Forbidden Romance
The Meeting
Xiao Li Hua sat in her room, engrossed in a book. She was so caught up in the story that she didn't even notice the handmaid standing in the doorway.
Maid Sè
Your Highness, the King has summoned every member of the royal family and every noble to the throne room for an urgent meeting.
Princess Xiao Li Hua
Ugh, do I really have to attend this meeting? Can't I just stay here and read my book?
Maid Sè
Yes, your highness. You really should be there. It’s the king’s order.
Princess Xiao Li Hua
Fine, I'll go, but I'm not exactly thrilled about it.
Princess Xiao Li Hua
Help me get dressed
Maid Sè
Yes, your highness.
She stands up and goes behind the curtain and the maid helps her get dressed in a blue dress.
The announcer's voice boomed out, as she gets closer to the court room.
Announcer
Attention! Attention! The Princess of Games, Princess Xiao Li Hua graces us with her presence!
Xiao Li Hua walked in gracefully, her eyes scanning the room as she made her way to her seat next to her mother and younger sister. She tried to blend into the background, but she couldn't help feeling a sense of unease as the King cleared his throat to begin the meeting...
Emperor Xiao Ling Jun
(Clears throat) After the introduction, I'd like to announce that I've decided to take a concubine.
She jumps up in surprise and suddenly regains composure.
Princess Xiao Li Hua
I mean, is this really necessary, Father?
Prime minister Hong Bingwen
Princess Li Hua, what do you mean by "NO"? Are you opposing the King's decision?
Princess Xiao Li Hua
That's not what I meant, Prime Minister. I just think it's...unusual for the King to take a concubine when he has the Queen by his side.
Shu Bingwen
(Smirks) - Tut tut, Princess. You weren't even paying attention. My father suggested to His Majesty to choose a concubine because, according to our kingdom's custom, a king must have at least three concubines. And the King has been married to the Queen for 15 years without a son.
Xiao Li Hua gets annoyed, but tries to keep her tone light.
Princess Xiao Li Hua
I suppose that's true. But perhaps we should consider other options before making a decision?
Prime minister Hong Bingwen
Your Majesty, I suggest you take my daughter, Shu Bingwen, as your new concubine. She's a perfect candidate for the position of senior concubine.
Princess Xiao Li Hua
(Opposes)- Prime Minister, were you just suggesting a concubine so your daughter can marry into the royal family? The King never complained about not having a son, and the Queen is still young and healthy.
Shu Bingwen
(Scoffs)- Your Highness, if you weren't the Princess, people would think you want the King for yourself. But unfortunately, you're his daughter, so you have to respect his decisions.
Xiao Li Hua gives Shu Bingwen a death glare.
Princess Xiao Li Hua
How dare you!
Emperor Xiao Ling Jun
(thwacks hand on armrest)
Emperor Xiao Ling Jun
That's enough, Xiao Li Hua!
Man in crowd
We haven't heard the Princess' reason for not wanting Lady Shu to be the head concubine.
Princess Xiao Li Hua
(Stands up) - It wouldn't be fair if we make Lady Shu the concubine without a contest. I suggest we hold a concubine selection contest for every maiden who has come of age.
Woman in crowd
Your Majesty, the Princess is right! It won't be fair to other maidens if Lady Shu is declared senior concubine without a contest. I have a daughter who came of age last month, and I'd like her to participate.
*Crowd*: Yes! Let the contest begin!
Emperor Xiao Ling Jun
(Decrees) - The concubine selection contest will be in three days, and there will be a massive feast.
Princess Xiao Li Hua
(Smirks) -LET THE GAMES BEGIN!
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