There is such a man as Yung Lu. There is such a love without sexual element. There is such sexual desire but Yung Lu is such an incredible man in refusing it.
Another forbidden love. Their love is far better than Haonan and Baifeng.
A loud noise came from the mouth of the tunnel. It was the sound of the stone gate.
"The architech has ordered it shut!" Yung Lu jumped to his feet and lunged toward the entrance, pulling me with him.
I was overwhelmed by the fear of going out. My mind swirled with memories of the life I had led. The constant struggle to keep up appearances, the pretenses, the smiles that had been met with tears. The long sleepless nights, the loneliness that cloaked my spirit and turned me into a true ghost.
Yung Lu dragged me with all his might. "Come on, Orchid!"
"Why do you do this? You don't need me."
"Tung Chih needs you. The dynasty needs you. And I..." Suddenly, as if broken, he stopped. "I look forward to working with you, Your Majesty, for the rest of my life. But if you insist on staying, I shall be here with you."
Kneeling down to meet his tear-filled eyes, I ceased struggling.
"Will we be lovers?" I asked.
"No." His voice was faint but not weak.
"But you love me?"
"Yes, my lady. I draw my breath, my every breath, to love you."
Empress Orchid -- Anchee Min
