed away last year, and a new Emperor has ascended the throne. As you were betrothed to the Crown Prince by the previous Emperor, you are the future Empress. The summons likely considers your feelings, allowing you to adapt to the palace while waiting for the ceremonial officials to choose a day for the coronation ceremony.”
I felt dizzy. Am I still a Crown Prince’s consort? I only vaguely remember the old Emperor and the Crown Prince I once bit, but I have no other impressions.
I pondered for a long time but couldn’t recall what happened. Too much time has passed, and I’ve dealt with too many people to remember clearly.
“Alas, the brain becomes less functional with age,” I said, rubbing my head as I walked out of the front hall, leaving my father glaring at me: “This child is becoming more unruly, actually speaking to me like this!”
“Yes!” I answered, excited about those cute little concubines: “Father, you don’t know how fun they can be.”
“Fun? So you threw them into the river like little mice?” Father’s eyebrows twitched.
I shrank back: “They didn’t share their good food or include me in their fun…” My voice dropped as my father’s expression darkened.
“Just because of this?” he raised his voice slightly.
“They made fun of me! They said I was forced by you to marry the Emperor!” I pouted, casting a sideways glance at my father. Though they hadn’t said it outright, I “translated” their implication.
“Nonsense! I am upright and honorable; how could there be talk of forced marriage! Pure nonsense!” Father slammed the table, his authority undeniable.
