Chapter 1

[Yanshan State]

Chang Mei was the only princess of Huoling Kingdom, the daughter of Emperor Chang Ru and Empress Chang Xue. She was cheerful, beautiful, and talented, a true blessing to her people. Since her birth, which had been risky and difficult for her mother, the entire state seemed to prosper. Everyone called her the “Luckiest Star.”

This morning, as the golden light spilled softly through the palace windows, Mei was quietly peeking through the bamboo screen at the training grounds. There, the General of Huoling Kingdom, tall and fierce, drilled his soldiers with precision and power. She watched with admiration, her heart fluttering in secret.

Her blue and white dress, embroidered with cranes, swayed in the breeze. A green phoenix jade pendant gleamed at her waist. Her eyes followed General Liang Wuxian as he trained his soldiers. His sword flashed like a dragon’s dance, swift and strong. Liang was Huoling's greatest warrior, unmatched in archery, sword fighting, and horse riding. Every girl in the state dreamed of him, but Mei’s heart held a secret only for him.

Unbeknownst to her, the General had noticed her gaze long ago. He never stopped his training, though he knew Mei was watching. Their silent understanding was a fragile dance, his rank forbidding any open confession.

Suddenly, Mei’s maid, Xiaolan, stepped gently behind her and whispered, “Princess, the Emperor is coming.”

Mei barely glanced back, her eyes fixed on the general’s steady movements.

The Emperor stepped into the courtyard, his face soft but with an undercurrent of seriousness reserved only for his daughter.

“Father,” she greeted, bowing her head slightly.

“Mei,” he said, his voice calm, “you must not spend all your time watching the General. There are duties you must fulfill here. I understand, but just don’t let your heart lead you into trouble”.

Mei nodded, a hint of mischief in her eyes. “I won’t, Father. I was only watching, Father. I promise I’m not neglecting my duties.”

He reached out to tuck a loose strand of hair behind her ear. “You are my precious daughter.”

She smiled softly. “And you are my greatest protector.”

He sighed, then smiled. “Don’t make me chase you around the palace.”

The Emperor gave a brief nod and turned away.

With a sigh, Mei headed back to her chambers, where another maid, Ling, was waiting with a message.

“Princess,” Ling said softly, bowing her head, “a banquet will be held in a week. The Emperor commands your attendance.”

Mei paused, the weight of the palace pressing down once more.

“I will be ready,” Mei replied, folding the scroll carefully.

Her thoughts drifted back to the general standing alone in the training yard, a silent promise lingering between them.