"De Fei, how are you feeling?"

    Rong Fei visited De Fei immediately upon hearing the news, helping her sit up and gently feeding her tonic medicine with concern. Both women had weathered many storms together since their youth, having sworn sisterhood, which brought them very close. Recently, as De Fei fell ill and was neglected by the Emperor and bullied by others in the palace, those concubines who used to flatter De Fei in her better days had all but disappeared. It was Rong Fei who sent necessary items like coal during the winter and never failed to send nourishing supplements.

    "Try some bird's nest, please. I had my cooks stew it since last night and saved some especially for you. It's gently sweet and melts in the mouth."

    "Thank you so much, Rong’er. I’m feeling much better now," De Fei smiled, squeezing her dear sister’s hand. True friends were like stars; you only see them clearly when it was the darkest.

    "But you still look very pale. How are those servants taking care of you! Chen Yilan! What have you been doing?"

    Rong Fei was ready to confront every maid and eunuch in the palace, but De Fei, not wanting to stir more trouble, interjected, "I was being stubborn about praying at the pavilion. Don't blame Chen Gugu; she was so startled she fainted too. If anyone is to blame, it’s me for not being more careful. The doctor said I just need a little more rest."

    "What exactly happened? Now there are rumors spreading that there is a ghost in your quarters, which will hurt you directly."

    "She’s not a ghost, I assure you," De Fei could not help but chuckle at the thought of the red lip young woman’s clueless look. "Her outfit was so uniquely beautiful that I was struck by it."

    "How strange. Since I’ve been at the palace, I’ve never encountered such odd incidents. Could this be some evil scheme by her?" Rong Fei whispered, referring to the mistress of the Chu Qiao Palace, Yi Guifei.

    "No, Rong'er, I’m sure it’s not."

    "How can you be so sure, sister?"

    "If she had sent someone to truly harm me, I wouldn’t be sitting here chatting with you."

    Yi Guifei always behaved condescendingly towards every concubine, looking for reasons to cut their stipends or, at times, forcing favored concubines to stand under the harsh sun for hours as punishment. A mild punishment would be to have them transcribe texts, and if a single mistake was found, they had to start over endlessly. Sometimes, Li Gugu, Yi Guifei’s confidant, would even dare to order a search of other quarters, throwing possessions out just to humiliate them and leave once satisfied. The lesser concubines, oppressed and bullied, could only swallow their grievances and come seeking help from De Fei and Rong Fei, not realizing that both were equally harassed.

    "Sigh... If the Emperor favors you greatly, others burn with jealousy. If he favors you less, they look down upon you. Even Liang Fei has never once visited you."

    "Liang'er’s palace is quite far, and she’s getting on in years; how can she travel back and forth as she used to?"

    "Sigh, it's because you are so kind-hearted, De Fei, that others think to take advantage of you," Rong Fei was about to continue. Liang Fei visited Yi Guifei almost every day, but she never showed any amiability here; just from that, it was clear what kind of person Liang Fei was. "Even if Yi Guifei didn't send someone to prank you, she would surely use this incident to harm you. I'm afraid she might even harm both princes."

    "Both my sons are competent, and the Emperor himself possesses great virtue. He can certainly discern right from wrong. You need not worry. The Emperor will order this baseless rumor to be silenced to protect my sons," De Fei coughed softly a few times, and Rong Fei helped to pat her back.

    It was true that the Emperor would protect his bloodline, but what if he did not favor that bloodline?

    Rong Fei knew, and everyone knew, that the Emperor distanced himself from Fourth Prince. Rong Fei wondered, if forced to choose, would De Fei pick her eldest son, raised by the former Empress, or her younger son, who always followed that Han prince? Rong Fei was curious but dared not ask.

    "I don't have any son or daughter to rely on and just want to live quietly and peacefully until my last breath, yet she still finds issues to make me pay respects every morning. If she commands, I obey. While you have Fourth Prince and Fourteenth Prince, both of whom have grown into strong, handsome young men as if crafted by the heavens themselves, and both very smart, she can only find ways to torment you sister."

    "Forget about her. She's not happy either. She lost her young son nearly thirty years ago, and she grieves every time she sees the princes,"

    Upon the remark, Rong Fei sighed. Yi Guifei's mourning was something any mother, including Rong Fei, could well understand.

    "If my Teng'er were still alive, he would surely be as handsome and noble as anyone. He was so young... I still feel the pain of when he died in my arms, and it has never faded. Sister De Fei... I know... my son died because of her. I will never forgive her!"

    "Don't cry, Rong'er. My two sons are also your sons. I have instructed them to always take care of you. Now, both of us are so gray-haired we can hardly keep up. Let go of what you can concerning Yi Guifei."

    De Fei closed her eyes, weary. The Emperor had also visited earlier, adding to her fatigue.

    "De Fei... Yi Guifei has gone too far this time. Not to mention she’s cut your salary, paying you less than the Guiren. Last winter, she spitefully ordered that inferior coal be sent to you, claiming that since you have two sons to rely on, there’s no need to waste the palace’s funds. She really doesn’t understand propriety; she's too oppressive."

