Time Travel: He is My Dad!

Court Affairs

He Qingqing had just made up her mind to enter the court, shrouded in power struggles and disputes, when her father put her trip to Beijing on the agenda. Her father's eyes had never been so serious. He knew that He Qingqing would have to face not only the unfathomable forces in the court, but also the dangers that could occur at any time.

"This time when you come to Beijing, besides handling family affairs, you must also quickly adapt to the situation at court." My father spoke in a low, alert voice. "There, it's not just the politics between officials; it's also the undercurrents of power. You need to learn how to navigate these dynamics and how to navigate between these different factions."

"I understand," He Qingqing replied, but a chill ran down her spine. She realized this wasn't just a simple court struggle, but a bottomless vortex of power. Every tiny move could put her in danger.

She packed her bags and bid farewell to her father and family. According to her father's instructions, she would be sent to the capital to begin formal education and training, gradually becoming involved in the He family's affairs at court. Her father did not want her to become embroiled in power struggles too soon, but he also knew that no one in this world would wait for you to prepare. Once she entered the court, she would become part of the struggle.

The journey to the capital is long and arduous. He Qingqing, fascinated by the picturesque scenery, remains restless. She knows this journey to the capital marks an unavoidable pivotal moment in her life. Every step could determine her future. She faces not only murderous court officials but also those close to her who feign gentleness and refinement, and perhaps even her mother's legacy of mortal enemies.

On her first day in the capital, He Qingqing sensed an atmosphere completely different from her family's. Though prosperous, the capital concealed countless conspiracies and struggles. The aura of the imperial palace and the turmoil of power in the court oppressed her every breath. No longer the humble woman content with her family's protection, she now stood at the forefront of this political game.

That evening, He Qingqing entered the palace with her father's entourage for a formal audience with the emperor. The atmosphere within the palace was solemn and austere. Outside the walls, the market bustled and bustled, while within, a chilling atmosphere permeated the air. Even the ministers, who held such sway over the court, held an indescribable coldness in their eyes.

"Miss He, this is your first time in the palace. If there is any inconvenience, please feel free to ask." The accompanying old butler carefully led the way for her.

"Thank you." He Qingqing nodded with a hint of a smile on her face, but her heart was as calm as a pool of stagnant water. She knew that entering the palace meant that from this moment on, she would be watched by all eyes and become a target for others to exploit or destroy.

They came to a spacious hall. The palace maid bowed her head and knelt, announcing, "Your Majesty invites you." He Qingqing's heart tightened, and she followed the housekeeper into the hall.

The emperor sat on the golden dragon throne, draped in regal robes, his bearing imposing, his gaze deep and majestic. He Qingqing bowed slightly and saluted respectfully, yet deep down she felt an indescribable sense of oppression. She knew that this man, sitting on the throne, held the power that would determine her future and the future of everyone.

"Miss He, I've long heard of your name." The emperor's voice was low and steady, with a hint of authority that could not be ignored. "I have heard of the He family's strength in the court, and seeing it today, it is indeed well-deserved."

"Your Majesty, thank you for the compliment." He Qingqing responded cautiously, but her heart was filled with turmoil. She had learned from her father's words that the emperor was more than just a simple ruler. His gaze had penetrated many people, and even the He family could not escape his surveillance and control of power.

"The He family is powerful within the court, but they must also understand that power is never solely based on an army or wealth." The emperor spoke calmly, but each word was sharp. "The core of power is controlling the hearts and minds of the people. Those who truly influence government are often not those who are prominent for a short time, but those who can manipulate the situation behind the scenes."

The emperor's words were like a sharp sword, piercing He Qingqing's heart. She could tell that this wasn't a simple instruction, but a hint that, despite the He family's powerful external support, they couldn't guarantee their future without truly controlling the core of the palace and the imperial court.

"Thank you, Your Majesty, for your guidance," He Qingqing whispered in response. A clearer understanding gradually dawned on her: the Emperor's attitude toward the He family wasn't one of complete trust, nor was it outright hostility. He wanted the He family to advance, but he also laid numerous traps behind the scenes. This was a battle of trust, power, and strategy; any laxity on either side could lead to irreversible consequences.

"The He family's achievements today are closely related to your wisdom and courage." The emperor's tone softened. "But remember, in the palace, nothing is more important than loyalty and bottom line." He paused slightly, then looked at her. "The glory of the family depends not only on the power in your hands, but also on the loyalty in your heart."

He Qingqing's heart skipped a beat; it seemed her father hadn't told her this. Loyalty? Bottom line? These didn't seem that important to her. Her goal was power, to ensure her family's foothold in this vast empire. Loyalty and bottom line seemed to only serve to bind her.

However, at this moment, she suddenly understood that the loyalty and bottom line the emperor talked about were one of the most dangerous traps in this game of power. He would not allow any powerful family to stand by his side safely unless they completely submitted to his will.

"Your Majesty, I will remember your teachings." He Qingqing lowered her head to hide her inner turmoil.

At this moment, she decided to no longer rely solely on her family's protection. She must learn how to control her own destiny in this power struggle, how to navigate the court, and how to use her wisdom and strategy to reclaim her power. Although this world is full of traps and conspiracies, she knows that only by going further can she see ultimate victory.

With the emperor's audience over, He Qingqing left the palace and entered another world full of opportunities and dangers. She felt an unprecedented responsibility weighing on her shoulders, and a deep desire quietly rose in her heart - that is, to control the world and become the winner of this game.

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Chapter 6: Palace Intrigue