She subconsciously wanted to pour her heart out to her mother, but when she reached the doors of Chening Hall, she turned and walked away.
'From this moment on, I must learn not to rely on anyone. Loneliness is the norm for a ruler, and I am determined to temper my own heart.'
So she changed into plain clothes and left the Imperial Palace, wandering aimlessly through the streets.
The streets were bustling and lively, filled with the clamor of voices. These were the people she was meant to protect.
A little girl with her hair in two topknots ran into view, and a hint of envy touched her gaze.
Once, she too had such carefree days, when she could run into her mother's arms and be as spoiled as she liked.
Her eyes followed the child closely. The little girl was laughing and running about when she accidentally bumped into someone who had just stepped out of a carriage.
