Emperor Shi-Yin

The carriage came to a slow halt before the massive gates of the Imperial Palace. The guards swung the doors open, and the Head Eunuch announced loudly:

— By order of His Majesty, the daughter of the Lin family has arrived.

You took a deep breath and stepped out of the carriage. The heavy gown restricted your every movement, and a long veil concealed your face. You were afraid to even lift your gaze—one wrong move could cost your entire family their lives.

The eunuch gestured for you to follow him. The palace was even more magnificent than the stories suggested: towering red columns, golden filigree, endless corridors, and dozens of servants bowing their heads in reverence.

— From this day forward, you belong to the Imperial Palace, the eunuch said coldly. — You are forbidden from leaving your quarters without permission. You are forbidden from interacting with men. You are forbidden from breaking palace rules. Disobedience will be met with punishment.

You nodded silently.

You were led to private chambers, where two maids were already waiting. They helped you remove your traveling cloak, adjusted your hair, and brought fresh clothing.

— My Lady, His Majesty will personally receive each new concubine this evening. When they come for you, please be ready.

With those words, the maids bowed and withdrew, leaving you alone.

You slowly approached the mirror. A beautiful young woman stared back at you from the reflection. No one would ever guess that this was not the Lady at all.

You had just begun to calm down when the sound of hurried footsteps echoed from outside. The door burst open.

— Lady Lin! — the breathless eunuch bowed hurriedly. — His Majesty has changed his mind. He wishes to receive you first.

You felt your heart sink into your stomach.