A Love Written In The Stars

"Secrets are weapons in the imperial court, and Lady Xia had just found the perfect one to wield."

———

Lady Xia stood by her chamber window, deep in thought. Her latest discovery bothered her. Minister Li, one of the empire's most powerful figures, was entangled in a corruption scandal. Her spy's letter revealed he had racked up huge gambling debts and was embezzling royal funds to cover them.

This revelation gave her a brilliant idea. Minister Li was known for his ambition, always seeking more wealth and influence. If she could sway him to back her son Xuan's claim to the throne, it could be a powerful advantage.

But how to bend the Minister to her will?

A plan fully formed in Lady Xia's mind. She summoned her handmaid and instructed her to deliver a message to Minister Li, requesting a private meeting. She intended to confront him with what she knew and offer him a bargain—her silence and cooperation in exchange for his support in securing her son Xuan as the heir. With Minister Li's wealth and Lady Xia's influence united behind Prince Xuan, the throne would soon be within reach. A sly smile crept across Lady Xia's face; everything was unfolding just as she'd envisioned. Her son's destiny was drawing ever closer.

---

A few days later

Minister Li sat nervously in the private house, awaiting Lady Xia's arrival. What could she want from this secret meeting? He had heard rumors that she held damaging information, and he prayed silently that it wouldn't involve his gambling—a hidden addiction that had taken hold of his life.

Lady Xia entered the room with a serious expression. "Minister Li, it's good to finally meet you. I'm sure you know why we're here." Her voice was smooth yet firm.

Li bowed his head respectfully. "My lady, I truly don't know why you've requested this meeting, as I have no idea what's on your mind."

"Rumor has it you're engaged in gambling," Lady Xia started slowly.

Minister Li's heart nearly stopped, but he forced himself to stay silent.

"So much so that it's become a way of life," she continued.

"My lady, as you said, they're just rumors," Li replied quietly, trying to keep his voice steady.

Lady Xia smiled subtly, feigning innocence are we?

"Lying won't help you now," she added, her tone unwavering.

Li took a deep breath. "My lady, please pardon this old man. I assure you, these are nothing but baseless rumors," he replied, hoping to avoid a fate far worse if the emperor ever found out.

"Very well," she whispered.

Minister Li felt a chill as Lady Xia calmly laid out everything she knew—his gambling, the debts piling up, the royal funds he had siphoned. Unable to hold himself back any longer, he dropped to his knees, pressing his forehead to the floor in surrender.

"My lady, I don't know how you came upon such private matters, but I acknowledge the truth," he admitted, his voice shaking. "Show mercy… If the emperor were to discover this…" his voice shook in desperation.

Lady Xia looked at him impassively. "If you had admitted this sooner... I might have shown you kindness."

"Please, my lady, have mercy on this foolish old man. I..I can be helpful to you. I'll do whatever you need... just say the word."

"Oh, really? And what could you possibly offer me?"

"My lady, whatever you ask, I'll make it happen."

"Fine," she said with a sigh. "Stand up, Minister. No need to kneel."

Li quickly got to his feet, waiting for her instructions. Lady Xia gave him a small, thin smile.

"You should know that by keeping this secret from the emperor has left you in my debt."

"I understand, my lady."

"Now, you will fully support my son Xuan's claim to the throne. In return, your secret remains with me."

The minister started to speak, but Lady Xia raised her hand, her exquisitely manicured nails flashing. "Or I can see to it that you face execution myself."

Li paused, realizing he had no other choice if he wanted to keep his position and money. He could only nod in silence. Then Lady Xia smiled. "Loyalty should be rewarded." She tossed him a heavy purse. "Consider this a little help with your finances. There will be more, if you stay... useful to me."

Minister Li's fear quickly dissolved into greed as he grabbed the purse, bowing low over his new prize. Bowing again, he vowed his loyalty to Lady Xia and her cause, sealing their dangerous alliance.

His soul was now hers to corrupt fully.