BEFORE YOU READ
This text is a direct translation of the work Cheng He Titong 成何体统, originally written in Chinese by Qi Yingjun. All rights of the original work are reserved to the author. The translation presented here is my own. Please do not copy or redistribute. Read directly on the blog and support this work to continue at the Ko-fi.
The links included throughout the text and the small red numbers near certain words serve as footnotes to help clarify the mentioned terms. Feel free to use them when needed or simply ignore them.
In addition to the novel, 成何体统 has been adapted into an anime, and a drama series starring Wang Churan (王楚然) and Cheng LeiRyan Cheng (丞磊) is slated for release in 2026.
• Chapter 1 •
The Wage Slave Gets Into a Book
Wang Cuihua1 is a newbie in the corporate environment, just another wage slave referred to as corporate mule2. As her name implies — literally “Emerald Flower” — she has a bit of a country charm, but with a hint of humor. After two years of labor, Wang Cuihua faced the hardships imposed by her superiors and clients. Even though she had big dreams, her wings were eventually clipped.
Besides, she never had big ambitions. Her life philosophy was to take things one day at a time, and her sole pastime was reading online romances. Yet, describing it as a hobby would be an overstatement: it was more a matter of necessity than pleasure; after all, the subway trips to work were quite long, and there was no other way to kill time.
Two years later, Wang Cuihua had read so many online novels that she could predict how the story would unfold just by reading the first three lines.
On her way back from work today, she opened one of those cheesy transmigration stories.
The title of the novel was “Transmigrant: The Devil's Beloved Consort.”3. Just by the name, you could tell it was rubbish. Wang Cuihua only kept reading because the start of the narrative resonated with her, which was almost identical to her own situation at that very moment: “Ma Chunchun4 was a mere wage slave, and that day, on her way home, she clicked on a silly palace intrigue novel...”
Did they write this about me? Wang Cuihua thought, intrigued, and chose to keep reading.
Suddenly, Ma Chunchun found herself inside the palace intrigue novel “A Thousand Trees Blossom at Night in the East”5, and to her dismay, she became a supporting character doomed to a tragic demise.
The path of this doomed supporting character was a true nightmare: forced into the imperial harem against her will, she soon found herself entangled in palace intrigues. To make matters worse, the emperor, who held power over her life and death, was a ruthless and irrational tyrant. In fear of being eliminated, the supporting character made alliances to harass the protagonist’s life, only to ultimately die tragically due to the palace intrigues.
The protagonist, loved by all, masked a cunning and strategic mind. While acting submissive to the tyrant, she secretly plotted with a prince. Eventually, she played a part in the prince's scheme to assassinate the tyrant and became the empress consort, reaching the pinnacle of her life.
Once she became the cannon fodder character, 6, Ma Chunchun began her journey of revenge. Through various schemes, she caught the prince's eye before the protagonist, stealing the fate that was meant for another. In the end, she not only overthrew the emperor, but also orchestrated her rival's execution and burial as the tyrant's funeral companion, ascending to become the most powerful consort empress in history.
By the time Wang Cuihua reached this part, she had already lost interest. She had read so many novels that this kind of revenge cliché felt like something she'd already seen at least eighteen times.
Just as she was about to close the book and choose something else to read, when she heard a loud bang, and a blinding light filled her vision.
With the world spinning around her, Wang Cuihua was sucked into her phone, plunging headfirst into the very transmigration novel she had mocked.
After waking up, Wang Cuihua remained calm. Her first reaction was to look for a mirror to see whose body she had ended up in.
Although “Transmigrant: The Devil's Beloved Consort” had no illustrations, the physical descriptions of the characters were rich in detail.The supporting character acted like a boring, pure white little flower,7 but only stood out after Ma Chunchun took on the part, dazzling everyone with her makeup skills.
When Wang Cuihua saw herself in the mirror, with that face, beautifully blessed by the heavens without a trace of makeup, she was struck with despair.
It was to be expected that, with the cannon fodder role already taken by someone else, there would be no room left for her. And she, as a result, ended up becoming the original protagonist, fated to be hunted down to her death by the supporting character: Yu Wanyin.
Anxiety took hold of Yu Wanyin immediately.
She had gone through the text so quickly that only the main points of the story stuck in her mind. Noticing how she was dressed at that moment, she must have just been admitted to the palace as a concubine.8
The secondary character had entered the palace around the same time as her, and at this point, she must have already been possessed by a transmigrant.9 Soon, she would come across her destined one, the true Son of Heaven, Prince Duan10: a man of humble origins, but with great literary wisdom and military strategic skills.
Before long, they would meet amidst the flowers and beneath the moonlight, exchanging ten thousand romantic words; then, they would live through two hundred chapters in a sea of love and resentment that would reach the heavens, and finally, strategically overthrow the tyrant to take his place.
Following the tyrant’s death, Yu Wanyin would receive a three-foot length of white linen for her hanging. From the beginning of her pleas to her burial, everything was described in no more than three hundred words.
Yu Wanyin was well aware that the supporting character only appeared to be a disposable role. Within the the world of “Transmigrant: The Devil's Beloved Consort”, she was the real protagonist, the chosen one of destiny, while Yu Wanyin was just an obstacle in her way, with no hope of succeeding.
To survive, the best option would be to go after Prince Duan, the destined one, before the supporting character.
Yet, instinctively, she knew that this was an impossible plan.
First of all, the cannon fodder girl was mean by nature.
The title of the story is “The Devil's Beloved Consort”. The secondary character is portrayed as vengeful even for the smallest grudges, cruel, and unscrupulous.Defying the conventional image of the kind-hearted heroine, she uses every means available to achieve her goals, eventually triumphing in the end.
Now that both the supporting character and the original heroine have transmigrated, the two women who entered the book follow the same plot and are competing for the same narrative line. One cannot rule out the possibility that they will use dirty tricks against each other to win Prince Duan, leading to an epic and deadly battle so intense that even the heavens would grow dark.
Moreover, Prince Duan is also a villain. Although the book initially describes him as a clever, insightful man of exceptional courage, from Yu Wanyin's current point of view, he seemed like nothing more than an old, treacherous, and despicable fox. With the two transmigrants engaged in a fierce competition before him, each trying to outdo the other with every move, it would be impossible for him not to be suspicious.
Even if she manages to eliminate the supporting character and assists Prince Duan rise to power, he will still discard her with no mercy, just as one discards a donkey when the mill is taken apart.
After a quick analysis, Yu Wanyin realized that she would need to adopt a different approach.
In this plot where everyone is a villain, if she must stain the path with blood to survive in this hostile place, she will become the greatest villain of them all. First, she must help the tyrant eliminate Prince Duan, and then she will eliminate the tyrant himself, before rising to the throne as regent empress.
As Yu Wanyin was reflecting, a lively-looking young maid entered with a pale face and said the usual words: ❝Young Lady,11 your maid is here to assist you in getting ready. Tonight, my lady must attend to His Majesty well,12 do not be careless...❞
❝Tonight?❞ — Yu Wanyin was taken aback, but she fully understood what had been said.
The timing of her arrival was impeccable: tonight was her turn to serve in the imperial bed.
Noticing the maid's expression, which seemed hesitant to say what she wanted to say — clearly wanting to offer advice but lacking the courage to do so — Yu Wanyin understood that the previous owner of the body must have been reluctant and upset with this situation.
According to the original plot, she had resisted the tyrant13 in every way, as her heart belonged to Prince Duan. But in the end, with no way left to avoid it, she let a single fragile and pure tear fall, like a pear blossom14 on the bed. The tyrant, upon witnessing the scene, mocked her and with a kick, exiled her to the Cold Palace.15
In the original text, when Prince Duan returned to the court, he would find her by chance in the Cold Palace. But, as he was diverted from his path by her rival, she would miss the chance of a fated love. From that moment on, she would be dragged into a world of intrigue and jealousy by her antagonist, being reduced to a jumping little clown,16 condemned to a miserable life.
Yu Wanyin wanted to turn the game's tide in her favor, and tonight would be crucial. She needed to charm the tyrant and establish a strategic alliance with him, in order to eliminate Prince Duan and her rival once and for all.
Yu Wanyin was determined to achieve her goal no matter what.
If her antagonist can completely change her appearance with makeup, why does the protagonist need to go barefaced? Both are exploited employees: who hasn’t had to be an ass-kisser to the boss? Yu Wanyin had figured it out: in this kind of story, the emperor is the boss. He requires you to be radiant and charming, but without overdoing it, keeping your dedication to the job while displaying a subtle charm.
She endured the demands of a tough boss in her company for two years, and now, seasoned from all that experience, she doesn't find it so hard to outsmart this legendary tyrant.
