“Ah—”

Uncontrollable exclamations came from all directions.

Yelu Qi, all court ministers above third rank, leaders of the Six Kingdoms and Eight Tribes, countless retainers and guards—in an instant, all wore expressions that could only be described as “dumbstruck.”

What were those in the carriage… doing?

Daytime debauchery?

That was one thing. Daytime debauchery, the Queen?

That was another thing.

Daytime debauchery, the Queen, the State Preceptor?

That was yet another thing.

Daytime debauchery, the Queen, the cold, stern, inhuman, supremely fastidious, untainted Right! State! Preceptor!

Their eyes were blinded!

However, in just a flash of lightning, Gong Yin’s sleeves swept out, the curtain fell, cutting off all sight.

But it was already enough.

What should be seen and what shouldn’t be seen—all had been witnessed.

Yelu Qi’s expression was strange, his usual ambiguous smile still lingering at the corner of his lips, only now it seemed to carry a few more degrees of sinister chill.

Countless people looked tense, and more began immediately giving guards meaningful looks and gestures, indicating they should quickly report to their family members.

The Right State Preceptor’s every move had always been related to Dahuang’s national fortune. His relationship with the Queen of Dahuang would also determine the next fifty years of peace in Dahuang. Seeing this scene now, countless people began to doubt, speculate, and calculate—if the State Preceptor and Queen were so intimate, did it mean this Queen might coexist peacefully with the State Preceptor? Did it mean the State Preceptor would abandon his original grand ambitions? Or was this itself a performance, conveying some unspeakable message? After all, given the Queen’s status and the Right State Preceptor’s character, doing such things was truly unreasonable, so unreasonable…

In Dahuang, the Queen could only have intimate contact with the State Preceptor, and this was contingent on the State Preceptor’s acknowledgment. Once the State Preceptor decided not to accept the Queen, the Queen could not cross that line by even a step. If the Queen deliberately seduced the State Preceptor and he accused her of not maintaining proper conduct, the Queen would still have violated the law.

However, looking at the Right State Preceptor’s attitude, he seemed to have no intention of making accusations…

Neutral parties breathed a sigh of relief, opponents secretly rejoiced, while Gong Yin’s allies began to worry and consider adjustments to certain conditions and arrangements…

Outside the curtain, undercurrents surged as various decisions affecting national political changes rapidly took shape. Inside the curtain, Jing Hengbo was completely unaware. How could she have imagined that just taking advantage of an opportunity for some benefits could cause the butterfly effect to fan Dahuang’s national situation?

She was still licking her lips and grinning at Gong Yin.

Ah, indeed red, so red…

In modern times, where could you see a man with red earlobes? Before you could even extend an invitation, they’d pounce like wolves.

She savored the delicious moment, unaware that her lip-licking gesture was itself seduction and invitation. Her red lips were like fire, her pink tongue darting out playfully like a soft, warm rope that sweetly tugged at one’s heart and thoughts…

Gong Yin almost immediately turned his eyes away. In the span of a breath, he stood ramrod straight. Strangely, though his earlobes still glowed faintly red, his face was snow-white, completely bloodless, appearing even more delicate. When he spoke again, though his voice was calm, his breathing seemed somewhat unsteady.

“They’ve come to welcome you. Quickly put on the ceremonial robe.”

Jing Hengbo watched his back as he quickly turned and exited the carriage, pursing her lips—just now he was clearly distracted and tempted, but now he turned cold and heartless. This man was truly difficult to handle!

Outside the carriage, the bee-swarm-like buzzing immediately stopped upon seeing Gong Yin’s composed figure stepping out.

Almost immediately, Yelu Qi bowed slightly while the others performed full ceremonial bows.

“Greetings to the Right State Preceptor!”

Gong Yin merely raised his hand slightly, indicating they should rise. He stood there like a jade mountain or snow pillar, towering and distant. The wind billowed his white robes like hunting white phoenix wings, noble and stern. Even those kneeling closest dared not touch his sleeve hem.

In just that moment, with him standing there, the absurd intimacy of the earlier scene seemed covered by deep snow. No one even dared recall or defile it in their hearts, their consciousness filled only with fear and reverence for this man who held great power.

Jing Hengbo lifted a corner of the carriage curtain and clearly saw the before-and-after changes in everyone’s expressions, clicking her tongue in envy—this was what it meant to truly command respect! If he went to moderate Baidu forums, even Baidu wouldn’t dare delete posts! When would she have such imposing presence without anger?

As the curtain fell, she suddenly saw Yelu Qi’s face. This fellow was looking at her with that ambiguous smile, his expression very strange.

Jing Hengbo gave him a downward middle finger expression and hurriedly changed clothes.