    "As for the monthly finances that have been reduced, think of it as helping the Emperor save on palace expenses. I have some savings myself, and I can manage the few servants in my household. You've been sicker than me. Don’t let your anger towards her cause any rifts."

    "Yes, I understand," Rong Fei helped De Fei to lie down. Despite her concerns, what De Fei advised was correct. Now was not the time to confront Yi Guifei. No matter how uncomfortable it was, she had to endure, hoping that someone would eventually stand up to Yi Guifei.

    ...............

    Emperor Kangxi, at fifty-six years of age, was a leader of great wisdom and capability. Even as he approached old age, his dignified presence remained unmistakably powerful. His sharp eyes, filled with sovereign authority, and his robust form clad in a bright yellow summer robe, commanded awe. Seated in the hall, he sipped tea to calm his ire. Should the perpetrator who injured Consort De Fei not be punished, it would certainly undermine his imperial dignity.

    "Please enjoy this lotus tea first, Your Majesty. Your health is as precious as gold, so please do not remain angered over that lowly woman. The culprit will surely be captured soon."

    Mu Guiren offered the tea gracefully, still young and favored, having received many lavish gifts since her service last year. Recently, she joyfully discovered she was two months pregnant, which could lead to a significant promotion if she birthed a prince as the emperor has indicated he would elevate her status to Mu Pin.

    Mu Guiren's heart raced with joy, but she aimed for more than just the title of Pin. Her child must be a prince, and if the emperor's favor continued, perhaps the throne could be his. To secure her child's future and ascend to the highest ranks, she resolved to eliminate all the old consorts who held power in the palace.

    "This tea, Your Majesty, was made from lotus petals I personally collected and selected, and the water used is the purest dew collected from lotus petals at dawn before sunrise. I prepared it especially for you."

    "Hm, it tastes good and has a strong lotus fragrance. Thank you, Mu Guiren."

    "Oh... how well-prepared Mu Guiren is! Even amid the chaos at Consort De Fei's quarters, she still brought tea to your majesty without fail. It seems I must learn from her."

    Jing Guiren, who had long resided in the palace with Mu Guiren, commented sarcastically. Though she had been in the palace nearly ten years before Mu Guiren, she had never been promoted. As Mongol noble's daughter[1], Mu Guiren rose to stand at the same level within a short period. How could Jing Guiren not feel slighted?

    Jing Guiren was fortunate to still have birthed a princess for the emperor, allowing her a stable future. As for competing for the emperor's love, she had given up, but she could not help feeling envious of the younger concubines. Hence, she offered a slicing smile, unconcerned whether Mu Guiren glared back.

    "His Majesty, frequently allow me to serve, so I know His Majesty' preferences well before I came to Yan Qi Palace. But sister Jing rarely sees His Majesty now. I can't even remember... the last time she did—probably you don't know what His Majesty favors."

    "You!" Jing Guiren's face fell, just as Rong Fei emerged from inside the chamber, and the Emperor raised his hand to stop them.

    "Enough with your petty quarrels. Mu Guiren has been considerate towards me; you should stop disparaging her. You are younger than Jing Guiren; do not overstep. Rong Fei is here; aren't you ashamed in front of her?"

    "Yes, Your Majesty."

    Jing Guiren gave a forced smile to Rong Fei, and they exchanged knowing looks. Rong Fei knew Jing Guiren was annoyed with the boastful young woman, but she could do nothing as the decision-making power lay with Yi Guifei, and everyone knew Mu Guiren was under her wing, untouchable. Rong Fei could only offer sympathetic looks to endure.

    "Has her condition improved?"

    "Yes, Your Majesty, but she is still quite startled. Consort De Fei was already frail, and the Royal Physician has prescribed another round of calming medications."

    The Emperor nodded in acknowledgment.

    "You've been unwell frequently; you needn't trouble yourself to come to Yan Qi Palace in person," the Emperor said, caring deeply for her. Although Rong Fei was aging and no longer as radiant as the younger concubines, the Emperor's affection for her remained unwavering. Rong Fei could not help blushing when the Emperor personally dabbed her brow with a handkerchief.

    "Look at me, Your Majesty. I'm of this age, and you still pamper me as if I were young. You should save some face for the younger ones."

    "That doesn't matter, Rong Fei. Tonight, I will visit to have your steamed fish at Zhangsui Palace."

    "I think I'll prepare the steamed fish and bring it to Qianqing Palace tomorrow instead, Your Majesty. My quarters are filled with the strong scent of medicine right now. Besides, tonight I would like to stay with Consort De Fei. Today's events were quite a shock for her. Thankfully, the Royal Physician said it's nothing serious, just needing some rest. But I still can't help worrying about her."

    Always kind and caring, Rong Fei remained true to her nature, which was why the Emperor nodded in agreement. "Thank you, I rely on you to look after De Fei."

