The set was livelier than usual this morning.
Not long after Lin Qinghe arrived, Zhong Yu, who played the Grand Prince, also showed up. The two had met before at the company, so they weren’t too awkward around each other.
Zhong Yu cherished this opportunity dearly. According to him, the role of the Grand Prince was the best resource he had ever landed in his entertainment career. If he could perform well enough to leave a lasting impression on the audience and gain a bit of fame, he would be completely satisfied.
Lin Qinghe found Zhong Yu to be a very straightforward person. He said whatever was on his mind and wasn’t complicated at all.
“Best Actress Su Zihan will be here later too. I really like her—in an admiring way. When I found out she was playing the Grand Prince’s fiancée, I couldn’t sleep for three nights straight.”
“I can’t believe I get to act opposite an Award-winning Best Actress.”
Lin Qinghe asked thoughtfully, “Are you nervous right now?”
Zhong Yu touched his nose, his face a little red. “To be honest, I’m nervous.”
Su Zihan and Xi Yan were polar opposites. Xi Yan became famous the moment he debuted and never lacked resources. Some people even personally delivered resources just to curry favor with his older brother. Awards piled up effortlessly for him. At a young age, his achievements were already out of reach for most.
Su Zihan, on the other hand, had no background or connections. She fought for everything herself. When she first entered the entertainment industry, she was just an insignificant nobody that anyone could step on. Years ago on a variety show, she lost a game and was forced to play “Truth,” revealing that back when she wasn’t famous, someone maliciously pushed her into a swimming pool during a game. She choked on mouthfuls of water. By the time she was struggling so hard she could barely breathe, the lifeguard only then slowly came over to fish her out.
From obscurity to minor fame to household name, her journey had been full of hardship and difficulty every step of the way.
“She’s very formidable, and not just in acting,” Zhong Yu said. “Her personality is incredibly charismatic. Once you talk to her, you’ll understand exactly how I feel.”
Su Zihan appeared a dozen or so minutes later, wearing a beige dress with a trench coat, black sunglasses, her hair naturally curly, and high heels. Her strong aura carried a touch of casual ease.
Everyone greeted her one after another, and she raised a bright smile in response. “Thanks for your hard work, everyone. I brought coffee. Little Yang will hand it out in a bit.”
Immediate thanks followed.
“Thanks, Sister Han!”
“Sister Han, you’re too kind.”
…
The assistant handed a coffee to Lin Qinghe. He accepted it and thanked her politely. The coffee was too bitter for his taste, so he had to set it aside for the moment.
“You’re Lin Qinghe.” After exchanging greetings with the directors, Su Zihan walked over. “Zhong Yu, hello.”
Zhong Yu looked like he’d just been hit by a pie falling from the sky. He flashed several pearly white teeth. “Sister Han, hello.”
“Not a fan of coffee?” Noticing the untouched coffee packaging, Su Zihan spoke to Lin Qinghe knowingly. “It was thoughtless of me. What does Qinghe like to drink? My treat next time.”
Su Zihan’s smile felt very comfortable. Her pace of speaking was unhurried, and the friendliness she displayed didn’t feel forced—just the right distance. Lin Qinghe replied gently, “I just haven’t acquired the taste. Compared to coffee, I’d prefer hot tea or juice.”
“Your tastes really are unique.” Su Zihan sighed in admiration, tucking a lock of hair behind her ear with a smile. “Hot tea isn’t really feasible, but juice can be managed.”
Zhong Yu jumped into the conversation, teasing, “Qinghe is unique in every way. Pipa, guzheng—he’s skilled at them all. Tea-tasting and listening to the rain are his refined pleasures. Clearly, he’s already stepped into senior-citizen living.”
The atmosphere turned harmonious.
“I’ve seen you play the pipa. My other assistant is actually a fan of yours. She’s been at the hospital recently taking care of a family member. I wonder if I could ask for an autograph on her behalf?” Su Zihan blinked; her face was bright and alluring.
“Of course.” Lin Qinghe was being asked for his autograph for the first time. He asked, “What blessing should I write?”
“Just write, ‘Wishing your family good health and that everything goes well.'”
“No problem.”
…
The palace scene today was laying the groundwork for the later plot. Duke Devin had achieved great merit in quelling the rebellion, and The Empress was overjoyed upon receiving his letter. She decided to hold a banquet to celebrate.
In the resplendent hall, Empress Petra sat on the high throne, wearing a crown encrusted with jewels and diamonds. She held a scepter, and her embroidered gown was magnificent yet dignified. She was already past fifty, and the years had left some traces on her face.
Empress Petra was famed for ruling the kingdom with virtue. Her looks weren’t particularly outstanding, but years of experience had imbued her with a mature, noble grace that surpassed even the most radiant blossoms.
“Devin is a warrior of the Central Realm Kingdom. I shall host a banquet on the full moon night, inviting all ministers to enjoy fine food and red wine.”
“Her Majesty speaks wisely. Our warriors also need to be rewarded; only then can we soothe the army’s morale.”
The Empress nodded in agreement. “Marquis Lifu’s consideration is thorough. The warriors should also receive courteous treatment. I shall entrust this matter to you, then.”
The minister addressed as Marquis Lifu gave a slight bow. “My honor, esteemed Queen.”
Through this discussion, the news of Devin’s victorious return spread throughout the palace.
“Have you heard? Duke Devin is on his way back to Sindeli.”
“The Duke is brave and invincible. I just knew he would be victorious.”
“Counting the days, it’s about time he returned. It’s been two whole months.”
“So two months have already passed. Time really flies. The sight of seeing the Duke off last time still feels so vivid.”
“Duke Devin is about to return to Sindeli. I’ll be living in fear and trepidation again.”
