I Am The Empress Dowager Who Only Wants To Live Like A Lazy Salted Fish In This Imperial Palace

Thank you for listening to stories at Stellar Novels. Hope you have a pleasant time listening to stories. The Empress Dowager who only wanted to live as a salted fish in the Imperial Palace. I was the most tragic one in all of history. The Emperor was vicious toward me, the court officials constantly harassed me, and even when my close friend and I tried to sneak out of the palace for a little freedom, we had to crawl through a dog hole. Worse still, we were caught red-handed by that strapping new Emperor. My own so, called Son, he scooped me up as easily as if I were a baby chick. Mother, if you refuse to behave, Jun must punish you. Just a few months earlier, the late Emperor had successfully refined a longevity pill. Overjoyed, he bestowed it upon every consort in the three palaces and six courtyards so they could share in his good fortune. Who could have known that the so, called longevity pill, was actually a yellow, spring pill? One swallow and their eyes rolled back as the whole group ascended to the Western Heaven. I was the only one lucky enough to survive, only because the late Emperor had long since lost interest in me and forgotten I even existed. That was when I learned the hard truth. The moment you gain favor in this palace is the moment you're sent straight to the afterlife. It was the Laba Festival in the dead of winter when the late Emperor and his entire harem entered the Imperial Mausoleum with great pomp and circumstance, shaking the entire capital. Inside and outside the palace, everyone wept. Some mourned the Emperor, others their mistresses, and those chosen for burial a live wept for themselves. As for me, I didn't know who to cry for. I simply shoved my way into the crowd, widened my eyes, and wailed at the top of my lungs. I should have been buried with him too. Yet in the end, among all the consorts, I was the only one left. The Grand Ministers discussed the matter and decided to keep me around, bestowing upon me the title of Empress Dowager to stabilize the court. The real reason, of course, was that my father held military power. They feared he would Everyone said an Empress Dowager was supposed to oversee both the previous reign's legacy and the inner palace, but I truly had no desire to be one. I had never even been with a man. I had waited so painfully long for the old Emperor to die of old age. All I wanted was to leave the palace, eat and drink my fill, and enjoy life. The second week of the late Emperor's mourning period had barely passed when the new Emperor ascended the throne. The day I was officially named Empress Dowager was also the first time I laid eyes on the new Emperor, Jingzhan. I had to admit, this new Emperor possessed unparalleled beauty, far more breathtaking than the top male courtesan at Xiaoxiang Tower. Xiaoxiang Tower was the finest male beauty pavilion in the capital. Before I entered the palace, my close friend Lu Wanyuan, the Prime Minister's daughter, had dragged me there to broaden my horizons. That day she got drunk, hugged a beautiful young male entertainer, and sobbed uncontrollably, tears and snot soaking my hundred-pleated skirt. Ruanruan, my heart aches for you. Married off to that fifty-year-old man in the palace, I'm afraid you'll never know what it feels like to ascend to immortality in this lifetime. As she cried, she smeared snot all over my dress. I still had no idea what ascending to immortality even tasted like. I only saw the poor young man in her arms turn deathly pale with fright. Oh, I've gone off topic again. Right now I was sighing in sorrow, lamenting that such a peerless beauty had become my son. I watched him wave a hand, ordering every attendant in my palace to withdraw. Zen has something to say to the Empress Dowager. My palace servants obeyed at once and retreated without even glancing my way. The hall emptied until it was spotless. Only then did the Emperor turn and walk toward me. With every step he took, my heart pounded like a frightened deer trapped in my chest. He was only two years older than me, yet his appearance could bewilder anyone's heart. At our age, dry wood meeting a blazing fire, it was truly difficult to keep my composure. He arrived. His boots stopped right in front of me. The little deer in my chest nearly leaped out. His voice, low and icy, drifted down from above my head and made me shiver. I looked up and met a pair of dark, dangerous eyes. I trembled uncontrollably. His chilling voice brushed past my ear. You are the Empress Dowager. How much weight you carry in your heart, you know best of all. Zen advises you to behave yourself and refrain from meddling in what you Otherwise, Zhen will not hesitate to act against Prince Yongin's residence. I was so startled that I spat the mouthful of pure, blossom cake I had been eating straight onto his face. The new Emperor had just ascended the throne, and he had already struck with three swift, ruthless measures at the start. In the short span of half a month, he had dealt with several high-ranking ministers, including the extermination of nine generations. I was so terrified that I trembled nonstop, terrified my own family would be next. I hid inside Yun Palace, not daring to show my face. I even ate less, limiting myself to three bowls of rice per meal. Another month passed. My family remained safe and sound. My father was still alive and well, arguing with the Prime Minister by the wall every single day just like before. I couldn't understand it. One civil official and one military general had been quarreling for so many years, yet they never once resorted to fists, only words. In any case, I breathed a sigh of relief. My appetite returned with a vengeance. I even added an extra pork trotter to my lunch. Life like this wasn't bad at all. I thought I could finally relax. Who would have guessed that the Ministry of Rights would present a list of beauties for the harem, reminding me that as Empress Dowager, I must select consorts for the Emperor in his stead? Under normal circumstances, this duty truly belonged to me, the Imperial Mother, but I had heard that a few days earlier a minister had tried to recommend his own daughter. Before he could finish speaking, the Emperor listed every one of his crimes and