    "Consort De Fei and I entered the palace together, offered ourselves in the same month, and since she has had descendants for His Majesty, she has entrusted me with much care to alleviate her loneliness. Importantly, as sisters who have served His Majesty for so long and have grown old together, if I don't look after Consort De Fei, then who will?"

    "Seeing such friendship between you brings me joy," Emperor Kangxi nodded, his sharp gaze sweeping around Yan Qi Palace. The front of the residence might have beautifully fragrant potted lotuses, but inside, it was sparsely furnished, and the existing items were hardly befitting. Even the paper on the windows was torn, unbefitting of Fei's status.

    "Why does this place look so desolate after just a short absence? Haven't the Ministry of Rites staff been sent to maintain and repair the residence? Are you aware of this, Rong'er?"

    Seizing the opportunity, Rong Fei responded directly,

    "Your Majesty is like the sun to us; your mere presence brings light and warmth here. Originally, Consort De Fei was a simple person who lived austerely. Recently, when Your Majesty ordered the construction of new quarters, Yi Guifei decided to redistribute some items from here to the new residence, seeing that Consort De Fei was not very concerned with these things. As for the deterioration of the residence, the Ministry of Rites has been so busy serving at the Chu Qiao Palace that they hardly had time to attend to this place. Consort De Fei thought it trivial and thus waited."

    "Unacceptable!" The Emperor's voice cracked sharply, causing everyone to kneel and plead for his calm.

    "Please calm your spirit, Your Majesty. I am to blame for not taking good enough care of Consort De Fei. Although her allowance has been cut by more than half recently, she is still willing to help Your Majesty save expenses for the palace."

    Emperor Kangxi's brows furrowed instantly. Although he did not show it, Rong Fei knew he was displeased with Yi Guifei. The palace's expenses, amounting to hundreds of thousands of taels, only ever increased, never decreased. There was no reason Yan Qi Palace alone should be squeezed. "This must be Yi Guifei’s doing."

    Rong Fei smiled ruefully,

    "It probably isn't so, Your Majesty. Yi Guifei has always been good to both Consort De Fei and me. Recently, as Consort De Fei and I have been ill, we haven't seen much of Yi Guifei. Moreover, with Your Majesty busy with state affairs, Consort De Fei didn't want to bother you with these minor issues. Perhaps this was just arbitrary action by the officials."

    "These people are good at nothing but flattery! Fire the head of the Ministry of Rites, send him to do hard labor, and order someone to properly manage Yan Qi Palace. If anything else happens to De Fei, I will order his execution."

    "Understood, Your Majesty," Zhang Eunuch accepted the command and withdrew respectfully. Rong Fei was somewhat relieved to have alleviated the situation for Consort De Fei, but Mu Guiren was secretly resentful on behalf of Yi Guifei.

    "Your Majesty must investigate this ghost matter thoroughly. I have a suspicion that someone is behind this," Mu Guiren ambitiously suggested, casting a glance towards the servants of Rong Fei. "If that ghost is indeed a fabrication, I suspect many could benefit from it."

    The implication was that De Fei might have concocted a ghost story for attention, which immediately displeased Rong Fei.

    "Who do you think you are to speak such reckless words?"

    "As the old saying goes, 'The greater the risk, the greater the reward.' I've heard that Rong Niangniang and De Niangniang are particularly close. Lately, His Majesty hasn't visited them at all, perhaps... in over a year. Maybe Niangniang is just trying to relieve her boredom by concocting a tale. Just look, the moment His Majesty arrives, Yan Qi Palace suddenly brightens up so much. If I try something similar, surely His Majesty would come to visit me too."

    "Mu Guiren, you should not overstep your bounds with Rong Fei. Once you are promoted to Pin, I will have a new residence prepared for you,"

    the Emperor admonished Mu Guiren like a doting elder to a willful child. For Mu Guiren her position as Guiren was minor; such consorts do not have official robes, nor do they have a palanquin, a canopy, a seal, flags to lead their processions—only an annual allowance of one hundred taels, yearly royal gifts, daily necessities, three maid servants, three eunuch servants, and a cramped, private room in a residence at the back of the crowded palace, near the Cold Palace.

    "I feel so stifled, Your Majesty. Even though Yan Qi Palace is dilapidated and empty, it still seems more spacious and brighter than my quarters by hundreds, if not thousands, of times. Not to mention the envious ones I have to live with,"

    Jing Guiren scowled at her remark, but Mu Guiren paid her no mind.

    "If Your Majesty does not investigate this matter thoroughly, soon someone might fabricate a ghost to deceive Your Majesty into building a new residence."

    Rong Fei's servant was unable to bear Guiren's slight towards her, but Rong Fei raised her hand to calm the situation. She remained smiling, not taking offense to the rude comments. The Emperor then scolded Mu Guiren himself,

    "In my presence, you still dare to speak such nonsense? Do you think I am so senile?! Show some respect!"

    "Ma... I wouldn't dare. I just wanted to seek Niangniang's opinion. I won't be so bold again."

    Mu Guiren was humiliated as the Emperor reprimanded her in front of the servants. He always favored Rong Fei, his first love, and continued to treat her with great affection. Mu Guiren's attempt to assert herself this time was a grave mistake.