At noon, she would exit the carriage and enter the city on a prepared ten-li red carpet, accepting the people’s cheers (gawking), then proceed to Emperor Song’s Dancing Light Platform Plaza, where a ceremonial platform had been prepared and surrounded by colorful curtains. She would undergo examination by Dahuang’s court officials there, while the people could only wait outside the curtains to hear the results, demonstrating royal dignity.

This arrangement made her frown—it didn’t quite match her ideal plan.

There was still a quarter-hour until noon.

Jing Hengbo frantically changed clothes. Since this ceremonial robe involved defense secrets, Gong Yin wouldn’t let anyone help her. The robe was heavy, and she had strained herself earlier, making her flustered. The waist was somewhat too large, so she had the bright idea of using the hidden clasp for the concealed blade to fasten it. But the clasp got stuck, the blade popped out and wouldn’t go back in. She couldn’t very well appear with a blade at her waist, so she had to remove the hidden blade.

With the hidden blade removed, the waist became even looser. Only then did she understand that the soft blade also served as a belt. Looking at the heavy, wide skirt with an inadequate waist, if she tripped on the skirt, she’d probably have a wardrobe malfunction…

Thinking this, she hesitated and wanted to put on her tight pants that she’d already taken off. Earlier, because the skirt was too thick, she’d changed to stockings, but then knocking came at the carriage door. Meng Hu’s voice carried urgency: “Your Majesty, are you ready?”

Jing Hengbo hastily answered: “Ready, ready!” While hurriedly putting on the mechanized shoes, she said: “Please call Jing Jun up for me.”

While putting on shoes, she opened a box and rummaged around, pulling out some items and putting them in a prepared cloth bag. After looking around with the bag in hand, she finally decided to tie it around her waist. The robe’s hem was so wide you could stuff a child under it without anyone noticing.

Jing Jun came up to the carriage. Jing Hengbo was kneeling on a suitcase, pressing down the messy clothes, closing the lid, casually pulling the zipper, and handing it to her: “Jing Jun, help me carry this later.”

She worried this hastily worn dress might still have problems. The box contained various belts and items for emergency clothing repairs, to keep handy just in case.

She should have given this task to Cui Jie, but after Cui Jie used her for revenge last time, their relationship always felt awkward. Jing Hengbo had no choice but to occasionally trouble the sickly Jing Jun.

Jing Jun looked down at the box, tried lifting it, and said weakly: “I’m afraid I can’t carry it…”

“Then let Cui Jie help you.” Jing Hengbo waved her hand frantically.

Jing Jun took the box down and gave it to Cui Jie. The carriage tilted slightly—they were about to welcome her out. Jing Hengbo quickly sat up straight and proper.

Outside suddenly became very quiet, but Jing Hengbo still felt countless people holding their breath all around, compressing and stretching the atmosphere… She could imagine there must be a sea of people outside now…

The usually carefree Jing Hengbo suddenly felt nervous.

She couldn’t help being nervous—every girl had a princess dream. Jing Hengbo, who loved beauty, excitement, and all gorgeous things, was especially interested in such dreams. At the research institute, she’d fantasized about marrying a rich husband and enjoying countless people’s envy. When she transmigrated, she’d fantasized about having cheat abilities and receiving countless people’s adoration. But imagination couldn’t keep up with reality’s strangeness. No matter how she thought, she never imagined she’d become a queen upon landing, and at this moment, with empty streets and officials welcoming her from afar, she was the glorious center of all attention.

The quieter it became outside, the more nervous she felt. Her heart pounded as excitement and anticipation mixed with oppressive anxiety about the future. Her snow-white fingertips trembled slightly.

Beside her lay a thick ceremonial manual explaining the protocols she must follow in the upcoming welcoming ceremony. The foot-thick book was too much for her to study seriously. She only knew that soon, Meng Hu would lift the carriage curtain, help her down, support her as she stepped onto the long red carpet, and under countless gazes, take this important step…

It seemed like getting married…

She suddenly wanted to see Gong Yin.

She suddenly desperately wished it would be him holding her hand, walking with her through this crucial journey, ascending to her glorious moment.

Then she sighed.

It was impossible.

Who was Gong Yin? Dahuang’s true ruler, the most powerful man holding great authority. Today wasn’t even the Queen’s coronation ceremony. If he put on airs, even not coming wouldn’t draw a single word of criticism.

Moreover, she’d inquired and learned that when the previous Queen was crowned, he supposedly didn’t even attend. At this moment, for her incompetent Queen’s city entry ceremony, if he wanted to lower himself to do what servants should do, his subordinates probably wouldn’t agree. There was absolutely no reason to boost this puppet Queen’s face by troubling the State Preceptor.

The curtain suddenly moved slightly, and a hand reached in.

Snow-white, slender, with shell-like nails, but bloodless.

