Dawn had barely broken over the capital when Prince Zhen awoke, his mind already racing. News of the rumors surrounding Yanli had reached him late into the previous night, relayed by one of his trusted shadow guards. He had listened in silence as the guard recounted the whispers circulating around court—how Yanli's broken engagement to Hanyu was being twisted, painting her as fickle, a woman of questionable loyalty. Yet, even as anger simmered beneath his composed exterior, Zhen found himself considering the unexpected opportunity presented to him.
He slipped into his study, his quiet footsteps barely making a sound. The palace was still shrouded in the hushed quiet of early morning, with only the distant sounds of servants beginning their routines. Zhen allowed himself a rare moment to sit, leaning back as he weighed his options. For too long, he had watched from the shadows, hoping that one day Yanli might see him as more than a distant presence. But the rumors had created a window he could no longer ignore—a chance to act decisively before anyone else could.
Zhen's thoughts drifted to Yanli, her fire, her determination, and her unwavering spirit. She had managed to endure Hanyu's slander in silence, refusing to defend herself, a decision he both admired and questioned. A small smile tugged at his lips as he pictured her expression if he were to approach her with his proposal, especially under these delicate circumstances. Yanli valued her independence fiercely, but he knew her well enough to see through her guarded heart. She would not accept marriage easily—at least, not without persuasion.
Just then, his steward entered the room, bowing respectfully. "Your Highness, the emperor has summoned you for morning tea."
Zhen's eyes lit up with a spark of determination. His older brother, the emperor, had always been indulgent with him, trusting his judgment and respecting his choices. Zhen knew this was the perfect opportunity to plant the idea subtly, to make it seem like the most natural solution to a delicate situation. A marriage to Yanli would not only safeguard her reputation but would also secure her from any further machinations of Hanyu or others.
With a nod, he rose from his chair and made his way to his brother's chambers. The emperor, despite the demands of ruling, valued these quiet moments with Zhen, treating him as more of a friend than a sibling. Their bond had been unbreakable since childhood, a fact Zhen had come to rely on in times like these.
As he entered the chamber, the emperor greeted him warmly, gesturing to the tea table. "Ah, Zhen! Come, sit. It's rare for us to share a peaceful morning like this."
Zhen inclined his head with a gentle smile, taking his seat across from the emperor. "Indeed, brother. The palace rarely allows us such moments."
The emperor poured tea for them both, his expression thoughtful. "I've heard troubling whispers about Lady Yanli. You must have heard them as well?"
Zhen nodded, his face somber. "I have, and I must say it concerns me deeply. Lady Yanli has always been a woman of integrity. To see her name tarnished in such a manner feels unjust."
The emperor's brows furrowed, a hint of sadness passing over his face. "Hanyu's actions have caused quite a stir. It's a pity that matters had to end this way."
Zhen took a measured breath, seizing the moment. "Brother, perhaps there is a way to end these rumors once and for all. Lady Yanli is a woman of noble spirit, and if she were to marry into a family of high standing, her honor would be restored."
The emperor looked at him, his gaze sharpening. "Are you suggesting she marry into our family, Zhen? Because our family is the highest of all standing families "
Zhen hesitated, a calculated pause before speaking. "Yes. I am suggesting that. If she were to be engaged or married, it would silence any talk of impropriety. She would be under our protection, and no one would dare to question her honor."
The emperor's expression softened, understanding Zhen's unspoken intent. "You have long admired her, haven't you, Zhen?"
Zhen looked away briefly, a faint blush coloring his cheeks. "She is… remarkable. And I fear that if I let her go again, I may regret it forever."
The emperor chuckled, clapping his younger brother on the shoulder. "Then you have my blessing. Go to her, Zhen. Convince her. If she agrees, I will announce the engagement myself, as a formal decree."
A wave of relief washed over Zhen, though he kept his expression composed. He bowed deeply, murmuring, "Thank you, brother."
Leaving the emperor's quarters, Zhen felt the weight of his decision settle. Yanli would not be easy to sway, but he was prepared to face her resistance. He returned to his chambers, where Bai Min awaited him with a respectful bow.
"Your Highness, Lady Yanli has sent word that she will receive you this afternoon," Bai Min reported.
Zhen nodded, a smile touching his lips. He knew she would. Their last encounter had left unfinished words, emotions that neither of them had been willing to express. He was ready to change that now.
Later that afternoon, Zhen arrived at Yanli's residence, feeling a mixture of anticipation and resolve. As he was led into the private garden, he found Yanli waiting, her face unreadable, her posture composed. Despite the scandal swirling around her, she exuded strength, and he couldn't help but feel admiration.
"Your Highness," she greeted with a respectful bow, though her eyes held a glimmer of suspicion. "I trust your visit brings important news?"
Zhen offered her a soft smile. "It does, but not quite in the way you might expect."
She tilted her head, studying him. "Then please, enlighten me."
He took a step closer, his voice lowering. "I have come to offer you a solution. The rumors about you have reached the emperor's ears, and while you remain silent, the court is ruthless. If you do not speak soon, the damage may be irreparable."
Yanli's expression did not change, though her gaze sharpened. "And what solution do you propose?"
"A marriage," Zhen said simply, watching her reaction closely. "Or, if you are not yet prepared for marriage, an engagement."
Her eyes widened, surprise flickering across her face before she quickly masked it. "Marriage? And to whom, might I ask?"
"To me," he replied calmly, his tone unwavering. "As your husband or fiancé, I would have the authority to protect you from these rumors and ensure that no one dares to slander you further."
She was silent for a long moment, searching his face as if seeking the truth behind his words. "You speak as though this is merely a political solution," she said softly. "But I suspect there is more to it than that."
He met her gaze, allowing her to see the sincerity in his eyes. "You are correct. This is not merely for the sake of appearances. I have admired you for years, Yanli. If there is anyone I would wish to stand by my side, it would be you. I do not want you to slip away from me again."
Her face softened, and for a moment, Zhen thought he saw a flicker of vulnerability in her eyes. But then her gaze grew guarded once more. "You assume that I would be willing to enter a marriage so easily, even to protect my name."
Zhen nodded, his voice gentle yet firm. "I understand your hesitation. I would not ask for an immediate marriage if you are not ready. But an engagement would serve the same purpose and allow us time to build trust."
Yanli considered his words, her mind clearly at work. "You believe this engagement would silence the rumors?"
"I am certain of it," he replied. "The emperor himself will decree it, and no one will question it."
After a long pause, she gave a slight nod. "Very well, Prince Zhen. I will agree to this engagement—for now. But understand, this is not a promise beyond that."
Zhen inclined his head, respect filling his gaze. "I would not ask for more, my lady."
As they shared a quiet moment, Zhen felt a surge of satisfaction. He had taken the first step in securing her by his side, and though it was only an engagement, he knew that in time, she would come to see the depth of his devotion. He would give her all the time she needed, but he would never let her slip away again.