threw him straight into the Imperial prison. The court officials didn't dare offend the new Emperor, so they tossed this hot potato to me instead. I wasn't stupid. I immediately flung the list aside and displayed the full dignity of an Empress Dowager. The late Emperor has not even been dead for a hundred days, yet you are already impatient to bring new women into the palace. Do you wish for the new Sovereign to be ridiculed by the common people? The Minister of Rights clearly hadn't expected me to have such a temper. His attitude softened at once. Empress Dowager, please calm your anger. This humble subject is only concerned for the stability of the realm. Moreover, among the three great unfilial acts, having no heir is the gravest. Your Majesty should not meddle too much in worldly affairs. I narrowed my eyes and cut him off. Your sons have quite the reputation. One lost at gambling and refused to pay, so his legs were broken. Another teased a woman from the Lyang family and had his head split open. The third had a crooked heart and sold fake medicine. He's still locked up in the capital Yemen. Tell me, are you tired yet? My name is Ran Ruan. I have a gentle nature but a vicious tongue. After years of listening to my father and the Prime Minister curse each other through the wall, I had never lost a verbal spar in my life. The Minister of Rights was so choked by my words that his eyes bulged and his face turned the color of pig liver. He grabbed his robe and fled. I let out a breath of relief, turned, and instructed the kitchen. Add roasted rabbit to tonight's menu to calm my nerves. Who could have known that I had only taken two bites when His Majesty arrived? I hastily ordered the rabbit cleared away. It wasn't that I feared he would snatch my share. This year there was a famine, and he had personally decreed that the inner palace must practice frugality and avoid extravagance. You may all withdraw. The moment the Emperor stepped through the door, he dismissed every palace maid and eunuch. I didn't dare stop him. Even if I wanted to, I couldn't, so I sat up straight and obedient like a quail. Has Mother eaten dinner yet? His Majesty looked at me and paused. I froze as well. The half-eaten rabbit was still sitting right there. I forced a smile. He raised an eyebrow and leaned closer. The faint scent of dragon fragrance incense drifted over, making my heart race again. That little deer in my chest started leaping once more. The next instant, his hand brushed the corner of my mouth. Mother seems to have quite the appetite. I jerked my head up and saw grease glistening on his fingertip. I was finished. I had eaten the rabbit and forgotten to wipe my mouth. Panic flashed through me. I immediately sniffled as though about to cry. These past few days your servant has not been allowed any meat. Without meat I cannot feel full. I only ate two bites. If Your Majesty is displeased, please take it away. I lifted my pitiful gaze and saw the corner of the Emperor's mouth twitch. I heard Mother rejected the list of consorts on Jun's behalf. His expression quickly turned cold again, but the subject change was so abrupt I couldn't read his mood. That gaze of his lingered on me a moment longer. I trembled. Your servant only thought, The new sovereign has just ascended the throne and a thousand matters await. Stabilizing the court should be the priority. I glanced at him cautiously, probing. Should I retrieve the list for you? He didn't answer. He simply narrowed his eyes and stared at me for a long time. That look made me dizzy. My nails dug into the edge of the table so hard they nearly snapped. Just when I thought he was about to speak, the Emperor suddenly stood up and left, leaving behind only one instruction for the kitchen. Add one meat dish to my meals every day. Time flew by in the blink of an eye. Three months had passed, and the hundred days' memorial for the late Emperor was approaching. From the fifth watch of the morning, the Ministry of Rights had everything in meticulous detail. By the time the ceremonies at the mausoleum ended, my legs were so sore they nearly split at the toes. Only when the final ceremony complete, rang out did I follow the Emperor into Changming Hall to rest. We each sat on our respective thrones. He focused intently on reviewing memorials while I secretly admired him. The Emperor truly was peerlessly handsome. If I could steal just one kiss, I probably wouldn't need pork trotters for three whole days. I was still lost in my daydream when he suddenly lifted his head. Before I could look away our eyes met. Imperial Mother is staring at Jun like this, what is the meaning of it? His voice remained as indifferent as ever. In my heart I snorted, You're this beautiful. How can you blame people for looking? But those words stayed strictly in my thoughts. I answered timidly, This widow is hungry. I pointed at the tray of snacks in front of him. I really was starving. I hadn't eaten a single grain of rice since before dawn. At that moment, even a live pig placed before me would have been hugged and gnawed on. The Emperor looked at me in silence for a long while, then sighed softly and pushed the tray toward me. I didn't stand on ceremony. I took it and began eating with relish. Suddenly he spoke. Zen received a secret report. Prince Yongin intends to rebel. Paft, snacks sprayed everywhere. Luckily he dodged quickly, or his face would have been covered. Impossible. I clutched the tray tightly, my voice serious. Father argues with the Prime Minister by the wall and curses you every single day just like before. He absolutely cannot be plotting rebellion. The moment the words left my mouth, I realized my mistake. Oh no, I shouldn't have said that. I hastily corrected myself. Beating is caring, scolding is loving. Father has beaten me since I was small. Why does it sound so wrong when I say it? In any case, anyone who curses you to your face definitely isn't plotting behind your back. Besides, I think what they say makes a lot of sense. Before I could finish, the Emperor's face darkened completely. I was done for. This time he was definitely going to execute my entire family. My nose stung. I quickly stuffed several more pieces of pastry into my mouth. What are you doing? He frowned. Wet just a moment. Let this widow eat her fill before you