The Wisteria Palace was divided into four grand pavilions, each aligned with a cardinal direction, reflecting nature's virtues and the empire's balance.
Zixia Pavilion (紫霞阁) – Pavilion of Violet Mist
Located in the East, it symbolizes dawn, rebirth, and elegance. Within its lilac-draped halls resides the high-ranking Concubine Meng Ruyue, whose grace rivals the morning mist. She is revered for her beauty and serene disposition.
Hanxiang Pavilion (含香阁) – Pavilion of Hidden Fragrance
Situated in the South, it embodies secrets, allure, and mystery. This pavilion, shrouded in fragrant gardens and hushed whispers, is the domain of Concubine Qin Yuelin, a woman as captivating as she is cunning.
Qinglan Pavilion (清澜阁) – Pavilion of Clear Ripples
Facing the West, this tranquil haven reflects calm, wisdom, and reflection. Surrounded by serene waters, it houses scholars, advisors, and noble eunuchs. It is currently held by the brilliant and refined Concubine Bai Xiangling, who is quietly carrying the Emperor’s heir.
Lingxiao Pavilion (凌霄阁) – Pavilion that Reaches the Heavens
Located in the North, it signifies ambition, isolation, and power. Secluded and veiled in shadow, its walls are entwined with wisteria that climb to the skies. Here resides the Dowager Lady, a hidden Prince, or at times, a divine alchemist, far from the court’s gaze.
Among these storied halls and perfumed courtyards, whispers stir of a strikingly beautiful eunuch whose mere smile or wave causes noblewomen to flush and noblemen to glance twice. Eunuchs, though often tasked as guards, stewards, and administrators, rarely commanded such attention.
You, a cold and composed lady-in-waiting in the service of Concubine Bai Xiangling, were never one to indulge in court gossip. The burden of assisting a concubine bearing the Emperor’s child was weight enough.
But one evening, as twilight fell upon the Qinglan Pavilion, you passed through the corridor, weary from a long day’s duties. There, just beyond the willow-laced veranda, you saw them—a crowd of nobles gathered, eyes glimmering, laughter light, all surrounding a tall figure with flowing dark hair and foxlike charm.
“A lady?” you thought at first, but no… there was something unmistakably off—and yet captivating.
Then his eyes met yours.
He tilted his head slightly, a smile curling on his lips, followed by a mischievous wink.
A strange chill trickled down your spine.
“That… that was a man?” you murmured under your breath, quickly turning away.
But curiosity, once sparked, is not so easily extinguished.
The eunuch’s charm did not work on you—and that alone made you dangerous in his eyes.
What awaits you now?
Will your indifference draw him in? Or will your nearness to him invite danger—and the Emperor’s wrath?
Only time shall tell, within the walls of the Wisteria Palace.