Author's Note: It's definitely a flashback.
In the serene gardens of the palace, Crown Prince Qinlue and Crown Princess Liuqing strolled hand in hand, their laughter dancing on the breeze. At the tender age of 18, their love was a tapestry of promises and dreams, woven with the threads of hope for a future where they would lead Zhongguo together.
Qinlue's heart swelled with affection as he gazed upon Liuqing, his beloved. "Liuqing, my dear, can you believe that soon we will be the ones guiding our kingdom?"
Liuqing's eyes sparkled with warmth as she squeezed his hand. "Yes, Qinlue, it fills me with joy to think of the future we will build together. With you by my side, I know we can overcome any challenge."
Amidst the whispers of courtiers and the scrutiny of advisors, Qinlue and Liuqing found solace in each other's company. "Do you ever worry about what lies ahead?" Qinlue asked, his voice tinged with uncertainty.
Liuqing shook her head, her gaze steady. "Not when I'm with you, Qinlue. Together, we are stronger than any obstacle that may come our way."
As they stood beneath the moonlit sky, Qinlue and Liuqing vowed to weather whatever storms may come, their love a guiding light in the darkness of uncertainty. Little did they know of the trials that awaited them, but for now, in each other's arms, they found solace and strength to face the challenges of their future together.
After few months of preparation. The day has finally come and the two love birds will soon be unite as one.
The sun rose high in the sky, casting its golden rays upon the palace grounds as the day dawned—the day of Crown Prince Qinlue and Crown Princess Liuqing's wedding. The air buzzed with anticipation as officials, dignitaries, and important nobles from across the kingdom gathered to witness the union of two souls and the joining of two families.
Qinlue and Liuqing stood side by side, resplendent in their ceremonial attire, their hearts aflutter with excitement and nervous anticipation. As they exchanged glances, their love shone bright, a beacon of hope amidst the grandeur of the occasion.
"Qinlue, my dear, can you believe this day is finally here?" Liuqing whispered, her voice barely above a breath.
Qinlue turned to her, a smile playing upon his lips. "Indeed, my love. Today marks the beginning of our journey together, as partners in life and rulers of our kingdom."
As the ceremony commenced, officials and dignitaries approached the couple, offering their congratulations and blessings for a prosperous union. "May your marriage bring harmony and prosperity to Zhongguo," one noble declared, bowing respectfully before them.
"Thank you," Qinlue replied, his voice ringing with sincerity. "We are honored to have your presence on this joyous occasion."
Liuqing nodded in agreement, her eyes shining with gratitude. "Your well-wishes mean the world to us," she said, her voice filled with emotion.
Amidst the traditional rituals and ceremonies, Qinlue and Liuqing exchanged vows of love and devotion, pledging themselves to each other and to the future they would build together. As they sealed their union with a kiss, the cheers of the assembled crowd echoed throughout the palace, a celebration of love, unity, and the promise of a brighter tomorrow.
As the day drew to a close and the festivities continued long into the night, Qinlue and Liuqing danced beneath the stars, their hearts full of joy and their souls intertwined for eternity. For in the union of their hearts, they found strength, courage, and the unbreakable bond that would carry them through the challenges of their reign, united as one in love and in purpose.
Few hours have passed.
In the dimly lit chambers, Emperor Qinlue and Empress Liuqing sat side by side, their expressions grave as they discussed the weighty matters that hung over them like a shadow. The euphoria of their wedding day had faded, replaced by a sense of urgency and purpose as they delved into the intricacies of their future reign.
Qinlue's voice was low, tinged with a steely resolve as he spoke of the inevitable succession that awaited him. "Liuqing, my love, with our marriage comes the responsibility of ensuring the stability and prosperity of our kingdom," he began, his eyes fixed on the flickering candlelight that danced across the room.
Liuqing nodded, her features set in a mask of determination as she listened intently to her husband's words. "Indeed, Qinlue. We must be prepared to assume the mantle of leadership and guide our people through these uncertain times," she replied, her voice echoing with conviction.
As they discussed the grave illness that afflicted Qinlue's father, the current emperor, their thoughts turned to the possibility of his recovery and the implications for their own ascension to the throne. "The physicians hold little hope for my father's recovery," Qinlue admitted, his voice tinged with sadness. "It seems increasingly likely that I will soon be crowned as the next emperor of Zhongguo."
Liuqing's brow furrowed with concern as she contemplated the challenges that lay ahead. "We must be prepared for any eventuality, Qinlue. Whether my father-in-law recovers or not, we must be ready to assume the throne and lead our kingdom with strength and wisdom," she declared, her eyes alight with determination.
Together, Qinlue and Liuqing embarked on a clandestine mission to solidify their hold on power, their minds ablaze with plans and strategies for the future. They spoke in hushed tones, their words laden with the weight of their ambitions and the gravity of their responsibilities.
As they plotted their course through the treacherous waters of palace intrigue and political machinations, Qinlue and Liuqing knew that their success would hinge upon their ability to outmaneuver their adversaries and emerge victorious in the game of thrones. With each passing moment, their resolve grew stronger, their bond unbreakable as they forged ahead into the uncertain future that lay ahead.