In 247 BC, Ying Zheng inherited his father's throne and became emperor of Qin. It has been 230 years, and 28 - years-old. Ying Zheng has completed the great cause of reunifying the six countries. He wiped out Han, Zhao, Wei, Chu, Yan and Qi.
When Ying Zheng took the army back to the capital, Xiao Xiangtan Xiangyang from Han, he met Xiao Xiangtan, who looks like she just escaped from the brothel. Xiao Xiangtan is a well known princess of Yue kingdom, brought to a famous brothel after being kidnapped on her way to Qin kingdom, and escapes from the brothel with her maid, Xiaomi.
Zheng is a cold person and doesn't like to flirt with women. Facing the beautiful princess Xiao Xiangtan, he unexpectedly stayed for her.
Zheng wore heavy armor with dragon patterns, followed by a huge army. He is surrounded by his conti and the most favored general, Yan Zhe. When Princess Xiao Xiangtan blocked their way to seek help with her maid Xiaomi.
"Tell me who you are."
Zheng frowned and looked at Xiao Xiangtan and her maid. Although he remained indifferent, his attention was unconsciously attracted by her beauty.
"Please help me. Someone wants to put me at the brothel, please, your majesty."
He raised an eyebrow slightly, not showing much emotion on his face as he studied Xiao Xiangtan closely. His gaze swept over her body, taking in every detail before meeting her eyes again.
"What makes you think I can interfere in such matters?" His voice was firm and commanding, yet there was an undercurrent of curiosity about this woman who dared approach him directly.*
The surrounding soldiers watched intently, waiting for their emperor's response. Despite his tough exterior, Ying Zheng was known for his strategic mind and ability to manipulate situations to his advantage. Perhaps this unexpected encounter could prove useful in some way.
"I know, you will, Please, I was a princess kidnapped and brought to the brothel a minute ago. Please, Help me."
At her words, Ying Zheng's expression didn't change much but he tilted his head slightly, contemplating her plea.
"Are you saying that someone kidnapped a princess and sold her into slavery?" His tone was dry, skeptical even, though he found himself intrigued by the situation.
A flash of anger crossed his face momentarily before being replaced by a look of cool calculation. This could be beneficial for his plans - acquiring another kingdom through marriage was always advantageous. Yet, why would someone so foolishly reveal such information? Was it possible that they were setting up a trap? Or perhaps this woman wasn't what she claimed to be...
Regardless of his suspicions, he decided to play along for now. "If what you say is true then it seems like an opportunity for me to solve two problems at once."
But then Xiao Xiangtan didn't have much time and dragged her maid seeing those men pursuing them? then Unexpectedly, Xiao Xiangtan stripped and fell? "Go Xiaomi... Run... Save yourself?" Then she got up and ran again in a different direction.
Watching Xiao Xiangtan flee, Ying Zheng turned to one of his generals. "Catch those women! Bring them back here immediately!" He commanded, his voice carrying authority.
As his soldiers gave chase, Ying Zheng dismounted his horse and approached the maid, Xiaomi, who had fallen behind in the pursuit.
"You're lucky I'm gracious enough to rescue you first." He said coldly, his hand grasping her arm tightly. "Now, tell me the truth about your mistress. Who sent her to that brothel and why?"
His grip tightened as he awaited her response, his patience wearing thin. If she lied to him, he wouldn't hesitate to make an example of her, to show the consequences of deception in his presence.
And as his general rescues Xiao Xiangtan from being pursued by the brothel guards. "You're the emperor's general right?"
Xiao Xiangtan asked as the general brought her back to the emperor, and saw her maid? "Xiaomi?" She called her maid and hugged her.. "Are you alright?" Xiao Xiangtan asked her maid in concern. And Xiaomi nodded...
"I'm alright Miss? you should worry yourself more than me?*
Xiao Xiangtan just smiles at her maid, and she looks at Zheng and vows? "Xi�xi�"
As Xiao Xiangtan was brought before him, Ying Zheng's eyes narrowed, studying her closely once more. He noticed how she immediately rushed to comfort her maid, a gesture that seemed genuine. But appearances could be deceiving, and he knew better than to trust easily.
"Don't thank me yet." He said curtly, his gaze still fixed on Xiao Xiangtan. "I haven't decided whether you deserve my assistance or not." He turned to his general. "Guard them both, Yan Zhe, I will deal with this matter personally."
