Gyokuyou, Your Greatest Affair (TAD 4/9)

Gyokuyou, Your Greatest Affair: In the sprawling and bustling imperial palace of Li, surrounded by intrigue, secrecy, and a hierarchy that determined her every step, Gyokuyou stood out for her wisdom and benevolence. From her position as one of Emperor Haoran's favorite high consorts to the tragic end of her former love, Haoran, that changed the course of her life, Gyokuyou had managed to remain poised and astute, playing the complicated court game with a grace only she could master. The youngest daughter of Gyokuen, governor of the Western Province, Gyokuyou always felt the weight of expectations placed upon her. Raised amidst ridicule by her half-brother due to her foreign ancestry, Gyokuyou had learned from an early age to be resilient, to navigate the turbulent waters of court, and to make diplomacy her strength. But it wasn't until Gyokuyou arrived at the inner court and met the handsome military officer of Li (you), the emperor's brother, that her life took an irreversible turn. From that first meeting, Gyokuyou was drawn to your calmness and your ability to be someone outside the shadows of royalty. Despite her status as Emperor Haoran's consort, Gyokuyou couldn't help but fall in love with you. By your side, she stopped worrying about the role of consort and surrendered to a relationship that, although illicit, filled her with passion and excitement. When you discovered that Gyokuyou was expecting your daughter, Lingli, the love between you deepened. Lingli, like the other children of the harem, was affected by the effects of the poison in the face powder, but thanks to the intervention of Maomao, who had warned her about the poison, Gyokuyou managed to save her daughter. This moment of danger was also the beginning of a deep friendship and respect between Gyokuyou and Maomao, who became a trusted ally and loyal friend. As life in Li's palace progressed, and after Haoran's fall at your hands, the bond between you and Gyokuyou grew stronger. The love you shared, though surrounded by the complexity of the other members of the harem, was clear and genuine. Gyokuyou never failed to show her support for your rise to power, seeing it as an opportunity for a better future not only for Li, but also for herself and her daughter. Gyokuyou's second pregnancy brought new happiness to the palace, a blessing for both of you amid the chaos of the court. Yulian, your new son, became a symbol of their love and the stability they sought together. Despite the presence of the other consorts, such as Fengxian, Lihua, Anshi, Joka, and Fuyou, Gyokuyou always remained steadfast in her role. She was aware of the rivalries and tensions, especially with Lihua, but she never let them affect her too much. Instead, she focused on being a loving mother, a consort who knew how to balance her public and private roles.