The empress was fully engrossed in the entire process. The emperor, indeed a seasoned campaigner, had just completed a successful mission, despite having recently engaged in battle.
To the Empress's surprise, the Emperor did not inquire about anything related to their recent activities, nor did he broach the subject of the Public House's actions.
Instead, the emperor reminisced about the past, harking back to the time when she first entered the crown prince's residence. Their conversation delved into the emotional aspects of their relationship, bringing tears to the empress's eyes.
"I've pondered on this. If I hadn't become the emperor, would we be so distant?" mused the Emperor.
Attempting to steer the conversation back, the Empress said, "Aren't we fine now? How can we be strangers?"
The Emperor sighed. "Yu'er, there are many things you might not know. I hesitate to tell you, fearing it might bring you sorrow."