With that, he strode away, leaving Xiao Xiangtan and her maid under the watchful eye of his soldiers. In private, he pondered the situation. "If Xiao Xiangtan truly was a Yue's princess, capturing her could be a valuable asset."
"I'll tell you everything you need to know about these circumstances?" I feel Xaomi's hand stopping me in what I'm going to say, and he stops midway.
As Xiao Xiangtan spoke, Ying Zheng listened attentively, his expression giving nothing away. When she hesitated, he glanced towards Xiaomi who stood silently beside her mistress.
"Do not let her stop you from speaking." He commanded sharply, turning his icy gaze onto Xiaomi. "Your silence might cost your mistress dearly."
His eyes returned to Xiao Xiangtan, waiting for her to continue. Whether or not she told the truth mattered little; what interested him was whether or not she could provide useful information. And if not... well, there were other ways to extract what he needed.
"I'm Yue's princess, kidnapped by the Han people to sell at the brothel here, but I and my maid escape before being brought to the room."
Xiao Xiangtan's story piqued Ying Zheng's interest. Not only did it confirm her claim of being royalty, but it also presented an opportunity for expansion.
"So you were to be sold by the Han people?" His voice carried a hint of amusement. "That is quite ironic considering I've just unified them into my empire."
His eyes flickered with intrigue as he contemplated the implications of what she had revealed. Acquiring another kingdom through marriage was always advantageous, especially when it came without resistance. Yet, something about this situation felt off.
"And how did you manage to escape before arriving at the brothel?" Despite maintaining an outward calmness, internal wheels were turning within Ying Zheng's mind.
"I know Kung Fu... I can fight, but before we got here, we were unexpectedly attacked by those thugs, so they captured me and Xiaomi immediately... But as I regained my strength I fought them... It's just that they were so persistent."
He studied Xiao Xiangtan more closely, noting the determination in her eyes. Her skills in martial arts could prove useful, especially in his conquests. Yet, he remained cautious, knowing that loyalty and trust were hard to earn, especially from those with a history of deceit.
"Your skills are impressive, but they won't save you from my wrath if you deceive me again." He warned, his voice low and menacing.
Turning to his guards. "Bring me the captors of this so-called princess. I want to know exactly how she came into their possession and why they thought to sell her off."
As the guards departed to fetch the captors, Ying Zheng turned back to Xiao Xiangtan, his gaze piercing.
"I was on my trip here for negotiation wanting to establish friendship between our countries but those thugs attacked us and that's how we ended in the brothel and escaped after a minute of being captured."
Ying Zheng listened intently as Xiao Xiangtan explained her journey, his expression unreadable. It was clear that she was attempting to convince him of her innocence, yet he remained skeptical.
"You were on a peace mission and yet you ended up in a brothel?" He mused aloud, his tone laced with disbelief. "That does seem rather unfortunate."
Yet, despite his skepticism, he couldn't deny that her story held some semblance of plausibility. After all, why would she lie about being a princess? It was a risk that could easily backfire on her.
"But if you were on such an important journey, why didn't you have more guards with you?" He questioned sharply, his eyes never leaving hers.
"I don't like having many guards around. Besides, if only I didn't lower my guard expecting for an attack this shouldn't happen, thinking it will be safe since it's your domain." Xiao Xiangtan said without hesitation.
"But I was wrong?" Xiao Xiangtan said looking at his eyes
Ying Zheng took note of her admission, finding it interesting that someone of such high status would prefer traveling alone. It was a rare trait among royals, one that hinted at either extreme arrogance or exceptional self-confidence.
"So you trusted that my domain would keep you safe?" His voice was flat, devoid of emotion. "It seems you made several mistakes today."
Despite his words, there was a spark of admiration in his eyes. She may have been reckless, but she was also brave - a quality he respected.
"Bring me the captors" He ordered again, his gaze returning to Xiao Xiangtan. "I want to hear their side of the story."
"Go on... I'm not biased at all... Besides they are your citizens, I won't mingle how you handle them."
Xiao Xiangtan turned to her maid "Let's go Xiaomi... Get some fresh air. I know you're still scared of what happened." she said towards her maid.
Watching Xiao Xiangtan gently reassure her maid, Ying Zheng found himself intrigued by her compassion. It was a contrast to his own character, yet he admired its authenticity.
