I woke up as the Villainous Empress

"Miss, please slow down," Xiaowei called out anxiously, struggling to keep up with Yang Ning, whose pace surpassed anything she could manage in her skirt.

They were outside the royal residence, disguised as commoners, so Xiaowei couldn't address her as "Milady."

She simply had to settle for "Miss."

Xiaowei desired for Yang Ning to adopt a more graceful walking style, befitting a woman.

However, it seemed as though Yang Ning had acquired wheels for legs. She dashed through the market without pause, frequently stopping at various stalls to inspect items or savor mouth-watering treats.

Observing her behavior, it was as if she were a curious bird, experiencing freedom beyond the confines of its cage for the very first time!

As Yang Ning continued walking, she turned around to catch a glimpse of Xiaowei, who was visibly exhausted and struggling to catch her breath.

A mischievous smirk played on Yang Ning's lips as she teasingly remarked, "Feeling tired already? We haven't even explored the market properly yet."

With those words, she resumed her stride, eagerly taking in the lively atmosphere of Xinling City's bustling market.

As the sun neared its descent and the impending night curfew approached, the market became abuzz with people eager to purchase their daily necessities and explore the local stalls before returning to the comfort of their homes.

Unlike the walled capital city of the Empire, Xinling City was a small coastal town enveloped by the beach and water.

This setting offered an abundance of fresh and mouth-watering seafood delicacies, a treat that Yang Ning found unmatched in the capital.

Furthermore, the market showcased countless accessories crafted from seashells and pearls, unique treasures that would be scarce to find in the capital.

The diversity and liveliness of this market surpassed that of the capital city in Yang Ning's eyes. If she didn't thoroughly explore and immerse herself in this experience before heading to the royal residence, all her hard work would be in vain, wouldn't it?

___

While exploring the vibrant market, Yang Ning's attention was captivated by a stall offering savory and spicy meat-filled buns.

Unable to resist her cravings, she swiftly stopped at the small shop, placing an order without hesitation.

Seated on a simple wooden stool outside the shop, Yang Ning gestured for Xiaowei to join her.

As she glanced around, observing the lively scene and noticing others enjoying their buns and noodles with glasses of alcohol, Yang Ning's thirst grew apparent.

"Should we also get some alcohol? The weather here is quite humid. We walked just a little and I'm already feeling tired and thirsty," Yang Ning suggested, her gaze scanning the bustling market.

Xiaowei looked at Yang Ning in disbelief, her eyes widening. She couldn't believe what she had just heard. "Just walked a little?" she repeated, her voice filled with astonishment.

They had walked a long way while exploring the market. Xiaowei had tried to stop Yang Ning, but she didn't listen and continued walking without any breaks.

Having walked a considerable distance and considering the impending night curfew, Xiaowei worried about their ability to return to the residence in time.

Yet she considers this distance as walking just a little.

If they were to walk back to the residence, it would take at least an hour. Even if they were to walk fast, she was still worried about them reaching the royal residence in time.

It was natural for Yang Ning to feel tired and thirsty after such a journey. Even though, how can she think of drinking alcohol in this situation?

To not get caught by His Highness, she had suggested that they finish their buns and head back, making this their final destination during their secret outing.

At this point, she cannot allow Yang Ning to drink alcohol and create more trouble for herself.

___

Xiaowei's face contorted with concern, and she vigorously shook her head. "Miss, it's not appropriate to drink alcohol in public," Xiaowei implored, well aware of the potential consequences. "If His Highness were to find out, it would be highly unfavorable."

Yang Ning furrowed her brow, feeling a tinge of disappointment at Xiaowei's caution but acknowledging the truth in her words.

She recognized the importance of avoiding further complications. Reluctantly, she sighed and said. "Alright, I'll follow your advice this time," she conceded, deciding to abstain from drinking alcohol.

Aware of the risk involved in their unauthorized excursion from the royal residence, Yang Ning understood the necessity of avoiding unnecessary attention and ensuring a safe return.

As Yang Ning savored her buns, her peaceful meal was abruptly interrupted by a loud noise that echoed through the market.

*Bang*

Startled, she turned her attention towards the commotion, only to witness a distressing scene unfolding before her.

A man of imposing stature had seized a delicate woman by her collar, shouting at her in front of the gathered crowd. The wooden table had been flipped onto the ground, which must have caused the loud commotion earlier.

"You bitch! Didn't I tell you to stay out of my business? Get lost!" the man bellowed, his anger palpable as he threw the woman to the ground.

Terrified but defiant, the woman rose to her feet and locked eyes with the man, summoning her courage. "I won't leave," she asserted.

"How can you leave without paying this kind old lady?" the woman retaliated, her voice filled with a sense of justice.

"You've ordered so much food, yet you're attempting to flee without settling your debt. Have you no shame?" She argued.

The man sneered and leaned in closer to the woman, his gaze filled with disgust. "What can you do to me? If you don't want to face my wrath, get out of here!" he taunted.

Observing the distressing scene, the old woman rushed forward, her voice filled with concern. "You're a young lady. Don't engage in a confrontation with a man like him," she advised, her gaze shifting between the girl and the formidable man.

The elderly woman's concern heightened as she feared the situation could escalate further, leading to potential harm befalling the young lady and would harm her reputation.

"I... I don't mind if he doesn't pay. Please, let's not escalate the situation because of me," the old woman pleaded, her voice tinged with worry as she tried to diffuse the tension.

The young girl locked eyes with the concerned old woman, gently patting her arm in an attempt to provide comfort. "No, he must pay for what he ordered," she asserted firmly.

"I have witnessed him before as well. He ordered a significant amount and left without settling his dues," she continued, her voice resolute. "You shouldn't allow people like him to take advantage of you."

The elderly woman has been running this stall by herself for years, and even though there are no men in her family to protect her, she refuses to tolerate any form of bullying.

With unwavering determination, the girl sought to reassure the old woman. "He cannot harm you," she insisted while glaring at the man.

"Hah! You're correct. I have no intention of causing harm to this elderly lady," he chuckled, observing the audacious behavior of the young woman before him. He continued, "However, it is you who will face my wrath. Let's see who will come to your defense." With his hand raised, he was about to strike her.