I Became Empress After Our Betrothal Was Switched

[There are already 50,000 words saved. The story will start once the full manuscript is complete.]

The Hu people invaded from the south, and Cheng Zhanluo lost both her parents. She followed her uncle and aunt south, only to be forced into an arranged marriage swap with her cousin.

Her betrothed changed from the current emperor to Zhuang Shoubai.

Though he was the eldest son of a military governor, he was a low-born military man. He had also gone missing on the front lines, with his fate unknown.

In a chaotic age, the only thing that truly matters is having soldiers at your command. Cheng Zhanluo steadied herself and prepared to become a widow while her husband was still alive.

"We're family, after all. Once I'm empress, I'll stand up for you. I won't let you suffer the slightest injustice for marrying into a humble clan," her cousin said. "Even if you really do become a widow... I'll often summon you to the palace for company. When you see me, you won't have to perform the full three-kneels-and-nine-bows ceremony. One kneel will do."

Years later, the new dynasty was established, and Cheng Zhanluo was named empress. Everyone bowed reverently at her feet and cried, "Long live the empress!" Her cousin from all those years ago was among them.

Blurb published on 2024/06/15

Theme: March across the Yellow River and Luo River, strike straight for Yanyou. Return to report to the wise ruler, and reclaim our homeland.