The Little Emperor's Beloved Childhood Friend

[Lively, Beloved-By-All Daughter of the Imperial Preceptor vs. Steady, Reserved Young Emperor, Childhood Sweethearts]

When Bao Jiang was seven, her mother died of illness. She took a keepsake and went to the capital to find her father.

Only after arriving in the capital did she learn that her legendary, fabulously wealthy father had seen through worldly life three years ago, donated all his riches, and become the Imperial Preceptor.

But every noble prince and member of the imperial clan knew that the Imperial Preceptor's most precious asset wasn't his wealth, but his knack for making the country prosperous and rich.

When they heard that his only daughter had come to the capital to find him, all the nobles and princes clamored to take her in.

In the great hall, everyone argued until their faces turned red.

The newly enthroned emperor, also just seven years old, suddenly spoke up. "Stop arguing."

The hall fell silent.

The young emperor spoke in a childish but earnest voice. "The Imperial Preceptor has rendered great service to the state, and I have no way to repay him. His daughter should live in the palace, and I will raise her myself."

Bao Jiang enjoyed a comfortable, carefree life in the palace, with several princesses and princes around her age for company. As for the young emperor, though he was little, he acted like a stern old tutor. The princesses and princes were all scared of him, like mice facing a cat, and he often lectured her with a stern face, too.

Bao Jiang liked playing with him least of all.

Sheng Xun initially raised Bao Jiang in the palace simply because he didn't want others using her to keep the Imperial Preceptor in check. Who knew that the girl had no sense at all of being dependent on someone else's kindness, and spent her days causing trouble?

The young emperor was already busy dealing with the ambitious imperial clan and powerful ministers. Having to worry about her as well left him exasperated, and he often swallowed his irritation and cleaned up her messes.

Years later, when her childhood companions gradually married, Bao Jiang went to her father, the Imperial Preceptor. "When will His Majesty arrange a marriage for me? This year's third-place candidate is exceptionally handsome..."

Sheng Xun, who had come to discuss the empress's appointment with the Imperial Preceptor: "..."

The usually composed young emperor flushed with anger and ordered his attendant, "Go back to the palace and fetch the edict appointing her as empress. Now. Right this instant!"

P.S. Alternate setting, lighthearted daily life. The leads fall in love as adults.

Theme: Live life with sincerity.