    "Slap yourself."

    "Your Majesty!" Mu Guiren protested sulkily, "I am carrying Your Majesty's son."

    "Will you slap yourself, or shall I order someone else to do it?" With such a stern command, no matter how defiant Mu Guiren was, she had to comply. She slapped herself while crying and cursing herself to gain sympathy, her cheeks turning bright red without a single glance from the Emperor. Jing Guiren, her rival, could barely conceal her laughter, and finally, it was Rong Fei who could not stand it anymore.

    "That should be enough, Your Majesty. I hold no grudge. We women suffer enough during pregnancy. Let's not make Mu Guiren torture herself any further," Rong Fei interjected when the Emperor showed no sign of softening. She nodded to an attendant to help Mu Guiren up. "Mu Guiren, quickly thank His Majesty."

    "Thank you, Your Majesty."

    "Sister Mu, don't overthink it. You are carrying the dragon's lineage. Stand up now."

    "You've always been generous, Rong'er," Kangxi said gently, holding her hand before turning to Mu Guiren, "You haven't thanked her yet."

    Mu Guiren, displeased but no longer daring to assert herself, forced a smile, "Thank you, Niangniang."

    "Given the sweltering heat, sister Mu, you should go back and rest at your quarters."

    Rong Fei, a woman of plain appearance but dignified aura, her face round like the moon and always smiling, had been sickly since she miscarried over a decade ago. She also suffered heartache from the mysterious loss of her prince. Thus, she could only gaze longingly at the small children cradled by other concubines. The princes and princesses all loved and respected Rong Fei greatly for her kindness and the delicious treats she always provided.

    The Emperor felt at ease with her too. Rong Fei was calm, steady, and compassionate towards servants and maids, leading them to unanimously wish they could serve at her quarters in Zhangsui Palace. Mu Guiren, unsuccessful in her attempts to match Rong Fei's status, harbored jealousy deep within her. She swirled away to her cramped quarters, thinking, 'Just wait! One day, I'll have a grand mansion of my own.'

    "Have you caught that demoness yet? I'm tired of waiting!"

    "Reporting to Your Majesty, the Fourth Prince has captured her. She is being brought for interrogation, Your Majesty. From her attire, she seems to be a deranged woman."

    Shortly after the report, a tall, dignified figure brought the peculiar captive to Yan Qi Palace. Everyone looked at Narra as if she were a despicable creature. Her sabai was tattered, her shoulders bare and smooth, her long hair disheveled, and she was daringly barefoot among the servants. Whispers spread among the maids that she was a shameless woman.

    So what! Nara faced up defiantly, ready to retaliate!

    "If you still value your life, you should try to act pitiable for once," a deep voice from the man capturing her resounded. Despite the situation, her spirit remained bold, not showing any fear. Inconceivably, Yinxiang, whom he was sure did not know her, was conversing and laughing with Nara casually.

    Yinzhen openly stared at her with the gaze of a robust man, hoping to make her feel ashamed and cover herself. Yet, Nara remained unfazed... she met his gaze and arched an eyebrow as if to ask what he was looking at. She was wearing sabai and sarong, if it were a village girl’s topless outfit, would his nose not bleed?

    "Your life hangs on your answer now."

    "Got it, uncle. And about the hands—touching me like this is considered molestation, uncle!"

    Nara exhaled sharply, clearly annoyed.

    His hand felt as hot as fire, gripping her arm painfully. Just being misplaced in a time without internet, electricity, plumbing, cars, or anything but a grumpy uncle scowling at her every fifteen seconds was infuriating. But given the circumstances, she had to comply—for now. Nara blinked rapidly, a single tear rolling down her big, round eyes. She turned to meet his gaze, raising an eyebrow... How about now... pitiful enough?

    Yinzhen inhaled deeply, his lips pursed in a straight line before he turned to meet Yinxiang's gaze, who was astounded by the cunning act of Miss Saraphi.

    Nara added effect by trembling like a fledgling fallen from its nest, burying her face in her hands and starting to sob, oh mother, I'm scared... Narra embodied the spirit of an innocent girl being bullied. Any man who saw her tearful, sweet trembling eyes would feel compelled to protect this fragile figure.

    Narra raised her eyebrows at him again, a look that said, Pitiful enough? Stop complaining.

    For the first time in his life, Yinzhen felt genuinely annoyed by a woman. Her infuriating audacity matched her beauty. She challenged every man with her exposed skin, unashamed of her nudity, which only exacerbated the leering looks from each man, pushing Yinzhen to the brink of his patience.

    Nara was thrown down to the floor with a thud, crying out in pain as Yinzhen tossed a large shawl over her to shield her from prying eyes. Irritated, Nara turned and bared her teeth in a fierce snarl, but then she felt the weight of dozens of royal gazes upon her, including the most intimidating one from a man in his fifties dressed in a formidable golden dragon robe—

    Emperor Kangxi.

