The Seven Princesses' Journey Across Time

Ziwei thought of the Prince Yu she had just met—Princess Qing. Her indigo robe's collar and cuffs were embroidered with silver-trimmed flowing cloud patterns, and her waist was cinched with a wide, azure brocade sash embroidered with auspicious clouds. Her jet-black hair was tied up and crowned with a small silver crown inlaid with jade. The shimmering white jade on the crown only accentuated the black, smoothness of her hair, making it look like satin. She was tall and slender, with fair skin and a strikingly heroic presence between her eyebrows. Her eyes, like stars, were as deep as torches, revealing a unique wisdom and decisiveness.

Such a man really makes people involuntarily attracted to him. He is of noble birth, has a steady pace, elegant manners, confident and calm, is gentle and polite to his elders, and makes people feel comfortable when he speaks.

A few days later, the Mid-Autumn Festival arrived as scheduled. On this day of family reunion, the capital was filled with a strong festive atmosphere. The emperor invited princes, nobles, and high-ranking officials to a banquet.

Early this morning, Qing'er set out for the military camp in the suburbs to arrange for the soldiers to celebrate the festival. Since there was no war going on, Qing'er had the soldiers bring a few carts of mooncake-making supplies. She didn't plan to train, so she wanted them to relax today, make mooncakes, and bring them some holiday gifts to feel the festive atmosphere. Over the years, these people have followed her on campaigns across the country, traveling to countless places. After each battle, they would rest and wait for the court to hand over before rushing to the next battlefield. In the past, during the New Year and other festivals, she could only arrange a few sumptuous meals to celebrate, and there was nothing else on the battlefield.

In the evening, after finishing her business, Qing'er returned to the city. She changed into a gorgeous purple robe and went to the palace for a banquet. The palace was ablaze with lights and melodious music. Qing'er entered, attracting many glances. She smiled and nodded to everyone, displaying a noble and generous demeanor. In the banquet hall, a group of ministers were chatting and laughing. Before she even reached her seat, she heard: "The Emperor has arrived, the Empress Dowager has arrived, and the Empress has arrived."

Upon hearing this, everyone immediately knelt and saluted: "Long live the emperor, long live the emperor, a thousand years and a thousand years of life for the Empress Dowager." As the emperor walked past Qing'er, he helped her up before sitting down at the head of the table: "Everyone, please stand! Today is Mid-Autumn Festival. Everyone, please feel free. I will celebrate with you all today."

As the emperor finished speaking, everyone rose, and Qing'er took her place. Her seat was in the front row, near the emperor and the empress dowager. As she sat down, the people around her cast curious and friendly glances at her. Qing'er smiled and responded to their greetings, then chatted with the nobles around her.

The topic revolved around war and peace. Qing'er shared her views on these issues with intelligent words and unique insights. She believed that war only brought destruction and suffering, while peace was the cornerstone of national prosperity and people's happiness. She hoped to resolve disputes through diplomatic means and avoid the outbreak of war. Her views were appreciated by everyone, who expressed their agreement and praised Qing'er's wisdom and kindness. However, she still believed that unification could completely resolve external threats, but she couldn't say that now, otherwise those sour Confucian scholars would criticize her again. But just because she didn't say it didn't mean she couldn't do it, right?

Just then, the music faded, and a dancer took the stage, beginning a captivating performance. The dancer's graceful movements were like a blossoming flower, their movements flowing and graceful, captivating the audience. Qing'er quietly admired the dance, her heart filled with emotion.

After the dance, the emperor stood up, raised his glass high, and toasted everyone. He said, "Today is the Mid-Autumn Festival. We gather here to celebrate this festival of reunion. May our country prosper and our people live and work in peace and contentment! Let's toast!" Everyone responded, raising their glasses and shouting, "Cheers!"

In this joyful atmosphere, Qing'er felt cheerful and full of anticipation for the future. She believed that as long as everyone worked together, the country would surely be on the path to prosperity and strength. She also looked forward to more exchanges and cooperation to promote friendly relations among countries.

After three rounds of wine and five dishes, Qing'er felt that there were too many people in the hall, causing the air to be smelly. She left the table on the pretext of being drunk and went to the Imperial Garden to get some fresh air.

In the Imperial Garden, moonlight poured down like mercury, illuminating every corner. The flowers appeared especially delicate and vibrant under the moonlight, like a beautiful painting. Qing'er strolled through the garden, feeling the coolness and tranquility of the night, a flood of emotion welling up in her heart.

At that moment, a melodious flute sound caught Qing'er's attention. She looked in the direction of the sound and saw a man in white sitting on a rockery not far away, playing a moving tune. He was tall and straight, with an elegant demeanor, as graceful as jade. The flute in his hands shone with a shimmering light, reflecting the moonlight, creating a breathtaking scene.

Seeing this, Qing'er couldn't help but stop and listen quietly. The man's flute sounded melodious and tender, as if telling a story of deep love. Each note was like a bright star, embellishing the entire night sky and making people intoxicated.

As the last note fell, the man slowly put down his flute, turned around, and his eyes met Qing'er's. Qing'er nodded politely. The man smiled slightly, stood up, and walked towards Qing'er.

The man bowed and saluted, saying, "My name is Fulongan, and I'm here to meet Prince Yu."

Qing'er: "No need to be polite. Your song sounds quite nice, but a little sad. Are you the son of the Fucha family?"

Fu Longan smiled and said, "Yes, my father is Fu Cha Fu Heng. I am deeply honored to receive your praise. I wonder if your Majesty also likes music?"

Qing'er nodded: "I know a thing or two."

The two chatted happily, and before they knew it, a long time had passed. Qing'er, remembering that she had to return to the main hall, stood up and said goodbye. Fu Longan watched her departing figure, a trace of reluctance welling up in his heart. But he couldn't rush it. Father had said that the prince didn't care about the private affairs of other women in the boudoir. But this was also good. He could take his time. Besides, their family was a family of military commanders, and he would have more opportunities to interact with her in the future than others.

The next morning, Ertai, dressed in his finest attire and bearing a carefully prepared gift, arrived at Prince Yu's residence in high spirits. Qing'er's eyes flickered with surprise when she saw Ertai arrive as promised. She had initially assumed Ertai was just making a casual remark, but she hadn't expected him to actually come. Seeing this, she had no choice but to cancel her plans for the day. The two then headed to the horse ranch together, chatting and laughing the entire way.