The grand banquet, with its dazzling display of artistry and grace, had left a lasting impression on the imperial court. The twenty girls had each revealed talents that stirred admiration, envy, and curiosity in equal measure. Yet, as the courtiers dispersed into their chambers, a new tension took hold — a tension born not from celebration, but from uncertainty and whispered doubts.
In the quiet halls of the palace, the Emperor and the Second Empress met behind closed doors. The weight of their forthcoming decision pressed heavily upon them.
"The daughters of the noble families have shown impressive gifts," Lady Lee said thoughtfully, "but the question remains — which prince will choose which bride? It is not a matter to be taken lightly. The future of the dynasty depends on it."
The Emperor's stern eyes met hers. "We must consider not only their talents but their health and ability to produce strong heirs. The choice will be announced in a few days, but our judgment must be careful."
Their private deliberations, though solemn, would soon become the subject of court gossip.
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Outside the imperial chambers, rumors began to swirl like a sudden chill wind.
"She appeared weak this morning on her way to the temple," a court lady whispered behind cupped hands. "How can a girl who falters be expected to bear a strong prince?"
The murmur grew, spreading through the court like wildfire. In an empire where strength was revered, a whisper of frailty could ruin even the brightest future.
Mothers of other girls, sensing the danger, redoubled their efforts to showcase their daughters' talents. They made certain to distance themselves from the girl who had captured so much attention before — Anne.
The palace corridors buzzed with subtle slights and veiled barbs aimed at Anne's reputation. "A delicate frame cannot produce heirs worthy of the throne," some said. "Better to look elsewhere."
Yet one figure in the court paid no heed to such rumors.
Prince Li Jun, the Third Prince, watched Anne not with judgment, but with a quiet resolve.
---
In a rare private moment, he sought out Lady Lee, the Second Empress, to voice his thoughts.
"My Lady," he began softly, "I have observed the young lady carefully. Despite what others say, I believe her spirit is strong. Her talents are unmatched, and I feel she deserves a chance."
Lady Lee regarded him with a mixture of surprise and curiosity. "You speak with conviction. Many have already turned away from her."
Li Jun's eyes did not waver. "I do not ask for immediate approval. Only that she be given care, and time to recover. I believe she can thrive."
For a moment, Lady Lee was silent, weighing his words.
"Perhaps you are right," she said finally. "Her talents may indeed prove valuable to the empire. If she recovers, she could become an exceptional consort."
That afternoon, Lady Lee spoke to the Emperor, urging a reconsideration of Anne's position.
The Emperor, after reflection, consented. He decreed that Anne would be allowed a period of rest and treatment. Though the court would not be informed directly, a discreet message was sent to her family. Her fate was not sealed.
Meanwhile, whispers in the court shifted focus. Attention returned to the other young women — their futures clouded by hope and rivalry, but also by fear of the unknown.
Days passed, each filled with growing anticipation. The Emperor and Empress prepared to announce the final matches. Each prince was expected to choose a bride, and the realm waited for the imperial decree.
Anne's name had been spoken less and less in the halls, overshadowed by gossip and doubt. But Li Jun's quiet determination stood as a beacon of hope.
As the chapter closes, the palace is alive with whispered conversations and veiled glances. The delicate balance between power, talent, and fate hangs by a thread. The choices of the Emperor and Empress will shape the future — not only for the twenty girls but for the entire empire.
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End of Chapter 19...
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