Shen Jinglan, the legitimate daughter of the Protector General’s household, married into the prince’s manor in a grand bridal procession. She helped him ascend the throne and became his Noble Consort. She thought they would be together for a lifetime, but she never understood the emperor’s heart: it was as hard to fathom as the ocean floor. A cup of poisoned wine turned the child in her womb to blood. One imperial decree condemned all 137 members of the Shen family to death. He feared her powerful family, and feared she would bear a prince who might threaten the throne! Rescued by a loyal servant, she shed her bridal finery, severed her ties of love, and turned to the crown prince of an enemy kingdom. Three years later, as empress of Beiliang, she led a million troops to the city gates. Yuwen Che, do you still remember how bitter that poisoned wine in Changle Palace tasted?
