CHAPTER 3
"Your Highness, that suggestion is utterly ridiculous!" One of the officers of the demon empire exclaimed angrily as they returned to the mansion designated for the envoys. His voice was filled with frustration, his brows furrowed in disbelief.
"Right, are they mocking us?" another officer chimed in, his tone equally indignant. The room buzzed with the agitated murmurs of the other envoys, each expressing their disapproval at the idea of a marriage alliance involving the Grand Imperial Prince, Shangguan Ning.
"A marriage alliance? With him? What were they thinking?" spat another, slamming his fist onto the table. "Are they suggesting that a mere mortal prince could be a worthy partner for the bloodline of the Helan Clan?"
The tension in the room was palpable, but amidst the turmoil, the figure seated at the head of the room remained calm. Helan Li Qiang, the second prince of the demon empire, reclined in his chair, his gaze focused, yet contemplative. The officers, noticing his silence, turned their attention to him.
"Your Highness, say something!" one of them urged, a hint of desperation in his voice.
Helan Li Qiang slowly leaned forward, his expression unreadable. "Silence." His voice, though quiet, cut through the noise like a blade. Immediately, the room fell silent, the officers bowing their heads respectfully.
"Is it truly so absurd?" he asked softly, his eyes narrowing as he thought back to the banquet and the mesmerizing presence of Shangguan Ning. He couldn't deny that the mortal prince had captured his attention in a way no one else had before.
"But, Your Highness—" one of the officers started, only to be silenced by a sharp look from Li Qiang.
"The Wu Dynasty may be our allies, but this suggestion is indeed... unusual," he mused, a wry smile tugging at his lips. "However, the Grand Imperial Prince is no ordinary mortal. His lineage is of royal blood from both the Shangguan and Wu families. That, combined with his unparalleled beauty and composure, makes him... intriguing."
The officers exchanged uncertain glances, confused by the prince's unexpected reaction. "Your Highness, are you saying—"
"I'm saying that dismissing the suggestion so easily would be foolish," Helan Li Qiang interrupted, his gaze turning sharp. "Whether it's a mockery or a genuine offer, we need to approach it with caution. After all, a marriage alliance with someone of such standing could either strengthen our peace or shatter it entirely."
The room grew tense once more, but this time for a different reason. The officers nodded slowly, realizing that their prince was not outright rejecting the idea. His interest—or, perhaps, his curiosity—was unmistakable.
"For now, we wait," Li Qiang said firmly. "We shall see how the Wu Dynasty proceeds with this matter. Only then will we decide whether to accept or refuse. Until then, there will be no more outbursts or reckless words. Am I understood?"
"Yes, Your Highness!" the officers chorused, bowing deeply. The room fell into an uneasy silence as they processed their prince's words, unsure of what this meant for the future of their alliance.
As the meeting adjourned, Helan Li Qiang leaned back in his chair, his expression thoughtful. The image of Shangguan Ning—his grace, his ethereal beauty, and his calmness amidst the chaos—lingered in his mind.
"An intriguing proposition indeed," he murmured to himself, his lips curling into a slight smile. "Let's see what game the Wu Emperor is playing."
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Morning light filtered gently through the silk curtains of Shangguan Ning's chamber, casting a soft glow across the room. The delicate fragrance of cherry blossoms from the garden outside mingled with the cool morning breeze. Shangguan Ning sat near the open window, his long white hair loose around him, flowing like silk over his shoulders. He couldn't help but let his mind drift back to the banquet the previous night.
The proposal of a marriage alliance still echoed in his thoughts. Though he had presented himself with calm and grace at the banquet, a part of him was unsettled. The weight of duty had always been something he carried with ease, but now, the prospect of being offered in marriage to the second prince of the demon empire was far more personal than any of his past obligations. Could he truly fulfill such a role? What would become of him if this alliance moved forward?
His thoughts were interrupted by the soft sound of footsteps approaching his door. A knock followed.
"Your Imperial Highness," a maid's voice called from behind the door, her tone respectful. "The Grand Eunuch came with a message. His Majesty the Emperor summons you to the palace." She opened the door slightly, bowing as she relayed the message.