Outside the curtain seemed to be the sound of indrawn breath.

But Jing Hengbo had already stopped breathing.

She recognized this hand—this wasn’t Meng Hu’s broad, slightly calloused hand!

She suddenly looked up, momentarily stunned.

Could it be possible…

That hand seemed somewhat impatient, the back of the hand curved up, fingers pointing down, tapping.

An attitude of “foolish human why are you dawdling and not coming out” arrogance.

Jing Hengbo bit her lip and smiled, suddenly having crystalline light flashing in her eyes. Then she extended her hand and gently placed it in his palm.

His palm also seemed to pause slightly, then gently enveloped her hand in his palm.

Jing Hengbo suddenly wasn’t nervous anymore.

She only felt warmth, happiness, satisfaction, so excited she wanted to look up and sing three hundred love songs!

Of course she couldn’t sing. She just blinked and traced patterns in his palm with her fingertip.

He seemed somewhat impatient, applying slight pressure to his hand, and in his typically unromantic way, pulled her out several steps.

Jing Hengbo wasn’t angry either. Smiling and lowering her head slightly, she stepped out of the carriage, her eyes facing his snow-white robe hem. She really wanted to just lie down, shamelessly hug his thigh and roll around three times, saying “Great God, Great God, your tsundere attitude is so adorable.”

In such a good mood, she smiled sweetly and raised her head.

The entire scene immediately fell silent.

This silence was no longer the previous oppressive quiet, but shocked silence, stunning silence, the vacuum silence caused by shaken gazes and hearts.

Everyone looked at the woman before the carriage.

She wore all black—pure black. Her waist, collar, and cuffs were inlaid with hollow ancient silver totems. The pure silver carried the weathered breath of time—all ancient, solemn colors that would instantly age ordinary people by several years, but only made her face appear more delicate. Her skin was whiter than snow, her red lips like peach blossoms, her eyes touched with peach red that couldn’t suppress their sparkling radiance, evoking thoughts of the most beautiful spring rain and wind, the most brilliant rosy clouds painting the sky.

Her naturally wonderful figure couldn’t be concealed even by such stiff, traditional black robes. The wide robe hem flowing upward showed a streamlined waist cinched delicately, then upward again revealed tight, bursting curves. Even the most skillfully crafted, most beautifully lined porcelain vases would pale before her curves. Feminine beauty was fully displayed at this moment, so much so that this instant’s stunning appearance awakened Dahuang women’s dormant body consciousness, making noble ladies realize for the first time that even restrictive, stiff decorations couldn’t hide women’s true beauty. They discovered that besides facial beauty, exquisite body shape was equally captivating, thus sparking a wave of body cultivation and liberation—but that’s a story for later.

Her wide black robe sleeves were properly gathered, but at the sleeve edges, somewhat improperly, bright red nails peeked out—a color more vivid and lustrous than dahlias. Among the black and silver throughout her outfit, this color was very striking, instantly neutralizing the overly solemn atmosphere and revealing the romantic charm and subtle flirtation unique to young women. Many men’s gazes fixed on that touch of bright red and couldn’t look away for a long time.

More people stared at her smile, feeling this woman was beautiful in every way, everywhere displaying casual seduction and calculated flirtation, but most beautiful was her smile at this moment—natural, unrestrained, bright, heartfelt, radiant, making people know her joy at a glance and somehow be infected by her joy, their own hearts blooming.

On both sides of the road, heads crowded together, but at this moment all was silent.

Yelu Qi stared intently at Jing Hengbo, his eyes shining strangely.

Several elderly men stroked their beards and sighed: In this old man’s lifetime, I’ve seen five Queens, and none had such bearing! Speaking of appearance, the new Queen actually resembles the previous Queen quite closely, but in grace and beauty, in attractive demeanor, the former Queen was far inferior!

The imperial historian responsible for recording the Queen’s every word and deed wrote furiously: “In the year Gengshen on the day Jiazi, dark, the Empress entered the capital, the empty city welcomed her procession. When the Empress appeared, her beauty was absolutely exquisite, like brilliant light outshining the sun, shocking the entire city.”

In the crowd, a group was making noise and horsing around.

“Yi Qi, is this your wife?”

“That’s right, that’s right. She even gave me a bottle of nail polish as a love token.”

“Bah, with your sorry state, you could marry such a wife? This wife is only worthy of me.”

“Wrong, me.”

“Me.”

“Obviously me.”

“Nonsense, it can only be me.”

“If not me, then who?”

“Stop arguing. Let me tell you, I’ve recently been observing the stars at night, opening mountains and exploring caves, calculating star charts, reading bones and faces, and finally made a new discovery…”

“Ah, ah, San San, what did you discover?”

