The Dowager Empress's Gambit

roots, causing you to wither and die. The Buddha, in his compassion, allowed you to reincarnate and repay your debt of gratitude. That is why you met Prince Cheng first and saved his life. But the one you truly owe a debt of love to is the emperor, who cared for you daily in that past life. Your love for him is a destined bond, not something you can control."

"Tell him that if he truly loves you, he should let you go. Clinging to you will only bring disaster to all three of you in this life."

Fang Lanyue's eyes widened as she listened. "Will he believe that?"

I smiled gently. "Whether he believes it or not, it gives him a way out. He can tell the world that he let you go out of respect for the Buddha's will, not because he was cuckolded. That preserves his dignity."

Fang Lanyue nodded slowly, a glimmer of hope in her eyes.

I patted her hand. "Write the letter. I'll have it delivered to Prince Cheng myself."

After leaving the Palace of Heavenly Purity, my trusted eunuch asked me quietly, "Your Majesty, do you really believe that story about past lives?"

I chuckled. "Of course not. But Prince Cheng needs an excuse to back down, and the emperor needs a reason to justify his obsession. Everyone gets what they want."

"And more importantly, once Fang Lanyue writes that letter, she's put herself in my debt. She'll do whatever I say from now on."

The eunuch nodded admiringly. "Your Majesty's wisdom is unparalleled."

I waved my hand. "Enough flattery. Go deliver the letter and make sure Prince Cheng gets it."

As I watched him scurry away, I allowed myself a small smile. The game was just beginning, and I intended to win.