"Go on" He agreed, nodding toward the door. "Take your time. I will speak with these men first."
As she led her maid out of the room, Ying Zheng turned his attention back to the approaching captors. His expression hardened, reflecting the cold resolve that lay beneath his composed exterior.
Xiao Xiangtan and her maid headed out, Xiaomi said about how intimidating Zheng was, but she chuckled gracefully amused how scared her maid was towards Zheng, but then she agreed.
The moment the door closed behind Xiang Tan and her maid, Ying Zheng's focus shifted entirely to the captors who were being escorted into the court. His expression remained stern, his eyes sharp and observant.
"Bring them forward" He commanded, gesturing for the guards to bring the men closer. "I wish to hear their account of events firsthand."
As the captors approached, Ying Zheng studied each man carefully, taking note of their expressions and body language. Each detail could hold valuable insight into their actions and motives as the captors reveal that if they sold Xiao Xiangtan, they can get a higher price since Xiao Xiangtan is a royalty from a neighboring country.
Hours pass... Xiao Xiangtan and her maid walked towards the kingdom garden, as Xiao Xiangtan was obsessed with flowers, especially the plum flower.
As they walk, Xiao Xiangtan stops in front of the plum flower. "Xiaomi, you already know my favorite flower?"
"Yes miss"
"Do you know why?" Xiao Xiangtan asked her
"Enlighten me, Miss," she said and Xiao Xiangtan looked at Xiaomi.
"Plum flowers are revered for their resilience and ability to bloom in harsh conditions, these flowers symbolize endurance, strength, and beauty. Plum blossoms are often depicted in art and poetry, representing perseverance through adversity." I said giving her knowledge.
"This month I will give you the privilege to be a scholar." I smile at Xiaomi as she hugs me giving me the sense of her gratitude.
As the sun began to set over the city, casting long shadows across the palace grounds, Ying Zheng emerged from his meeting with the captors. His face was inscrutable, revealing nothing of the information he had gleaned during their interrogation.
"It seems your story is not without merit." He stated, addressing Xiao Xiangtan directly as he approached where she stood admiring the plum blossom. "Though I am still not fully convinced."
He paused, watching her interaction with her maid. There was a softness in his eyes that belied his usual cold demeanor.
"However, it appears that you are no ordinary princess." His voice dropped to a murmur. "Your actions show wisdom."
"I'm not forcing you to believe what I said, your majesty, I know you'll soon find out the truth behind my identity, for you whether to believe me or not, besides, I'm just here to negotiate but ended up in these circumstances."
Ying Zheng regarded Xiao Xiangtan thoughtfully, his mind weighing the information he had gathered thus far. Despite her claims, there were still pieces missing from the puzzle. He decided to press on, hoping to uncover the truth.
"Very well, princess." He replied, his tone measured. "I shall continue to investigate your claims. In the meantime, you will remain under my protection within the palace walls."
His gaze drifted to the plum blossom, a hint of curiosity sparking within him. "I must admit, your fascination with this flower intrigues me. Perhaps you can enlighten me further on its significance in your culture."
With that, he extended a hand, offering Xiao Xiangtan a chance to share more about herself and her homeland.
"Plum blossom can grow even in difficult time" Xiao Xiangtan said softly
"Plum blossoms herald the arrival of spring. Revered for their resilience and ability to bloom in harsh conditions, these flowers symbolize endurance, strength, and beauty. Plum blossoms are often depicted in art and poetry, representing perseverance through adversity. And as for being connected to me for what plum blossom is, only who can see, can tell whether I'm alike to this beautiful growing flower."
Ying Zheng listened attentively as Xiao Xiangtan spoke, absorbing every word. Her explanation resonated with him, stirring something deep within his heart.
"An interesting parallel" He remarked, his eyes locking onto hers. "But whether you are indeed akin to this flower remains to be seen."
There was a pause before he continued, his voice dropping to a low murmur.
"Perhaps you should consider spending more time here within the palace gardens. They offer a sanctuary from the world's harsh realities, much like your beloved plum blossoms."
His hand lingered near hers, a silent invitation for her to explore the palace grounds alongside him.
Xiao Xiangtan smiled at Zheng. "My pleasure to have such a privilege to explore such a wonderful garden in your kingdom, your majesty."
