บท 2: Arrival at Chengqian Palace
Life within the imperial harem starkly contrasted with the outside world, almost resembling an entirely separate realm. It was a fierce competition where individuals vied for position, spanning from low-ranking eunuchs and maids to esteemed concubines. Betrayal and deceit were commonplace, and trust and loyalty were scarce commodities within the Forbidden City, prompting everyone to prioritize their own interests.
Ru Lingyi's heart raced as she stepped through the ornate gates of Chengqian Palace. The air was heavy with anticipation, and she couldn't help but feel a sense of both trepidation and excitement coursing through her veins. Her journey from the bustling streets of modern-day China to the hallowed halls of the imperial palace felt like a dream, yet here she stood, ready to embark on a new chapter of her life.
As she made her way through the grand courtyard, Ru Lingyi marveled at the opulence surrounding her. Intricately carved stone dragons adorned the walls, their eyes seeming to follow her every move. Colorful flowers dancing the breeze, the vibrant colors of silk casting a kaleidoscope of light across the marble floors.
"Enough with the looking and follow him to show you how things are done here" Wanying, the personal maid of Xian fei interrupted Lingyi's reverie
"I don't even know what niang niang saw in that low life of a maid " wanying mumbled as she raced to meet Xian fei in her palace.
"Welcome to Chengqian Palace, young maiden," a voice called out, Lingyi turned to see an elderly eunuch approaching, his face lined with age yet his eyes sharp and perceptive.
"I am Eunuch Zhang, the steward of this palace. You must be the new maid assigned to serve Consort Xian," he continued, his voice carrying a hint of authority.
Ru Lingyi nodded nervously, her heart pounding in her chest. "Yes, that's me. My name is Ru Lingyi."
"Follow me," Eunuch Zhang instructed, leading her through a labyrinth of corridors and chambers. As they walked, Ru Lingyi couldn't help but steal glances at the eunuch, wondering what secrets lay hidden behind his stoic facade.
Finally, they reached a set of intricately carved double doors, adorned with golden dragons and phoenixes. Eunuch Zhang motioned for Ru Lingyi to enter, and she took a deep breath before stepping inside.
The room beyond was breathtakingly beautiful, with walls covered in silk tapestries and shelves lined with priceless artifacts.
Lingyi couldn't help but wonder how the palace of other concubines higher than Consort Xian in rank would look like.
At the center of the room sat a figure draped in robes of crimson and gold, her presence commanding the attention of all who entered.
"Xian Fei niang niang, may I present Ru Lingyi, the new maid assigned to your service," Eunuch Zhang announced, bowing deeply.
Ru Lingyi's eyes widened as she beheld the woman before her, even though she met her recently at Hua pin's palace , she didn't get to carefully appreciate the beauty of Consort Xian. She was even more exquisite than she had imagined, her delicate features framed by cascades of ebony hair.
"Welcome, Ru Lingyi," Xian Fei said, her voice soft yet tinged with authority. "I trust you will serve me well."
"I will do my best, my lady," Ru Lingyi replied, bowing low in deference. She sure has learnt that bowing was another form of respect and etiquette. But her curiosity for why Consort Xian wanted her to Chengqian palace couldn't let Lingyi have another cycle of free breathe. Unknowing to her, Xian fei noticed her change in composure .
"Seems to me like that reply of yours didn't convey honesty, or you don't wish to serve me?" Consort Xian asked, as she leaned forward from her sit.
"I wouldn't dare , Xian fei niang niang!!" Lingyi immediately kowtowed.
"You won't dare?..." Xian fei chuckled, raising her left hand as a gesture for Wanying to support her to get up from her seat .
She elegantly stood up and walked to the east of the room and to other side as she slowly waved her right hand holding her finely embroidered silk handkerchief.
Then she paused before lingyi and lifted her head with the golden nail guard on her fourth and last finger. At this moment, fear has eaten away every boldness and courage left inside lingyi.
"I will not sit idly and watch Hua pin send innocent maids to the underworld just because no one would care...I was once a palace maid like you lingyi, and I know how life as one tastes" Xian fei said with a tone that one could hear her pain, letting go of Lingyi's jaw.
She then turned, facing her palace chair like one who is meditating.
"You re dismissed " Xian Fei commanded,
Lingyi was still in shock and couldn't immediately process everything that just happened until Wanying gestured for her to leave and she immediately left to find Eunuch Zhang.
Ru Lingyi moved swiftly through the labyrinthine corridors of the palace, her mind racing with a whirlwind of thoughts. She barely registered the intricate designs adorning the walls or the distant hum of courtly life buzzing around her. Her primary focus was to find Eunuch Zhang, the senior eunuch known for his shrewdness and extensive knowledge of palace affairs.
The path to Eunuch Zhang's quarters took her past the Imperial Gardens. Even in her hurried state, she couldn't help but notice the serene beauty of the place. Peonies, chrysanthemums, and plum blossoms were in full bloom, their colors creating a vibrant tapestry that contrasted starkly with the tension knotting her stomach. The gardens were a refuge for many within the palace walls, a place of solace and contemplation. Lingyi wondered if she would ever have time to enjoy such tranquility amidst the chaos of palace life.
As she approached the living quarters of the eunuchs, she slowed her pace, gathering her composure. She seemed to remember much about Eunuch Zhang's reputation like there was a system somewhere helping her in this; he was a man of few words but great influence. Lingyi knew that gaining his favor could prove invaluable in navigating her new life.
"Eunuch Zhang?" Lingyi called softly as she reached his chambers. The door slid open, revealing a wiry man with keen, penetrating eyes.
"Who seeks me?" he asked, his voice carrying an air of authority despite its softness.
"Ru Lingyi, sent by Xian Fei Niang niang," she replied, bowing respectfully.
Eunuch Zhang studied her for a moment, then nodded. "Come in."
The room was modestly furnished, but it was filled with scrolls and books, evidence of Zhang's vast knowledge. Lingyi took a seat at his gesture and waited for him to speak.
"You are new here, yes?" he began. "What do you know of palace life?"
"Very little, I'm afraid," Lingyi admitted. "I was brought here quite suddenly."
Zhang nodded, as if this was a common story. "The palace is a place of many secrets and unseen battles. You must learn quickly whom to trust and whom to avoid. Xian Fei has taken an interest in you. That is both a blessing and a potential danger."
Lingyi's heart raced. "What must I do?"
"First, observe. Listen more than you speak. Knowledge is power here. You must also learn the hierarchy and the various factions within the court. Alliances are crucial, but they can be treacherous".
His words were heavy with implication, and Lingyi felt the weight of her new reality pressing down on her. But she was determined. She had survived difficult circumstances before, and she would do so again.
"Thank you, Eunuch Zhang. Your guidance is invaluable."
He inclined his head slightly. "You may go now. Remember what I have said."
As Lingyi left Zhang's quarters, she felt a mixture of fear and determination. She knew she had much to learn and many dangers to navigate. But there was also a spark of hope.
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