The Aloof Crown Prince Demoted Me from Wife to Concubine. After I Faked My Death, He Went Mad with Regret

The second year after I was sent to marry into the Zhou Dynasty and became its Crown Princess, I was demoted to Secondary Consort because my hair ornaments couldn't compare to Consort Lin's.

Crown Prince Xiao Jingyuan sent a mandrake to my room.

"Yu'an's family has fallen into ruin. If she isn't made Crown Princess, she'll be unable to get by in the capital."

In my third year in the capital, my painting was judged inferior to Concubine Li's, and I was demoted to Concubine.

Xiao Jingyuan sent several bottles of fermented mare's milk to my room.

"Wanyi just lost her child. Precious jewelry isn't enough to soothe her grief."

In the fourth year, Lady Song was better at winning the Empress's favor than I was.

Xiao Jingyuan demoted me straight to Talented Lady.

This time, he sent me a bow.

"Next year, there will be an archery contest on horseback. If you win, I'll consider restoring you to the position of Crown Princess."

On the racetrack, I, who had always excelled at riding and archery, missed all ten shots.

As Xiao Jingyuan stared at me in astonishment, I smiled sweetly.

For the first time in ages, I felt at ease.

Xiao Jingyuan, I'm leaving.

It should be easier to leave the Eastern Palace as a Talented Lady than as the Crown Princess.

Later, before my coffin, the usually composed and self-possessed Crown Prince of Zhou wept so hard his shoulders trembled.