Rising Through the Ranks, Starting with the Kidnapping of the Empress

[Transmigration + Empress + strong heroine + even stronger male lead + a protagonist who's both carefree and cautious] “You've just arrived in the capital and already found yourself caught up in an imperial examination fraud case. If you identify the mastermind, you get no credit; if your investigation goes badly, you'll be implicated. And yet, at the metropolitan examination, you spot a suspicious woman...” “Faced with this predicament, you must choose:” “A: The facts are unclear, and there's surely more to this than meets the eye. Don't act rashly without solid evidence. As a member of the Embroidered Uniform Guard, you should do your job with the utmost caution.” “B: That woman's movements are suspicious, so she must be involved in the examination scandal. Why not take her to the Imperial Prison first and give her the full works: frying, steaming, and boiling? Start by interrogating her about what color sack she likes.” “C: She must be a spy from another country. Kidnap her, find out who she is, then bring her to His Majesty and claim the credit. I'll rise to the top in no time!” Fang Yuan: “CCC! Damn it, even a fool knows to pick C! What's the point of being in the Embroidered Uniform Guard if you don't take risks? Haven't you heard that being a secret agent is like wearing fine clothes at night?” “Congratulations! You've successfully kidnapped the Empress. Her guards are closing in. Whatever you do, stay alive...” Fang Yuan: “?” Much later... The Empress: “My dear subject, let's get married soon. I'm afraid if you keep holding back, you'll stop finding me attractive.” Fang Yuan: “Your Majesty, don't say things like that. I'm afraid the princess will get the wrong idea.” Sixth Princess: “Fang Yuan, I want you to join me in rebelling. Even if you won't do it for me, at least think of our child!” Fang Yuan was shocked. “Princess, please watch your words! I'm the Empress's trusted aide. How could I rebel? Your Majesty, listen to what the Princess Royal just said. I swear I have no disloyal intentions!” The Empress lifted her belly slightly and said in an even tone, “I'll come clean. Actually... I'm pregnant too...”