Time flew by quickly, and in the blink of an eye, five years had passed.
Quan Qing and Li Xuyiao had given up on returning to the modern world.
Li Xuyiao was a good emperor; he introduced modern ideas and governed the Xi Chi Kingdom in an orderly manner, winning the love of the people.
However, Quan Qing was not a good consort. To this day, her relationship with Li Xuyiao remained purely platonic.
In the pavilion, His Majesty was enjoying tea and chatting with several consorts, and Consort Qing naturally sat closest to him. The others present were Consort Shu, Mei Zhao Yi, consort Su, and Shen Ronghua.
Shen Ronghua, who had recently been selected to enter the palace, was charming and lively, currently entertaining everyone with amusing stories from the common folk.
Li Xuyiao listened intently, his eyes fixed on her without blinking. Suddenly, Quan Qing felt a pang of discomfort in her heart.
So many years had passed; the police officer from back then had surely transformed into an emperor by now.
No matter whether one desires it or not, when a person occupies such a position and receives worship from thousands, over time they will grow accustomed to it. They will unknowingly become accustomed to the absolute power and majesty that comes with that position, gradually becoming intolerant of others' transgressions.
Although he still indulged her and appeared nothing like an emperor when they were together, Quan Qing felt as though she was gradually losing him.
Would it be long before he forgot where he came from, while she faded into obscurity among the many consorts?
All the loneliness and solitude would ultimately be hers to bear alone.
In recent years, the new consorts in the palace have all been over twenty years old. Li Xuyiao has abandoned his vow of celibacy and occasionally spends the night with certain consorts.
Fairness is key; the royal family also needs heirs to inherit the throne.
The palace maid had never encountered such an important master before. After a moment of hesitation, she could only go out and report that the lady had gone to bed.
However, Li Xuyiao understood her intentions. He instructed everyone to wait outside while he entered alone.
“ Qing'er,” he called softly as he sat by the bed. She remained silent. He continued, “Are you angry?”
Still, she did not respond.
He rambled on, “Do you remember telling me that since we are in this position, we must do our jobs well? I am now the Chancellor of this country; governing it is my responsibility, and expanding our lineage is also my duty.”
“Excuse!” Quan Qing huffed, shifting further away.
Li Xuyiao chuckled and said, “Didn’t you say we are family? Why do you sound more like you’re jealous now?”
As she poked his chest with her finger, she retorted, “I’m heartbroken! A dignified officer like you has become infatuated with women and forgotten your identity. Being an emperor is great, isn’t it? Everything is handed to you on a silver platter—three thousand beauties at your beck and call, unparalleled power. If given a chance to return to that life, would you refuse?”
“So this is how you see me,” Li Xuyiao said, his smile fading as he looked at Quan Qing with a serious expression. “I always thought we shared a deep connection, but it seems you think so little of me.”
Quan Qing could only guess his feelings. Seeing his disappointment made her feel regretful. She lowered her head and said softly, “I’m just afraid of losing you. Uncle, do you still remember who you are?”
"Remember, I am a police officer from the twenty-first century, Li Xuyiao." He hugged Quan Qing tightly. "Don't worry, I will never forget who I am. I will always be your uncle, standing behind you to protect you."
"Uncle," Quan Qing suddenly looked up at him, "I’m twenty-four this year."
"Yes, I know," Li Xuyiao nodded.
"So," she gathered her courage, "let's go to bed."
Li Xuyiao replied calmly, "A prince should choose a virtuous partner, not just a long-term companion."
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