Wu Wanyin smiled and said: ❝You there...❞17 And then, remembering, added: ❝Xiao Mei,18 can you help me with my hair? I'll do the rest myself.❞
She studied the ancient cosmetics before her for a while: applying powder, shaping her eyebrows, spreading lip balm, and decorating herself with a floral ornament. Her already breathtaking beauty was enhanced, making her look like a newly-formed fox spirit.19 Under the maid's astonished stare, she finished getting dressed.
❝How do you think?❞
Xiao Mei hesitated, her words caught in her throat: ❝Young Lady... won’t this attire be too... flamboyant?❞
❝No big problem.❞ Yu Wanyin spoke with unshakable confidence — after all, in the novel, the tyrant fell for this kind of thing. The cannon fodder girl managed to win some of his favor after adopting a seductive style. And given the female lead’s stunning looks, this debut would hit like a nuclear bomb.
Since there's no way to escape, better to turn passivity into initiative and face life with the mindset of a warrior marching into battle
Yu Wanyin walked through the palace halls, bathed in the silent scrutiny of eunuchs and palace maids, before being led to the imperial bedchamber.
As she crossed the threshold, she felt the temperature drop by at least two degrees.
The room was deathly silent, suffused with the breath of death. The tyrant, long tormented by migraines, lay on the bed while someone massaged his temples. Most of his figure was hidden behind the bed curtains. From Yu Wanyin’s perspective, only a single lifelessly pale hand could be seen dangling from the edge of the bed.
The medical attendant responsible for the massage trembled with fear; terrified that a single wrong move and she might just get dragged out and buried on the spot.
The eunuch guiding the way announced, ❝Your Majesty, Concubine Yu has arrived.❞
Yu Wanyin, radiating endless charm, gracefully knelt before the bed.
She could sense a gaze fixed upon the crown of her head. Yet after waiting what felt like an eternity, all she heard was a voice emerge from behind the bed curtains with curt command: ❝Out.❞
His tone was icy, yet laced with exhaustion.
Yu Wanyin looked up in shock. None of this was in the source material!
The tyrant’s guards was as hot-tempered as their master. The moment they heard those words, they immediately grabbed her —one on the left, one on the right— and were about to drag her out though none understood what offense she had committed.
Yu Wanyin: ❝???question mark, question mark, question mark❞
Yu Wanyin was still trying to think of a way to fight fate when the guards suddenly froze. A slightly irritated voice came from behind the bed curtains: ❝Must she die if she won't stay to attend me at the bedchamber?❞
Guards: ❝?question mark❞
The guards, though baffled by the meaning behind it all, knew one certainty: kneeling to beg forgiveness could never be wrong. ❝Your Majesty, spare this humble servant’s life!❞
The tyrant seemed to grow even more impatient. With a careless flick of his pallid hand, Yu Wanyin watched as the the palace attendants exited one by one. Suddenly, the enormous hall held no one but her.
Yu Wanyin had been kneeling for what felt like ages. Seeing that the tyrant showed no sign of speaking, she bravely extended her hand and pulled back the bed curtain.
The current emperor, Xiahou Dan,20 possessed an unparalleled beauty.
While reading the novel, Yu Wanyin couldn’t help thinking: The author must definitely be obsessed by those pretty eye candy boys!21 Not only was the male lead, Prince Duan, described as “unparalleled under heaven and unmatched on earth”, but even the emperor—who’s supposed to be the villain—was depicted as hot as hell without any narrative basis
At this moment, seeing the real person up close had an even greater impact.
His eyes and brows were ink-dark and blood-crimson lips. He had not a shred of virtuous aura, with a sinister, malevolent air swirling between his brows, like a demon even a thousand-year-old monk could not redeem.
With her fox-spirit makeup allure, when Yu Wanyin locked eyes with him, she immediately understood what it felt like to be an absolute beginner before an expert.22
The other party was clearly caught off guard by her approach. Frowning, he gazed at her, still silent.
Yu Wanyin was intimidated by his presence, and all the rehearsed lines she had prepared vanished beyond the clouds of the ninth heavens.
The two of them stood there, inexplicably locking eyes for a long while. Finally, Xiahou Dan’s thin lips parted as he spoke: ❝You there…❞
Yu Wanyin: ❝???question mark, question mark, question mark❞
Yu Wanyin reminded him, ❝Concubine Yu.❞
The tyrant of the dynasty readily went along with it: ❝Concubine Yu, ah, just make yourself a spot on the floor for the night.❞
After saying that, he rolled over in place and tried to fall asleep.
Yu Wanyin was completely stunned.
She froze in place, recalling every word and action of the emperor since they met, meticulously reflecting on that slight and unsettling familiarity. In the end, she could no longer hold back and ventured again: ❝…Your Majesty?❞
The current tyrant once again turned his head impatiently: ❝Is there anything else?❞
Yu Wanyin mumbled, still in a daze: ❝ ❞
Xiahou Dan remained silent for a long time, his eyes turning red. ❝Estoy bien, ¿y tú?The phrase "Estoy bien, ¿y tú?" in Spanish translates to "I’m fine, and you?" in English. The original text in Chinese contains the English version, "I’m fine, and you?" Both Spanish and English were languages that China had no contact with until the 17th century, which suggests that both were likely used by transmigrants in this context.❞
Ten minutes later, the two major villains sat facing each other and started exchanging information.
Xiahou Dan: ❝Two hours ago, I got sucked into this place. I was chilling on a cruise, soaking up the sun, sipping champagne, and scrolling on my phone. Out of nowhere, this stupid pop-up popped up, pushing me this novel… I blinked and suddenly I ended up like this.❞
Yu Wanyin: ❝Two hours ago? Sunbathing? At that time, I was on my way home from work, and it was already dark. Were you on the other side of the ocean or something?❞
Xiahou Dan nodded. ❝I was on vacation.❞
Yu Wanyin was speechless. ❝Wait, don't tell me… you’re one of those bossy CEOs from cliché dramas, are you?❞
Xiahou Dan: ❝I don't know if I'm bossy or not, but I am in fact a CEO. And my life was pretty damn good.❞ He smacked his knee in frustration. ❝This sucks! How did I end up in some place that doesn’t even have a bathroom heater—and I have to sit around waiting to die with a brain tumor on my head?!❞
With that face of a venomous beauty, his crimson lips moved up and down with mesmerizing speed, creating an eerily hypnotic sight.
Yu Wanyin forced herself to accept this setting. ❝…Calm down first. Your migraines might not be due to a brain tumor. After all, if a tumor were pressing on your nerves, you'd probably have other clinical symptoms too.❞
❝Really? Are you sure?❞
❝Not sure, just guessing. Look on the bright side, what if you've been poisoned with a slow-acting toxin?❞
Xiahou Dan: ❝?question mark❞
Xiahou Dan: ❝So, have you read this thing or not? What kind of mess am I in right now?❞
Yu Wanyin: ❝Yeah, I read it, but I just glanced through it without paying much attention. To put it simply: your mother hates you, your brother Prince Duan hates you, your ladies hate you, and your ministers hate you. According to the original book, I hate you too.❞
❝What kind of heinous crime have I done to deserve this?!❞
Yu Wanyin let out a sigh: ❝Your mother is not your biological mother and didn't educate you properly. You suffer from migraines, have had a stubborn personality since childhood, and are cruel with a thing for killing. By now, all the loyal officials in the court have either been killed or exiled by you. You've implemented a series of terrible policies, resulting in public discontent. According to the original text, you will be overthrown by Prince Duan, who will act on heaven's will.❞
Xiahou Dan: ❝...How did I die?❞
Yu Wanyin carefully thought it over: ❝I forgot. I was so tired then that I skipped several pages in a row. Seems like it was an assassination, but the exact year, month, or who the assassin was, I honestly don’t remember.❞
Yu Wanyin started to think the CEO before her was genuinely battle-hardened. He took a long moment to think, then, in a calm and composed manner, asked, ❝What about you? Judging by your character's looks, you don’t exactly look like an angel yourself.❞
Yu Wanyin admitted: ❝Yeah, I’m the villain. Typically, in these romance novels, the female lead is supposed to have toxic family members and backstabbing best friends. But since I’m just the antagonist, my character wasn’t developed that much. It seems my family sent me into the palace as a pawn. However, I ended up falling for Prince Duan. So, I kept setting traps for the cannon-fodder female lead, and of course, I met a miserable end. When you died, I was forced to join you alive in the grave.❞
Xiahou Dan: ❝Oh.❞
Their eyes met, and in that moment, they came to an unspoken understanding: survival required a tactical partnership, even if it meant becoming partners in crime.
Xiahou Dan put forth his first plan: ❝I’ll just kill them both right now.❞
Finally, a line that actually suits his face.