    Oh, my Buddha! Nara was thrilled, her skin tingling. She had seen movies about this emperor but could swear that in reality, he was majestically terrifying. He scrutinized Nara as if dissecting her piece by piece. Uncertain of the proper Chinese etiquette, Nara clasped her hands at her chest and bowed deeply, a graceful gesture of submission. His sharp gaze grew only fiercer, silencing everyone around with his mere presence.

    Why is everyone kneeling? Nara wondered. She was not afraid to die, but she dared not be disrespectful in front of such a powerful figure. When others kneeled, she followed suit.

    "Everyone, rise," the emperor commanded in a deep voice. As everyone stood, Nara did too, but Yong Qinwang nudged her shoulder, signaling her to kneel again, his eyes full of reproof for her ignorance.

    "Who are you, and who sent you?" demanded the Tenth Prince, stepping forward disdainfully. He clearly despised her, and the feeling was mutual.

    "I'm not sure myself, Your Highness. Some say I am this, others say I am that. All I can say is that I am a mere mortal, not the ghost or demoness I am mistaken for."

    "She dares to be insolent! Father, let me order the soldiers to take her and whip her!" Tenth Prince blurted out. Nara glared back, memorizing his face to settle scores later—this beautiful, extraordinary woman from 2199 would not let it slide. I’m about to throw the silicone at him.

    "Just whipping and beating like this, don't you ever think it's not the way of the enlightened? His Majesty is merciful and will judge me fairly. There's no need for him to command such things."

    "You!!" The Tenth Prince choked on his words, his face turning a deep red, but Nara scoffed at him. She felt the eyes of many princes on her—some disgusted, others intrigued. Most surely, one was the gaze of the man suggesting he might strangle her for daring to answer the emperor that way.

    That man was the one who had captured her.

    Yinzhen clenched his fist. He should have trained this woman properly before bringing her before the Emperor!

    But Nara, wise, bowed deeply, showing deference and humility before the highest authority of the Qing dynasty, softening Emperor Kangxi's stern demeanor by half.

    "Please consider, Your Majesty, my response was as such because I am still unsure of my status in this palace. But one thing is certain, I harbor no ill intentions whatsoever."

    "You claim you did not cause De Fei's injuries, is that so?" Emperor Kangxi commanded in a deep, resonant voice. Nara thought to herself, why shout when you were so close...? And who was De Fei? She guessed it must be the lady in gray. Her slim form quickly bowed again before she looked up and spoke clearly.

    "I am unarmed, have never harbored any resentment, and have no reason to harm De Fei, Your Majesty. If I am at fault, it is only because my attire makes me look out of place and leads to misunderstandings."

    "Why did you flee then?!" demanded the Eighth Prince. Nara vividly remembered his face when he first saw her, already judging her as a demoness. With her large, innocent eyes, she shot back a piercing look coupled with a heart-wrenching smile.

    "When survival is at stake, even birds know to fly away from the storm. If I had stayed silent and let others harm me, I would be foolish than a bird, Your Highness."

    "How dare you disrespect the Eighth Prince?! He is known for his fairness. Slap yourself now!" Tenth Prince angrily pointed at her, displeased that this shameless woman had insulted his brother. But Nara just smiled indifferently, showing no fear.

    "As the ancients said... Virtue and goodness reside not on the lips but in the heart, Your Highness. If people in the palace only delight in sweet, deceptive words, I fear the future will decay and rot within. I answer truthfully, not to flatter. 'Eighth Prince the Just' should be able to judge with righteousness."

    Nara's response made argument rumble among them. She metaphorically slapped Eighth Prince's face with just a few words. Emperor Kangxi listened with a calm demeanor, as did Fourth Prince Yong Qinwang, Yinzhen. He pretended to be absorbed in the aroma of the tea recently served, but all his senses were keenly focused on her alone.

    Even with her back to him, Nara felt a chilling pressure that seemed to penetrate her bones. For a moment, the intense scrutiny from this man was more daunting than even Kangxi's glare, making her felt short of breath as if his hand was ready to crush her heart any time. The force around him was faint but overwhelmingly powerful!

    What a force.

    "What is your name?" the Emperor finally asked, his voice commanding and awe-inspiring.

    "I can answer you immediately, Your Majesty, but to prove myself, I will write it down. Then, please have someone verify it with De Fei. If our statements match, I am innocent. If they do not, I am willing to be executed,"

    Nara said boldly, risking it all for a chance at clarity. Even though she was not sure if De Fei could remember her name.

    "Well said. She is quite charming indeed. I think we should summon De Fei to meet her. If this woman's words align with De Fei's, all will be clarified," suggested Rong Fei after assessing the young woman in front of her. Narra turned and gave her a thumbs-up with a bright smile, startling Rong Fei.

    "And what if De Fei and she have conspired to create this chaos from the start? Wouldn't that be an insult to Your Majesty's honor?" Jing Guiren voiced her suspicion naturally, and Nara remained unfazed.

    "I was just talking to De Fei within the palace. It's 'others' who have caused confusion by not seeking the truth. This lowly person is very saddened, but I believe that Your Majesty came rushing to see De Fei upon hearing the rumors because you love and know her nature best, that she is not frivolous, right, Your Majesty?"

