"Even if Your Imperial Majesty sees Your humble child growing old with white hair, that is still my wish," she said earnestly. "I have often traveled outside these past few years, and even bathed in the light of the sun and moon, there are still shadows. You have granted me much authority over the years, allowing me to act with a free hand. Protected by your grace, I could face the future without worry. But if the person sitting upon that throne were to change, I fear they would not let me have my way. Perhaps some among them care for their brothers, but the position I hold already poses too great a threat to them.
"I thought to myself: rather than live in dread that someone might one day plunge a dagger into my back, I would rather make that dagger my own. From being the blade, I will become the one who wields it. Only then can I manage everything with ease."
"Mm-hmm," Liu Zhouheng nodded thoughtfully, then handed her a confidential letter. "Mind your step next time."
Chapter 249