Yu Wanyin shook her head. ❝That’s unlikely to work. Your power has already been stripped away for the most part—and killing the Prince Duan won’t be that easy. Besides, those two are chosen ones, the fated protagonists, in the original story—every major plot point serves their narrative. If we kill them now, it’d be like getting this book cut in half. Whether we'll even survive at that point is anyone’s guess.❞
❝So, what’s your plan?❞
❝We should control key variables first, changing the plot little by little, seeing what consequences it brings and then adjust your strategy accordingly.❞
Xiahou Dan raised a finger. ❝Hold on. In the original story, our characters weren’t transmigrators, right? Now that we’re here, will the cannon fodder girl still be taken over? If the three of us have transmigrated, what about Prince Duan, is he still the original character?❞
Yu Wanyin: ❝I have an idea to verify who they really are.❞
The next day, Xie Yong’er 23 —the so-called "cannon fodder girl" —was sitting in front of the mirror, carefully combing her hair. Suddenly, her young maid rushed in, breathless with excitement: ❝Young Lady, I just heard that His Majesty will be holding a grand palace banquet, and all consorts and concubines are permitted to attend! You must take extra care with your attire. I've recently learned two fashionable updos...❞
Xie Yong’er chuckled, ❝You’re full of ideas.❞ She appeared gentle and obliging as she let the maid fuss with her hair, yet a faint glint of darkness flickered in her eyes.
No one knew that the so-called Xie Yong'er had already been replaced. At this very moment, the one ruling her body was Ma Chunchun, who had transmigrated to the book.
Ma Chunchun had no idea that a book titled “Transmigrant: The Devil's Beloved Consort” existed in the world. Nor did she know that someone, , from a higher vantage point, , had already flipped through the pages of her life.
For her, she had transmigrated into this world while reading a palace intrigue novel titled “A Thousand Trees Blossom at Night in the East”. As the only real human in the entire narrative, she was omniscient and omnipotent, holding dominion over the fates of all the paper-thin characters.
Take Yu Wanyin, the story’s protagonist, , who had quietly given her heart to Prince Duan, Xiahou Bo.24 However, after failing to serve the Emperor properly last night, she was cast into the Cold Palace. On this very day, Prince Duan will meet her once again at the gates of the Cold Palace, where their romantic fates will intertwine.
What she needs to do is act before the other, blocking Prince Duan on his way and claiming the storyline that was originally meant for another as her own.
With this in mind, Xie Yong’er nonchalantly turned her head and glanced at her maid. ❝Sister Yu Wanyin went to attend the the Emperor’s chambers last night. I wonder how she is now. Has any news come through?❞
Maid: ❝Rumor has it the heart of the dragon was greatly pleased last night and this morning, the Emperor issued a decree, elevating Concubine Yu to Consort Yu.❞
Xie Yong'er’s hand trembled, and a hairpin fell onto the table.
How could this happen? Could it be that my arrival has caused a deviation in the original storyline?
But it's fine, she can hold steady. As long as she tightly holds onto the main plot, her future will be bright.
Xie Yong'er changed into plain clothes to conceal her identity, applied her meticulously crafted makeup, and, using her memory of “A Thousand Trees Blossom at Night in the East,” wandered through the inner palace. She soon found herself near the Cold Palace, waiting in ambush at a spot where Prince Duan would inevitably pass by.
She was aware that shortly, Prince Duan would arrive at this place to secretly exchange information with the palace's spies.
A moment later, footsteps echoed as anticipated. Xie Yong’er turned and saw the young prince strolling gracefully toward her. Dressed in a white imperial python robe, a gold crown upon his head, and a jade-adorned belt at his waist—radiating unparalleled elegance and nobility.
Unexpectedly, he ran into someone near the Cold Palace and, without the slightest hint of distress, casually stated that he was lost, asking her for directions with an enchanting and elegant air.
Xie Yong'er glanced back with a shy, hesitant look, successfully catching the admiration in the other's eyes. Without revealing her identity, she simply said, ❝I will show you the way.❞
They walked side by side, engaging in lively conversation. Only when they approached the destination she took a step back and said, ❝I can't go any further; Your Highness, please proceed at your own pace.❞
Prince Duan was momentarily taken aback. ❝Who might you be?❞
She then proceeded to reveal her identity: ❝This humble servant is but a concubine in the palace.❞
Prince Duan’s eyes betrayed an evident hint of disappointment. ❝I had taken you for a palace maid…❞
Xie Yong'er looked at his reluctant back, a faint smile curling at the corner of her lips.
The situation is already settled.
The next day, Xie Yong'er still had to attend the palace banquet.
She, along with the other inner palace ladies, took their seats according to their ranks. She quietly raised her head, catching sight of the infamous tyrant.
Xiahou Dan leaned lazily on the desk with an air of indolence. His long, unbound hair cascaded down, his beauty verged the otherworldly. Yet, without knowing the brutal nature lurking beneath his alluring facade, one might be tempted and fall under his charm—only to meet a devastating end.
To her surprise, a graceful figure stood nestled close to the tyrant, pouring wine and serving dishes, attending to him with gentle devotion.
Yu Wanyin got promoted to Consort and even her gear had been upgraded: a pomegranate palace gown, a golden hairpin swaying with each step, and a smile as radiant as the misty dawn. Already bewitching, Yu Wanyin closed the distance to Xiahou Dan, her breath hot against his ear and limbs entangled—turning the moment as chaotic as though the Journey to the West’s Lair of the Seductive Spider Spirits25 had thrown open its doors.
Xie Yong’er blinked in surprise. So my arrival really did mess with the plot? Yu Wanyin didn’t piss off the tyrant and get thrown into the Cold Palace—she actually won his favor and got promoted to consort!
Honestly, she couldn’t care less about that short-lived Consort title. Who will have the last laugh is yet to be seen.
At that thought, she kept a low profile, ducking her head and sticking to the crowd, making sure not to stand out.
However, things didn't go as expected. After three rounds of drinks, she heard Yu Wanyin suggest in a charming and coquettish tone: ❝Your Majesty, the atmosphere is perfect now. Why not let the sisters grace the hall presenting their talented songs and dancing?❞
Xie Yong'er knew that this protagonist had definitely prepared a performance in advance, intending to seize the opportunity to show off. She let out a cold, disdainful laugh in her heart.
And yet, that tyrant, as if enchanted by some kind of bewitching soup she had fed him, clapped his hands in praise: ❝Great suggestion! If anyone fails to deliver a worthy performance, shall be buried on the spot.❞
The Ladies of the Inner Palace immediately trembled as if they were sifted husks. Xie Yong'er cast a cold glance at the pair of villains up front, who treated human lives worth as much as grass.
Little did they know, that pair of villains were communicating with their eyes.
Xiahou Dan: ❝Was I too much?❞
Yu Wanyin: ❝Nah, you nailed it.❞
The Ladies of the Inner Palace, desperate to save their lives, began performing one after another. The hall was soon filled with the sounds of music of silk and bamboo.
Xie Yong’er was a transmigrant and had no clue about ancient music or dance. Yet, showed no fear. With absolute confidence, she took out an object and, as if bathed in loneliness like falling snow, gracefully seated herself in the hall. ❝Your Majesty,❞ she said, ❝this humble lady has crafted an instrument in her spare time. I hope my attempt are not an offense.❞
Xiahou Dan: ❝Hmm, this object...❞
It's a guitar The guitar, as we know it today, began to spread to the East in the late 19th and early 20th centuries..
Under the table, Xiahou Dan pinched his thigh hard to keep himself from laughing.
Xiahou Dan: ❝…It seems quite new.❞
Xie Yong'er played the first line, the loneliness in the air as cold and desolate as snow.
Yu Wanyin lowered her head, trying hard to control her expression neutral.
It's Canon.26
Xiahou Dan: ❝…Good, good.❞
Yu Wanyin bent her head down and just so happened to catch him sharply pinching his thigh, which caused her to lower her head even more.
Xie Yong'er continued playing, missing a note, but unashamedly kept her calm, as the audience was unaware of the original melody.
Yu Wanyin started pinching her thigh too.
When Xie Yong'er finished playing, she saw Yu Wanyin's face twisted in rage and couldn’t help feeling faint sense of satisfaction within her. So what if you're the female lead? I can still turn things around with my talent and wit.
Xiahou Dan: ❝Good, good.❞
Once the piece was finished, Xie Yong'er returned to her seat.
Xiahou Dan raised his cup to drink, using it to mask his low voice as he said, ❝It's a transmigrant.❞
Yu Wanyin nodded. ❝Sure it is.❞
Xiahou Dan: ❝And she kinda looks like she's not very sharp.❞
Yu Wanyin: ❝No, no, no. Better don’t underestimate her.❞
Just then, a eunuch reported, ❝Prince Duan has arrived.❞
Xiahou Dan put down his cup and let out a cold, sinister laugh, causing those around him to shiver. ❝Finally, he's here.❞
Prince Duan, Xiahou Bo, stepped forward and bowed in greeting. With an air of indolence, Xiahou Dan bestowed a seat upon him and inquired, ❝Elder Brother,27 was your garrison to defend the borders was smooth? Have your injuries fully healed?❞
Prince Duan had volunteered to accompany the troops to defend the frontier, where he won numerous splendid victories and forged strong bonds with the military officers. His reputation as both wise and courageous has spread and got well established. Among the border folk, everyone knew of Prince Duan, yet none could even name the Emperor in the capital.