“After three days and nights of bitter contemplation and calculation…”

“What, what?”

“I discovered…”

“Speak quickly, speak quickly.”

“You all have bachelor fates, the Queen is mine.”

“Brothers, faced with such vicious provocation and despicable curses, what do you plan to do?”

“Si Si, this isn’t right. It’s just one woman—why fight with Third Brother like this? We’re loving martial brothers. Fighting is wrong. I suggest you hit him.”

“Wu San, you’re wrong too. Don’t you think you should suggest I hit him instead?”

…

The world’s clamor didn’t enter the eyes of the two people at the center.

Jing Hengbo kept looking at Gong Yin, smiling sweetly, also singing “Sweet Honey” in her heart.

Gong Yin naturally still wore his white robe with dark silver thread embroidery. The robe shimmered as he moved, low-key luxurious, but strangely, the pearls at his tightly fastened collar today weren’t the usual pale gold or silver, but black pearls.

Black and bright, emitting faint green light, mysterious and captivating black pearls that, among all the snow-white purity, were strikingly beautiful and stunning.

Jing Hengbo’s smile became even sweeter as she glanced at her own black robe—did this count as couple’s clothing?

Her eyes swept across the crowd, then glanced back at Gong Yin. She naturally knew she was beautiful and wasn’t surprised that she would shock those people with her beauty, so she was more concerned about whether the one who should be most shocked was actually shocked.

It seemed like he wasn’t.

He actually still stood straight, expressionless, not even seeming to glance her way. His clearly defined profile showed tightly pressed lips, eternally noble bearing.

But Jing Hengbo was secretly laughing.

Unmoved?

Why did his palm suddenly become damp?

…

Before her stretched a red carpet, extending from the wide city gates all the way inward. On both sides stood golden-armored guards every three steps, standing straight as nails. In the far distance rose magnificent platforms, with large rows of colorful curtains like brilliant shells scattered across the vast white plaza. On both sides of the red carpet and at the end of the curtains stood countless officials in ceremonial caps and robes, and citizens with bright expressions competing to watch—a black mass like endless ocean tides.

At the end of the red ocean lay the path she would soon walk.

The red carpet was so new, so vivid, like blood.

This association was somewhat inauspicious at this moment. She shook her head to dispel it. With such a bright mood now, this wasn’t blood-light but the brilliant rosy clouds of the future.

After a slight pause, he took her hand and led her onto the carpet.

The people shocked by the Queen’s beauty now finally noticed the Right State Preceptor’s actions again, and amazement rose once more.

What was special about this Queen? Such great face!

Both Left and Right State Preceptors had personally traveled thousands of li to welcome her. The Six Kingdoms and Eight Tribes came hundreds of li to greet her. Upon entering the city, the Left State Preceptor led all officials in welcome. Now the Right State Preceptor performed menial service, personally escorting the Queen onto the red carpet!

Did this signify the State Preceptor’s recognition and protection of the Queen?

Then they drew another sharp breath.

Yelu Qi suddenly stepped forward and took Jing Hengbo’s other hand, also escorting her onto the red carpet!

The onlookers’ breathing suddenly stopped.

Both State Preceptors moved in unison, simultaneously showing favor to the Queen.

This, this, this—what rhythm was this?

Everyone knew that for court balance, the Left and Right State Preceptors had always been incompatible. Basically, what you acknowledge I won’t acknowledge, and if I originally acknowledged something but you acknowledge it, I’ll stop acknowledging it. In short, they always opposed each other. According to normal circumstances, a Queen publicly recognized by Gong Yin would thereafter face harassment from Yelu Qi, and Gong Yin’s counterattack and attitude would directly relate to his ability assessment and future.

But the current situation had Dahuang’s court officials and the Six Kingdoms and Eight Tribes completely baffled.

All the court officials frowned. Today’s welcoming ceremony was actually special in nature, expressing the entire Dahuang political body’s unwelcome and non-recognition of the Queen.

This Queen Your Majesty could probably be rated as the most tragic in history. Not to mention the two State Preceptors—almost no court officials were happy about her ascension. People from State Preceptor Yelu’s faction hoped to use the opportunity of toppling the Queen to strike at State Preceptor Gong’s prestige, while State Preceptor Gong’s people were dissatisfied with this heaven-sent Queen and hoped State Preceptor Gong would take control. The two major factions had for the first time reached unprecedented unity on the Queen’s enthronement issue, leading to this particularly grand welcoming ceremony.

However, at this moment, the two State Preceptors’ attitudes were so unreasonable that everyone’s eyes immediately showed countless tangled threads.

Jing Hengbo couldn’t think so deeply. She only felt that Yelu Qi coming over at this moment was unnecessary embellishment, disturbing her secret communication with Gong Yin, which annoyed her somewhat. But she also felt this was Yelu Qi showing her respect and goodwill. Since you don’t strike a smiling face, she still turned her head and forced a smile.