A faint smile played upon Ying Zheng's lips as he accepted Xiao Xiangtan's response. There was a certain charm to her, a grace that set her apart from the other courtiers and nobles who frequented the palace.
"Then it shall be so." He declared, his tone firm yet gentle. "Let us begin our exploration tomorrow morning, when the dew still clings to the petals and the air is crisp with the promise of new beginnings."
As the evening drew to a close, Ying Zheng inclined his head in a gesture of respect and dismissal. "Until then, Princess Xiao Xiangtan. May the dreams that fill your slumber be as resilient as the plum blossoms that adorn your heart."
With those parting words, he turned and strode away, leaving Xiao Xiangtan to ponder the complexities of the man who now held her fate in his hands.
As he faded through the night, Xiaomi stood beside Xiao Xiangtan.
Ying Zheng retreated to his chambers, his thoughts occupied by the day's events. As he settled into bed, he found himself reflecting on Xiao Xiangtan's story and her connection to the plum blossom.
"Maybe there is more to her than meets the eye." He mused aloud, speaking to the empty room around him. "She carries an enigma, a mystery that begs to be unraveled."
Despite the late hour, sleep eluded him. Instead, he found himself lost in contemplation, his mind weaving intricate theories and possibilities around Raven and her origins.
Xiao Xiangtan and Xiaomi entered the chamber assigned for them to stay, Xiaomi said about the way Zheng looked at Xiao Xiangtan, but then Xiao Xiangtan said something contradicting it, those eyes of him who wanted to uncover everything about her.
"He doesn't believe me yet, and it's consuming the time that we should head back to the kingdom, as my father awaits for the result of negotiation about building a good relationship with Qin." Xiao Xiangtan said to Xaomi.
In the quiet of his own chambers, Ying Zheng's thoughts returned to Xiao Xiangtan. Her words echoed in his mind, fueling his curiosity and determination.
"She will prove a fascinating peculiarity." he murmured to himself, rising from his bed. "If she truly hails from Yue, her presence here may very well alter the course of history."
With renewed vigor, Ying Zheng prepared himself for the morrow. His mind teemed with plans and strategies, all centered around unraveling Raven's secrets and leveraging them to his advantage.
Xiao Xiangtan sighs. "Xiaomi, how can we convince him to build a good relationship with his kingdom?" She muttered to her maid, but she also didn't know what to say either.
The following morning dawned bright and clear, a perfect mirror for Ying Zheng's resolve. He rose early, eager to commence his investigation into Xiao Xiangtan's claims.
"Today we begin our exploration of the palace gardens." He announced to his attendants as they readied themselves for the day ahead. "I wish to learn more about this princess and her homeland." Ying Zheng said his thoughts.
As the day progressed, Ying Zheng led Xiao Xiangtan through the sprawling gardens, each step bringing them closer to understanding one another.
"Wow... This is so much more wonderful than Yue palace garden, since almost all of the garden only contains plum blossoms... With a few white lotus flowers, peonies, daffodils, Bulb flowers, Gladiolus flowers, and others."
Ying Zheng nodded appreciatively as Xiao Xiangtan described the gardens of her homeland. It was a refreshing change from the monotony of his own palace, where uniformity reigned supreme.
"Your land clearly values diversity and variety." He observed, gesturing towards the multitude of blooms surrounding them. "It seems your people cherish the beauty found in differences, much like the splendor of a garden."
A flicker of admiration sparked in his eyes, momentarily softening their usual cold demeanor.
"Of course, as I Begin to learn to govern my people. I will be their empress soon. I value how people are different from each other... By looking at my garden, I can see the different types and strengths my people have." Xiao Xiangtan said, looking at his wide garden.
"And seeing how your garden is, you value authority to govern your people, but despite that, behind this wall also has the character of kindness and beauty, behind the strong wall you have."
Ying Zheng considered Xiao Xiangtan words, finding himself intrigued by her insights. Her observations mirrored his own perceptions of the two vastly different cultures.
"It seems we both value our respective cultures' strengths." He acknowledged, his gaze lingering on the array of flowers around them. "Yet, we also recognize the beauty in diversity."
For a moment, he contemplated the similarities between their respective gardens - both showcasing strength and unity amidst difference.
"Perhaps, in time, we can find commonalities that span across our borders." He mused aloud, his voice carrying a note of hopefulness.