Yet before the Emperor, he put on a gentle and affable front. With a warm smile, he said, ❝This humble servant is incompetent—I took a fall while riding, but it is of no consequence now.❞
Yu Wanyin got goosebumps all over.
She had been giggling nonstop just a moment ago. But now, face-to-face with such a smiling tiger, a wolf in sheep's clothing, she could finally feel the icy chill of a guillotine blade looming above her head.
If this dude is also a transmigrant, then the Oscars definitely owe him a little golden man.
Xiahou Bo exchanged a few words with the Emperor before his gaze inadvertently swept across the banquet, meeting Xie Yong’er’s eyes.
Xie Yong'er’s heart skipped a beat. Suddenly, she heard the Emperor point at her and say, ❝This Concubine Xie was just playing a little tune on an instrument of her own creation. Quite interesting.❞
Xiahou Bo’s eyes landed on her guitar, his brow arching slightly, though he betrayed no other expression. ❝Oh?❞
Xiahou Dan then ordered her, ❝Play another piece for my Imperial Elder Brother.❞
This time, Xie Yong'er played Romance d'Amour.28
Since she hadn’t played this piece in ages and didn’t have any sheet music, she just went with the flow—playing freely, almost chaotically, and making up her own rhythm from time to time.
Xiahou Bo lowered his gaze and listened attentively, lifting his cup for a light sip, seeming to enjoy the moment. He neither displayed any expression of surprise nor showed any signs of breaking into laughter.
Xie Yong'er’s slender, jade-like fingers plucked the strings delicately, and she quietly lifted her gaze to look at him. In her eyes, there seemed to be a trace of spring water, gentle and endless, but upon closer inspection, one could see that what shimmered was nothing but the desperate will to survive. She was determined to hold onto the heart of the Chosen One.
Xiahou Bo was not looking at her.
He cast a brief, unnoticeable glance at Yu Wanyin, who stood beside the Emperor, his expression thoughtful, as though pondering something.
Xie Yong'er's heart skipped a beat, and she hit the wrong note again.
The moment she hit the wrong note, Yu Wanyin gaze shot toward Prince Duan like an arrow, her eyes sharp and intense. It was only when Xiahou Dan nudged her with his elbow that she blinked and softened her gaze.
Xiahou Bo suddenly met those eyes, yet he remained as composed as ever, his expression as calm as still waters. He smiled, warm and composed.
As the melody came to an end, he clapped his hands lightly and said, ❝Indeed, a celestial melody, most pleasing to the ears.❞
Yu Wanyin looked away, clearly disappointed.
Beside her, Xiahou Dan's lips twitched as he whispered, ❝Another song?❞
Yu Wanyin: ❝I don’t think that’s gonna work. Either he isn't a transmigrant, or he’s just not into music.❞
Xiahou Dan: ❝Wanna do some radio calisthenics?29❞
Yu Wanyin looked at him in disbelief.
Xiahou Dan realized his mistake too and shut up.
Xiahou Bo observed in every detail the intimate interaction between the emperor and his newly favored consort. After a short while, he politely took his leave with a gentle voice.
As the palace banquet ended, Xiahou Dan let out a deep sigh: ❝There's no way to tell whether he's a transmigrant or not.❞
❝I was really hoping he was,❞ Yu Wanyin said. ❝'Cause the original character had a grudge as deep as the ocean towards you.❞
Xiahou Bo, the male lead of the original story, is on a journey of revenge.
Despite being born before Xiahou Dan, he was of humble birth, born to a lowly palace maid. This maid, merely a servant of the Empress, caught the eye of the late emperor and bore his child. Her status was elevated to that of a concubine due to her son. While the Empress outwardly treated her as a sister, once the maid was caught in a palace intrigue, the Empress unhesitatingly cast her aside, leaving her to bear the blame.
By the time the palace maid was beaten to death, Xiahou Bo was old enough to remember and witnessed his mother’s tragic death before his eyes. Two years later, the Empress gave birth to the crown prince, Xiahou Dan. Two more years went by, and the Empress passed away due to illness.
Eventually, the Emperor30 officially appointed a new Empress.31 The young woman, now the Empress Dowager,32 had no children of her own on her knees, and became the nominal mother of the Crown Prince. She delighted in publicly displaying her excessive affection for him—often by bullying the other imperial princes. The palace servants, ever attentive to her moods, went even further—finding new ways to torment those young imperial whelps who had no one to protect them.
When Xiahou Dan began his studies, he casually remarked, “Boring.” As a result, Xiahou Bo was summoned to become his study companion. From then on, every day was a living hell—the young Crown Prince often suffered from headaches, and whenever he did, someone around him had to suffer even more.
On the day Xiahou Bo came of age and left the palace to establish his own residence, his heart held only a few words: ❝A blood debt must be repaid in blood.❞
If this Prince Duan still be the original host, there would be no room for peace between him and Xiahou Dan —it would be a battle where only one could survive. He would gradually erode the Emperor's power, until it lay crushed beneath his feet, never to rise again.
Yu Wanyin had originally hoped he was a transmigrant, but after seeing him today, she realized that if this guy really was a transmigrant, he would be even more terrifying.
After all, with Romance d’Amour playing by his ears and not a flicker of emotion on his face—such exquisite acting, such effortless composure, and above all, those deep, enigmatic eyes—only the truly ambitious could possess them. It seems he has come here to showcase his skills and see his path to kingship through to the very end.
No matter what happens, things are looking pretty bad. However, perhaps it's just her imagination, but she couldn’t help feeling that the Chosen One had been sneaking extra glances at her today. Could it be that did I just give myself away?
After nightfall, An Xian assisted Xiahou Dan as he changed his clothes and, as usual, asked, ❝Does Your Majesty would like to summon someone to attend you tonight?❞
The Emperor casually replied, ❝Consort Yu.❞
An Xian was quite astonished. It had already been three consecutive nights.
As an experienced eunuch who had served the emperor for many years, he is well aware of Xiahou Dan's true nature. Over time, the bodies dragged out of this palace could pile up into a little mound. That An Xian had managed to survive unscathed until today was already a blessing worthy of burning high incense in gratitude.
The Emperor was known for his unpredictable disposition and prone to violent outbursts. He was tormented by chronic headaches, making it unberable to share the side of his bed with someone else. On the rare occasion that an unfortunate concubine or consort had their plaque drawn in the nightly selection, they often faced grim fates. The slightest misstep in serving him would result in punishment, and the severity of that punishment depended entirely on his mood at the time.
Out of the blue, a Yu Wanyin suddenly appeared out of nowhere and, to his astonishment, received imperial grace.
What exceptional qualities did this Consort Yu possess?
An Xian’s mind was a tangled web of thoughts, rendering him momentarily speechless—until icy fingers abruptly grasped his chin, forcing him to lift his head.
Xiahou Dan looked at him as if he were inspecting cattle, yet his tone so unnervingly low and gentle it sent chills down one's spine: ❝Is there a problem?❞
An Xian shivered: ❝This humble servant will summon her at once.❞
An Xian did not send a messenger to announce it; instead, lowered himself and personally went to receive her, with a warm smile, he presented an exquisitely carved jewelry box. ❝Madam Consort Yu, with your beauty, these ornaments will surely please His Majesty.❞
Yu Wanyin vaguely remembered this old eunuch from the original text. He was a typical fence-sitter opportunist, always fawning over those in power while bullying the weak. In the novel, after Xie Yong'er rose to power, this guy also tried the same sycophantic tactics. But she never forgot how he had humiliated her before, so she smashed the jewelry without hesitation and used it as an excuse to have him thrown behind bars.
Yu Wanyin took the box of jewelry and, with a businesslike fake smile, said, ❝Grateful, eunuch.❞
An Xian rubbed his hands together with a beaming smile. ❝If Madam needs anything else, do not hesitate to say the word.❞
Yu Wanyin pondered for a moment. ❝Is any hot pot available?❞
An Xian: ❝?question mark❞
And so, a small hot pot was set up inside the sleeping quarters.
Once the palace attendants had left, the tyrant grabbed a small stool sitting across from his new favorite consort at the hot pot.
