The Forbidden City, Beijing, China - May 25th, 1940
Princess Changning had woken early this morning, eager to witness the Saturday sunrise from the palace gardens. Rising before dawn had become her routine in recent days, the peace and quiet offering solitude for contemplation that the structured formality of daylight hours never allowed.
It was thirty minutes before five o'clock, and the Forbidden City at this hour remained mostly silent, though the first stirrings of daily life had begun. Servants moved through distant corridors with quiet efficiency, their voices carrying as soft murmurs across courtyards. Officials rose to prepare for morning audiences. The palace was transitioning from the suspended animation of night into the choreographed activity that would define the day.
Princess Changning walked through her favorite garden path, soaking in the cool morning air and watching the eastern sky gradually lighten from deep purple to rose gold. Her green silk robes caught the first rays of sunlight, making the embroidered patterns seem to glow with their own luminescence. She moved slowly, deliberately, allowing her fingers to trail across the leaves of ornamental trees positioned along the garden's edge, osmanthus and plum, their blossoms releasing subtle fragrances that mingled with the morning air.
Song Zhongwei and Xinyi accompanied the Princess at a respectful distance of perhaps ten paces, maintaining the proper separation while remaining close enough to attend to any need. As they watched their patron move through the garden, they could notice how the Princess seemed to linger over certain flowers, how her gaze would drift toward the eastern sky and hold there for long moments, as though searching for something in the gathering light.
As Princess Changning paused beside a stone bench to observe a pair of songbirds in the branches above, she heard footsteps behind her, deliberate rather than hurried. She turned to find Princess Ruyi approaching, her own lady-in-waiting following at the prescribed distance.
"Third Sister, is anything the matter?" Princess Ruyi's voice carried genuine concern, her eyes studying Changning's face with particular attention. "You seem to have been occupied with many thoughts recently. Is something troubling you?"
Princess Changning straightened to face her elder sister properly, bowing her head in the gesture of respect younger siblings showed their elders. "Everything is in order, Elder Sister. It is simply that I have started to appreciate walking early in the morning. It brings me peace of mind."
Her smile was genuine as she answered, touched by her sister's concern despite the deflection in her words.
"Qiuyue mentioned that you have been waking before dawn and coming to the gardens for several weeks now," Princess Ruyi admitted. Qiuyue was the Second Princess' lady in waiting. "I came to see if everything was truly alright with you, Third Sister. This is not like your usual habits."
"Thank you for your concern, Elder Sister, but you really should not have troubled yourself to wake so early on my account." Princess Changning's voice carried genuine appreciation. "I assure you, I am quite well."
Princess Ruyi studied her younger sister's expression for another moment, seeming to search for any sign of hidden distress or unspoken worry. Finding none that she could identify, she nodded slowly. "I am glad to hear it, Third Sister. But actually, my early rising serves another purpose this morning."
She produced a jade token from within her sleeve, rectangular, perhaps three inches long, with the words "Imperial Order" carved in elegant calligraphy and the Emperor's personal seal engraved in bronze at the bottom. The token's presence marked the bearer as acting with direct imperial authorization, commanding immediate compliance from any official or guard.
"Yesterday, I went to Father and requested permission to leave the palace grounds for a few hours," Princess Ruyi explained, her expression brightening noticeably. "He has granted me three hours. I wanted to ask if you would like to come along."
Princess Changning's eyebrows rose in genuine surprise, her eyes immediately sparkling with interest. Opportunities to leave the Forbidden City were rare and precious, most of her life had been spent within these walls, and any chance to experience the world beyond them held enormous appeal.
"I would love to accompany you, Elder Sister!" The cheerful enthusiasm in her voice was unfeigned, and the rising sun seemed to add warmth to the invitation. Then, with curiosity, she added, "But where do you plan to go?"
"I thought we might go riding to the ancestral hills west of the city," Princess Ruyi replied, her own expression lighting up with anticipation. "The morning air will be perfect for it, and the views from the heights are spectacular at this hour." She paused deliberately before continuing, her tone becoming slightly more careful. "I should mention that Young Master Zhao will be accompanying us."