kill me. I sobbed. The corner of his mouth trembled faintly, as though he was trying to suppress his anger. Zen has never said he would kill you. Then you want to depose this widow? A wave of grievance surged in my chest. It wasn't as if this widow had volunteered to become Empress Dowager. They forced me into this position. I'm even younger than you. How can I possibly act as your mother? If you're unhappy, just depose me. With that, I sniffled loudly and picked up another snowflake pastry, popping it into my mouth. Mm, so sweet. That day His Majesty stared at me for a very long time but never said a word about deposing me. I spent the night in anxious dread before finally drifting off. Suddenly, a strange noise echoed through the hall. My father was once a war king. I had trained in martial arts since childhood. I remembered the time an assassin broke into our residence when I was only thirteen, full of pent-up frustration. I had bolted upright in bed and found myself face-to-face with a black shadow right beside my bed. Who are you? I shouted. It's your father, you little brat. The damn assassin had taken advantage of the moment. What a bold thief, I kicked out. After more than ten exchanges, I was subdued. Only when I saw his face clearly did I realize it really was my father. Panting, he said. Tonight there will be assassins attacking the imperial mausoleum. Leave quickly. I stared silently at him dressed in night, walking black clothes, my legs trembling. Father, are you truly planning to rebel? The emperor is terrifying. But do you really think you can win? Father told me not to ask too many questions and to worry only about staying alive. I followed the route he indicated and fled in a hurry. Who could have guessed that before I had gone even half a mile? I would see several figures dressed exactly like my father slipping straight into the courtyard where the emperor was resting. In that instant, everything became clear. The emperor had already known about father's plot. In this situation, he would definitely be prepared. Father was walking straight into a trap. No, I couldn't let my entire family be exterminated. I still hadn't tasted enough delicacies of the mortal world. I still hadn't experienced what it felt like to ascend to immortality. My mind spun rapidly. Since rebellion was doomed to fail, I might as well pretend to side with the emperor. If I was lucky enough to save his life and earn merit, perhaps I could beg for mercy on father's behalf. Without another thought, I grabbed a weapon and charged in. Your Majesty, do not fear. This widow is here. Sure enough, I accomplished a great deed. I blocked a poisoned arrow meant for the emperor. The toxin spread through my body. I was on the verge of death. Uff, but I didn't want to die. Who told you to throw yourself in front of the arrow? Summon the imperial physician. Quickly, the emperor held me tightly, so furious that the veins on his forehead bulged. He was still so beautiful even when angry. What a pity. I was about to die. If I survived before leaving the palace, I would definitely steal one kiss from him. I clutched the front of his dragon robe, my voice weak. Why, Your Majesty, am I going to die? No. Zhen will not allow you to die. Ronroon. Zhen will not let you die. His eyes were red-rimmed as he held me close, trembling. The faint scent of dragon-fragrance incense on his robes made me dizzy. If I died, I would never smell it again. Your Majesty. I used the last of my strength. Can you grant this widow one final wish? Speak. Zhen will agree to anything. After I die during the funeral rites, can you secretly place a pork trotter in my coffin? And if you could add a roasted rabbit, that would be even better. The Ministry of Rites said funeral offerings cannot include meat. It's too cruel to me. I didn't wait to hear his answer before I fainted. I woke up because my stomach was growling with hunger. Strange, even after death I was still hungry. Before I could finish the thought, the door burst open. It was the chief eunuch, San Bao. I jumped in fright. He was so loyal that he had come to serve me even in death. Before I could speak, he let out a cry and ran outside in panic. The Empress Dowager has awakened. Come quickly. Oh, so I wasn't dead after all. Wonderful. I could eat good food again. The Imperial Physician had ordered that since I had just regained consciousness, I was not allowed meat. I wilted. San Bao watched me like a hawk all day. I could only drink watery congee. That night the Emperor came to visit and brought pork trotters and roasted rabbit with him. Ah, he really was too good to me. I drooled at the sight. Even though I had just finished congee, I immediately ordered San Bao to bring rice. The pork trotters were truly divine. After eating, I let out a satisfied burp. Your Majesty, where is my father? I suddenly remembered. From the moment I lost consciousness until now, I had no idea what had happened. The Emperor was still sitting here safe and sound. So Father must have failed. Had my family been exterminated? I hadn't even had the chance to plead for mercy yet. The Emperor frowned slightly. The way he looked at me was strange. Prince Yong An acted incompetently. Jennas punished him by sending him outside the city to train troops in the wilderness. Perhaps because I had blocked an arrow for him, his tone was no longer as cold. But acted incompetently. Had I heard wrong? Father had clearly tried to rebel. Anything else? The Emperor narrowed his eyes. I hastily sat up straight and answered clearly. Indeed, he was incompetent. He must train harder. During my recovery days, I barely left Yun Palace. The inner palace was vast and had once been lively. Ever since the late Emperor took all his consorts to the Western Heaven, the atmosphere had grown cold and desolate. While I was feeling bored, several Imperial consorts suddenly came to visit. They were all the Emperor's aunts. Seeing how concerned they were, I was touched and ordered San Bao to bring out precious snacks to entertain them. Who would have guessed that the moment they stepped inside they burst into loud sobs? Impressed Dowager, please uphold justice for us. Consort Yu grabbed my hand and wailed. The pearl mines have always been managed by the Imperial family. Now His Majesty has handed them over to the Ministry of Revenue. How are we supposed to survive? Beside her, Consort Yun chimed in. Exactly. Prince Fuqing only received 200,000 tails this year. Next year we may have to sell our servants. I froze, hand paused mid-air above a pastry. 