    Rong Fei laughed. This young woman knew how to speak and respond, effectively shutting down Jing Guiren's insinuations.

    While Nara was responding to the Emperor, Yinzhen quietly observed her every move. He lifted his thick hand to stroke his increasingly annoying stubble as Nara spoke clearly and charmingly like a parrot. The young man began to realize that with just a few words and a small gesture, she could capture all his attention. The vibrant charm of this beautiful woman seeped into his feelings, making him feel even more endangered.

    The Eighth Prince also observed her with a scrutinizing gaze, unable to take his eyes off her enticingly pale back. Nara was dangerously beautiful, her skin clean and radiant, her black hair long and fair, and her lips red like alluring roses. He had never seen anyone who could smile so brightly before. Even though he tried to look away, her beauty was etched in his mind, unwilling to fade.

    "Why are you dressed in such a strange outfit?"

    "I humbly report to Your Majesty, this is not a strange outfit. This piece of cloth is called a 'sabai', worn with an intricately woven cloth called 'Sinh'. I, well... I have an interest in the clothing of various nations, especially the Xian Luo people. There is a saying that not learning for a day is like losing knowledge for a day. Thus, I took the opportunity to dress like this for De Fei to see. Perhaps later, I can apply this knowledge to enhance Manchu clothing."

    Narra spoke softly, tapping her forehead, "After that, things happened as you see..."

    "It's rare to find a woman so eager to learn," Rong Fei commented, clearly liking Nara. "Reading makes us noble. What books do you like to read?"

    "I am unwise. I've only read a few books, I remember... 'Rou Pu Tuan'[2] very enjoyable," Nara replied spontaneously, causing Rong Fei's smile to froze, while the princes murmured in surprise.

    "Ha, ha, ha, such a colorful character!"

    The Emperor chuckled... It had been a long time since he had felt so amused. All the princes looked at each other quietly. Only Yinzhen, reflecting his irritation through his gaze, remained solemn and did not share his thoughts, watching everything unfold as if he were isolated amidst the crowd. Whenever she spoke, his gaze intensified as if he was a grown man admonishing a child. Nara glanced at him annoyed but adjusted her words to be more proper.

    Meanwhile, Chen Gugu helped De Fei out from the inner part of the palace. She bowed, due to her still poor health the emperor immediately instructed her to rise and then pointed for her to look at Nara.

    "Si Lan... do you know who she is?"

    Nara and De Fei exchanged glances. The lady in grey was indeed De Fei. Nara felt immensely relieved, presenting her face clearly for the noble lady to inspect. Her life now depended on this high-ranking lady, as the paper where Nara had written her name was already in Kangxi's hands. Whether she would live or die depended on De Fei, who looked at her and then shook her head.

    "I don't know her, Your Majesty."

    Oh?!!

    All eyes instantly turned towards her with hostility! The emperor's face turned stormy with fury, and he violently smashed a teacup!

    "How dare you! Do you dare to deceive me?!"

    The Eighth Prince saw this as an opportunity to undermine Fourth Prince, despite feeling somewhat sorry for the beautiful goddess-like woman. But his goals were bigger than any sympathy for her. He quickly reported, "Your Majesty, I am certain someone is behind this. Send her to the royal prison and torture her until she confesses."

    The Eighth Prince was scholarly in appearance, but beneath that exterior, he was ruthlessly cruel. Everyone knew that an interrogation by the royal prison was as good as a death sentence. Nara, being such a fragile woman, likely would not survive. What Eighth Prince wanted was a confession from Nara to discredit Fourth Prince!

    If, Nara might die without much suffering. But if not... no amount of lives could bear the brutal torture. With slicing, piercing, nailing, whipping with salted whips day and night... Nara luckily remembered the horrifying tales her father told of the medieval period in Europe. Just thinking about it made her pale as if the blood had drained from her. Her heart pounded so hard that she trembled. She had confidence in her eloquence, but she had forgotten that she was from a different era. Nara, without any relatives or friends, had only a gemstone bracelet, which had already been confiscated.

    No one could save her from this crisis.

    However, there was one person... he knelt on one knee and clasped his hands to plead.

    Prince Yinzhen…

    "Your Majesty..."

    "Let me finish speaking first, please don't be angry..." De Fei hurriedly interrupted her son from saying anything further, not wanting to drag him into this matter. Her face was not looking great. Chen Gugu had to quickly support her to sit and rest, offering her aromatic herbs and fanning her to relieve a dizzy spell. "What I mean to say is that I haven't gotten to know her background well enough, Your Majesty."

    "What is her name then?"

    "Ning'er," replied De Fei, matching the name Nara had written down. Emperor Kangxi's anger subsided somewhat but was still ready to flare up if she made any more mistakes. De Fei, having been inside the palace, had heard the questioning earlier and knew Nara was in a difficult position. "First, I must thank her for saving my life."

    "She saved you?"

