As I sat by the window, trying to remember what had happened the night before, there was a knock on the door. The maid's voice came through, "The king has called you."
I got up and made my way to my father's room. I sat beside him, trying to compose myself. "I heard about something," he said, his voice serious.
I nodded, feeling a sense of trepidation. "Is that true that you and Prince Bai Long crossed the line before marriage?"
I hesitated, unsure of how to respond. The king's expression was stern, "It's not-not like that," I tried to explain, my voice shaking slightly. "You two are going to get married this month, and this is my order," Father said, his voice firm and commanding, like a king declaring his decree.
I felt my heart sink, my mind racing with questions and doubts. "What? In this month! This is too early," I stammered, trying to reason with him, but my words fell on deaf ears. "And-" I tried to say something more, but Father's expression turned stern, his eyes flashing with anger. "Shut up! Go back to your room," he thundered, his voice echoing off the walls.
Shoudao entered the Emperor's chambers and greeted him with a deep bow. "Long live the Emperor!" He then turned to me and bowed slightly. I nodded in response and then left the scene.
As I departed, Shoudao bowed again to the Emperor. "Congratulations, Your Majesty," he said. "Now Princess Fengxi and Crown Prince's wedding will be over by the end of the month, and after that, the Princess will be safe."
The Emperor asked, "I also want her to be happy, have you done the rest of the work?"
"Yes, Your Majesty, everything is done," Shoudao replied. "The astrologers have chosen an auspicious date, the wedding gifts have been prepared, and the imperial guards have been deployed to ensure the Princess's security."
I felt a lump form in my throat as I turned to leave, my heart heavy with frustration and confusion. I couldn't understand why Father was in such a hurry.
Why was he pushing me into this marriage so quickly? I walked out of the room, feeling lost and alone, my thoughts swirling like a storm.
As I wandered through the corridors, I decided that I needed some fresh air, some space to clear my head. I slipped out into the night, the cool breeze a welcome respite from the tension that had built up inside me.
I walked aimlessly, my feet carrying me to a place that had always brought me peace - the top of the mountain.
The view from the top of the mountain was breathtaking, just as I remembered it. The stars twinkled above, and the fireflies danced around me, their gentle glow lighting up the darkness.
I felt a sense of calm wash over me as I gazed out at the night sky. I came here after 10 years and this place is still so beautiful, I thought, feeling a sense of nostalgia wash over me.