Ah, Princess Changning thought immediately. Young Master Zhao Yan, the dashing heir of the Marquis of Fujian, son of one of Father's oldest and most trusted friends. More importantly, her Second Sister's acknowledged suitor, the man Princess Ruyi had been drawn to since they were children studying together in the palace schools.
Their relationship was one of the palace's open secrets. The Zhao family's ancient lineage, their proven loyalty through generations, and the genuine affection visible between the young couple had made this an ideal match in everyone's estimation. Princess Changning had observed them together many times over the years, watching childhood friendship blossom into something deeper as they matured.
"Let us meet at eight o'clock," Princess Ruyi said, her tone becoming more practical. "I will come to your residence after we have both taken our morning meals and completed our preparations."
"Yes, Elder Sister. I will be ready," Princess Changning replied, bowing her head slightly in acknowledgment.
"That is settled then, Third Sister. I look forward to our excursion." Princess Ruyi smiled warmly before turning to depart, her lady-in-waiting falling into step behind her.
Princess Changning watched as her sister walked away along the covered walkways, her figure gradually disappearing into the palace's labyrinthine corridors. The sun was rising higher now, its warm light beginning to illuminate the courtyard fully, and Princess Changning felt genuine anticipation for the ride ahead. It had been a while since she'd left the palace grounds, and the prospect of open air and distant horizons lifted her spirits considerably.
Two Hours Later
A knock came at Princess Changning's residence precisely at eight o'clock. Xinyi moved to open the sliding doors, revealing Princess Ruyi in full riding attire, a striking departure from the elaborate court robes she typically wore. She had donned fitted trousers made of sturdy silk, a tailored jacket in deep blue with silver fastenings, knee-high leather boots polished to a mirror shine, and a flowing cloak fastened at her shoulder. Most notably, she had arranged her hair in a practical bun that revealed her ears and the elegant bone structure of her face, features usually concealed beneath the elaborate hairstyles court protocol demanded.
Behind her stood approximately a dozen Imperial Guards in their distinctive uniforms, along with several attendants. And there, among the assembled party, was Zhao Yan himself.
He cut an impressive figure in an expensive leather riding coat over elaborate equestrian attire, the kind of outfit that announced both wealth and refined taste. His posture suggested confidence, yet his bearing toward the princesses remained impeccably respectful.
"Third Sister, are you ready to depart?" Princess Ruyi asked, her voice carrying anticipation.
Princess Changning was still in the midst of having her hair arranged, Xinyi and another maid working to secure it practically enough to accommodate her riding headgear while maintaining appropriate elegance. "Yes, Elder Sister. Please give me just a few moments more."
The maids worked with efficiency, applying the finishing touches and securing the last pins. Within minutes, Princess Changning emerged fully prepared, her own riding attire simpler than her sister's but equally well-crafted, practical enough for actual riding yet refined enough for imperial dignity.
The party made their way through the palace complex toward the main gates. As they assembled in the broad courtyard before the gates, servants brought forth their horses. Each was groomed to perfection, their coats gleaming, their tack decorated with subtle imperial symbols.
Zhao Yan moved to assist Princess Ruyi, offering his clasped hands as a step and helping her mount with ease. He then mounted his own horse with fluid grace, settling into the saddle.
Princess Changning stood beside her own assigned mount, a gentle white mare, and felt a flutter of anxiety. Unlike her elder sister, who had been riding since childhood, Princess Changning had never learned. It was one of those skills that had somehow been overlooked in her education, perhaps because her tutors had focused more intensely on calligraphy, poetry, and philosophical texts.
"Your Highness, I will control your horse's reins from my own mount," Song Zhongwei said quietly, moving to stand beside her. "Please do not worry. I will ensure your safety."
He dismounted briefly and worked with the groom to make Princess Changning's horse lower itself, allowing her to mount with minimal difficulty. Once she was settled, she still felt decidedly uncertain despite the saddle's secure construction, Song remounted his own horse and took up her mare's leading rein.