Gong Yin’s expression remained unchanged, but his brow suddenly grew cold, as if covered by a thin layer of frost. Jing Hengbo clearly felt his palm, which had seemed warm just moments ago, suddenly turn cold.

A cold-blooded animal? He turned cold so quickly.

If she hadn’t been gripping tightly, she felt he would have wanted to immediately shake her off.

What was this guy being difficult about now? Was he blaming her for not shaking off Yelu Qi’s hand? But to shake it off at this moment? Even if she didn’t care about being queen, she had to consider the consequences for him, right?

Jing Hengbo felt frustrated and took her anger out on Yelu Qi, using her high collar as cover to glare at him angrily.

But Yelu Qi smiled even more charmingly, saying quietly: “Your Majesty always looks at me like this—it makes my heart flutter strangely.”

His voice wasn’t loud, but it was enough for Gong Yin to hear.

Jing Hengbo wailed inwardly.

By now they had reached the red carpet. Gong Yin naturally released her hand, gestured with his arm, and stepped back half a pace to fall behind Jing Hengbo.

His positioning was very clever, precisely taking Yelu Qi’s spot. Yelu Qi couldn’t very well circle around him to the other side, so he could only follow behind him.

Positioning in large formal occasions was also an art. The court ministers who wanted to follow all stopped, their gazes meaningful.

But Yelu Qi just smiled and very readily stepped back. He didn’t walk onto the red carpet, instead saying with a smile: “This humble minister will respectfully await Your Majesty’s procession at the ceremonial platform.”

Everyone breathed a sigh of relief.

Another round ended in a draw, or rather, as usual, State Preceptor Yelu tactfully yielded.

This was right, this was what they were used to. Having both men welcome the Queen simultaneously—that was what made people uncomfortable.

Politics was all about balance and stability, unwelcoming of disruption and upheaval. Because any tiny change would trigger countless chain reactions and various unpredictable consequences.

Jing Hengbo used her peripheral vision to scan Gong Yin, unable to tell if he was actually angry.

At this moment, she couldn’t spare more attention to guess Gong Yin’s thoughts. The guard formation had relaxed restrictions, and citizens amazed by the Queen came surging forward with cheers, competing to catch a glimpse of the new Queen’s splendor. Countless ribbons and flowers were thrown onto the red carpet, raining down a colorful shower of petals.

Jing Hengbo, who had been a nobody in her previous life, had never enjoyed such treatment. She immediately perked up, smiled, and called out: “Hello!”

The citizens quieted for a moment, not understanding this new greeting, but Dahuang’s people were very polite. They immediately burst into enthusiastic response: “Hello!”

The sound waves shook the sky, nearly making Jing Hengbo stumble.

My goodness, Dahuang’s people were so enthusiastic!

She quickly waved, her voice louder: “Hello!”

The citizens howled and waved back: “Hello!”

…

The court ministers looked at each other—when the Queen entered the city, she should maintain a solemn expression, look straight ahead, and proceed directly to the ceremonial platform. This, this, this…

After exchanging glances, they quickly looked at the State Preceptor. The State Preceptor showed no expression!

Gong Yin watched someone being cute with complete lack of surprise.

He had known it would be like this.

She was like a flame—wherever she went, things ignited. Pour a heap of deep snow on her, and if you weren’t careful, she’d still manage to spark flames.

He didn’t want to interfere and wasn’t willing to interfere. There would be much less freedom in future days. For now, why constrain her too much?

Then his eyes narrowed.

Because the crowd-crazed Jing Hengbo, infected by the citizens’ enthusiastic atmosphere, quickly walked to the edge of the red carpet and gently pressed her fingers to her lips.

The citizens fell silent, their gazes burning with eager anticipation.

Countless infatuated men clutched their hearts: “She’s looking at me! She’s looking at me!”

Gong Yin’s gaze turned sharp.

What was this woman going to do?

Not again…

Just as he was about to stop her, Jing Hengbo’s fingers had already flicked out in an enchanting, graceful motion, pointing gently toward the crowd.

“Hello! I love you all!”

A blown kiss.

…

The court officials fell silent, shocked to their very souls.

The citizens fell silent, staring wide-eyed in disbelief at those snow-white fingers gracefully sweeping through the air.

Then, with a thunderous roar, the crowd erupted.

Shouts more fierce than ocean tides instantly nearly overturned the entire street.

“Hello, Your Majesty!”

The sound waves rolled on, covering the entire city.

Ancient people were ultimately not open enough—most only shouted “Your Majesty,” too embarrassed to say “that” word. But there were also a very few frivolous playboys who shrieked in the crowd: “Your Majesty, we love you! We love you!”