Yu Wanyin dipped a piece of beef tripe into the pot and popped it in her mouth: ❝I feel like we’re missing a few spices.❞
❝It's better than nothing, just eat.❞ Xiahou Dan listlessly poked at the the lamb meat on his plate. ❝Who knows how many more meals I'll have.❞
Yu Wanyin coughed slightly: ❝Quit with that gloomy talk.❞
❝You have no idea how creepy it feels at the imperial court. Not a single minister said anything important. One tells me to go have fun somewhere, another tells me to eat something. How do I even put this? It's like a big end-of-life care scene.❞
Yu Wanyin: ❝The truth is, there's nothing else to do. The original owner of this body chased off all the good ministers, so now you’re stuck with people who just play along. Especially the military generals—they’ve all joined Prince Duan’s team now. Actually, you came a bit too late. All the big mistakes have already been made, and now, even if you wanted to turn things around, there’s no one left to help you…❞
Yu Wanyin made a few remarks, as if she was detached from the situation. She looked up and saw Xiahou Dan, his hand on his forehead, eyes shut, and his face pale. She paused. ❝Does it hurt that much?❞
Xiahou Dan opened his eyes and chuckled: ❝Seems like the original owner’s brain wasn’t working very well—maybe he got nuts by the pain.❞
Yu Wanyin lowered her head and took another piece of tripe, not letting him see her expression.
It had been three days since she transmigrated, and driven by her survival instinct, her mind kept racing nonstop, always plotting the best path to stay alive. Because of this, she has also evaluated the roles of those around her.
Xie Yong'er, the chosen heroine, hasn’t shown much of her skills yet. Xiahou Bo, the chosen one, whether transmigrated or not, is definitely not someone you can mess with.
As for Xiahou Dan, a fellow lost soul in this world—to be honest, apart from being somewhat adaptable, he hasn't shown anything extraordinary for now, and even seems a bit unreliable.
Besides, the original owner of this body was tormented into madness by those migraines. How long could he resist if he were in the same situation?
Stuck in a dead end, can I really team up with this guy to defeat Prince Duan?
With this in mind, she deliberately spoke in a relaxed tone: ❝I want to try to win over Xie Yong'er. After all, she is the chosen one and a key ally of Prince Duan. If she sides with us, our chances of success will be much higher. And, think about it, we all transmigrated here, and we all just want to survive, so what's the point in keep fighting?❞
But that wasn’t the only thing on her mind.
She didn't know how much Xiahou Dan had seen through, but he didn't object: ❝Okay, go talk to her tomorrow. And what about me?❞
❝You…❞ Yu Wanyin paused, trying to remember the original story, ❝should reach out to a guy named Xu Yao. He’s Prince Duan’s strategist, very smart, and a lot of Prince Duan’s moves are his doing behind the scenes... Damn, the pot’s dry!❞
Both were so busy thinking and unknowingly ignored the boiling hot pot. Yu Wanyin only realized something was wrong when she heard the odd sound, leaping up in panic. ❝Water, water!❞
❝Why are you panicking? It’s right here.❞Xiahou Dan walked over, picked up the prepared soup pot, and poured the broth inside.
⌜The sound of footsteps.⌟
Yu Wanyin glanced back slowly and spotted a young palace maid at the door, her face frozen in astonishment.
The young palace maid, although dismissed earlier, she remained stationed at the door, ready to respond at any moment. When she heard shouts from inside, she hurriedly pushed open the door and saw the tyrant, who was fond of burying people, holding a pot of broth, adding water to the hot pot.
Yu Wanyin stiffly turned her head to look at Xiahou Dan.
Xiahou Dan carefully set down the broth pot, turned around, and cast a glance at the palace maid. Despite he still carried the scent of hot pot, his gaze was piercing and disdainful, his thin lips curling into a faint sneer. It was as if adding broth was the most natural thing to do, but the palace maid deserved to have her eyes gouged out for daring to look.
The young palace maid's legs buckled, and she dropped to her knees, wishing she could bury her face in the ground: ❝This humble servant deserves to die.❞
Xiahou Dan stared at the top of her head for three seconds then casually said: ❝Out.❞ His voice was soft, yet carrying a hint of madness.
The young palace maid fled.
Yu Wanyin had a sudden insight Thinking back in Xiahou Dan's demeanor when they first met, she began to scrutinize him with a strange look: ❝So you’re actually good at acting?❞
Xiahou Dan straightened the small stool and sat down again: ❝Not bad. In business, truth and lies mix all the time. You just pick it up along the way.❞
❝...No need to train to that degree!❞
❝What were we talking about? The name of the strategist was...?❞
❝Xu Yao...❞ Yu Wanyin’s thoughts spun at lightning speed, and she suddenly felt excited. ❝You know what? I’m starting to having faith in you. Maybe you might really be able to win him over.❞
Xiahou Dan: ❝?question mark❞
Yu Wanyin: ❝The reason Xu Yao sided with Prince Duan is because you exiled his father. His father was a loyal and virtuous man of his generation, but you believed malicious rumors, falsely accusing him of a crime and sending him off to the middle of nowhere. Xu Yao was supposed to go too, but Prince Duan secretly saved him, gave him a new name, and hid him in his royal mansion, where he became a strategist. It is said that Xu Yao has never given up and continues to work behind the scenes, striving to bring his old man back.❞
Xiahou Dan: ❝What if I go to him and say I can get his dad back, but only if he swears loyalty to me?❞
Yu Wanyin: ❝It’s not that easy. He’ll still hold a grudge and ask you: ❛Why did Your Majesty misjudge the virtuous and the foolish at that time, thereby causing my father to endure an unjust charge?❜❞
Xiahou Dan gave a chilling sneer, his tone filled with disdain: ❝I am nothing but a mad king, whose eyes are veiled and ears sealed. Whether I am seen as loyal or traitorous, doesn’t it all hinge on one memorial to the throne?❞
Yu Wanyin, drawn into his act, put on an indignant expression: ❝Since Your Majesty already knows that Grand Tutor Wei speaks recklessly, why do you still favor him?❞
Xiahou Dan froze for a brief moment before burst into laughter: ❝Grand Tutor Wei? Xu Yao, oh Xu Yao, how pitiful—after all this time, you still believe that decrepit old man was the one who brought ruin upon your father?❞
Yu Wanyin interjected: ❝Not that old.❞
Xiahou Dan: ❝Xu Yao, oh Xu Yao, how pitiful—after all this time, you still think that spineless lackey was the one who brought ruin upon your father?❞
Yu Wanyin: ❝...ellipsis❞
Yu Wanyin: ❝Then who? ❞
Xiahou Dan leaned closer to her and whispered in a voice laced with malice. ❝Who was the one who foresaw the future and spared your little miserable life? Who was the one that, with a face full of compassion, took you in as a loyal watchdog?❞
Yu Wanyin took a step back: ❝You...You’re talking nonsense!❞
Xiahou Dan gave a faint smile, flicked his wide sleeve, and turned to leave: ❝You are more than welcome to find out for yourself.❞
He walked a couple of steps, then stopped and turning his head back: ❝So?❞
Yu Wanyin: ❝Totally badass.❞33
Since it was impossible to determine whether there were spies inside or outside the residential palace, and to avoid arousing suspicion, Yu Wanyin did not seek another bed these past few nights; instead, she remained on the imperial dragon's bed.34
The pillow was hard, the blankets were cold, and the empty palace echoed with gusts of eerie wind. Clothes had been used to draw a line across the middle of the imperial dragon's bed, each one occupying their own KoreaThe text originally mentions the armistice line or 三八线 (), referring to the line that separates North Korea and South Korea, established after the Korean War armistice.. Every now and then, they’d break the silence:
❝Did the text mention any palace attendants sneaking in to poison someone?❞
❝I don’t think so… but I wouldn’t bet on it.❞
Back when Yu Wanyin read those stories, she’d sometimes let out those silly auntie smiles as she followed the romantic plotlines. But now that she’s stuck in one, she sees how fake those transmigration tales are. The protagonists act like fools, unaware of how many pages they had left to live, yet they still manage to fall in love. If she were in Xiahou Dan's position, she wouldn't rise to that硬不起来refers to “not being able to stay upright,” both physically and emotionally, implying a lack of physical arousal or resolve..
The next morning, she dragged herself out of bed. With dark circles under her eyes, one glance in the mirror, and she knew she looked terrible. She quickly grabbed her makeup kit—the same one An Xian had handed to her with a flattering smile.
By the time Xiahou Dan was done changing clothes, Yu Wanyin had already applied a full face of makeup.