    "Yes, Your Majesty. I was praying in the pavilion when suddenly my condition flared up. Chen Gugu quickly ran to fetch the royal physician, and Ning'er, who was nearby, helped support me, Your Majesty. Also, today Ning'er dressed strangely just to make me laugh."

    Nara bowed quietly, acknowledging the words of the consort subtly.

    "We recently selected new maids a few months ago. This girl was assigned to serve in the palace. But since I've been sick in bed, I was startled when I saw her face as it was unfamiliar to me, Your Majesty."

    "It turns out she's just your maid. She's been causing mischief all day," Emperor Kangxi finally resolved the suspicion, holding De Fei's hand while gently patting her as a consolation. "Although her manners and speech are unusual, you indeed have a clever person by your side..."

    "That's right, Your Majesty," Jing Guiren interjected with a covered laugh. "Her eloquence is exceptionally sharp. I fear that Niangniang will not be lonely anymore." Beautiful women were not hard to find, but those who were both beautiful and intelligent were truly rare.

    "How old are you this year?"

    The question came from the Eighth Prince, whose demeanor had shifted back to being pleased with Nara, seeking to use her for his benefit. Since she was merely a maid in De Fei's palace, it would not hurt to charm her to be a spy for him. Yinzhen was also quietly observing the interaction between the two, convinced that Eighth Prince Eight had sent this strange woman to infiltrate Yan Qi Palace.

    No matter whose side she was on, she was a target in the game of power.

    Nara rolled her eyes, thinking of an answer. They could ask her anything, but why ask about age—a sensitive topic for women!

    She was twenty-four, but from the books she had read, maidservant selections from noble families typically chose young girls. And given that the high-ranking prince showed such interest in her from their first meeting, even though they had never met before, Nara knew instantly that it was not from personal attraction. He was interested in what benefits he could derive from her. After a quick calculation, she responded.

    "This year, I am sixteen, Your Majesty."

    "Only sixteen?"

    "Yes, Your Majesty... Just now, when you mentioned sending me to be tortured, asking about my age was perhaps to find a way to alleviate the punishment for me, right? I thank you deeply, Your Majesty."

    The Eighth Prince bristled immediately at being so deftly rebutted, while Yinzhen had to suppress a laugh. Even Jing Guiren turned to laugh quietly with Rong Fei.

    "Good! Only such a strong and fearless sixteen-year-old could survive in the palace. I had no interest in what being 'beautiful like a goddess' entailed, but now I understand."

    By this point, no man present could ignore Narra. The Emperor of Qing dynasty stroked his beard slowly as he considered her beauty. Despite his age, he still possessed the charm of a mature man. And since every woman in the back palace belonged to the emperor, he could command anyone to serve him if he so wished.

    Being presented as a concubine to the emperor was a dream for many women in the palace because some women whom the emperor brought into the palace never even saw his face. Those who were fortunate enough to be summoned had to seize the golden opportunity to win the emperor's favor so they could rise to a higher status. Wealth, honor, and prosperity would flow abundantly at their feet. The emperor had been captivated by Nara from the first sight. Seeing this, Nara quickly preempted.

    "If Your Majesty desires me, or wishes to give me to someone else, please allow De Fei to make the decision, Your Majesty."

    De Fei laughed. This girl was indeed very astute. With just a few words, she managed to block everyone's intentions without causing any discomfort. Narra's message was clear: 'No, I am not willing to be anyone’s.' As De Fei had reasons not to give this young lady to the emperor, any prince who had designs on Narra would have to think twice, because, at the very least, she was a woman in whom the emperor showed interest.

    Emperor Kangxi recognized Nara's intention in making her request in such a manner. He raised his finger, his demeanor like that of an adult scolding a mischievous child, "Well answered. You have managed to save yourself this time."

    "Thank you, Your Majesty. May you live for tens thousands of years," Nara bowed deeply, her face breaking into a wide smile.

    The Eighth Prince shifted uncomfortably, unable to find any reason to claim her. His mother did not have enough influence to request the maid from De Fei, nor was there a need for De Fei to give this girl to him. Besides, if he thought of secretly establishing a relationship with this renowned beauty, not only would he risk causing a scandal, but he also risked condemnation by the Emperor.

    The risk was not worth the potential gain...

    The Eighth Prince decided to withdraw his hands from Nara.

    The other princes also appeared contemplative. Only Fourth Prince, Yinzhen, maintained a neutral expression, betraying no underlying emotions. He was calm because he knew that a cunning and resourceful woman like her would easily find a way to survive. He knew how she would answer and felt no need to compete for this woman because he was not interested in her.

    Yinzhen picked up the bracelet seized from Nara to examine it. It was a simple multi-colored gemstone necklace, but something about it felt odd to him. As an art collector, he recognized that the craftsmanship was exquisite, but the gemstones embedded in it were not ordinary gemstones.

    What were they?

    "Since she belongs to my palace, let me handle this matter please," De Fei said, stepping in to provide Nara with support by declaring her 'one of her own.' Once the Emperor consented, De Fei continued the interrogation, "From which family do you come from?"