“Who says it isn’t so? Even so, I still hope for the Duke’s safe return.”
…
In the Royal Garden, green trees cast ample shade and hundreds of flowers were in full bloom. Inside a serene, quiet pavilion sat a beautiful, noble girl. She wore pearl earrings, her hair was pinned up, and a cream-white silk ribbon adorned her neck. She was dressed in a light-blue gown, her features exquisitely delicate.
A smile lingered in her eyes, like a maiden eagerly awaiting her love.
“Rose, do you think I look beautiful today?”
“Princess Wei’er, you are the most beautiful girl I have ever seen, without a single flaw.” Rose spoke encouragingly. “The Grand Prince will certainly be moved by your sincerity.”
Wei’er’s gaze fell on the pastries she had made herself. Her voice was like a clear spring. “Franlang is very gentlemanly and gentle. But after spending so much time together, I feel he hasn’t developed any affection for me. Sometimes it stirs me—his beloved passed away half a year ago, yet his original heart remains unchanged, his love so deep. Other times, I feel melancholy. Perhaps there will never be a possibility between us.”
“Princess Wei’er, you mustn’t let your thoughts run wild. The Empress dotes on you so much, and the Grand Prince holds the deepest respect for The Empress. Besides you, who else could become his fiancée?”
Wei’er gave a faint smile. “I hope it won’t all be for naught.”
About half a year ago, Franlang’s beloved had passed away from illness. Unable to bear seeing him so unhappy, The Empress held a ball, hoping to find a girl who could help Franlang open his heart.
Wei’er was the daughter of a trusted minister. She attended the ball by invitation. After only two brief encounters, she had completely fallen for Franlang’s personal charm. Franlang was different from the soldiers who shed blood and sweat on the battlefield, and different from the arrogant, rude noble sons. Wei’er loved his gentleness and his chivalry.
Unfortunately, Franlang didn’t feel the same way.
As they were speaking, a man approached from ahead.
Wei’er stood up, her heart full of joy. “Franlang, I’m so happy you could come. Quick, try the pastries I made.”
Franlang’s handsomeness lacked sharp edges, giving off an approachable air.
He was never stingy with his smile. “Thank you, Princess Wei’er. I never expected to eat pastries made by your own hands.”
Wei’er pushed the porcelain plate forward a little. Generously, she said, “If you like them, I can make them often in the future. My mother taught me many skills. I can also brew fruit wine.”
“That’s really impressive.” Franlang bit into a pastry, chewing slowly. The light fragrance spread in his mouth. He praised, “It’s even better than what the palace chefs make.”
“Really?” Wei’er’s eyes curved. “Let me pour you a glass of water.”
Saying this, she reached for the water glass and began pouring. Probably overexcited, she didn’t watch what she was doing, and the hot water spilled over her tender pale hand.
“Ah…” A sharp burn struck, and Wei’er’s fingers curled in reflex. She hurriedly dropped the cup.
“Wei’er!” Franlang urgently grabbed her hand, not caring about anything else. “Let me see.”
The scalded part was somewhat red. Without turning his head, Franlang ordered the attendant behind him, “Go get the ointment, quickly.”
Wei’er’s eyes brimmed with tears that didn’t fall. When she gazed at someone like this, it was like an autumn pool rippling with gentle waves. Franlang’s actions made the tips of her ears flush hot, rendering her speechless for a moment.
Sensing the subtle atmosphere, Franlang withdrew his hand from holding Wei’er’s. He apologized, “I’m sorry, that was rude of me.”
Wei’er shook her head. “It’s fine. You were just worried I might get hurt.”
It wasn’t long before the attendant brought the ointment. Rose carefully applied it to Wei’er, while Franlang stood waiting beside them, his expression worried.
Wei’er was considerate. “I’m fine. The pain was just a flash. It feels cool and soothed now.”
These words didn’t do much to improve Franlang’s expression. “For now, don’t make any pastries or fruit wine. It’ll make the injury worse.”
“Mm.” A shy expression flashed across Wei’er’s face. Then she asked, “Then… can I come find you in the garden tomorrow? I’d like to take a walk with you.”
The young girl was presenting her most beautiful, purest self at this moment.
After a pause of two seconds, Franlang nodded. “Of course. I have time tomorrow afternoon.”
Having received a positive answer from Franlang, Wei’er responded, “I’ll come here in the afternoon.”
Once they had made this arrangement and Franlang had advised Wei’er on a few things to avoid, he prepared to say goodbye.
As he walked to a corner, he sensed the hopeful gaze behind him. The corners of his mouth slowly lifted.
After Franlang had disappeared from view, Rose spoke sincerely. “The Grand Prince was so anxious just now that he called you by name directly. It just shows how worried he was.”
She clasped her hands together. “And he even agreed to walk with you in the garden tomorrow. A stroll in the garden together… how romantic. Princess Wei’er, perhaps the Grand Prince is gradually starting to like you too.”
“What should I wear tomorrow? We have to make the Grand Prince fall under your spell.”
Wei’er’s earlier shy expression was nowhere to be seen. Playing with the ointment container, she opened her lips. “I’ll wear that goose-yellow dress.”
…
Half the day slipped by quietly. When Su Zihan and Zhong Yu first began acting together, they kept getting NG’d. Zhong Yu wasn’t able to adjust his state of mind, which led to Su Zihan essentially performing a one-woman show. Director Li Ran’s frown was intimidating. He had seen Zhong Yu’s acting; though not on par with veteran actors, it shouldn’t have been this bad.
Scolding him might worsen Zhong Yu’s mental state, so Li Ran could only jokingly ask if acting opposite the nation’s goddess had made him completely giddy.
