Phoenix Dance: The Eldest Daughter's Physician Consort Shocks the World

Xiao Yichen's triumphant return filled the entire mansion with joy. The Emperor was overjoyed, not only bestowing upon him numerous gold, silver, and silk treasures, but also praising him highly in court, calling him a pillar of the court and a true pillar of the nation.

That day, as soon as Xiao Yichen returned home from court, Su Yao greeted him with a smile and said, "Yichen, your position in the Emperor's heart is becoming more and more important, which is a good thing, but I always feel a little uneasy."

Xiao Yichen gently embraced Su Yao and whispered, "Yao'er, I understand your worries. The tallest tree in the forest is bound to be felled by the wind. But I will be more cautious and will not let us get into danger."

Just then, the steward rushed in to report: "Master, Madam, someone from the palace has come. They say that Her Majesty the Empress invites Madam Su Yao to the palace for a chat."

Xiao Yichen and Su Yao exchanged a glance, a hint of doubt flashing in their eyes. Su Yao said softly, "Why did Her Majesty the Empress suddenly summon me? I have never had any dealings with her before."

Xiao Yichen comforted her, "Perhaps Her Majesty the Empress just wants to chat with you about everyday matters. You don't need to worry too much. I'll accompany you to the palace."

After entering the palace, Su Yao was taken to the Empress's palace. The Empress sat on the phoenix throne and looked at Su Yao with a kind expression: "Miss Su Yao, there is no need to be reserved. I summoned you to the palace today because I heard that you have excellent medical skills and have made many contributions to General Xiao. I am very curious."

After bowing respectfully, Su Yao replied, "Your Majesty is too kind. I am only slightly knowledgeable in medicine, and it is my honor to be able to help."

The Empress smiled and nodded: "Miss Su Yao is humble and polite, no wonder General Xiao is so fond of you. However, life in the palace is not as carefree as outside, so you must pay more attention to your words and deeds, and not cause trouble for General Xiao."

Su Yao was startled and quickly replied, "Your Majesty, I will follow your teachings."

After leaving the palace, Su Yao told Xiao Yichen what the Empress had said. Xiao Yichen's expression turned serious: "It seems that Her Majesty the Empress is giving us a warning. Perhaps someone said something in the palace."

Su Yao said worriedly, "What should we do? I'm really afraid that I'll affect your career."

Xiao Yichen held Su Yao's hand: "Yao'er, don't overthink it. We've done nothing wrong, so we're not afraid of them. As long as we're careful and don't give them any leverage, they can't do anything to us."

However, things were not so simple. Soon after, a reform proposal put forward by Xiao Yichen in court touched upon the interests of some conservative ministers. These ministers began to impeach Xiao Yichen before the emperor, accusing him of being arrogant and conceited, attempting to change ancestral laws, and even implicating Su Yao, saying that she had bewitched Xiao Yichen and interfered in state affairs.

Upon hearing these impeachments, the Emperor also had some doubts, so he summoned Xiao Yichen to the palace for questioning: "Minister Xiao, I value your reform proposals, but the court officials have differing opinions on them. Do you have anything to say?"

Xiao Yichen knelt on the ground and said sincerely, "Your Majesty, I proposed the reforms for the long-term stability of our dynasty and for the people to live a better life. I have no intention of taking credit for anything. As for Su Yao, she is just a woman who lives a secluded life and has never interfered in politics. I hope Your Majesty will see the truth."

The Emperor frowned slightly: "I understand. You may leave now. I will consider this matter further."

Back home, Xiao Yichen was in a heavy mood. Seeing this, Su Yao comforted him, "Yichen, don't worry too much. The Emperor is a wise ruler; he will make the right judgment."

Xiao Yichen said with a wry smile, "Yao'er, I'm not worried about myself, but I'm afraid they will do something to you. I really regret that I shouldn't have let you get involved in these troubles in the first place."

Su Yao leaned gently against Xiao Yichen's chest: "Yichen, this is our choice together, and I have no regrets. No matter what happens, I will face it with you."

In the days that followed, Xiao Yichen continued to gather evidence and win over supporters for his reform proposals, while also strengthening his protection of Su Yao, fearing that she might be harmed in the slightest.

Su Yao was not idle either. She used her prestige and connections among the people to collect their opinions and expectations on reform, compiled them into a book, and handed it over to Xiao Yichen, providing him with a lot of assistance.

Finally, at a court assembly, Xiao Yichen, with thorough preparation and compelling evidence, successfully persuaded the emperor and most of the ministers, and the reforms were able to proceed smoothly.

With the implementation of reforms, the imperial court took on a new look, and the lives of the people gradually improved. Xiao Yichen and Su Yao also strengthened their bond during this turbulent time, knowing that as long as they worked together, nothing could stop them from moving forward.