200,000 tails and they couldn't survive? As impressed Dowager, my annual stipend was only 2,000 tails. They kept crying and complaining. The more I listened, the more I felt that I was the most pitiful one here. Eventually I burst into tears too, louder than any of them. The consorts were stunned. They exchanged bewildered glances, then ended up comforting me instead. After they left I was still sniffling. Just then the Emperor arrived. Seeing snot and tears all over my face, his expression darkened. Who dares to bully you? His voice was cold. Yet he gently took out a handkerchief and wiped my nose. The handkerchief carried the faint scent of dragon fragrance incense, my heart fluttered. I looked at him with grievance. It was you. He froze, brows knitting together. Zen bullied you? How? Grievance surged up. I poured everything out. You ordered frugality and no extravagance. Every time I want to eat pork trotters I have to station people at the door in case you catch me. They receive tens of thousands of tails and can buy as many trotters as they want. While I… Before I finished, tears poured down like rain. The Emperor looked at me and let out a heavy sigh. Zen never forbade it. If you want to eat, then eat. Just stop crying. All right. He wiped my tears again. I blinked, confused. Really? Hicc? This time the hiccup came from crying too hard. Really, raising you Jun can still afford it. He tucked a few stray strands of hair behind my ear and spoke softly. Besides the pork trotters, is there anything else you desire? I brightened at once. So saving the Emperor once came with conditions. After thinking for a moment, I answered honestly. I don't want to be Empress Dowager anymore. The Emperor fell silent. His face gradually darkened, eyes fixed on me. He was clearly angry, yet he had been the one to ask what I wanted. I'm not his real mother. If I leave it won't hurt anyone. His stare frightened me. I lowered my head. Just as I was about to take back my words, he suddenly let out a soft sound. He turned and left. Watching his retreating figure, I felt a tiny pang of regret in my heart. After he left, I figured that once I departed from the palace, I probably wouldn't have another chance to gaze upon that peerless face again. Perhaps because I was about to leave, the Emperor visited Jun Palace far more frequently in the following days. Yet he never once mentioned deposing me, and I didn't dare bring it up. What pleased me was that he was no longer cold and distant. Maybe he had started treating me as his mother and wanted to show me some kindness in these final days. The only problem was that he kept stealing bites of my meat, leaving me never quite full. A month passed without any imperial edict allowing me to leave the palace. Instead, I received news that threw my heart into chaos. Prince Xian had returned to the capital. I remembered when I was thirteen. I had climbed over the wall into the Prime Minister's residence to steal some apples and accidentally knocked over a beehive. As the sky filled with angry bees, Prince Xian appeared wearing a black cloak. Did I think he was a hero coming to save the beauty? No, I immediately snatched his cloak, wrapped it around myself, and fled. As a result, the entire Imperial Medical Institute ended up crowded inside Prince Xian's residence that day. My father dragged me over and raised his hand to slap me right in front of him. Prince Xian protected me instead, saying, The cloak was originally a gift for her. Afterward, he often came to my residence and brought many delicious snacks. I thought he was truly kind. Once, he asked me if I would like to come live in Prince Xian's residence in the future. I nodded eagerly because the snacks there were too good. But the year I came of age, he led troops back to his fiefdom. Before leaving, he didn't even come to see me. He only sent a servant with a box of pastries. Six years had passed since then. How long that fell. When Prince Xian appeared before me holding snacks, I hadn't even had time to prepare myself mentally. He stared at me for a long time, his eyes turning red as he spoke in a trembling voice. Ron Ruan, you've gotten thinner. Have you been suffering greatly? Empress Dowager, would you like the pork trotters or roasted rabbit prepared first? At that exact moment, Sanbao's loud duck-like voice rang out from outside the door. Prince Xian's face twitched. I, on the other hand, wanted to roast Sanbao alive. With a complicated look in his eyes, Prince Xian gazed at me. All these years and you still love meat as much as before. Nothing has changed. Chained, everything had changed. For one thing, I was now the Empress Dowager. When he saw me, he had to perform proper greetings and even call me Imperial Sister-in-Law. I asked, Will you be staying in the capital this time? I didn't even know why I asked. I just felt I needed to know. He paused. A flash of joy crossed his eyes before quickly fading into gloom. He shook his head. I only returned to report on official matters. I'll stay at most one month. He hesitated for a moment, then spoke with determination. Ron Ruan, you're still young. You shouldn't be trapped in the Inner Palace for life. Do you want to leave? Of course I wanted to leave. His Majesty had already agreed to depose me. I just didn't know when he would actually do it. Thinking about it made me anxious. What if he had forgotten? Seeing me frown, Prince Xian looked delighted again. I knew it. Ron Ruan, you definitely… His Majesty has arrived. San Bao's duck-like voice sounded again from outside. I turned my head and saw the Emperor striding and wearing his dragon robe. Prince Xian paid his respects, and the Emperor also greeted me formally. After a few polite exchanges, we finally got to the point. Zhen finished court early and didn't see Imperial Uncle, only to find you had hurried over to visit Mother. The Emperor spoke first. For some reason, I suddenly felt a strange chill. Prince Xian acted as if he didn't mind and smiled. This subject and the Empress Dowager are old acquaintances. We haven't met in a long time, and I