My beloved Chen Lang:

In this lifetime, we’ve gone round and round, but still couldn’t be together. Even though I already knew the ending, there’s still regret in my heart.

We were betrothed in youth – so many beautiful, tender memories include you. I’m already very satisfied.

That year, when I learned you left the Chen family, vowing never to marry for life, I felt both happiness and sadness in my heart.

Having such a person, I have no regrets in life.

But I still couldn’t abandon my father, brothers, and youngest sister.

When news came that Elder Brother had died in battle, I almost didn’t believe it.

I kept thinking he hadn’t died, that he’d gone somewhere to live happily with the Xilu princess he liked. But I also clearly understood that someone like him, with such a sense of family and national duty, couldn’t possibly abandon the Zhao family if he were still alive.

I knew my brother so well that I couldn’t even deceive myself.

And my youngest sister – sent into the palace by me since childhood. Such a tiny person crying and begging me not to abandon her. But after that one time, when I entered the palace again the following year, I could never see her tears again.

Now my nephew has ascended the throne and found his beloved. The late Emperor created unprecedented prosperity for himself, eliminating all threats to the throne. It’s time for the dust to settle. I should also go tell my sister how excellent her child is.

I’ve always known your feelings for me. I promise you the next life – may there be no more sadness. To hold hands with you for a lifetime, in loving harmony.

Ruohua’s final letter