Morning sunlight streamed through the vermilion pillars of the grand hall, glinting against the golden dragon throne where Emperor Long Rui sat in solemn authority. Ministers in dark robes stood in two neat rows—on the left, Prime Minister Nai Yunxia, the empire's only female prime minister, graceful yet commanding, her loyal officials behind her; on the right, Grand Chancellor Qiu Der and his faction, their eyes sharp and calculating.
The ceremonial drum faded, and the court session began.
"Your Majesty," Grand Chancellor Qiu Der stepped forward first, bowing deeply. "Disturbing reports reach my ears—schemes hidden in the shadows, officials plotting for personal gain. If left unchecked, they may harm the empire's stability."
Prime Minister Nai Yunxia's voice, clear and unwavering, answered, "Indeed, Your Majesty, but we must not make hasty accusations without proof. Those who stir fear without evidence may themselves seek to profit from chaos."
Her words were precise, each syllable carrying the weight of both wisdom and warning. Veiled barbs passed between the two factions, but Emperor Long Rui raised his hand, silencing them.
"I am aware," he said, his deep voice echoing in the hall. "The court has its schemes. I see them clearly. But the throne will not be swayed by shadows." His gaze swept across the ministers, lingering for a moment on Qiu Der, whose bow deepened under the imperial stare.
Then, his tone shifted. "General Wu Jianhong," the Emperor called.
From the left row, the tall, broad-shouldered general stepped forward and knelt. "This servant is present, Your Majesty."
"I have heard your daughter, Wu Lanyin, has returned to the capital after ten years at the northern border," Emperor Long Rui said.
General Wu's expression softened briefly, pride and longing flickering in his eyes. "Yes, Your Majesty. She arrived safely just yesterday."
The Emperor's gaze sharpened, a faint smile curling his lips. "Then it is time to secure her place in the empire. I will issue an edict—your daughter will be wed to my third son, Prince Long Xun."
A sudden stir swept through the court. Some ministers looked shocked, others merely curious. Grand Chancellor Qiu Der's eyes narrowed slightly, while Prime Minister Nai Yunxia lowered her head in respectful acceptance, though her mind was already calculating the political ripples this would cause.
General Wu bowed deeply. "Your Majesty's grace is boundless. This humble servant accepts the honor."
From the right side, Qiu Der stepped forward slowly. "Your Majesty, such an important union—should it not be discussed further with the Crown Prince and the royal family?"
The Emperor's eyes flashed. "The Crown Prince need not interfere. This is my decree."
The matter was settled. Yet as the court dispersed, whispers of political intrigue grew louder—an imperial marriage was never just a union of two hearts, but a move in the grand game of power.
And outside the palace walls, Prince Long Xun had not yet heard the news that his fate was about to be sealed.
To be continued.