The Second World in Ancient Times

Alone, I ascended the palace's high platform, a gentle breeze caressing my hair and fluttering my clothes. Gazing into the distance, the uninterrupted palace walls seemed to meander endlessly, dividing the inner and outer worlds of the palace into two separate worlds. And within this vortex of power, I had already experienced a thrilling baptism of fire.

Wanqing followed me and said softly, "My Lady, you've been standing here for a long time. The wind is cold. You should go back to the house."

I shook my head slightly, my gaze still fixed on the distance. "Wanqing, do you still remember everything that happened in the hunting grounds? The moments between life and death, the intertwining of conspiracies and intrigues?"

Wanqing replied respectfully, "How could I forget that Your Majesty displayed her prowess during the hunting expedition, foiled the Empress and the Prince's plot, and saved His Majesty and everyone else. Now you are the Imperial Concubine, and your prestige in the palace and the court is unmatched."

I sighed softly. "Although this journey has been arduous, it has also made me more aware of my mission. This palace may appear peaceful, but undercurrents are surging. The future will only bring more challenges."

Wanqing said with some concern: "Your Majesty, you have already sacrificed so much for this palace. Will the road ahead be too dangerous?"

I turned and looked at Wanqing, my eyes firm. "Danger? I've never been afraid. The modern knowledge and wisdom I possess are the foundation of my position in this palace. Just like when I'm hunting, I can use modern fighting techniques and tactics to turn the tide of battle. In the future, I will also use these to face unknown difficulties."

"But, Your Majesty, the people in the palace are complicated. The ministers have their own thoughts, and the concubines may not all truly believe in you." Wanqing said with a frown.

"Although human hearts are unpredictable, I can start with systems and interests. In the harem, the reforms I have implemented have begun to show results. Fair resource allocation and personnel scheduling have reduced conflicts among concubines, encouraged them to learn knowledge and skills, and given them new pursuits. I will continue to improve these systems to make the harem a truly peaceful and harmonious place. As for the ministers, I will handle state affairs in the court with wise insights and a fair attitude, let them see my ability and loyalty to the country, and win their support and trust." I said confidently.

"Your Majesty, you are so concerned about the affairs of the court, but will His Majesty allow you to participate too much?" Wanqing asked cautiously.

"Your Majesty is a wise ruler. He is well aware of my abilities and loyalty. After the hunt, Your Majesty has allowed me to participate in the discussion of many important matters. Your Majesty has adopted and implemented all my suggestions on palace security, intelligence system construction, and the education and management of princes and princesses. Without exceeding my duties, I will continue to help Your Majesty solve problems and make suggestions for the stable development of the country." I explained.

At this time, Afeng came to report: "Your Majesty, General Li wants to see you. He said he wants to discuss matters concerning the defense of the northern border with you."

I straightened my clothes and said, "Let him in."

General Li entered and bowed, saying, "Your Highness, I have heard that you are quite concerned about matters on the northern border. I recently received news that, while the northern tribes appear calm on the surface, there appear to be some small-scale troop movements. I am concerned about possible changes, so I have come to consult you."

After a moment's contemplation, I said, "General Li, the situation with the northern tribes truly demands attention. I believe we should first strengthen border patrols and intelligence gathering, while also sending envoys to communicate and understand the reasons behind their troop movements. If these are merely internal military exercises, we can express our understanding and use this opportunity to demonstrate our dynasty's friendship and generosity. If there are other intentions, we must prepare for this, deploy additional troops, and strengthen our defenses. However, we must not rashly provoke a conflict; a peaceful resolution must be our primary goal."

General Li said admiringly, "Your Majesty, your insight is profound. I understand. Your Majesty is also so proficient in military affairs. I truly admire you."

"General Li, you are too kind. I just know more about different knowledge and strategies. The stability of the northern border is related to the safety of the country. You and I both shoulder heavy responsibilities." I responded humbly.

After discussing this with General Li, I told Wanqing, "I also plan to set up a special school in the palace. It will not only teach the princes and princesses, but also provide opportunities for aspiring palace maids and eunuchs to learn. This way, we can cultivate more talented people for the palace, and secondly, it will spread knowledge and culture, improving the overall quality of the palace."

Wanqing's eyes lit up: "Your Majesty, this is a very good plan, but the teachers and teaching content of this school need to be carefully planned."

"I have already thought about it. As for teachers, we can invite learned scholars in the court and wise people from the public to serve as teachers. In addition to the traditional classics, history, and collections of literature, the teaching content can also include some scientific knowledge, cases of state governance, and diplomatic etiquette, so that students can learn and grow comprehensively." I said.

In the days that followed, I was busy with various affairs. In the harem, I personally supervised the preparations for the school, selecting a suitable venue and arranging tables, chairs, and teaching aids.

I told the palace maids and eunuchs in charge of the preparations, "This school is to train the future of the palace, so we must put in the best possible effort. The tables and chairs must be sturdy and comfortable, and the teaching aids must be complete and excellent."

"Yes, your Majesty, we will do our best." They answered in unison.

At court, I actively participated in discussions on national development.

A minister said, "Your Majesty, although agriculture has developed in our country, our water conservancy facilities are still insufficient. During the rainy season, floods often occur, affecting the people's harvest. What good solutions do you have?"

I thought for a moment and replied, "Your Excellency, water conservancy facilities are crucial to the lifeblood of agriculture. We can organize professionals to survey rivers and lakes across the country and develop a sound water conservancy plan. Building reservoirs and dredging rivers will both prevent floods and facilitate irrigation. At the same time, we can establish a dedicated water conservancy management agency to oversee daily maintenance and oversight, ensuring the long-term operation of water conservancy facilities. Furthermore, we can encourage public participation in water conservancy projects by offering incentives and compensation to boost their enthusiasm."

The ministers nodded in agreement, "Your Majesty is right. If this policy can be implemented, it will surely benefit the people and promote agricultural prosperity."

As time went by, my influence in the palace and the imperial court continued to grow. But I also knew that eyes of jealousy and hatred were also watching me quietly in the dark.

One concubine whispered to others behind her back, "This imperial concubine is so flamboyant. Does she really think she can control everything? Sooner or later, she will lose her power."

I heard these rumors and just smiled. I told Wanqing, "Their jealousy and slander are simply a sign of incompetence. I just need to be myself, keep moving forward, and leave them far behind."

I remain steadfast in my goal, using modern knowledge and wisdom to forge ahead within this palace and the imperial court. I look forward to witnessing greater harmony and stability within the palace and greater prosperity within the nation in the years ahead. I, too, will leave my own unique mark on history, writing a unique and glorious chapter.