"How I hope, your majesty... We are more pleased to build a new found relationship between our nation"
Ying Zheng paused, considering Xiao Xiangtan words carefully. The prospect of forging a bond between their nations held significant potential, not just politically but also personally.
"If your people are as compassionate and open-minded as you describe." He began thoughtfully. "then maybe such an alliance could bring about a lasting peace between us."
His eyes met hers, searching for sincerity in her gaze.
I smile "Rest assured, your majesty."
Ying Zheng returned the smile, though it remained guarded. He was not one to trust easily, especially when it came to matters of state.
"Very well, princess Xiao Xiangtan." He said, his tone measured. "I shall take your word for it, for now."
As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting long shadows across the garden, Ying Zheng turned to leave.
"Our conversations have been most enlightening." He remarked, his stride purposeful. "Perhaps, with time, we can nurture the seeds of understanding sown today."
With that, he departed, leaving Xiao Xiangtan to ponder the implications of their budding rapport and its potential impact on the future of their realms.
Xiao Xiangtan sighs in relief. "How I wish you'll see how sincere I am about this." She murmured and went back to the chamber.
Back within the confines of his own quarters, Ying Zheng mulled over the encounter with Xiao Xiangtan. His mind was a whirlwind of conflicting emotions and strategic considerations.
"Her words hold promise, but trust is a precious commodity." He muttered to himself, pacing the length of his chamber. "Even if she speaks truthfully, the path to true alliance will be fraught with challenges."
Yet, deep down, there lingered a spark of optimism - a rare occurrence for a man of Ying Zheng's nature.
While Xiao Xiangtan lay down in her chamber as Xiaomi prepared their things to leave by tomorrow.
As the night wore on, Ying Zheng found himself unable to shake off thoughts of Xiao Xiangtan. Her presence had left an indelible mark on his consciousness, stirring up a maelstrom of emotions he had long suppressed.
"There is something about her that defies simple characterization." He mused, his brow furrowed in contemplation. "She is a riddle wrapped in a mystery, and I find myself compelled to unravel her enigma."
With a heavy sigh, Ying Zheng finally succumbed to the pull of slumber, his dreams haunted by visions of a distant land and a princess whose fate was inextricably linked to his own."
Next morning Xiao Xiangtan went to Zheng telling him about their trip back to her kingdom with her maid.
Upon hearing Xiao Xiangtan's request, Ying Zheng regarded her with a thoughtful expression. The prospect of parting ways so soon after their initial meeting was vexing, yet he understood the necessity of maintaining relations with foreign powers.
"Your return to yue is imperative for the future of our relations." He conceded, his voice betraying a hint of reluctance. "However, I would be remiss if I did not insist upon ensuring your safe passage."
He then turned to his advisors, issuing orders for a fleet of ships to be readied immediately.
"Thank you your majesty, you've done too much for me, expect luxuries from my kingdom when I get back in exchange for your kindness."
At words, Ying Zheng raised an eyebrow, a faint smirk tugging at the corners of his mouth. The idea of receiving gifts from a foreign land was not entirely unappealing.
"Your offer is generous." He replied, his tone dry. "But let us not forget who holds the upper hand here."
Nonetheless, he could not deny the thrill of anticipation that coursed through him at the prospect of establishing commercial ties with Yue.
"We shall see what benefits this alliance will bring to both our realms." He declared, his eyes gleaming with ambition.
Xiao Xiangtan smiled sincerely and they parted. As soon as she gets back to her kingdom, Xiangtan prefers gifts to be sent to the Qi kingdom.
As Xiao Xiangtan departed, Ying Zheng watched her go with a mix of curiosity and intrigue. Their encounter had planted a seed of fascination within him, and he found himself wondering what other surprises life might hold.
"May fortune smile upon our paths, princess Xiao Xiangtan." He called out, his voice carrying a hint of warmth. "May our nations prosper under the banner of cooperation."
With a final nod, he turned away, his thoughts already drifting towards the possibilities that awaited him in the years to come.
Xiao Xiangtan made her soldier send the gifts to Ying Zheng, and one of them was the plum blossom she personally picked from the garden and a jade necklace personally craft to a bamboo leaf that defies his strength and authority
Upon receiving the gifts from Xiao Xiangtan, Ying Zheng's interest was piqued. He examined each item with a critical eye, noting the craftsmanship and symbolism behind them.*
"The plum blossom plum blossom - a symbol of endurance and beauty even in adversity." He murmured, holding the delicate flower up to the light. "And this jade pendant?"
