Lady Wen walked in slowly with a respectful but dignified look on her face. Her action was perfectly composed and proper. With a slight bow, she said clearly and gently, “Greetings, Your Majesty the Empress. Greetings, Sixth Princess Consort!”

“Rise, Lady Wen. Please have a seat!” the empress said faintly.

Lin Haihai stared quietly at the young woman, her heart clenching painfully.

“What do you think about His Majesty, Lady Wen?” Lin Haihai asked slowly. The empress had to hide her surprise. What was she up to?

Lady Wen was caught off guard as well, but she managed to maintain a polite and calm look on her face. “His Majesty is a magnanimous and kind ruler. He’s devoted to the nation, going light on taxation and caring about his people like they were his children. He’s an emperor lauded by many!”

Lin Haihai pushed aside the pain in her heart and affected a teasing tone, “What do you think of His...