Yi Qi in the crowd clutched his heart with tears streaming down his face: “She was talking to me, only to me, she was only looking at me!”

He accepted this surging, overwhelming love, and also accepted the surging, overwhelming beating from his six martial brothers.

…

Jing Hengbo’s eyes sparkled, her cheeks flushed red, her heart beating like drums.

For the first time, she experienced the power of mass adoration—so exciting and inspiring, making one feel crowned with a halo.

No wonder so many people wanted to be stars.

The citizens also had sparkling eyes, flushed cheeks, and hearts beating like drums.

For the citizens, compared to their impression of previous queens who were gloomy and restrained, this new Queen was incredibly fresh, novel, approachable, and moving. Lively as a clear spring, bright as fresh peaches, naturally a beautiful sight that brightened Emperor Song City’s perpetually somewhat dim sky. Where she was, even the distant sticky, dark swamps seemed to gurgle with song.

Gong Yin’s eyes were somber, his face snow-white, his brow frosty.

What was that gesture just now?

What were those words just now?

Love?

Love?!

…

The crowd-crazed Jing Hengbo, stimulated by the surging cheers, was indeed about to go mad. She stood on her tiptoes, pressed both hands to her lips, preparing to give the enthusiastic Dahuang people a series of explosive flying kisses from all directions.

A hand timely pulled down her hands.

Jing Hengbo looked back dissatisfied and chided him: “What are you doing? This is etiquette!”

Gong Yin frowned slightly, wanting to scold her, wanting to make her look at the court ministers’ expressions at this moment. However, when his gaze fell on her flushed cheeks and sparkling eyes, his heart suddenly softened.

It seemed that since he’d known her, she had been playful and unserious, laughing freely, sometimes making trouble or crying or laughing or being wild. He had seen many of her expressions, but he had truly never seen her so happy and excited.

This mysteriously special woman—was this moment perhaps her true self?

He took a breath and ultimately said nothing, returning her hands to her sleeves and using the white silk in his palm to wipe her palms again and again.

“What are you doing?” Jing Hengbo laughed softly as the wiping tickled her. “I pressed them to my own mouth—why are you wiping my hands?”

Pressed to her own mouth, sent to all the people in the world!

Gong Yin gave her a cold look—laughing, still having the nerve to laugh. He’d like to go wipe everyone’s faces on the roadside, but could he?

Seeing her still calm expression, he slowly lowered his eyes, moved his fingers, and tucked a round, smooth object into her sleeve.

“What is it?” She wanted to take it out to look.

“Don’t look.” He said. “Later, if you really have no good solution, take it out.”

Jing Hengbo paused and looked up at his face. Gong Yin avoided her gaze, looking distantly at the solemn crowd of court ministers.

Jing Hengbo’s fingers caressed the object—warm and smooth, carrying his body temperature. This must be something extremely important to him, something he carried with him, and at this final moment, he still took it out to give to her.

Was it a protective charm for her?

She had been angry at his low opinion and distrust of her, countless times swearing to make him see her in a new light. But at this moment, her heart held only warmth.

“Thanks.” She beamed. “Can I consider this a love token from you?”

He completely ignored her words, deflecting: “Giving this to you is a waste. I hope you won’t need to use it.”

“How could I bear to use a love token from you?” Jing Hengbo threw him a flirtatious glance. “Trust me, sister will definitely make you see me in a new light!”

“Watch your step.” He straightened her shoulders, pointing ahead. “Up there.”

Only then did Jing Hengbo see the throne on the ceremonial platform ahead. Her heart jolted, and her earlier excitement faded as she lifted her head slightly.

The citizens also gradually calmed down, turning to look at the throne behind the colorful curtains. Only then did they remember today’s main event at the welcoming ceremony, and thinking of this, everyone’s hearts sank.

Everyone knew that demonstrating talents at the welcoming ceremony that would convince everyone was nearly impossible.

The citizens felt somewhat regretful, thinking it was rare to see such an approachable and lovely Queen, and now they were about to lose her. How cruel to make such a beauty commit suicide or be exiled.

Gong Yin stood with hands behind his back, watching Jing Hengbo’s retreating figure, saying lightly to Meng Hu: “Is everything ready?”

“Yes.” But Meng Hu’s expression was somewhat hesitant. “Are you really going to…”

“Have the Dragon Cavalry stand by, with Kang Long covering the rear.” Gong Yin seemed not to hear his words. “If any unusual movement is detected, don’t wait for my orders—act immediately.”

“Yes.”

“Also,” Gong Yin stared at the ornately decorated ceremonial platform, saying slowly: “When was the platform built?”

“It’s said to have been prepared five days ago.”

“Who supervised the construction?”