Xiahou Dan glanced at her unintentionally as he passed by. He stopped for a moment, then turned back for a closer look: ❝You seem... a bit different today.❞
Yu Wanyin: ❝Today's style is called corporate mule makeup: gentle, kind, nose to the grindstone, without bitching like a Karen任劳任怨 () literally means “accept the work and accept the bitterness.” The expression describes someone who is willing to endure hard work and the frustration that may come with it, without complaining. It is used to praise someone's dedication and patience despite the challenges they face..❞
Xiahou Dan: ❝?question mark❞
Yu Wanyin:❝Later, I’m going to see Xie Yong’er to throw out an olive branch of peace. Looking friendly won’t hurt, right?❞ She glanced at Xiahou Dan and frowned, ❝Aren’t you supposed to be charming Xu Yao? Your face isn’t working either. Come here.❞
Xiahou Dan: ❝?question mark❞
The tyrant and the demonic consort, with gentle brows and kind eyes, emerged from the lair of the seductive spider spirits then went their separate ways to get tasks done.
Xiahou Dan headed to morning court, and Yu Wanyin went back to her side hall.
Yu Wanyin was still asking around about Xie Yong'er's whereabouts, but Xie Yong'er delivered herself right to her door.
Xie Yong'er sensed danger.
Just yesterday, she had intercepted Xiahou Bo at the entrance of the Cold Palace, pruning the buds of first love from blooming between him and Yu Wanyin. However, at the palace banquet, she turned around only to see the two exchanging glances in a silent duel.
That favorite consort was nestled against the tyrant’s side, delicate as if boneless, while casting alluring glances at Prince Duan. And with her beauty like peach and plum blossoms, her every glance dazzling, she was the very embodiment of what it meant to be a born female lead.
Could it be that Xiahou Bo is just fated to fall for Yu Wanyin, and no matter what I do, I'm stuck being cannon fodder, doomed to die like an insignificant ant?
Xie Yong'er does not believe in fate.
She always had this feeling that the countless hours spent reading political maneuver and palace intrigue novels during her commute wouldn't go to waste—her innate talent will surely have a purpose.35
After returning, Xie Yong'er gathered with her trusted group of sisters and devised a simple yet effective strategy to counter Consort Yu's rise.
On this day, she had arranged to meet with a few of her fellow sisters. Carrying a tray of delicate pastries, she arrived with a gentle smile for a courteous visit.
Xie Yong’er: ❝Older sister, now that you are basking in the emperor’s profound favor, please do not forget your dear younger sister in the palace.❞
Yu Wanyin: ❝...ellipsis❞We’re both transmigrants, so why do you talk like you’ve got that natural vibe and flavor“内味儿 ()” literally means “that inner taste” and originally described the authentic flavor of food. In modern internet slang, it humorously refers to something feeling stereotypical, scripted, or exactly as expected in a specific context.?
Xie Yong'er then opened the food box, saying she had personally made some pastries and urged her to taste them.
Yu Wanyin: ❝...❞
She picked up a sweet pastry,36 half-worried it might be poisoned and half-convinced the Fated One wouldn't stoop so low“” (出招) literally means “to make a move” and originates from martial arts terminology, where it refers to executing a technique or attack. In a broader sense, it is used metaphorically to describe taking action, revealing a strategy, or making a decisive move in various situations. While its roots are classical, it remains a commonly used expression in modern Chinese, especially in strategic or competitive contexts.. For a moment, she hesitated, like a chess player who doesn't know where to move their chess piece. If this really was her intellectual capacity, then she probably wasn't even worth the effort to be swayed.
Xie Yong’er watched as she set the untouched sweet pastry aside, showing no reaction on her face. She kept up the friendly chit-chat like as if nothing had happened.
Behind them, the junior maid Xie Yong'er had brought moved silently, inching closer to the corner of the wall.
Yu Wanyin let out a sigh of relief. Good, good. It seems there are still some high-level moves in play.
She ignored the junior maid's little tricks and instead seized the chance to earn the other’s favor. ❝Let us not speak of such matters. Be it consort or concubine, all meet the same fate. Little Sister Yong'er, allow me to share a word in confidence: the Saint can elevate you to the heavens today and cast you into hell tomorrow.❞
Xie Yong'er paused for a moment.
Was this really the female lead’s character setting in the original story?
The sisters behind her held their breath, urging Yu Wanyin to speak with caution and act with prudence.
Yu Wanyin: ❝I believe you won’t betray my trust. We women in such a place are nothing but chess pieces in the hands of others. If we do not look after one another, would we not merely be fulfilling the wishes of those disgusting men?❞37
Xie Yong'er: ❝...ellipsis❞
What Yu Wanyin said was, to a large extent, true. Her efforts to befriend Xie Yong'er were not for Xiahou Dan’s benefit, but for her own.
If Xie Yong'er could just drop the idea of killing her, she wouldn't mind skipping all the palace drama. What's the point of two corporate mules fighting? Wouldn’t it be better just sit down, grab some hot pot, and chill?
For now, teaming up with Xiahou Dan is something she was forced into; but deep down, she doesn't fully trust him. Even in the best-case scenario, if they win and Xiahou Dan firmly sits on the dragon throne, he could easily get rid of her like someone who kills the donkey after unloading the mill,38 just by saying: ❝You know too much.❞ The system39 has doomed her to be at a disadvantage.
Making it to the end in this game of life and death? Easier said than done! But the more friends you have, the fewer enemies you’ll face. Not trying to hitch a ride on the Fated One’s coattails would be a waste. But she can’t just lay her cards on the table and admit: ❝I’m a transmigrant too.❞
Based on the original text, Xie Yong’er and Xiahou Bo are meant to be an item, and they’ve already crossed paths and begun their romance. Telling Xie Yong’er would be the same as telling Xiahou Bo—and she had no clue how Prince Duan would use that intel to his advantage.
Yu Wanyin could only advise her subtly:
But Yu Wanyin's efforts were completely wasted.
Xie Yong'er gazed into her urgent eyes, but her heart, instead, gradually calmed. In the end, the person in front of her was just a 2D character, bound to the original setting. This sudden friendliness was nothing more than a tactic to lull potential enemies into a false sense of security.
Good thing I’ve read the script.
As she recalled the scented sachet Prince Duan sent last night, Xie Yong'er felt everything was back on track, and the situation looked promising. All she had to do was act more decisively and quickly strangle this short-lived female lead in the cradle.
Xie Yong'er smiled on the outside, but there was an unmistakable hint of impatience in her eyes.
She watched Yu Wanyin still struggling for words, like a pathetic little jumping clown. It’s pointless to waste time on someone already as good as dead.
Noticing the junior maid’s discreet hand signal, she sat for a moment longer before rising to take her leave.
As soon as she stepped out of the side hall, her sisters-in-confidence swarmed around her. ❝How did it go?❞
Xie Yong'er: ❝It's done. The hem of the dress hanging in the corner of Yu Wanyin’s room has been stained with Wei violet peony juice.40 It's dyed so discreetly that she absolutely won't notice it. Now, we just have to wait for her to put it on, and then we can proceed.❞
Wei violet peony is the name of a flower, with only a few plants growing in one corner of the peony garden.
Among the sisters-in-confidence, one still expressed concern: ❝Will just a few drops of flower juice be enough?❞
Xie Yong'er chuckled: ❝His Majesty is very suspicious.❞
❝...ellipsis❞
Following behind her, Concubine Chu41 hesitated for a moment before softly speaking: ❝That Consort Yu is bewitchingly beautiful, but when she speaks, she seems like someone with genuine emotions.❞
Xie Yong'er did not respond.
Xu Yao walked out of the Imperial Reading Room, his heart still pounding in his chest. He had been secretly summoned to the palace.
Upon arriving, he had already resigned himself to a near-certain death—since the tyrant had summoned him, it meant that his hidden background had likely been discovered. Perhaps the emperor had even learned that he was still moving in the shadows, desperately trying to bring his old father back from exile.
However, he never expected that what awaited him in the Imperial Reading Room would be such a conversation.
Xiahou Dan not only spared his life, but also stated that he could pardon his father.
Xu Yao still found it hard to believe the insinuations hidden between Xiahou Dan's words.
Back then, it was Grand Tutor Wei who first proposed framing his father. But the one who secretly orchestrated it… was Prince Duan?
And then, after all that, Prince Duan went out of his way to save me? After going through such a long and winding path, was it really just to recruit me as his strategist?
Xu Yao refused to believe it.
Who doesn't know that the Emperor is a foolish and tyrannical madman? But would a madman… tell the truth?
Xu Yao walked out of the palace, his mind weighed down with many concerns.42 Not long after, Xiahou Dan stepped out of the Imperial Reading Room, casually wiping the corners of his reddened eyes.
He had really gotten into his performance just now—when he talked about being kept in the dark,43 unable to discern loyalty from treachery, he even cried a little.
Xu Yao's face looked like he had seen a ghost.
The day was bright and clear, and Xiahou Dan dismissed the Imperial carriage with a wave of his hand, casually strolling toward the Imperial garden.
After her afternoon nap, Yu Wanyin changed into something cooler, stepped out of the side hall to bask in the sun, and unconsciously wandered into the Imperial Garden.