heard she was injured, so I came to visit. Then he handed me a brocade box. I secretly opened it and discovered ginseng and lingzhi. Not snacks at all. How disappointing. I stopped listening to whatever they said after that. The only thing I remembered was that he invited me to join a hunting trip in three days. After Prince Xian left, the roasted rabbit was served. I snapped out of my thoughts and quickly snatched a rabbit leg before the Emperor could even pick up his chopsticks. He looked at me and let out a soft sigh. Complaining was useless. I had already taken a bite. Would he really snatch back something I had already bitten? Earlier, Prince Xian mentioned the hunt. Do you want to go? he asked. What's so fun about it? Just running around the mountains until you're exhausted. I answered while gnawing on the leg. Before the Emperor could reply, Sanbao butted in. It won't be tiring at all. Your Highness is the Empress Dowager. You only need to sit and watch while others present you with the finest prey. That night there would be a bonfire banquet with fragrant roasted meat. My eyes lit up at the thought. The hunting expedition was incredibly exciting. The moment the hunting horns sounded, the princes and young nobles charged into the forest like madmen. The beasts inside also seemed to go crazy, scattering in every direction. I was too lazy to move and simply sat inside the hunting tent, watching them compete in archery, horsemanship, and polo. Occasionally someone would bring their spoils to offer to me. Snow-white foxes with fur like jade, rainbow-tailed pheasants, and deer with antlers like coral. Ahem, they all looked quite delicious. When dusk fell and the bonfire banquet began, I finally felt like taking a look at how they were preparing the food. As I stood watching, Prince Xian approached, carrying a pure white rabbit in his hands. Ruanruan, this cloud rabbit was specially hunted by this prince for you. You must be bored in the inner palace. Let it keep you company, he said. The rabbit only has a minor injury on its leg, I frowned slightly. Such a fragile little rabbit was truly pitiful. I handed it to Sanbao. Take it to the imperial physician for treatment. Prince Xian's eyes flickered with emotion. Ruanruan, you're still as kind-hearted as ever. I turned to instruct the supervising eunuch about the five-colored pheasant, then looked back at Prince Xian. What did you just say? Prince Xian stared at me silently for a long time without answering. His expression shifted several times. How strange. At that moment, the emperor also arrived, carrying two mountain goats in his hands. Mountain goat, this is what I've been looking forward to most at the banquet. I exclaimed excitedly. You really caught them. Mountain goats love hiding in thorny bushes. They're extremely difficult to hunt. Overjoyed, I ran over and noticed scratches from thorns on the emperor's forehead. I frowned. Such a handsome face. How could it be scarred? You're hurt. Come with me into the tent and let me apply medicine. I grabbed the emperor's hand and pulled him into the tent. I had the best wound ointment there. His Majesty and the Empress Dowager truly share a deep mother-son bond. A voice came from behind us. I froze mid-step. Oh right, I had almost forgotten about Prince Xian. His gaze was fixed on my hand clutching the emperor's sleeve. His expression didn't look pleasant at all. Realizing I had been rude, I quickly said, Thank you, Prince Xian, for gifting this widow the cloud rabbit. I was so happy I forgot to thank you properly. How terribly impolite of me. Prince Xian's facial muscles twitched violently. It looked like he wanted to say something but held it back in the end. I didn't have time to wait for him. I immediately dragged the emperor into the tent. While carefully applying medicine to his wound, I couldn't help muttering, You could have just ordered the imperial guards to catch them. Why did you have to do it yourself? The emperor seemed to be in an excellent mood and allowed me to spread the jade beauty cream on his injury. When he saw me struggling to reach, he even leaned slightly toward me. If Ran Ran wants to eat it, then Zhen naturally has to hunt it personally. His deep eyes looked at me like silk threads wrapping tightly around my heart. Ran Ran, can you be good to only Zhen? The little deer in my chest suddenly leaped wildly. My blood felt like it was boiling. He had called me Ran Ran. This was the second time, and it made my legs go weak. I am your mother. Of course I have to be good to you. My voice trembled slightly, but the truth was I absolutely did not want to be his mother. The emperor's gaze remained fixed on my face. His low, magnetic voice brushed against my ear. Then stopped getting close to Prince Xian. Zhen doesn't like it. My body stiffened. I answered softly like a mosquito, Yes. The corner of the emperor's lips curved into a breathtaking smile. Then he leaned over casually and rested his head on my lap. Sleep well. At the bonfire banquet, I ate and drank to my heart's content and was in extremely high spirits. What made me even happier was reuniting with Lu Wan Yuan. We talked about many things. She drank too much and dragged me into her arms, sobbing loudly. Ran Ran, why is your fate so bitter? So young and already forced to live as a widow. She even tried to wipe her snot on my sleeve. I quickly pulled San Bao over to take the hit instead. San Bao gave me a resentful look before slinking off to change clothes. Ran Ran, you're just too repressed. Lu Wan Yuan, hiccup drunkenly. Let me tell you, Xiak's young tower has several new young male entertainers. They're all very handsome. Before she could finish, the emperor walked in. His gaze swept over Lu Wan Yuan before finally landing on me. Where exactly were you two planning to go? His stare felt like hooks. I quickly lowered my head. Nowhere. We're not going anywhere. You're lying. He sat down beside me. His presence pressed down like a mountain, making my entire body tense. I'm not lying. I denied frantically but his eyes saw right through me. Terrified, I instinctively raised my hand and swore. If I'm lying, may heaven strike my best friend with lightning. Luan Ran, what did you just say? A drunk Lu Wan Yuan poked her head out from behind me. I quickly pushed her back down. I was