The Second World in Ancient Times

The smoke of rebellion gradually dissipated, and the court finally welcomed a long-awaited peace. But beneath this peace, there was a review and summary of this thrilling event, as well as the rewarding of meritorious officials.

That day, sunlight streamed down upon the magnificent palace, the atmosphere solemn yet tinged with anticipation. The king sat upright upon the dragon throne, his gaze sweeping majestically over his courtiers and the harem.

"This hunting trip was supposed to be an ordinary grand event, but we didn't expect it to be met with the disaster of treason and usurpation of the throne by the queen and the prince. Fortunately, thanks to the loyalty and bravery of my beloved ministers and concubines in the harem, we were able to quell the rebellion and maintain peace in my palace and the world. Today, I will reward all the heroes to commend their merits." The king's voice was steady and powerful, echoing in the hall.

I stood among the concubines. Although my heart was in turmoil, I remained dignified on the surface.

"Concubine Yu, you have made an invaluable contribution this time." The king's gaze fell on me, eyes filled with admiration. "From the moment you discovered the conspiracy, you responded with wit. First, you cleverly resolved the numerous crises during the hunting trip. Then, when I was surrounded, you risked your own life to lead the rescue. Using ingenious tactics, you inflicted heavy damage on the rebels, ultimately successfully capturing the prince and exposing the queen's crimes. I have witnessed your intelligence, courage, and loyalty."

I knelt slightly in greeting and said respectfully, "Your Majesty, everything I do is out of loyalty to you and my desire to protect the peace of the palace. In this critical moment, how dare I slack off in the slightest?"

"Your achievements are far beyond those of ordinary people. I have decided to reward you with a thousand taels of gold, a hundred pieces of silk and satin, and a number of jewels. I will also promote you to the rank of noble concubine, with the same status as the vice-empress, and you will be able to participate in the decision-making and management of all matters in the harem." As soon as the king's words came out, there was an uproar in the hall.

The concubines all cast mixed glances at me, with feelings of envy, jealousy, and awe. The ministers also looked at me with admiration.

"Your Majesty, this reward is too generous, and I am overwhelmed." Although I was happy in my heart, I still responded humbly.

"There is no need to refuse, Concubine Yu. This is the reward you deserve. Your ability and loyalty are enough for this position. I hope that you can continue to serve the court, assist in managing the harem, and share my worries in the future." The king waved his hand, his tone firm.

"I will do my best to live up to your majesty's grace." I saluted again, knowing in my heart that this was not only a reward for me, but also a heavy responsibility.

"General Li, in the battle to quell the rebellion, you led your soldiers to fight bravely and charge into battle, and you made great achievements in protecting me and the palace. I appoint you as the General of Protecting the Country, grant you a mansion, thousands of acres of fertile land, and all your soldiers will be rewarded handsomely." The king turned and said to a mighty general.

"I thank Your Majesty for your grace! Your Majesty is blessed with great fortune. We, your subjects, will sacrifice our lives to ensure the eternal stability of our dynasty!" General Li knelt on one knee and loudly accepted the reward.

The king then rewarded the other ministers and guards who had made contributions in the rebellion. After the rewards were completed, the king mentioned the treatment of the remaining rebels.

"The Queen and the prince are guilty of treason, which is unforgivable. I have ordered them to be thrown into the Sky Prison, and a decision will be made after a detailed interrogation. Their accomplices will also be arrested, and no leniency will be shown. I want everyone in the world to know that those who conspire in rebellion will only end up dead." The king's eyes were filled with cold murderous intent, and everyone felt his anger towards the rebellion and his determination to show no mercy.

"Your Majesty is wise. This is the only way to deter those with evil intentions." A minister echoed.

Afterwards, the king made a series of arrangements for the security and management of the palace, strengthened the guard forces in various places, and added some supervision mechanisms to prevent similar incidents from happening again.

After the court meeting, I returned to my palace. Wanqing was waiting for me excitedly.

"Your Majesty, congratulations on your promotion to Imperial Concubine. This is such a great joyful event!" Wanqing said with a smile on her face.

"This is not just an honor, but also a responsibility. From now on, we must act more cautiously and not make any mistakes." I sat in the chair and sighed slightly.

"Your Majesty, you are always so busy. However, with your wisdom and ability, you will be able to manage the harem in an orderly manner." Wanqing comforted.

"I hope so. The hearts of people in this palace are complicated. Although the queen and the prince have lost their power after this battle, there is no guarantee that there will not be other people coveting high positions and plotting secretly." I said worriedly.

"Your Majesty, don't worry too much. With you here, those people won't dare to act rashly." Wanqing said.

In the days that followed, I began to take care of the affairs of the harem. Some of the concubines who were originally close to the queen came to show their goodwill.

"Your Highness, I was ignorant and offended you before. I hope you will forgive me." A concubine said tremblingly.

"Sister, you are too polite. There is no need to mention the past. As long as we can live in harmony and serve His Majesty together in the future, it will be great." I responded with a smile. Although I understood their thoughts, I didn't want to care too much about it at this time. After all, stabilizing the harem is the top priority.