She was watching the fish swimming in the pond when she suddenly heard hurried footsteps approaching. A young eunuch came running up to her, his voice high-pitched: ❝Madam, something terrible has happened!❞
Yu Wanyin: ❝What’s wrong?❞
The young eunuch was panic-stricken, his words muddled and incoherent. Yu Wanyin faintly caught the words “his majesty” into his words and stepped closer: ❝What?❞
As soon as she got close, the little eunuch yelped and fell backward, plunging headfirst into the pond. He splashed around frantically, shouting: ❝Madam Consort Yu, have mercy, your humble servant realizes his mistake!❞
Yu Wanyin: ❝...ellipsis❞
She had a gut feeling and slowly turned her head. Xiahou Dan was standing ten steps away.
Yu Wanyin: ❝...ellipsis❞
Xiahou Dan: ❝...ellipsis❞
Xiahou Dan glanced at this classic scene of palace intrigue and quickly turned to leave.
The young eunuch, still splashing in the pond: ❝?question mark❞
Xiahou Dan hadn’t taken more than a few steps when the young eunuch climbed out on his own, wheezing, ❝Your Majesty, your humble servant has an important matter to report.❞
An Xian, standing nearby: ❝How insolent!❞
Ignoring all consequences, the young eunuch's tongue suddenly turned astonishingly sharp:❝Your humble servant just happened to see Madam Consort Yu walking with a man. Judging by his silhouette, he appeared to be a guard. When your humble servant caught them by chance, the man fled. When I dared to ask Madam about it, she pushed me into the water...❞
Xiahou Dan: ❝Escort out now!❞
The guard was stunned: ❝…Your Majesty, escort whom?❞
Xiahou Dan pointed at the young eunuch.
Young eunuch: ❝?question mark❞
The young eunuch, in a final desperate struggle, cried out: ❝May I dare to ask if Madam visited the Peony Garden today?❞
Yu Wanyin, seeing how much effort he put into his performance, decided to play along: ❝No.❞
The young eunuch: ❝Then why does your skirt hem have traces of Wei violet peony juice?❞
Xiahou Dan: ❝Escort him out.❞
The young eunuch: ❝???question mark, question mark, question mark❞
The young eunuch was dragged thirty meters away and still couldn't believe it. He yelled at the top of his lungs: ❝Your Majesty, I’ve got a witness!❞
Xiahou Dan: ❝Where?❞
The guard halted.
An elderly palace attendant stepped forward, trembling, and knelt: ❝Your Majesty, this old servant has been cleaning the Peony Garden all along...❞
Xiahou Dan interrupted: ❝Escort them both out.❞
The elderly palace attendant: ❝?question mark❞
Watching the scene unfold, Yu Wanyin's eyes widened in disbelief.
Wait, just wanting to watch the drama it's one thing, but why are you skipping through it like crazy?
As the two troublemakers were hauled away, Xiahou Dan casually flicked his sleeves and turned to leave, as if nothing had happened.
Yu Wanyin had to clear her throat.
Xiahou Dan stopped and looked at her: ❝?question mark❞
Surrounded by palace attendants, Yu Wanyin tried hard to convey a message with her eyes:
Xiahou Dan paused, as if he had truly understood something. Slowly, he stepped closer, his icy fingers winding up like a venomous snake, tracing along the side of her neck.
His tone was undeniably affectionate: ❝Beloved consort,46 you wouldn’t betray this Emperor,47 would you?❞
Yu Wanyin replied timidly, ❝This humble lady’s devotion to Your Majesty is as clear as the heavens and earth. If Your Majesty cannot trust me…❞
❝How could I not trust you?❞ Xiahou Dan caressed her face. ❝Those whom I don't trust are already dead.❞
The palace attendants lowered their heads, trying to make themselves invisible.
Xiahou Dan smiled and inquired, ❝Who has framed you? Do you have any suspicions, my beloved consort?❞
This was the perfect chance to win over the Fated One. Yu Wanyin didn't hesitate and carefully chose her response: ❝This humble lady does not know.❞
❝The humble lady do not know?❞ Xiahou Dan asked, his tone darkening.
Yu Wanyin gave a resigned yet gracious bitter smile: ❝Your Majesty is swamped with endless duties. There’s no need to trouble yourself with such trivial matters. Besides, this humble lady wouldn’t want to disrupt the harmony among the sisters of the harem. Whoever it is, I believe she has already repented in her heart now that her scheme has been exposed. Your Majesty, please grant her a chance.❞
The palace attendants around them listened, their eyelids twitching.
Notes
1. Wang Cuihua (王翠花, ). ⬏
2. Corporate cattle (社畜, ). This is a sarcastic slang used to describe workers who feel exploited by the companies they work for. I chose Corporate Mule because it conveys being overburdened with work. It's similar to existing expressions like Pack Mule and Beast of Burden in English. ⬏
3. Transmigrant: The Devil's Beloved Consort (穿书之恶魔宠妃 , ). The title is composed of the characters: 穿 (), meaning “to cross” or “to transmigrate”, 书 (), “book”, iving the idea of “entering a book”; 之 (), a literary particle equivalent to “of”; 恶魔 (), “demon” or “devil”; 宠 (), “to pamper” or “favor”, e 妃 (), “consort”,referring to a prominent figure in the imperial harem. The title of the fictional book refers to the transmigrationgenre, in which characters enter fictional realities, usually within books or games. ⬏
4. Ma Chunchun (马春春, ). The name can be literally translated as Horse Spring-Spring. ⬏
5. A Thousand Trees Blossom at Night in the East (东风夜放花千树, ). 东风夜放花千树 is also a line from the classic poem 《青玉案·元夕》 () written by 辛弃疾 ()during the Song Dynasty. he poem is quite famous in Chinese literature and describes a night during the Lantern Festival. Source. ⬏
6. Cannon fodder refers to a disposable character, used as a sacrifice or pawn in the plot, without significant development. Learn more on Wikipedia. ⬏
7. 小白花 (), literally “little white flower”, refers to a character archetype that appears pure and innocent on the surface but may be manipulative underneath. In English, it is sometimes translated as “little white lotus,” though “little fake pure white lotus” better captures its more deceptive connotation. ⬏
8. Concubine (嫔, ). In a palace or historical context, it refers to one of the lower-ranking wives in the imperial harem. Concubines were women who served the emperor but held a status inferior to the main consorts (妃 - ) and the empress (皇后 - ). In the harem hierarchy, 嫔 () generally held an intermediate or lower position, varying depending on the dynasty and specific rules. ⬏
9. Transmigrant, within the transmigration genre, is used to describe a person who is reborn or enters a new body or fictional world (such as games or books), retaining the memories of their previous life. The character uses this knowledge to navigate and face the challenges of the new environment. ⬏
10. Prince Duan (端王, ).
端 , → “stable”, “serious”, “direct” or “perfect”;
王 , → “king” or “prince”.
In relation to the emperor, Wang indicates a lower position. While the emperor is the supreme sovereign of the empire, Wang refers to a noble title granted to members of the imperial family or rulers of regions subordinate to the central empire. In many Chinese dynasties, a Wang could govern a specific province or territory, but always under the authority of the emperor. Depending on the dynasty, a Wang could be an heir apparent, a prince from a branch of the imperial family, or a king of a region with limited status and powers. ⬏
11. Young Lady (小姐, ).
小 , → “small” or “young"”;
姐 , → “older sister”.
In a palatial context, xiao jie is usually used as a respectful title to refer to a young woman or the daughter of a noble family, typically unmarried. Depending on the setting and hierarchy, it may be used to refer to a lady-in-waiting, a concubine, or a young woman of high social standing. ⬏
12. 陛下 , is a respectful title used to refer to the emperor or empress in China. The term conveys a high degree of reverence and is a formal expression of greeting or addressing imperial authority, and can be translated as Majesty. ⬏
13. Tyrant (暴君, ). Baojun is a term used to describe a tyrannical ruler, especially in historical and literary contexts in China, and is often associated with monarchs who ruled with cruelty and oppression.
暴 , → “violent”, “cruel” ou “despotic”;
君 , → “lord” ou “monarch”.
In the historical context of China, the term baojun is frequently associated with emperors or leaders who abused their power and ruled through fear and repression, such as Emperor Qin Shihuang (the first emperor of the Qin dynasty) or Emperor Sui Yangdi, known for their oppressive policies and excesses.