praising you. I thought the matter would end there. Who would have guessed that after returning to the palace, Lu Wan Yuan actually came looking for me. Even more shocking was that she dragged me out of the cold palace through a tiny dog hole. Xiak's young tower had a new batch of young male entertainers. They were all young, with smooth skin, and most importantly, extremely handsome. Though they still fell a little short compared to the emperor. Why was I thinking about him at a time like this? I shook my head vigorously, trying to fling that image out of my mind. The wine had taken effect. I was feeling hazy when a young male entertainer sat down gently beside me. The scent on his body was strangely pleasant and somewhat familiar. People say wine gives cowards courage. I wasn't a coward, but I did feel much bolder. I reached out and lifted the young man's face closer. Why do you look so much like the emperor? I mumbled, conveniently stroking his cheek a few times. The young man leaned in closer and asked in a low voice, Mother, is Zhen's face comfortable to touch? I froze. Instinct took over and I slapped him hard across the face. My whole body trembled as half my drunkenness vanished. Oh heavens, I had just touched the emperor's face. I was finished. Completely finished. This time I was definitely dead. He carried me out through the back door of Xiaoxiang Tower and into the carriage. I curled up in the corner like an ostrich, but with one reach he lifted me up and placed me right in front of him. Just like picking up a baby chick. I was the dignified empress dowager. Wasn't this extremely unfilial of him? Um, if I say I was forced to go there, would your majesty believe me? I forced a smile showing all my white teeth. His eyes were deep and unreadable. He only asked, what do you think? Clearly he didn't believe a word. Then it was Wanyuan who dragged me there. Please don't punish her. She's already suffered enough. Being scolded and beaten by the prime minister every day. She's truly pitiful. If you must punish someone, punish me instead. As I spoke I twisted the hem of my robe. After all, Lu Wanyuan was my true friend. But the moment I finished speaking, images of military caning, crushed flesh and broken bones, and finger-squeezing torture flashed through my mind. The more I thought about it, the more terrified I became. My voice grew smaller. Or, maybe don't hit me, it hurts a lot. By the end, my tears were flowing freely. In truth, I hadn't intended to cry. The more I thought, the more wronged I felt. Why did they force me into the palace back then to marry that old emperor? After finally waiting for him to die, they immediately made me the Empress Dowager. I was only in my twenties. The best years of a woman's life. Why did I have to live as a widow forever? Was I the only person in the world meant to be sacrificed? I cried miserably, even louder than when the late emperor passed away. It left the emperor somewhat flustered. What military caning? What finger torture? Where did you hear such things? He gently wiped my tears with a handkerchief. Zhen couldn't bear to hit you. Zhen only. He suddenly leaned in close, his eyes deep and dark. Mother, isn't Zhen much more handsome than those young men? Of course he was more handsome. Looking at that face that made my heart race, I felt guilty and lowered my head, whispering, It's just that I can't touch you. His eyes flashed. Suddenly he grabbed my hand and pressed it against his own face. Zhen permits you to touch. For the next three days, the little deer in my heart ran wildly nonstop. On the fourth day, Prince Xian came again. At the time, I was gnawing on roasted rabbit, the very same cloud rabbit he had given me. I had fattened it up for half a month before roasting it. I didn't expect you to actually come. Forgive my appearance. I hurriedly wiped the grease from the corner of my mouth. Prince Xian's eyes were complicated. He signaled for Sanbao and the other servants to withdraw. This time they didn't move until I nodded. Ruanruan, come with me. Return to my fiefdom with me. I was stunned. Running away sounded novel and exciting, but I didn't want to. Prince Xian, I am the Empress Dowager. My voice turned serious. You should leave. Consider everything you just said unsaid. I truly wanted to leave the Imperial Palace, but I couldn't drag Prince Yong'en's residence into danger because of it. Is it because of Jingzhan? Prince Xian stepped closer, his eyes intense. You've fallen for him, haven't you? It felt as if a hammer had struck my heart. He wasn't wrong. From the very first glance I had developed feelings for the Emperor. I had only hidden them out of fear. Now that he had said it aloud, I felt both embarrassed and angry. Your Highness, in what capacity are you questioning me? My voice shook, my face stiff. What role did you play when I entered the palace? You know better than anyone. My father only has me, one daughter. I posed no threat to the throne whatsoever. I had always wondered why I had to enter the palace. It wasn't until I discovered the letter Prince Xian had left for my father that I understood everything had been orchestrated by him. Prince Xian's expression changed. He let out a heavy sigh. Ronron, I regret it. I regret it so much. Whether he regretted leaving or pushing me into the palace no longer mattered. I raised my head, my face cold. Consider everything you said today unheard. In the future, unless there is important business. Please do not come to Yun Palace again. Whether I am the Empress Dowager or anyone else, I do not wish to see you. Ruanron. He reached out and grabbed me tightly, his voice filled with pain. Do you know? His Majesty has agreed to a marriage alliance with Donghuang. The Princess of Donghuang will enter the capital as the Empress. You can only stand by and watch them bow to heaven and earth. Those words stabbed into my heart like a knife. Blood surged up my throat as I collapsed unconscious. When I opened my eyes, the Emperor was sitting beside me. His eyes were bloodshot and he looked exhausted. The moment he saw me awake, he hurriedly took my hand. Ruanron. Are you hungry? I shook my head and asked hoarsely, what happened to me? The Imperial physician said it was due to excessive grief. Ruanron, leave this matter to Zhen. He gripped my hand tightly, brows