“The Grand Sage. He’s upright and honest, neutral to both sides—most trustworthy.”

“Mm.” Gong Yin was briefly silent, but his gaze didn’t move away. “Go investigate thoroughly.”

“…Yes.”

The black skirt hem moved slowly across the red carpet, shadows heavy under the blazing sun.

Jing Hengbo walked with difficulty.

Two entire rows of ceremonial officials walked beside her. Seeing her struggling under the heavy ceremonial robes, not only did they not help, but they kept their sleeves folded and continuously made stern corrections to her behavior.

“Your Majesty, straighten your back! No slouching—it lacks royal bearing!”

“Your Majesty, don’t walk too fast. Fifty steps per quarter-hour is appropriate… You’re walking too fast! Stop! Wait a moment!… Now you’re too slow—you must hurry!”

“Walk gracefully—the skirt hem must not move! Your boots must not show below the skirt!”

“You must walk in a straight line—you’re veering off! Go back! This is the imperial city’s center line. Your straight-line walking portends good weather and unified imperial power for Dahuang. Veering off is an ill omen! Go back—you must walk it again!”

Jing Hengbo stopped and turned to glare at the stern-faced ceremonial official beside her.

The official fearlessly met her gaze. Ceremonial officials managed all court and royal ceremonial affairs and were responsible for supervising royal etiquette. They had the right to correct any improper behavior by the Queen, and the Queen could not object. Over the years, there had been queens who couldn’t bear the heavy, complicated rules and tried to resist, some with expressions far worse than this one’s. But what was the result? The powerful supervisory machine and established ceremonial authority would eventually make these ignorant women submit.

This one would naturally be no exception.

Jing Hengbo felt drenched in sweat—enough to bathe in. The journey wasn’t short, the dress was too heavy. Once the initial excitement wore off, the weight on her body pressed down like mountains, each step a burden. The hot sun blazed mercilessly from above, forcing bean-sized sweat drops from her snow-white forehead.

Some elderly people in the crowd, watching this scene, already showed pitying expressions. They vaguely remembered years ago, there seemed to be a young Queen who had endured such a ceremony, excited in the center of the crowd with her face flushed red. Unfortunately, she was physically weak and collapsed from exhaustion before reaching the ceremonial platform. After being revived to continue the ceremony, how could she do well in what followed with such poor spirits? Indeed, she failed the test and was immediately exiled. That day’s glory and splendor became just a brief dream.

No one knew that the high crown and heavy robes, three-li red carpet, noon ceremony, and overwhelming pressure were themselves the most insidious part of the Queen’s trials.

Jing Hengbo wiped the sweat from her forehead and looked at the platform that seemed to grow more distant. She wasn’t as struggling as observers imagined, because the object Gong Yin had given her was continuously emitting cool air, protecting her heart meridian. Though her body was soaked through the heavy clothes and very uncomfortable, she showed no signs of heatstroke.

But being soaked in heavy clothes was still very embarrassing. Jing Hengbo knew the court ministers’ intentions—a queen who was out of breath and had ruined makeup would have difficulty displaying convincing grace and nobility.

Like now, when even a minor official dared order her to go back and start over.

She snorted coldly and, without even looking at the ceremonial official, suddenly stopped.

Everyone’s gazes turned toward her. The official’s face darkened as he sternly urged: “Your Majesty! Don’t be rude—quickly start over…”

“I am the Queen, ruler of Dahuang.” Jing Hengbo called out loudly. “Why should I personally walk such a long distance? Bring a sedan chair!”

“Your Majesty!” An elderly man with a high crown immediately said: “Every rule established in the late founding emperor’s ‘Ceremonial Code’ is a standard that future generations must follow for hundreds of years. All of us who have served in court for generations once swore poisonous oaths under the Nine Crane Gate to defend the national ceremonial code unto death. Those who violate it will be punished by heaven and struck by lightning!”

Jing Hengbo blinked and asked a spear-carrying guard beside her: “Hey, what’s this old man saying?”

“Your Majesty, the Ceremonial Minister means this section of road must be walked according to the rules. Those who violate the rules will be struck by lightning.”

“Just trying to scare people.” Jing Hengbo pursed her lips. “If you won’t give me a sedan chair, do I have no other options?”

“I am the Emperor, chosen by heaven!” she declared solemnly. “If you won’t provide a sedan chair, I shall summon colorful phoenixes from the sky to carry me to the platform!”

“Whoosh!” The citizens erupted.

“Ah?” The court officials looked up in bewilderment.

Yelu Qi suddenly coughed, while Gong Yin’s lips curved in a faint smile.