At court, I also began to participate in discussions on important matters. The ministers also showed more respect for me and often asked for my opinions.

"Your Majesty, what are your thoughts on the defense of the northern border?" a minister asked respectfully.

"I believe that although the northern border has natural barriers, we should not take it lightly. We should increase troops and strengthen patrols, while maintaining friendly exchanges with surrounding tribes to avoid the outbreak of war. If necessary, we can send envoys to communicate and understand their needs and movements." I said after thinking for a moment.

"Your Majesty is right. We are grateful for your guidance." The ministers nodded in agreement.

As my status in the harem and court rises, I realize the challenges I face are increasing. Not only must I navigate the intrigues of the concubines, but I must also play an active role in court affairs, contributing to the stability of the palace and the prosperity of the nation. But I remain undaunted. I believe that with my wisdom and hard work, I will be able to gain a firm foothold in this complex environment and write my own legend.

While handling harem affairs, I discovered that some palace maids and eunuchs were spreading rumors behind people's backs, disturbing people's hearts. I decided to kill a chicken to scare the monkeys and rectify the harem atmosphere.

"Bring those palace maids and eunuchs who spread the rumors to me." I said to Wanqing.

After a while, several palace maids and eunuchs were brought in front of me, they were trembling with fear.

"Do you know what crime you have committed?" I asked sternly.

"Your Majesty, we know we were wrong and will never do it again." They begged for mercy.

"In this harem, rumors are the most hurtful. Considering that it is your first offense, I will give you a lenient sentence. Each of you will be lashed with twenty strokes of the cane. If you do it again, I will not let you off lightly." I said.

Through this measure, the atmosphere in the harem gradually improved. The concubines also obeyed the palace rules more and dared not act recklessly.

At the court, I actively promoted policies that benefited the people's livelihood. I proposed to the king that some taxes be reduced to ease the burden on the people.

"Your Majesty, life is difficult for the people nowadays, and the heavy taxes may cause public resentment. If taxes can be appropriately reduced or exempted, the people can live and work in peace and contentment, and the country can enjoy long-term stability." I said in the court.

"I have also considered what Concubine Yu said. I will discuss this matter in detail with the ministers. If it is feasible, we will implement it as soon as possible." The king nodded.

As the days passed, my influence within the court grew. But I remained clear-headed, knowing that everything I had came from the king's trust and support. I often stayed by his side, discussing state affairs with him and providing him with soothing comfort.

"Your Majesty, state affairs have been busy recently. You should also make sure to rest and don't overwork yourself." I brought him a cup of hot tea in the king's study and said softly.

"I am very pleased to have you by my side. Not only can you give me advice in the court, but you are also so considerate in life." The king held my hand and said with emotion.

"Your Majesty, this is what I should do. Your Majesty's health is a blessing for me and the entire palace." I responded with a smile.

However, I also know that the peace in the palace is only temporary. Beneath this seemingly calm surface, undercurrents surge. Some of the forces I have suppressed are secretly gathering strength, waiting for the opportunity to strike back. And I must remain vigilant, prepared to respond to any challenge that may come, and safeguard my current position and this hard-earned peace in the palace.

I began cultivating my influence within the harem and the imperial court. In the harem, I selected intelligent and loyal palace maids and eunuchs, trained them, and made them my spies, constantly relaying information. In the imperial court, I established strong relationships with upright and loyal ministers, supporting each other and working together to address various palace affairs.

"Afeng, select some reliable people from the guards to form an elite team, and train them yourself to be ready for emergencies." I said to Afeng.

"Yes, your majesty. I will definitely live up to your trust." Afeng took the order and left.

At the same time, I also focus on improving my own self-cultivation and abilities. I often read ancient historical books to learn the experience and wisdom of governing a country. I also practice martial arts to strengthen my body and prepare for possible dangers.

"Wanqing, bring me that copy of 'Records of the Grand Historian'. I want to study it carefully today," I said.

"Yes, Your Majesty." Wanqing handed me the book.

I immersed myself in the world of books, drawing nourishment from the wisdom of the ancients and accumulating strength for my survival and development in the palace. I knew that only by constantly strengthening myself could I stand firm in this palace full of conspiracy and struggle, and truly protect everything I cherish.

As my position in the court became more secure, some foreign envoys came to pay tribute, and I accompanied the king in receiving the envoys.

"Your country's envoy has come a long way and must have worked hard," said the king.

"Your Majesty is wise and wise. We have come here to offer our country's specialties as a token of our respect." The envoy said respectfully.

During the meeting, I displayed my elegant demeanor and intelligent mind, had friendly conversations with the envoys, won their praise, and added glory to the country.

"Your Majesty is truly gifted with both talent and beauty. Your country is fortunate to have a figure like you," the envoy praised.

"Your Excellency is too kind. I only hope that the two countries can have friendly exchanges, share their resources, and promote peace and prosperity between the two countries." I responded with a smile.

This series of experiences has solidified my position within the court and strengthened my resolve to protect both the court and the nation. However, I know the road ahead is still filled with challenges. I must remain vigilant and use my wisdom and strength to write my own court legend, bringing lasting peace and prosperity to the court and the nation.