slightly furrowed. I couldn't read his expression. I suddenly remembered Prince Xian's words. The Emperor wanted a marriage alliance with Donghuang and to wed the Princess. How would he handle it? No matter who he married as Empress, I would forever remain the Empress Dowager. Feeling bitter, I turned my face away and whispered like a mosquito. Your Majesty, you once promised to depose me. I miss my father, Ruanron. His voice came from behind me, sounding slightly anxious. If you don't want to be Empress Dowager, Zhen will fulfill your wish. It's just… I'm tired. I want to rest. I really didn't want to hear any more. In truth, I wasn't overly emotional. It was just that my body was growing weaker and weaker, as if something was wrong. I didn't turn around, but I knew he was still watching me. After a while, he sighed softly. Ruanron, Zhen will visit you again later. Don't worry, you'll be fine. He leaned down and hugged me briefly before quickly letting go. One month later, the Donghuang delegation entered the capital. The Princess of Donghuang, named Yutao, arrived with a procession as grand as any Empress. Since the grand wedding still required preparation, the Emperor temporarily arranged for her to stay in Yaoning Palace, the former residence of the late Imperial Noble Consort, the highest honor. Sanbao chattered away while attending me as I gnawed on a pork trotter. I had thought I could remain calm, but the moment I saw Princess Yutao, the composure I had struggled to maintain shattered completely, because she looked exactly like me. For a split second, I suspected my father had secretly had another child with my mother, but then I remembered he didn't have the guts. You are Su Wan. Those were the first words Yutao said to me, her tone full of disdain. As for my response, I didn't say a single word. I simply raised my hand and gave her two crisp, resounding slaps. Even if she became Empress, she still had to call me Imperial Mother. That night when the Emperor came, I looked up arrogantly and deliberately provoked him. I slapped your future Empress. Are you hurt? He frowned and pulled my hand over to examine it. My chest tightened painfully as tears welled up. This time I didn't cry. I only bit my lip hard, leaving several deep nail marks on his hand. Princess Yutao was the bridge for diplomatic relations. Currently, Dongwang's military power surpassed ours. Those two slaps caused the court officials to submit memorials condemning me. I didn't understand the situation at court. I only knew that three days later, the gates of Yun Palace were locked tight. From that day on, the once-respected Empress Dowager had become a prisoner. Sanbao was so angry he stamped his feet and puffed out his tiny chest. Arguing with the captain of the Imperial Guards. The moment the man drew his sword, Sanbao immediately shrank back like a turtle. Just you wait. He muttered from behind the door. As for me, watching the gates close, I felt strangely calm. I ate when I wanted and slept when I wanted. Lately I had just been feeling more and more sleepy, drifting through the days in a daze and too lazy to care about anything. While everyone was criticizing me, Prince Shan came again. Ranran, come with me. What is there left for you to cling to here? He wore a sorrowful expression and wanted to help me escape. I shook my head groggily. I'm not clinging to anything, but behind me stands Prince Yongin's residence. Before I could finish speaking blood gushed from my mouth. This time I was very calm, because I knew this wasn't from excessive anger. I had been poisoned. I was jolted awake by the bumpy ride. The carriage cushion was too hard and my back ached terribly. Ranran, you're awake. A scorching embrace enveloped me. The familiar scent I now loathed made me frown. I pushed him away and asked hoarsely, Prince Xian, where are you taking me? I'm taking you back to my fiefdom. I am the Empress Dowager. Very soon I won't be anymore. Erwan Ran, your father's troops are waiting outside the city. Once I ascend the throne we can enter the Nine Heavens Hall together and start over. How about it? I looked up and saw his eyes shining with excitement. I only smiled weakly. What madness is this? I've been poisoned. I won't live much longer. The poison came from when I blocked the arrow for the Emperor. In truth, I had suspected long ago that it hadn't been fully cleansed from my body. I've already helped you detoxify it. Prince Xian gripped my shoulders urgently. Ranran, come back with me. I'll remove the remaining poison. You'll be fine. You detoxified me. I was shocked and momentarily overjoyed. He nodded. Before he could finish speaking, the thunder of horse hooves sounded from behind. The Blackscale camp. His Majesty's personal guards. Had caught up. Both sides were on the verge of battle. Ranran, don't be afraid. I will. Before he could finish, my dagger pierced straight through his heart. He turned to look at me in shock, struggling to speak. Ranran, what's so surprising? I smiled coldly. When you poisoned me, didn't you expect I would find out? That poison was in the snacks you brought to visit me. For many years, my father had been threatened by you and forced to deliver information in exchange for the antidote. His expression changed drastically before he burst into maniacal laughter. I've lost. But your father won't survive either. Do you want to drag the entire Prince Yongin's residence down with you? I continued smiling as I pushed the dagger deeper. Let me tell you something. It was His Majesty who told me. Guess how he knew. Obviously from my own father. Prince Xian's confidence instantly crumbled. I seized the moment, yanked the horse's reins, and charged straight toward the cliff. So Ron, do you want to die with me? No. The only one falling with you is the Empress Dowager. I will hold His Majesty's hand and ascend the Nine Heavens together. My laughter mixed with the sound of the carriage as we plummeted off the cliff. In the chaos, Prince Xian screamed. At the critical moment, I leaped out of the carriage and jumped toward a cave on the mountainside. There the Emperor was already waiting with open arms to catch me. One month later, I married the Emperor under the identity of Princess Yitao of Donghuang. Another month passed, and the bodies of Prince Xian and the