Forbidden

START OF A BEAUTIFUL DAY

The warm sunlight streaming through the window illuminated Mei's peaceful face as she slept. Her delicate features and porcelain skin seemed almost ethereal in the morning light.

As the sun's rays danced across her eyelids, Mei stirred, slowly opening her eyes. She stretched, yawned, and sat up, her long, raven-black hair cascading down her back like a waterfall.

A soft knock on the door broke the silence. "Princess Mei, it's time for breakfast," a gentle voice called out.

Mei smiled, threw off her covers, and slipped into her silk robes. She made her way to the dining area of her private palace, where a steaming breakfast awaited her.

After finishing her meal, Mei devoted herself to her calligraphy practice. Her brush danced across the parchment, leaving behind elegant characters. As she worked, her focus and determination were palpable.

Finally, Mei completed her piece and carefully rolled up the parchment. Excited to share her work with her father, she rushed to the king's palace.

Bursting into the throne room, Mei exclaimed, "Father, Father! Look what I've done!" She unrolled her calligraphy, beaming with pride.

The king, engaged in a discussion with his commander, smiled warmly at his daughter. "Ah, Mei, my dear, you've outdone yourself. Your characters are beautiful, but I see a few mistakes. Remember, practice makes perfect."

Mei's face lit up with joy, undeterred by her father's gentle criticism. She hugged him tightly, and the king wrapped his arms around her, cherishing the moment.

As Mei left the throne room, she encountered her step-sister, Ning, strolling through the palace gardens with her maid. Ning's eyes narrowed, her jealousy apparent, as she watched Mei walk away with a spring in her step.

Meanwhile, in her private palace, the queen lay bedridden, her health fragile. Mei visited her mother, eager to share her calligraphy. The queen's weak voice praised Mei's efforts, filling her with warmth and love.

As Mei departed, Ning appeared at the king's palace, attempting to curry favor with her father. However, the king's response was lukewarm, and he even praised Mei's accomplishments in front of Ning, further fueling her jealousy. Ning's smile hid her true emotions, but her eyes betrayed her seething resentment.