The Beloved Legitimate Daughter

She is the exalted Princess Huanyue, admired by countless people. He is the lowliest male courtesan in the capital, scorned by the world. He stayed by her side through the hardest days of her life, but just as things began to look up, fate drove them apart. “By the Mandate of Heaven, the Emperor proclaims: Yi Qinxin, eldest daughter of the Yi family, is gifted in learning, gentle in character, and virtuous in every way. She is hereby named Empress. On an auspicious day, she shall marry the Emperor, take charge of the imperial seal, and serve as mother of the realm. May she and the Emperor support one another, live up to the hopes placed in them, and embody the virtues of the imperial harem, bringing peace to Us. So decreed!” A single imperial edict destroyed a match and extinguished two hearts that had once beat as one. She said, “If you’re well, then I’m well.” He smiled gently, his face pale as paper. “As long as you’re well, I’ll be fine too.” That night, she was forced into the palace to become Empress. From then on, they never saw each other again. She thought it would be forever, until he appeared once more, reduced to the status of a eunuch. She collapsed into his arms, sobbing uncontrollably, but he held her and smiled with relief. “If this broken body of mine can keep you safe and prosperous for the rest of your life, then it was worth it.” Keep your heart open and untroubled, And do not pine for me. Some say that meeting is fate, While parting means fate brought you together, but not destiny. It seems you and I could never escape the fate written for us. The story builds from humble beginnings to a thrilling climax. I hope you’ll take your time and enjoy it.