"Thank you, Song," Princess Changning said with a genuine smile, grateful for his thoughtfulness and discretion in managing this without drawing attention to her inexperience.
The entire party prepared to depart as the massive gates of the Forbidden City slowly opened. The guards stationed there examined the imperial token Princess Ruyi presented, then immediately stepped aside, bowing deeply as the princesses and their entourage passed through.
They took a deliberately quiet route toward the western hills, avoiding the main thoroughfares in favor of scenic paths where ancient trees lined the roads and the morning traffic remained light. The route itself was beautiful, winding through neighborhoods that showed Beijing at its most picturesque, past temples with curved roofs and gardens where flowering trees created canopies of pink and white blossoms.
What surprised Princess Changning most was the reaction of the common people who glimpsed their procession. Those who recognized the imperial banners and the quality of the horses immediately understood who was passing. Rather than merely bowing in required deference, they seemed genuinely pleased to see their princesses.
People of all ages stopped to bow as the party passed. Their expressions showed not just respect but something warmer: affection, even pride in their imperial family.
Princess Changning had rarely experienced this kind of direct contact with her father's subjects. Within the palace, she was surrounded by officials and servants who followed rigid protocols. Out here, seeing genuine emotion on ordinary faces, she felt oddly moved. These people didn't know her personally, yet they seemed to value her presence in their world.
As the party reached the outskirts of the city and began ascending toward the ancestral hills, imperial grounds closed to common use, the presence of civilians gradually faded. The landscape changed from urban to rural, from crowded to spacious, from cultivated gardens to natural forest.
Princess Ruyi and Zhao Yan rode ahead on their own mounts, enjoying each other's company. Princess Changning could hear fragments of their conversation carried back by the breeze, laughter, playful teasing, the kind of intimacy that spoke of years of shared history and deep mutual affection.
Princess Changning observed them from her position perhaps twenty paces behind, Song Zhongwei controlling her mare's pace to maintain safe distance while keeping them in sight. She found herself studying the way they interacted, how Zhao Yan would lean slightly toward Princess Ruyi when speaking, how her sister's laugh rang out with unselfconscious joy, how their horses moved in unconscious synchronization as though even the animals understood they carried a matched pair.
Watching them, Princess Changning felt something heavy settle in her chest. It wasn't jealousy exactly, she genuinely wanted her sister to be happy, and Zhao Yan was more than a worthy partner. But it stirred something deeper: a profound longing for something she herself couldn't quite articulate or remember having ever possessed.
The riding party proceeded slowly up the winding road, their horses' hooves creating a rhythmic sound against the packed earth. The flutter of silk robes and elaborate riding cloaks created movement and color against the natural greens and browns of the forest.
They arrived at the foot of the ancestral hill where a traditional gate marked the boundary of the imperial family's most sacred grounds. Beyond this point, civilian access was absolutely forbidden, these hills held the shrines where the family honored their ancestors, where emperors came to seek guidance from those who had ruled before them.
As the party gathered to rest the horses briefly, Zhao Yan dismounted with easy grace and gestured to one of the guards. "Watch over my horse," he instructed, handing the reins to the soldier. "I will accompany both Her Highnesses to the ancestral shrine personally."
"Yes, Young Master," came the immediate reply as the guard accepted responsibility for the animal.
Princess Ruyi turned in her saddle to glance back at her younger sister. "Third Sister, will you need assistance getting your horse up the mountain path? It becomes steeper ahead, and the footing can be uncertain."
Her tone carried genuine concern. Even Zhao Yan paused and bowed respectfully toward Princess Changning, prepared to offer whatever help might be required.
"It is alright, Elder Sister. Thank you for your concern," Princess Changning replied with a smile. "I have Song to assist me. Please, do not worry on my account."
"Very well," Princess Ruyi acknowledged.
Zhao Yan approached Princess Ruyi's horse, and in one quick motion, mounted behind her.