“Ah?” The ceremonial officials who were about to scold her had their solemn faces all wrinkled up. Then some began to sneer coldly: “Your Majesty! Speaking nonsense in broad daylight before everyone—you must reflect on yourself…”

“Look!” Jing Hengbo raised her arm high, pointing to the sky. “Graceful colorful phoenixes, carry me to heaven!”

A faint “squawk” sounded, apparently a bird call. Everyone looked up in unison.

There was nothing in the sky—not even a feather to be seen.

Everyone stared—the Queen was lying in public? Playing tricks and deceiving her subjects?

This was worse than failing the test!

People disappointedly lowered their gazes, preparing to glare angrily at the Queen on the red carpet, when suddenly someone exclaimed: “Your Majesty has disappeared!”

Then more people cried out:

“Gone! Your Majesty really disappeared!”

“Your Majesty really rode colorful phoenixes to heaven!”

“Was that sound just now a phoenix call? So special!”

Phoenix Ergouzi patted his belly and chuckled quietly twice. Feifei carried him, nimbly weaving through the gaps between people’s legs.

…

The court officials stared in shock at the empty red carpet, rubbing their eyes again and again.

How was this possible?

In full view of everyone, a living person really disappeared just like that?

Riding phoenixes away? Absurd! Where were the phoenixes?

But where was the person?

The person was on the platform.

A clear, crisp call came from the distant platform:

“Hey! I’m here!”

Everyone turned around with a whoosh, their eyeballs bulging out and rolling away.

On the platform, Jing Hengbo stood calmly and composed, gracefully extending her hand in a “releasing” gesture, saying affectionately to the completely nonexistent “phoenix” in the air: “Thank you for bringing me this journey. Go back and tell the Queen Mother that I’m doing well. Come visit often when you have the chance. If anyone bullies me, I’ll tell you about it.”

She flicked her fingers, releasing the “phoenix.” The important supporting character of this two-person act, Phoenix Ergouzi, timely let out a “squawk—” from a corner below the platform.

Everyone stared blankly at the sky—supposedly where phoenixes were.

But they could only hear the sound without seeing any birds.

That sound seemed rather unpleasant though…

After staring for a while, the wisps of clouds in the air did look rather like phoenixes…

“Stop looking.” Jing Hengbo said pitifully from the platform. “You mortals cannot see divine birds. Being allowed to hear one of its calls is already your good fortune.”

Everyone shuddered.

After a moment of silence, the citizens again erupted in tsunami-like cheers—this Queen was extraordinary! This Queen possessed divine powers! Heaven’s protection! Divine birds as escorts!

Heaven blessed Dahuang, heaven sent a divine woman!

People imagined the beautiful Queen Your Majesty, crowned in glory, riding five-colored flying phoenixes, gracefully descending to Dahuang’s swamps. Where her fingertips pointed, black earth turned over, tender shoots emerged, branches spread and leaves scattered, flowers bloomed luxuriantly. From then on, Dahuang would be fertile for thousands of li, all becoming paradise.

The cheers grew even more intense amid such beautiful imaginings, wave after wave like tides threatening to overturn this peaceful Emperor Song City. The colored curtains fluttered in the sound waves and pushing arms, countless heads crowding back and forth before the curtains like ocean waves about to surge over rainbows.

Compared to the citizens’ excitement, the court officials and leaders of the Six Kingdoms and Eight Tribes observing the ceremony showed cautious attitudes. The ceremonial officials looked grim, while most others maintained solemn expressions. Some remained silent, calculating the possibility of using lightness skills to suddenly appear on the platform in such a short time. But no matter how they calculated, the result was impossible.

In just the blink of an eye, crossing nearly dozens of zhang and suddenly appearing on the platform exceeded the realm of martial arts. Only the legendary “Earth Shrinking Technique” of Dahuang’s mystical martial arts realm “Heavenly境界” was possible. But if it really was the Earth Shrinking Technique, that was almost equivalent to communicating with gods.

No matter how unbelievable, the Queen’s feat was performed in full view without any fakery—the word “divine” was ironclad. Many people sucked in air like they had toothaches—Dahuang’s changeable climate, complex geography, and countless strange beasts and mysterious arts made it the most popular country for myths and legends. Citizens were happy to explain anything inexplicable as divine will, worshipping it with deep belief. Now that the Queen had performed this feat before everyone, showing thousands of citizens a wonderfully imaginative divine spectacle, it was foreseeable that after tomorrow, Emperor Song’s support for the new Queen would reach new heights.

Jing Hengbo surveyed the expressions of the ministers below, feeling quite pleased.

She glanced at Yelu Qi. This fellow who knew the truth seemed to have no intention of exposing her, smiling mysteriously to the side.

She also smiled. Whatever—let him do as he pleased. Her main event hadn’t even begun yet.

She raised her head, turned around, and sat down on the central seat covered with red satin brocade and inlaid with gold and jade.