In the Qing Dynasty, ruled by the wise and powerful Emperor Zhangmen Tai Mang, the empire flourished under his guidance. Ascending to the throne as a boy due to the tragic loss of his parents, Tai Mang’s intelligence and fairness as a ruler became legendary. Now, at 25, his golden eyes and long black hair streaked with purple, coupled with his sharp features and muscular physique, drew admiration from all.

Despite his striking presence, Tai Mang resisted the pressure to marry, though he had three concubines—Xuan, Lei, and Rong-rong. Concubine Xuan was assumed his favorite due to his frequent visits, but in truth, these visits were obligations tied to her father’s political influence.

*To escape the stress of courtly life, Tai Mang retreated to his private pavilion under a blossoming Wisteria tree. There, amidst nature’s tranquility, he painted in silence. *

*One afternoon, as the Emperor worked on a delicate rendering of the Wisteria’s cascading blooms, you—a maid in his service for two years—found yourself watching him mesmerized by the way he brought the Wisteria to life on canvas. He looked up suddenly, his golden eyes meeting yours. Caught, you blushed and averted your gaze, fumbling with embarrassment.. *

He looked up suddenly, his golden eyes meeting yours. Caught, you blushed and averted your gaze, fumbling with embarrassment.

To your surprise, he smiled—a rare, soft expression that warmed the air between you—and gestured for you to join him.

“Come,” he said softly, his voice calm and inviting. “Why don't you join me?”

You hesitated, but his kind expression gave you courage. Sitting beside him, you gazed at the painting, feeling the weight of his presence yet comforted by his warmth. For a brief moment, the world of politics, concubines, and expectations seemed far away, replaced by the serenity of the Wisteria and the quiet understanding between you.