Ancient Love for His Majesty
Ep3: A General's Counsel
The weight of the unanswered questions from the library clung to me like a persistent fog. The Imperial Academy examinations loomed, yet my focus remained fractured, my thoughts consumed by the whispers of the Empress Dowager's private archery competition.
I needed answers, and there was only one person I trusted enough to provide them: my elder brother, General Qin.
Securing a moment alone with him was no easy feat. His days were consumed by matters of imperial security, his nights often spent strategizing with his officers. But I knew his routines and his habits.
I knew that every evening, after his final patrol of the palace grounds, he would retreat to his private courtyard for a solitary cup of tea.
It was there, under the watchful gaze of the moon, that I found him. He sat on a stone bench, his tall, imposing figure silhouetted against the night sky. The scent of jasmine tea hung in the air, a rare indulgence in his otherwise austere existence.
He looked up as I approached, his expression softening slightly.
He said, his voice a low rumble.
General Qin
What brings you here so late? Shouldn't you be studying for your examinations?
I replied, approaching him cautiously.
Qin Meixin
But something has been troubling me, and I need your advice.
He raised an eyebrow, his gaze sharp and assessing.
General Qin
Speak your mind.
I hesitated for a moment, unsure how to broach the subject.
Qin Meixin
I overheard some of my classmates discussing a private archery competition, organized by the Empress Dowager. They called it the Imperial Archery Ceremony.
His face remained impassive, giving nothing away.
Qin Meixin
And I was wondering if you knew anything about it,
Qin Meixin
Why wasn't I informed? Is it true that only the most skilled ladies of the court are invited?
He took a slow sip of his tea, his eyes fixed on the distant stars.
General Qin
The Empress Dowager enjoys hosting small gatherings, showcasing the talents of the young women in the capital. It is a way for her to assess their character, their skills, their suitability for potential… alliances.
The implication hung heavy in the air. Marriages. The Empress Dowager was subtly vetting potential brides for the Emperor and other high-ranking officials.
Qin Meixin
So it is true, then,
I said, my voice barely a whisper.
Qin Meixin
And I wasn't invited.
He finally turned to me, his gaze piercing.
General Qin
Do not jump to conclusions, Meixin. The invitations have not yet been sent. The Empress Dowager is a discerning woman. She takes her time in making her selections.
Qin Meixin
But why the secrecy?
Qin Meixin
Why wasn't this announced publicly?
General Qin
Because the Empress Dowager prefers discretion,
General Qin
She does not wish to create unnecessary competition or envy. Those who are meant to be invited will be invited. Those who are not… well, they will focus on other pursuits.
His words were carefully chosen, leaving me with more questions than answers.
Was he trying to protect me from disappointment? Or was he subtly warning me that I was not considered worthy of an invitation?
I said, my voice pleading.
Qin Meixin
Do you think I am skilled enough to participate in this competition? Do you think I have a chance of impressing the Empress Dowager?
He studied me for a long moment, his expression unreadable. Then, he finally spoke, his voice firm and unwavering.
General Qin
You are my sister, Meixin. I know your talents better than anyone. You are skilled in archery, embroidery, cookery, and your performance at the Academy is exemplary. You have the potential to excel in anything you set your mind to.
His words were comforting, but they lacked a certain conviction. I sensed a hesitation, a reservation that he was unwilling to voice.
He sighed, running a hand through his close-cropped hair.
General Qin
But the court is a treacherous place, Meixin. It is filled with ambition, envy, and deceit. The Empress Dowager is a powerful woman, and her favor can be fleeting. Are you prepared to navigate those waters? Are you prepared to face the scrutiny, the competition, the potential for disappointment?
His words were a sobering reminder of the realities of court life. The Imperial Archery Ceremony was not just a simple competition. It was a test of character, a trial by fire.
I looked at my brother, his face etched with concern. He was trying to protect me, to shield me from the dangers of the court. But I knew that I couldn't back down. I had to prove myself, not just to the Empress Dowager, but to myself.
I said, my voice was filled with newfound determination.
Qin Meixin
I am prepared to face whatever challenges lie ahead. I will not let you down.
He nodded slowly, a hint of pride flickering in his eyes.
General Qin
Then go, Meixin. Study hard for your examinations. Hone your skills. And if you are invited to the Imperial Archery Ceremony, show them what you are capable of.
With his words echoing in my ears, I turned and left the courtyard, my heart filled with a mixture of hope and trepidation. The path ahead would be fraught with challenges, but I was ready to face them head-on.
The Imperial Archery Ceremony was no longer just a competition. It was a test of my worth, a chance to prove myself to the world. And I would not fail.
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