Empress Dowager were discovered. They were no longer intact, but their faces were still recognizable. Even though I now carried the name Yitao, the Emperor secretly arranged a proper wedding ceremony for me. That day I argued with my father until I had him backed into a corner by the wall. He finally confessed everything. It turned out that from the moment I became Empress Dowager, the Emperor had faced countless dangers. The Imperial family refused to submit. The court was divided, and enemies lurked at the borders. To consolidate power, the first person he chose to form an alliance with was my father. Why my father? There was no need to ask. Because he was my father. After weighing the pros and cons, my father agreed to cooperate and also confessed that I had been poisoned. He revealed that Yitao was actually Prince Xian's person. He had sent her into the palace both to monitor us and to replace me. Using me, he planned to control my father. Once Yitao became Empress Dowager and the real Donghuang Princess died, Donghuang would send troops. The Emperor would be defeated, and Prince Xian would seize the opportunity to take the throne. His decade-long scheme was ultimately countered by the Emperor using his own tactics. When I was locked in Yun Palace and he came to lure me away, I pretended the poison had acted up and tricked him into handing over the antidote. After Prince Xian and Yitao died, I married the Emperor under the name Yitao. In doing so, we stabilized the court, secured the borders and completely uprooted Prince Xian. This outcome satisfied my father, satisfied the Emperor, and satisfied me. Everyone was happy. In Phoenix Luan Palace, I rested my head on the Emperor's lap. Eating grapes he had peeled for me one by one while squinting in bliss. You arranged this entire grand scheme for me. I tilted my head and blinked mischievously. Since when did Your Majesty start having feelings for me? He gently pinched my cheek and smiled. You only remember snatching Prince Xian's cloak back then. But have you ever considered that with your small frame, how could you have so easily taken it? I suddenly understood. So it was you who unbuttoned the cloak for me. You had designs on me from that moment. The Emperor chuckled softly, his deep eyes fixed on me. Are the grapes sweet? I was stunned for a moment before nodding. Very sweet. Then let Jun have a taste. With those words, he leaned down. His warm lips covered mine. Extra from Jingzhan's perspective I was originally the unfavored seventh prince, Jingzhan. The first time I met Su Ran was on the wall of the Prime Minister's residence. She had just knocked over a beehive and was being chased by a swarm of angry bees. A hero couldn't save the beauty, but a cloak could. Not wanting to be stung until my head swelled like a pig's, when she charged toward me, I reached out and snatched Prince Xian's cloak for her. Ruan Ruan grabbed the cloak triumphantly, turned her head, and even winked at me. Her smile was as bright as sunlight. That smile she gave me over her shoulder was like a spring breeze, stirring waves in my heart. But not long after, I heard she was about to be engaged to Prince Xian. My heart ached. I buried myself in work, hoping to forget her through business, but it was useless. Later, when Prince Xian requested to return to his fiefdom, I worried about her and disguised myself as one of his servants to visit. If this continues, I won't be able to eat such delicious snacks anymore, she complained lazily. Crumbs stuck to the corner of her mouth. How could there be such an adorable young lady? I wanted nothing more than to pinch her cheeks. Who would have thought the next time we met, she had already entered the palace and become one of Father Emperor's consorts? At that moment, rebellious thoughts stirred in my heart. But before I could act, Father Emperor took his favored consort and princes with him to the afterlife. The golden throne fell into the hands of an unloved son like me. I became emperor, while she, the unfavored one, became the Empress Dowager. The only regret was that she no longer remembered me. During the grand ceremony, I went to pay my respects, wanting to talk to her. But my power was still weak and she was heavily guarded. I deliberately acted cold toward her. In return, she spat cake crumbs all over me and burst into pitiful tears. After ascending the throne, I quickly gathered power and reorganized the court. To eliminate traitors, I needed trusted allies. The first person I pulled to my side was her father. What Jun wishes to scheme with you about is Su Ruan. When the world is at peace, Jun will crown her as Empress. The moment I finished speaking, Prince Yongun sprayed tea everywhere and looked at me as if I were a ghost. Only when he saw how serious I was did he finally believe me. That was how I learned she had been poisoned. Prince Xian had laced the snacks he brought her. Our plan with Prince Yong went smoothly. What I never expected was that she would rush out and block the arrow for me. My heart felt like it was being crushed as I held her trembling body, filled with endless regret. After returning to the palace, I never left her side for even a moment. There were times I wondered whether it had all been worth it, until Prince Yongun comforted me, saying it was only a shoulder wound, not life, threatening. Who knew that using poison to fight poison would actually turn into a blessing? In return, I looked him as if he were a ghost and wondered if he was truly her biological father. But the saying that fortune and misfortune go hand in hand proved true. When Prince Xian returned to the capital after learning his scheme had been exposed, I confessed my feelings to Ruan Ruan. She was stunned for a moment before throwing herself at me and planting a fierce kiss on my face. Stronger than when she bit into pork trotters. In that moment, fireworks exploded in my heart. I had finally won. I had won the world and I had won her. Right now the petite woman in my arms looked up and asked, Since when did you start having designs on me? I lowered my head and answered with a deep kiss. That concludes today's story on stellar novels. We hope you enjoyed it. Please give us a like, leave your thoughts in the comments, and subscribe to stay updated with new stories. See you next time.