Shangguan Ning turned to face her, his expression composed. "Thank you. I understand," he replied, his voice as soft and elegant as ever. After a brief pause, he added, "Call Cong for me."
The maid bowed again and swiftly left to carry out his request.
Cong, his trusted male attendant, was more than just a servant. He had served Shangguan Ning for years, tending to him with a loyalty that bordered on brotherly affection. From helping him dress in the finest robes to ensuring his needs were met during official duties, Cong had always been by his side. It was a position of deep trust, and Shangguan Ning appreciated his quiet efficiency.
Within moments, Cong entered the room, bowing respectfully before speaking. "Your Imperial Highness, how may I assist you?"
"Prepare my robes for the palace. Something fitting for an audience with His Majesty," Shangguan Ning said, standing gracefully from his seat by the window. His long robes trailed behind him, and with practiced elegance, he moved to the dressing area where Cong had already begun to lay out a set of clothing.
"Of course, Your Highness," Cong replied, his hands deftly working to gather the garments. He selected a soft blue hanfu embroidered with silver thread, the fabric shimmering like water under the sunlight. It was elegant but not overly ostentatious—a perfect balance for a prince of his stature meeting the emperor.
Cong helped him remove his nightwear and begin the delicate process of preparing for the day. Shangguan Ning stood still, his mind once again drifting as Cong arranged the many layers of his attire. His thoughts wandered back to the demon prince, Helan Li Qiang, the one who had captured the attention of the court, and possibly even his. A man with such a reputation—famed for his prowess in battle, his sharp mind, and his undeniable strength—how would he respond to the idea of marriage with a man like him?
As Cong tied the final sash around Shangguan Ning's waist, he sensed his master's distant gaze and spoke softly. "Your Highness, is something troubling you?"
Shangguan Ning blinked, pulled from his thoughts by the question. He glanced at Cong, a small smile gracing his lips. "You've known me too long, Cong."
Cong bowed his head respectfully. "I am here to serve, Your Highness. If there is anything on your mind, I am honored to listen."
Shangguan Ning sighed softly, his eyes drifting toward the window once more. "The banquet last night… the suggestion of a marriage alliance. It's nothing I expected."
"A marriage alliance? With the demon empire?" Cong asked, his brow furrowing slightly in concern. "That is indeed a weighty matter. Have you made your decision?"
Shangguan Ning shook his head, his expression unreadable. "It's not something I can decide on my own. But if my uncle believes it is best for the dynasty, then I will follow through, as is my duty."
Cong nodded solemnly, understanding the burdens of royalty. "Whatever your path, Your Highness, I will serve you as I always have."
Shangguan Ning smiled faintly at the loyalty in Cong's voice. "Thank you, Cong. Now, let us not keep the emperor waiting."
---
The journey to the palace was peaceful, but the tension in the air was palpable. The carriage rolled smoothly through the capital streets, past bustling markets and quiet courtyards, before arriving at the grand gates of the palace. The guards bowed respectfully as Shangguan Ning was escorted through the palace grounds.
As he walked toward the emperor's study, the familiar corridors of the palace seemed different today—more imposing, more solemn. He wondered what his uncle had in store for him. Was the marriage proposal simply a matter of formality now, or was there more to discuss?
Upon reaching the emperor's study, the grand eunuch bowed and opened the doors for him.
---
Inside the emperor's study, the scent of incense filled the air, and the soft rustling of papers indicated that the emperor had been reviewing documents. Shangguan Ning stepped forward and bowed gracefully.
"Greetings, Uncle Emperor," he said, his voice steady despite the uncertainty that lingered within him.
The emperor glanced up from his desk and smiled warmly. "Get up, Ning'er. There's no need for formalities between family, as always." He gestured for Shangguan Ning to take a seat. "Sit, let's talk."
Once seated, the emperor's expression turned more serious, though his eyes were filled with concern. "Ning'er, do you resent me for what happened yesterday?" His tone was gentle, but the question was heavy.