    "My name is Nara... you can call me Nungning or Ning'er," she responded.

    "Nala, is it? And your tribe? Are you Yehe or Wula?"

    Nara did not understand what De Fei was asking, so she nervously answered, "Um... clan? If you mean my last name... um... it's 'Cheunura'."

    "Cheun... U... ra..." Everyone was puzzled; they had never heard this name before, making Nara sweat nervously.

    "Wula... she means Wula... Nala," a voice said curtly with a chilling look. It was Yinzhen.

    "So, you are from the Wula tribe, Nala clan. Not bad. Your accent is unusual but distinctive," De Fei nodded in approval, acknowledging that the Wula Nala family was an ancient lineage descending from the first emperor of the Qing dynasty, holding significant power in the royal court. Narra did not understand but nodded along anyway, agreeing with whatever De Fei considered good.

    With such approval from her master, the servants in the palace had to agree. Chen Gugu and Tao Zi stood stiffly when facing Nara, while Duan Eunuch, the chief eunuch of Yan Qi Palace, kicked his junior, Du Ming, ordering him to kneel and bow. Du Ming quickly bowed his head to the floor, not daring to look up until permitted.

    "I have failed to educate my pupils well, causing distress to Your Majesty, Niangniang, and the princes. I beg Your Majesty to punish me," he said sternly to the junior eunuch.

    "Your Majesty, please forgive me. It was my negligence that caused such disturbance and upset Your Majesty. I beg for Your Majesty's mercy."

    Nara felt considerable sympathy for Du Ming. Had she just stayed calm, allowed herself to be caught, and discussed the matter within the palace from the start, perhaps the situation would not have escalated this far. Thus, she bowed again before Emperor Kangxi and pleaded,

    "Your Majesty, I dare to submit... This fault is solely mine. Du Eunuch noticed something amiss and promptly came to aid De Fei vigorously. Others fled, but Du Eunuch did not. Such a loyal servant is truly commendable. Please consider this, Your Majesty."

    "Hmm... As a servant, it is your duty to protect and ensure your master's safety. You have done your duty correctly; I do not blame you for this. As for you..." the Emperor pointed at Nara, "since you have saved De Fei's life, it counts as a meritorious deed, thereby nullifying your offense."

    "Thank you, Your Majesty. May you prosper greatly," Du Ming, relieved as if resurrected, bowed deeply with tears and crawled away. De Fei and Rong Fei thus admired Nara for her moral character and willingness to help others, appreciating her good intentions and good-natured quality.

    "Well, I must return to my duties at the Qianqing Palace. Let this matter end here. Should anyone dare to speak of nonsensical ghosts and demons within the palace again, I will have their tongues cut out."

    Thus, Nara, Nungning became Ning'er, an Wula Nala maid apprentice in the service of De Fei...

    Yinzhen bowed to the leaving emperor, the rose to his full height, his eyes flashing suspiciously towards Nara. Just from their exchange of glances, she knew he did not believe a word of the tale she and De Fei had concocted.

    So what... Who cares?

    Narra haughtily flipped her hair and asked for her bracelet back. The tall and imposing figure reluctantly handed it to her, irritation began to seep through his face.

    "Prince Yinxiang... come here please." Yinxiang, Thirteenth Prince, still confused how Miss Saraphi, the daughter of Phraya Phichit, turned out to be Ning'er of the Yan Qi Palace. Nara, having donned her bracelet, seized the moment while all the concubines and princes were present to settle the matter once and for all.

    "Prince, look here, everyone please look this way..."

    She smiled sweetly, showing her dark teeth, and pointed at the red gem. In a flash, the beam penetrated their eyes, embedding information directly into their brains—recording the name Ula Nala Ning'er of De Fei's palace, aged sixteen, standing 170 cm tall, weighing 48 kg, with measurements of 34-24-35, likes sweets, and dislikes children.

    From now on, no one would question her origins anymore. The princes bowed to Rong Fei and De Fei before departing, no longer interested in the maid. The Eighth Prince walked ahead with regal grace but paused and turned back to give Nara a wolfish look. Fourteenth Prince understood why he gave such a gaze; if any woman received such a desirous look from a handsome young man like him, she would cry with joy. But Nara just shrugged indifferently.

    Meanwhile, the servants of the Yan Qi Palace, Tao Zi, Si Zi, the junior eunuch, Du Ming, and even Chen Gugu, initially tense and frightened by Nara, became calm as if under a spell after they stared at the red light from her bracelet.

    "Ok... All set" Nara dusted off her hands casually, wiping a tiny bead of sweat from her forehead as a formality before following De Fei back inside the palace, dancing and singing, "Staying in this party is as hot as fire, Nungning is sexy and hot like fire... Today was exhausting."

    But she failed to notice one person who intentionally closed his eyes to avoid the light from her red gem.

    Yinzhen…

[15] Manchu court always put Manchu and Mongol women first. The Han women are next down. and women from other tribes will be last.

[16] "The number one gem of Chinese erotic novels, written during the Ming Dynasty."