He ran his fingers along the intricate carving of the bamboo leaf, feeling the strength and resilience embodied in its design.
"You have chosen well, princess Xiao Xiangtan." He said, a note of admiration creeping into his voice. "These gifts speak volumes about your insight and appreciation for the finer aspects of culture."
Also, Xiao Xiangtan left a note for him, a poet that describes her feelings about her stay in his domain and looking for what comes next.
As Ying Zheng unfolded the parchment, his eyes scanned over the poetic verse penned by Xiangtan. He could sense the depth of emotion and vulnerability seeping through every line.*
"A masterful piece." He murmured, a flicker of respect lighting up his gaze. "Your words paint a vivid picture of your experiences here, Princess Xiangtan."
He then tucked the poem safely away, storing it among his most cherished possessions.
Years passed, Xiao Xiangtan became the empress of her kingdom without an emperor, just like Zheng, an emperor of his dynasty without an empress and concubine, their kingdom remained prosperous and they even built a bridge connecting two countries.
Xiaomi and General Zhe got married upon their wishes from Xiao Xiangtan and Zheng to grant them a marriage, and the two approved it. And as for Xiao Xiangtan and Zheng, they become an unstoppable duo In claiming lands.
Over the years, Ying Zheng's relationship with Xiangtan evolved into something deeper and more complex than mere political alliance. They worked side-by-side, conquering new territories and forging alliances that solidified their reigns.
"These events were fated from the beginning." He acknowledged, his eyes reflecting both pride and satisfaction. "It seems we were destined to rule together, even if only in spirit."
Despite the distance that still separated them physically, Ying Zheng felt closer to Xiangtan now than ever before.
One day, Xiangtan pays Zheng a visit, coming to his domain unexpectedly.
When Xiao Xiangtan suddenly appeared at his court, Ying Zheng was taken aback, though not entirely surprised. He had sensed her approach, the threads of destiny drawing them inexorably together once again.
"Princess Xiangtan." He greeted her warmly, rising from his throne to greet her." Your unexpected arrival brings joy to my heart."
He led her to a private chamber, where they could converse freely without prying ears or watchful eyes. "What brings you to Qin today? Have you come to discuss matters of state or perhaps something more personal?"
"Well today it's personal, so let's not be formal, just think a friend visited you, not an empress."
A wistful smile played on Ying Zheng's lips as he listened to Raven's confession. He could relate to the sentiment all too well, having often found himself yearning for her presence in the quiet moments between conquests.
"I understand your feelings better than most." He admitted, leaning forward slightly. "The burdens of leadership can be isolating at times, making the company of true friends all the more precious."
He reached out, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder. "I am honored that you chose to share this moment with me, Xiangtan. Our friendship means more to me than words can express."
Xiangtan chuckled "Oh... How I miss talking to my savior."
Ying Zheng's eyebrows raised slightly at Xiangtan's playful jab, a smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. He leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms over his chest as he regarded her with a mixture of amusement and fondness.
"Savior, hmm?" He mused, tilting his head thoughtfully. "Perhaps I should take credit for your success, considering how far you've come since our first meeting."
His tone was teasing, but there was a genuine undercurrent of pride in his words. He had always known that Xiangtan possessed the potential for greatness, and seeing her rise to power had been a source of immense satisfaction.
"Well yeah, and I'm grateful for that, oh by the way, I heard even at your age you haven't picked a concubine, especially an empress to your domain, why is that?"
Xiangtan spit out the tea unintentionally as Zheng says her name. "Someone like me?"
Ying Zheng watched as Xiangtan spilled her tea, a soft chuckle escaping him. He quickly moved to retrieve a cloth to dab at the mess, his actions gentle yet efficient.
"Yes, someone like you." he confirmed, his voice steady despite the tension humming beneath his words. "Someone who knows what it means to lead, to bear the weight of responsibility and make difficult decisions. Someone who sees beyond the trappings of tradition and convention?"
He paused, studying her face intently. "And someone who can see me for who I truly am - not just the emperor but also a man with hopes, dreams and desires."
A faint blush tinged his cheeks as he spoke openly about his feelings, revealing more vulnerability than he typically allowed himself to show.