Shangguan Ning met his uncle's gaze, his face composed. "I don't dare to resent you, Uncle Emperor. If your decision is to send me for a marriage alliance and if it will benefit our dynasty, then I will comply. It is my duty as a prince of the Wu Dynasty."
The emperor sighed, leaning back in his chair as he regarded his nephew. "You've always been so dutiful, always willing to put the dynasty's needs above your own. But I want to be clear, Ning'er. I won't force you into something you do not wish. This is not just about politics. I care for you as family."
The emperor's words hung in the air, the weight of responsibility mixed with familial affection. Shangguan Ning knew that no matter what happened, the road ahead was fraught with uncertainty. But for now, he would continue as he always had—with grace, loyalty, and the resolve to do what was right. Even though it's against on his own will.
Shangguan Ning stood gracefully from his seat and bowed slightly, his eyes calm despite the weight of the conversation. "It's fine, Uncle Emperor. I don't want to be the reason a war would break out."
The emperor, though resigned to the situation, couldn't hide the sadness that lingered in his heart. "Okay, if you say so," he said softly, feeling a pang of guilt as he looked at his nephew.
After a brief pause, the emperor added, "Tomorrow, I will prepare an edict for the marriage alliance and announce your promotion. You'll receive some land, and I'll arrange valuable dowries for you. We'll also have a farewell banquet in your honor."
"Thank you, Uncle Emperor. Then, I shall excuse myself now," Shangguan Ning responded, bowing once more before turning to leave the room.
As he watched his nephew walk away, the emperor sighed deeply, the sadness in his eyes evident. "Hopefully, my older sister won't blame me for this," he murmured to himself, the weight of his decision bearing down on him. The emperor had always known that the life of royalty was fraught with sacrifices, but seeing Shangguan Ning—so calm, so composed, yet undoubtedly burdened—only deepened his sorrow.
---
As Shangguan Ning stepped out of the palace and approached his carriage, Cong was already waiting, concern etched on his face. "Your imperial highness, how was the talk with His Majesty?" he asked gently.
Shangguan Ning paused for a moment, his gaze drifting as he sighed softly. "It's been decided. I will marry off," he replied, his voice calm but distant.
Cong blinked in surprise, but he quickly masked it with understanding. He had always been by Ning's side, and while the news shocked him, he remained supportive. "I see," he said, bowing his head in respect.
After a moment, Shangguan Ning spoke again, his tone lighter, as if trying to shake off the heaviness of the conversation. "Cong, let's take a stroll in the markets. I need to clear my mind."
Cong nodded and turned to the coach rider, instructing him to take them to the market.
---
Upon their arrival, the lively buzz of the market filled the air, contrasting with the solemn thoughts in Shangguan Ning's mind. He gracefully stepped off the carriage and began walking through the bustling streets. The vibrant stalls filled with colorful silks, exotic spices, and lively merchants calling out to passersby seemed like a world far removed from the heavy responsibilities that weighed on his shoulders.
As Ning strolled, his attention was momentarily caught by a vendor selling delicate jade ornaments. But as he turned, he suddenly found himself face-to-face with none other than Helan Li Qiang, the second prince of the demon empire.
Their eyes met in a moment of surprise. Helan Li Qiang, known for his notorious prowess on the battlefield, had an intense gaze, but in that instant, it softened as he looked at Shangguan Ning. The ethereal beauty of Shangguan Ning, his white hair flowing gracefully in the wind, seemed to mesmerize the demon prince.
"Your imperial highness, what a coincidence to meet you here," Helan Li Qiang said, his voice steady, though there was a glint of curiosity in his dark eyes.
Shangguan Ning inclined his head slightly, offering a polite smile. "Your highness, Prince Helan it seems fate has brought us together in such an unexpected place," he replied with a gentle tone, though there was an undeniable tension lingering between them.
As the crowd flowed around them, it was as if time had momentarily paused, leaving only the two princes standing in the midst of the bustling market, their fates intertwining in ways they had yet to fully understand.