Princess Changning watched what unfolded next with emotions she couldn't entirely name. Zhao Yan slowly extended his hands toward the reins Princess Ruyi held, and her sister allowed him to place his hands over hers. They held the reins together, their fingers intertwined, creating an image of such casual intimacy that it made Princess Changning's heart constrict.
The sight stirred something heavy within her, a kind of aching awareness of absence. What must it feel like, she wondered, to have someone's arms around you like that? To share such easy physical closeness without self-consciousness or protocol?
The horses began moving up the mountain path, Princess Ruyi and Zhao Yan leading while Princess Changning followed behind with Song controlling her mare's pace.
The mountain path was steep enough to require concentration, winding back and forth as it climbed. But the views that opened up at each turn were breathtaking, Beijing spreading below them, the morning sun illuminating the city's rooftops and gardens, the distant mountains visible on the horizon.
The mountain breeze provided welcome coolness, making Princess Changning's cheeks burn pleasantly. The scent of pine trees filled the air, mixing with the earthier smells of moss and stone. She released a small sigh, one that carried more weight than she'd intended.
Song Zhongwei glanced back at the sound, his eye reading something in his patron's demeanor. But he said nothing, perhaps understanding that sometimes silence was the greatest service one could offer.
As they climbed, Princess Changning found her attention alternating between the spectacular views of the city below and the couple riding ahead. Princess Ruyi seemed utterly content, leaning back occasionally against Zhao Yan's chest, laughing at his comments, completely absorbed in their shared world.
There was something beautiful about watching them, Princess Changning thought. Something that made her smile despite the strange emptiness their happiness evoked in her own heart.
She remembered them as children, Princess Ruyi at twelve, Zhao Yan perhaps the same, sitting together during lessons in the palace schools. Even then, there had been something inevitable about their connection. While other students studied in dutiful silence, those two would exchange glances and barely suppressed smiles. After formal lessons ended, they could be heard laughing together in the library, poring over books and debating philosophy.
They had always been drawn to each other, Princess Changning reflected. What had begun as childhood friendship had matured naturally into courtship, approved by both families, blessed by the Emperor himself. Zhao Yan had grown into a fine young man, intelligent, accomplished, respectful of tradition while remaining genuinely kind. Her father spoke highly of him, seeing in the young heir qualities worthy of the Zhao family's distinguished history.
This was how it was supposed to work, wasn't it? People who belonged together finding each other, their union celebrated rather than forbidden, their future clear and uncomplicated.
Princess Changning wondered what it must feel like to be held so intimately by someone who truly cared for you. She thought of the young noblemen she'd encountered in her classes over the years, sons of ministers and generals, heirs to ancient titles, all theoretically eligible matches. Some had found her too cold, interpreting her reserve as rejection. Others claimed she was too self-possessed, too confident in her own worth to consider them. Still others insisted she was simply too refined, too perfectly educated, making them feel inadequate by comparison.
Would things have been different if one of them had genuinely expressed interest? If someone had seen past the protocol and formality to whatever person existed underneath?
And then, another thought: Would the Hanseatic Captain have been different?
The question emerged before she could stop it, and once formed, it refused to disperse. Fragments of his memory returned with uncomfortable vividness, the way he had stood perfectly still when she brushed that leaf from his shoulder, the controlled restraint in his bearing, his struggle with chopsticks that had made her smile, the philosophical discussion during the wedding feast where he'd challenged her ideas with genuine intellectual engagement.
She had sensed something in him, honor, certainly, but also a quality of genuine presence that most men she encountered lacked. He hadn't performed courtesy; he'd embodied it naturally, as though respect for others was fundamental to his character.
The thought of him stirred that same heavy feeling in her chest, that same sense of longing for something she couldn't quite articulate.
The horses finally crested the mountain's summit, emerging onto a broad plateau where the ancestral shrine stood. From this height, all of Beijing spread below them like a living map, the geometric precision of the Forbidden City visible even from this distance, the hutongs spreading outward in organic patterns, the city walls marking clear boundaries between urban and rural spaces.
