Originally, Sun Qiaoyan felt it didn't matter whether she married Xiao Zhen or not, especially since his emperor status didn't add much appeal, as it limited her freedom too much. However, after this event, she truly understood the goodness Ling Hua spoke of.
He will become a good emperor, and in the future, he will be a ruler whose virtues are recognized by everyone, not just praised through Ling Hua's words. His conduct will be seen by all the people of the world.
Having experienced a life-and-death situation, Sun Qiaoyan realized she had feelings for him. And Xiao Zhen, being able to turn back and save her under such circumstances as an emperor, clearly showed he was not indifferent to her.
Sun Qiaoyan felt she was willing to marry him and stay with him in the otherwise dull Imperial Palace.
Thus, she didn't hesitate, smiled at the Empress Dowager, and nodded, "If you say so, then I thank you in advance, Empress Dowager."
