“In recent years, the island nations overseas have been building ships frequently and conducting increasingly naval exercises. Although they still outwardly pay tribute and submit to foreign powers, their wolfish ambitions have gradually become apparent.”

"Although the tribes in the northern deserts are safe for the time being, the new leader is ambitious and we must be wary of him."

"While we need to be vigilant about internal troubles, external threats are even more imminent."

Zi Xi then changed the subject, mentioning military and political affairs.

"The Ling family has guarded the border for three generations. Their prestige in the army is unmatched, and they are like a pillar of strength in enemy countries, inspiring fear in everyone they meet."

"If the royal family were to develop a rift with the Ling family due to suspicion at this time, or even revoke their military power, it would be tantamount to destroying their own Great Wall, causing pain to their loved ones and joy to their enemies!"

"Therefore, my marriage to Ling Siran is not an act of condoning powerful ministers, but rather a demonstration to the Ling family and the soldiers of the world that the royal family still trusts the Ling family, and that the emperor and his subjects are of one mind to jointly resist foreign aggression!"

"This is a strategy to stabilize the country and bring peace to the nation, not to invite wolves into the house."

Zi Xi spoke eloquently, and her analysis of the border situation was surprisingly insightful, far exceeding the knowledge expected of a playboy.

A fleeting look of surprise crossed the Empress's eyes. She had never imagined that her daughter, who seemed to only know how to enjoy herself, would have such a profound understanding of the affairs of the court and border defense.

"As for General Ling's loyalty, Mother must have her own judgment. If the Ling family truly had ulterior motives, they wouldn't have waited until today."

"Instead of being suspicious and guarded against, it is better to win them over with kindness and gratitude, so that they will be loyal and devoted. And marriage is the strongest bond."

Zi Xi continued her analysis, pausing briefly to give the Empress time to process it before finally discussing Ling Siran himself.

"As for being unrestrained..."

“Mother, my choice of him was not made on a whim.”

“He was indeed not like the delicate men of ordinary men, and was even criticized by the world for his physique and low fertility.”

"But it is precisely this difference that allowed me to see his inner self."

When she mentioned this name, Zi Xi's tone softened unconsciously.

"Si Ran may not be good with words or understand romance, but he has clear eyes and a simple heart."

"He would not hesitate to stand in front of me when I am in danger, instead of screaming and backing down like those delicate young men."

"A man's value lies not in bearing children, but in his loyalty, bravery, and that...unpolished yet utterly sincere heart."

"As for offspring..."

“Mother, the Imperial Medical Academy is full of talented people and has many rare medicines. There may still be a chance to turn things around regarding the pregnancy.”

"Even if there are no children, there are many virtuous and capable people among the royal family members who can be chosen."

"To determine the rise and fall of a nation based on the birth of one person is far too frivolous."

"In my opinion, a stable and powerful dynasty is far more important than an heir with a specific bloodline."

Zi Xi smiled slightly, a smile that carried an indescribable confidence and composure.

His words were logically clear, had a grand vision, demonstrated both insight into the big picture and protection of his own interests, and showed a far-sighted plan for the future.

The Empress stared blankly at her daughter, who seemed to have grown up overnight, her heart filled with turmoil.

She had always thought that Zixi's playboy nature was her true nature, but she never expected that she would reveal such a keen political sense and such a broad mind and magnanimity before getting married.

Those rumors about her frequenting brothels and being ignorant now seem utterly ridiculous.

After a long while, the Empress slowly exhaled a breath of stale air, a relieved smile appearing on her face.

"It's because your mother underestimated you."

"Since you have thought this through so thoroughly, your mother... will say no more."

She sighed softly, her eyes filled with approval.

This was tantamount to tacitly approving her choice and gradually putting her mind at ease about Xi'er, who would give her the empire in the future.