A carefully maintained stone path led from where they'd emerged toward the shrine itself, perhaps fifty meters distant. The shrine was ancient, built in a style that predated the current dynasty, its architecture speaking to centuries of reverence.
Song Zhongwei immediately dismounted and moved to help Princess Changning down from her horse. As her feet touched solid ground, she felt the cool mountain air more intensely, watched the morning sun illuminate the city below with golden light, heard birds singing in the surrounding trees.
"Third Sister, let us proceed to the shrine, pay our respects to our ancestors, and then return to the palace," Princess Ruyi said as Princess Changning approached. "The journey up and down takes considerable time, and His Majesty granted us only three hours total. We must be mindful of that limit."
"Yes, Elder Sister. And thank you so much for inviting me today. I truly appreciate experiencing all of this." Princess Changning's voice carried genuine gratitude and pleasure.
"Young Master Zhao, shall we go?" Princess Ruyi called toward where Zhao Yan was transferring the horses' care to Song Zhongwei, who would wait outside. The shrine itself was restricted to imperial family members, even favored nobles required special permission to enter.
Zhao Yan bowed toward both princesses as he approached. Then, with the casual intimacy, he wrapped his arm around Princess Ruyi's shoulders, and she leaned into him naturally.
"Young Master Zhao, the Third Princess is a very remarkable figure," Princess Ruyi said from within his embrace, her tone carrying stern authority despite the intimate positioning. "I trust you to remain appropriately mindful of her presence. You are the only man accompanying us into the shrine."
Princess Changning felt herself blushing at this attention. "No, no, Young Master Zhao, please, Elder Sister flatters me beyond reason. I am perfectly capable of managing on my own."
Princess Ruyi laughed warmly. "I was merely reminding him not to become so absorbed in my company that he forgets his responsibilities toward you, dear sister. You deserve the same courtesy and protection I receive."
"I would never allow the Third Princess out of my sight, Your Highness," Zhao Yan said with evident sincerity, meeting Princess Changning's eyes briefly. "If there is anything you need, anything at all, please inform me immediately. It would be my honor to assist you."
His earnestness was touching, and Princess Changning felt grateful for her sister's thoughtfulness even in the midst of her own happiness.
"Elder Sister, Young Master Zhao, please, do not concern yourselves with me," Princess Changning said gently. "I will take in the atmosphere and follow behind you closely. Truly, I am quite content."
Princess Ruyi studied her sister's face for another moment, then nodded, apparently satisfied. She turned with Zhao Yan toward the shrine path, his arm still around her shoulders.
"Young Master Zhao, I am telling you..." Princess Ruyi's voice faded as they walked ahead, the rest of her words becoming indistinct with distance.
Princess Changning followed several paces behind, maintaining appropriate separation while keeping them in sight. She watched the easy intimacy between them, the way Zhao Yan would lean down to hear something Princess Ruyi said, how her sister's hand would occasionally reach up to touch his where it rested on her shoulder, the unconscious synchronization of their steps.
The sight brought her genuine joy. Her sister deserved this happiness, and Zhao Yan was clearly devoted to her. There was something beautiful about witnessing love that seemed fated, meant to be, as though Heaven itself had arranged their union.
Yet watching them also made Princess Changning's heart ache with longing. Not jealousy, she didn't begrudge her sister anything. But rather a profound wondering: was there someone fated for her as well? Someone who would one day walk beside her with that same easy intimacy, that same sense of absolute rightness?
The question felt heavier than it ever had before, pressing down on her as she walked the ancient stone path toward the shrine. She tried to bury it away, to focus instead on the beauty of the morning and the rare privilege of leaving the palace. But the feeling of emptiness persisted, a hollow space in her chest that seemed to grow larger with each passing heartbeat.
The morning sun continued rising, birds continued singing, and Princess Changning continued walking toward the shrine, present in body but lost in questions she had no answers for, feeling alone even surrounded by others, carrying a loneliness that somehow felt more profound than mere solitude.