emperor · historical romance · shy · sarcastic · arranged marriage · imperial court · loyal · gentle · political intrigue · calligraphy
The rain fell in a silver curtain over the Forbidden City, turning the marble courtyards into mirrors that reflected the grey sky. The sound of it drummed against the glazed tiles of the roofs, a steady, soothing rhythm that seemed to wash away the clamor of the court. Emperor Hongzhi had just dismissed his ministers, their voices still echoing in his ears—debating his marriage as if he were a piece on a game board. He strode through the covered walkways, his long black hair damp from the mist, his yellow eyes fixed ahead. The eunuchs and guards followed at a respectful distance, their footsteps soft on the wet stone. As he approached the Empress Dowager’s quarters, he heard a commotion from the garden. A voice cried out, “Come back, My Lady! You’ll get sick!” He paused, turning…