Thanks to Xiao Yi's iron-fisted approach and Su Yao's wise assistance, the imperial court gradually stabilized, the new policies were implemented smoothly, the people lived in peace and prosperity, and signs of peace and prosperity began to emerge throughout the land. In the inner palace, in addition to managing the affairs of the palace, Su Yao did not forget her original aspirations and often used her medical skills to help people and save lives, earning a reputation for virtue outside the palace.

That day, Su Yao was strolling in the Imperial Garden when a young eunuch rushed over and knelt down to report, "Your Highness, the Fifth Prince requests an audience outside the garden, seemingly to discuss important matters." Su Yao was overjoyed. Since the assassination attempt, she and Xiao Yi had been busy with their own affairs and hadn't had a proper get-together for several days. "Quickly, invite His Highness in," Su Yao said, straightening her clothes, her eyes filled with anticipation.

Xiao Yi strode over, and upon seeing Su Yao, the worry in his eyes instantly transformed into a gentle smile: "My beloved consort, it has been so long, I have missed you dearly." Su Yao curtsied slightly: "Your Majesty is busy with state affairs, yet you still have time to visit me; I am overjoyed." Xiao Yi took Su Yao's hand and sat her down on a stone bench nearby: "My beloved consort, I have come here for two reasons. First, to see you, and second, to discuss a matter of great importance with you. Now that the court is stable, I wish to establish friendly relations with neighboring countries, promote trade, and foster cultural exchange. However, this matter requires a wise and capable person to handle it, and after much consideration, I believe my beloved consort is the most suitable. What do you think?"

Su Yao pondered for a moment and replied, "Your Majesty's move is beneficial to the country's development, and I will certainly give it my full support. However, having lived in the inner palace for so long, my understanding of diplomatic affairs is limited, and I will need Your Majesty's guidance." Xiao Yi smiled and said, "My beloved consort is exceptionally intelligent and will surely be able to handle the task. I will arrange for several ministers who are familiar with the national conditions of various countries to assist you, so you can proceed with confidence."

After receiving her orders, Su Yao devoted herself wholeheartedly to preparing diplomatic affairs. She summoned her ministers to discuss the details of interactions with various countries, studied their customs, etiquette, and culture, and carefully selected suitable gifts and envoys. During the preparation process, Su Yao encountered many difficulties, such as language barriers and misunderstandings caused by cultural differences, but she overcame them one by one with her perseverance and extraordinary wisdom.

Months later, envoys from various countries arrived one after another. As the main person in charge of receiving the envoys, Su Yao won their praise and respect with her elegant demeanor, appropriate speech, and profound knowledge. At a grand banquet, Su Yao chatted amiably with the envoys, skillfully defusing a difficult question posed by one, making the atmosphere of the banquet even more harmonious. Xiao Yi, watching Su Yao's outstanding performance, felt filled with pride and satisfaction.

After the banquet, Xiao Yi took Su Yao's hand and led her back to his palace. "My beloved consort," he said, "you have truly broadened my horizons today. How fortunate I am to have such a virtuous and capable wife as you." Su Yao leaned against Xiao Yi's chest and smiled, saying, "Your Majesty flatters me. I have only done my duty. It is my honor to share Your Majesty's burdens and serve the country."

However, just when everything seemed to be going smoothly, Su Yao suddenly fell ill. After examining her, the imperial physicians all looked troubled, saying that Su Yao's illness was caused by overwork and that she had been injured multiple times in her early struggles with the Crown Prince, leaving her with chronic ailments. This time, her condition was quite difficult to treat. Xiao Yi was extremely anxious and summoned renowned doctors from all over the country, offering a generous reward in hopes of curing Su Yao's illness.

Su Yao lay ill in bed, watching Xiao Yi's deep concern for her, her heart filled with gratitude: "Your Majesty, life and death are predestined, I am not afraid. It's just that I can no longer stay by Your Majesty's side and share Your Majesty's worries, I feel guilty." Xiao Yi held Su Yao's hand tightly: "My beloved consort, don't talk nonsense, you will definitely get better. I still want to see the prosperity of this country with you and spend the rest of my life together."

Perhaps it was a blessing from heaven, but under the meticulous treatment of a reclusive divine physician, Su Yao's condition gradually improved. After recovering, Su Yao deeply understood the fragility and preciousness of life, and she and Xiao Yi cherished their time together even more. Through their joint efforts, the nation prospered, its people enjoyed a comfortable life, and its culture flourished, making it a powerful nation admired by neighboring countries.

As time passed, Su Yao and Xiao Yi walked hand in hand through countless seasons. Their love story became a legend in the palace, passed down through generations. The prosperous era they created became a shining pearl in the long river of history, illuminating the path for generations and witnessing that magnificent yet tender period of time.

Tap the screen to use advanced tools Tip: You can use left and right keyboard keys to browse between chapters.

You'll Also Like