In the context of Chinese online novels, the term is often used to characterize figures of authority with villainous traits, often being a central element in plots involving rebellions, power struggles, or betrayals. The baojun in such stories is usually an antagonist whose tyranny serves as a catalyst for the main conflicts in the narrative. ⬏
14. 梨花泪 () literally translates to “tears of a pear blossom” and is a poetic expression in Chinese. It evokes the image of delicate, sorrowful tears, often associated with a sense of melancholic beauty. In literature and art, it symbolizes the emotional fragility and tragic elegance of the person shedding the tears, much like the falling petals of a pear blossom. ⬏
15. 冷宫, () or “Cold Palace,” refers to a secluded, often neglected area in imperial palaces in China, where discarded concubines or women of low status were sent. It symbolizes a place of isolation and neglect, where those once favored fell out of favor. ⬏
16. 跳梁小丑 () literally translates to “jumping little clown” and refers to a person who behaves in a ridiculous or disruptive manner, often to attract attention or cause trouble. ⬏
17. “You there?” (那个谁 , ). The literal translation of nage shui would be something like “that person” or “that one”, being a very informal expression used to refer to someone when you can't remember their name. Over the past 20 or 30 years, this expression has become popular with social media and an increase in more casual interactions in China. ⬏
18. Xiao Mei (小眉, ). Mei, in literal translation, means eyebrow; culturally, it can also refer to beauty or grace: in China, eyebrows are seen as essential for the harmony of the face. ⬏
19. Fox Spirit (狐狸精, ). In Chinese folklore, foxes are often depicted as magical, shape-shifting creatures capable of disguising themselves as beautiful women to seduce men, often with malicious intentions. Over time, the term "fox spirit" (狐狸精) has evolved into a pejorative, used to describe women who are seen as manipulative, seductive, or disruptive in relationships. Contemporary usage can range from direct offense to humor, depending on the tone and context in which it is used. ⬏
20. Xiahou Dan (夏侯澹, ).
夏, → An ancient and prominent surname in Chinese history, associated with the Xia Dynasty (around 2100–1600 BCE), considered the first historical dynasty in China.
侯, → A noble title, usually translated as “marquis”, sometimes as “duke”.
澹, → “Calm”, “tranquil”, or “serene”.. ⬏
21. Appearance dog (颜狗, ).颜狗 () is a modern slang term used to describe someone who is excessively obsessed with physical appearance or beauty. The term literally translates to “appearance dog,” where “颜” () refers to “face” or “appearance,” and 狗() means “dog.” It is often used in a slightly humorous or critical context to highlight someone’s superficial admiration for looks, especially when it becomes an exaggerated or obsessive trait. ⬏
22. 小巫见大巫 () is a Chinese idiom literally meaning “a small witch seeing a big witch.” It describes a situation where someone who is inexperienced or insignificant encounters someone much more powerful or skilled, thus making the former appear as if they are an amateur in comparison. The phrase conveys the sense of being humbled or outclassed when facing a more expert or experienced individual. ⬏
23. 谢永儿 . ⬏
24. 夏侯泊 . 泊 () is a character associated with water and tranquility, meaning “to anchor” or “to dock” a boat, a moment of rest, or a “harbor.” Figuratively, it represents calmness, serenity, or simplicity. It is often used in personal names and Chinese poetry. ⬏
25. Pansi Cave or The Cave of the Silken Web (盘丝洞 ), literally “Cave of Entwined Silk Threads.” It refers to the lair of the spider demons in the Chinese classic Journey to the West. The cave symbolizes traps and dangers disguised by seduction and beauty. ⬏
26. Canon (卡农, ). The term 卡农 is the phonetic transliteration of the English word canon, originating from Western classical music, particularly referring to a compositional technique where a melody is repeated by different voices or instruments at intervals. In Chinese culture, it is often associated with the famous work by Johann Pachelbel, “Canon in D Major”. You can listen to an excerpt here. ⬏
27. Elder Imperial Brother (皇兄, ). This is a respectful term used by royalty to refer to the emperor’s elder brother or, in some cases, by other princes or princesses when addressing their elder brother within the imperial hierarchy. 皇 () means “imperial” ou “royal.” while 兄 ( ) means “elder brother.” ⬏
28. Romance d'Amour (爱的罗曼史, ). Known as “Romance d'Amour,” “Romance Anónimo,” "Spanish Romance," "Estudio en Mi de Rubira," among other names, this is a classical guitar piece that gained popularity in the 20th century. Although its exact authorship remains unknown, the melody is often attributed to the Spanish Romantic period and achieved international recognition after being featured in the 1952 French film Forbidden Games. With its melancholic and sentimental melody, the piece is widely regarded as an iconic work in the classical guitar repertoire. You can listen to a snippet here. ⬏
29. 广播体操 (). Literally means “broadcast calisthenics.” It is a collective gymnastics routine performed to music or spoken instructions transmitted via radio or loudspeakers. Introduced in China in 1951, it aims to promote health and physical activity in schools and workplaces. ⬏
30. Emperor (皇帝, ): It was the highest title of sovereignty in imperial China, used since the Qin dynasty (221 BCE) to designate the supreme ruler of the empire. The term combines 皇 (), meaning “august” or “sublime,” and 帝 (), a reference to the gods or celestial kings in Chinese tradition, symbolizing the ruler's divine and earthly position as the absolute leader. ⬏
31. Empress (皇后, ): It was the title given to the emperor's primary wife in imperial China. The empress was responsible for ceremonial and political duties within the court, as well as being the matriarch of the imperial family. ⬏
32. Empress Dowager (太后, ) or Queen Dowager (王太后, ): Both terms can be translated as “empress dowager” or “queen dowager.” 太后 () is a general term for the mother or widow of an emperor, while 王太后 () specifically refers to the mother or widow of a king (王, ) rather than an emperor. ⬏
33. 牛逼 (): Literally translates to “bull's penis” (with 牛 meaning “cow” or “bull” and 逼 being a vulgar term for genitalia). In modern Mandarin slang, it is used to describe something impressive, extraordinary, or highly skilled, similar to “awesome” or “badass” in English. While 逼 typically refers to male genitalia, it can, in some slang contexts, also refer to the female organ. Despite its crude origins, the phrase is commonly used in a positive, non-literal way. ⬏
34. Imperial Dragon Bed (龙床, ): This refers symbolically to the emperor's bed in Imperial China. The dragon (龙 - ) was the emperor's emblem, symbolizing his status as the Son of Heaven, with both celestial and earthly authority. As such, the 龙床 represents not just the physical resting place of the sovereign, but also the power and dignity associated with the imperial position. ⬏
35. My innate talent will surely have a purpose (天生我材必有用, )" comes from the poem “Bring in the Wine” (将进酒, ). This poem is by Li Bai, one of the most renowned poets of the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), known for his exuberant and profound poetry. ⬏
36. 甜酥, . ⬏
37. 臭男人 (): This derogatory slang is often used in casual, informal dialogue. While the slang itself is modern, the character 臭 has long been used with a negative connotation. Therefore, Yu Wanyin may be using this construction to signal her modern context as a transmigrant to Xie Yong’er, while simultaneously conveying her intentions to the ladies of the harem, still using something familiar to the palace era. ⬏
38. Unload the mill and kill the donkey (卸磨杀驴, ): This idiomatic expression comes from a metaphor based on rural labor, where a donkey is used to turn a mill and after completing its task, is killed because it is no longer needed. The expression is used to describe a situation where someone is discarded or harmed after being exploited or having fulfilled their purpose. It is equivalent to the English expressions “use and discard” or “kick someone to the curb,” depending on the context. ⬏
39. 体制 , . system, regime, structure, framework, institutional system, organizational structure, political system, governance system. ⬏
40. Wei Violet Peony (魏紫, ): A traditional and highly esteemed variety of peony, known for its large, deep violet petals and its association with royalty and luxury in Chinese culture. Recorded in historical texts, such as Ouyang Xiu’s Record of Luoyang Peonies (洛阳牡丹记), this flower was named after the Wei family, who popularized its cultivation during the Song Dynasty. Originally discovered in the Shou'an Mountains, the flower became a symbol of rarity and beauty. Along with the Yao Huang variety (姚黄), it forms the famous idiomatic expression “姚黄魏紫,” which describes exceptional and precious flowers. ⬏
41. Concubine Chu (楚嫔, ). ⬏
42. 满腹心事 , . Literally, a stomach full of matters of the heart. ⬏
43. 蒙在鼓里, . Literally, being sealed inside a barrel. The expression describes a situation where someone is being deceived, kept in the dark, or unaware of what is really happening. The image of the closed barrel symbolizes ignorance: those inside cannot see or hear clearly what is going on around them, leaving them disoriented and easily manipulated. ⬏
44. 大哥 (): Literally "big brother," this term is used to address an older male with respect, whether a sibling or a leader within a group. It can also refer to a senior figure, like a gang leader, emphasizing authority and respect. ⬏
45. OCC: Short for Out of Character, referring to situations where a character behaves inconsistently with their established personality, role, or behavior. The term is used in the Chinese text as presented. ⬏
46. Beloved Consort, 爱妃 - . ⬏
47. This Emperor, 朕 (): This can be directly translated as I, but it is used exclusively by emperors in Chinese. The term reflects the formal and authoritative self-reference used by the ruler. ⬏