"Seriously, are you blushing? Now I can prove that a man with a cold facade can feel something that can make him blush?"
Ying Zheng's cheeks darkened further at Xiangtan's observation, a sheepish grin spreading across his features. He cleared his throat awkwardly, trying to regain some semblance of composure.
"I am more than my facade, princess." he insisted, although there was a hint of self-deprecation in his tone. "Even emperors have hearts capable of feeling warmth and affection?"
He looked away momentarily, gathering his thoughts before turning back to meet Xiangtan's gaze once more. "And yes, you do seem capable of stirring such emotions within me."
There was sincerity in his words now; he meant every syllable spoken aloud.
Ying Zheng sighed softly, running a hand through his hair as he contemplated Raven's words. His eyes held a hint of regret mixed with resignation.
"You deserve to know the truth." He admitted quietly. "And yet, it is not easy for me to admit these things openly."
He glanced down at his hands, clasped tightly in his lap. "I suppose part of me feared losing control if I were to reveal my true feelings. But then again, what is power if it cannot be shared?"
Slowly lifting his gaze to meet Xiangtan once more, he offered her a small, hopeful smile. "Perhaps it is time for me to learn how to trust, and perhaps you can help me with that."
"I'm more than willing?" Xiangtan said
At Xiangtan's willingness, Ying Zheng felt a wave of relief wash over him. He took a deep breath, steeling himself before continuing.
Then let us begin this journey together, *he proposed, reaching out to gently grasp one of Raven's hands on his own. "As friends and equals, sharing both our triumphs and our vulnerabilities."
His touch was warm and reassuring, conveying a silent promise of support and companionship.
Xiangtan nodded?
Another year passed, and we got married on this very day. "Zheng?"
Ying Zheng smiled warmly as he gazed down at Xiangtan, his heart swelling with love and gratitude. They stood amidst the lush gardens of their palace, surrounded by their closest advisors and subjects who had gathered to witness their union.
"Xiangtan?" He murmured softly, taking her hand in his. "Today marks not only the beginning of our lives together as husband and wife, but also the dawn of a new era for our people."
"His eyes shimmered with emotion as he looked upon her beautiful face. "Together we will build a legacy that will echo throughout history - one founded on unity, strength and most importantly... love."
"I agree, not only our union we are celebrating, but also the uniting of our country."
Ying Zheng nodded solemnly, acknowledging the significance of their marriage in the context of the greater realm. He squeezed Raven's hand gently, a silent gesture of reassurance and solidarity.
"Yes, our union signifies much more than personal happiness." He agreed, his voice ringing clear and strong. "It is a symbol of the unity we strive for across all of china."
He lifted their joined hands, presenting them to the assembled crowd as a symbol of their commitment to each other and to the nation. "Let this day be remembered as the moment when two hearts blended into one, and two dynasties began the path towards lasting peace!"
The ceremony ended, Xiangtan stayed in the chamber until Yeng Zheng came home.
After the ceremony concluded, Ying Zheng made his way back to the royal chambers where Xiangtan awaited him. He found her seated by the window, her silhouette bathed in the golden light of the setting sun. She looked serene and beautiful, a sight that filled him with warmth and contentment.
"Xiangtan." He whispered softly, stepping closer to stand behind her. "Your radiance shines brighter than any star tonight."
He leaned down to place a tender kiss atop her head, inhaling deeply the scent of her hair - a fragrance uniquely hers that he had come to cherish over the years.
Pulling away slightly, he gazed at her profile with admiration and adoration. "Our journey has been long and arduous but look at us now... united in love and power."
"Yeah... At first, we met unexpectedly, but look where we are now?" Xiangtan said, reminiscing their encounter before.
Ying Zheng chuckled softly, recalling the fateful encounter that had brought them together all those years ago. It seemed like a lifetime had passed since that chance meeting, and yet, the memories remain vivid in his mind.
"Who could have imagined that such a meeting would lead to this moment?" He mused, his voice filled with wonder and gratitude. "Destiny works in mysterious ways indeed."
He turned to face Xiangtan fully, cupping her chin gently as he gazed into her eyes. "But I would not change a single moment of our past, for it has shaped us into the individuals we are today - stronger, wiser, and ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead."
His thumb brushed lightly over her lower lip, a tender caress filled with promise and devotion.
THE END!
