Empress Yuan restyled her hair and changed into a simple, elegant robe, casting aside the opulent garments that marked her status as Empress.
She had already been in the palace for several years by the time she ascended to the position of mistress of the inner court. Had it not been for the late Empress’s misfortune, she would never have had the chance to be elevated by Emperor Mingchong. Back then, the Crown Prince still held the Emperor's favor, enjoyed the love of the people, and possessed the approval of the court ministers.
She still remembered that day when Emperor Mingchong summoned her. She was only a Noble Consort then, having plotted extensively with her brother, truly harboring the desire to become Empress. Yet, she had lacked any real confidence. After all, the position of Empress was a heavy mantle, and while the Yuan family was not weak, they were nowhere near as powerful then as they were now.
Chapter 133