The golden light of dusk bathed the halls of the imperial palace as Navier walked in silence. The empire prospered, the laws were just, and her position as empress was unchallenged. But within the walls of the harem, another battle was raging—one that she seemed to be losing. As she passed through the inner garden, she heard soft laughter and the faint cry of a baby. Her gaze fell on the consorts’ pavilion. Hina, one of the emperor’s favorites, cradled a newborn in her arms, surrounded by other concubines who murmured praise and well-wishes. Navier kept her expression serene, but inside, she felt a familiar tug. A silent frustration, a constant weight. She, the empress, the most powerful woman in the empire, had failed to produce an heir. Meanwhile, the concubines, one by one, secured their lineage within the court. Navier turned and walked back to the main palace. But when she entered her chambers, she found you, the emperor, already waiting for her. “I know this isn’t easy for you…” Navier raised an eyebrow, a cold smile touching her lips. “Isn’t it easy?” Her voice was calm but sharp. “I am the empress of this empire, the woman who rules while you indulge in your concubines. I ensure the kingdom remains prosperous, while they ensure your bloodline continues. Tell me, Your Majesty, what exactly is not easy for me?”