The Second World in Ancient Times

Since ascending the throne of Queen, I've known for a long time that this wasn't just the pinnacle of glory, but also the beginning of a heavy responsibility. Every morning, as the first rays of sunlight streamed into the chambers, I rose, attended to by the maids, and began a busy and fulfilling day.

Regarding harem management, I first summoned all the concubines to a gathering in the garden pavilion. After they bowed in turn, I gently raised my hand and said with a smile, "Sisters, now that I am empress, I wish this harem to be as harmonious and beautiful as a spring garden. Palace rules are the cornerstone of harem order. I urge you to abide by them and not let small matters distract you from the greater good and disrupt the peace of the palace."

Concubine Li curled her lips slightly, but did not dare to openly refute. She just said softly: "Your Majesty, what you said is absolutely right. I, your concubine, will follow your lead."

I glanced at everyone and continued, "I know that you sisters will inevitably feel lonely in this deep palace. I will arrange more elegant gatherings in the future to give you the opportunity to exchange talents and enhance friendship."

A glint flashed in Concubine Hui's eyes, and she replied, "If that's the case, it would be wonderful. I've heard that Your Majesty is quite accomplished in poetry, calligraphy, and painting. If we could receive Your Majesty's guidance, we sisters would surely benefit greatly."

I nodded and smiled, "You're too kind, Concubine Hui. Sisters should learn from each other and make progress together."

In order to better manage the affairs of the harem, I set about revising the palace rules. I summoned several older and more experienced maids from the harem to discuss the matter with them.

I looked at the old palace rules in my hand and said to the maids, "Although these palace rules have been passed down for a long time, some of their provisions are no longer relevant. I think we can add some regulations regarding the concubines' learning and self-cultivation, as well as charitable activities, so that the harem will not only be a home for the king's family, but also a place to cultivate virtuous women."

A maid said hesitantly, "Your Majesty, these palace rules were set by our ancestors. Changing them at will might cause controversy."

I patiently explained, "Madam, while the ancestral rules cannot be abolished, they must also keep pace with the times. I'm not trying to completely overturn them, but simply to improve upon the existing ones, so that the palace rules will be more conducive to harmony and stability in the harem."

After much discussion, the new palace rules were finally finalized. Among other things, they stipulated that concubines must recite a certain number of classics, history books, and miscellaneous collections every month and participate in charitable activities, such as sewing clothes for the poor and donating money. Those who performed well would be rewarded, while those who violated the rules would be punished according to the severity of the offense.

At a harem gathering, I announced the new palace rules: "Sisters, these new palace rules are designed to help everyone improve themselves and contribute to the harem and the court. I hope everyone will actively abide by them."

Although the concubines whispered some opinions, they all expressed their willingness to comply.

Sacrificial ceremonies were also an important part of my responsibilities as Empress. When preparing for the Spring Heavenly Sacrifice Ceremony, I meticulously discussed every detail with officials from the Ministry of Rites.

I looked at the sacrificial arrangements and said to the Minister of Rites, "Your Excellency, the selection of offerings for this Heavenly Sacrifice must be even more rigorous. We must use the finest livestock and grains to show our dynasty's respect for Heaven."

The Minister of Rites respectfully responded, "Your Majesty, rest assured. We will make meticulous preparations. However, according to tradition, the time for offering sacrifices to heaven is at the hour of Mao. I wonder if Your Majesty has any other ideas?"

After a moment's thought, I said, "I think it's too dark at 11am, which is inconvenient. We can change the time to 11am, when the sun is just beginning to shine, which is even more auspicious."

"Your Majesty has considered everything carefully. I will arrange it right away." The Minister of Rites took the order and left.

I dared not slack off in the slightest when it came to the issue of an heir. I summoned the royal physician and inquired in detail about the king's health and the methods of recuperation that would aid conception.

I said to the imperial physician, "Imperial Physician, Your Majesty is the ruler of a nation, and the issue of an heir is of paramount importance. You must truthfully inform me of Your Majesty's health and whether there is anything requiring special attention."

The imperial physician replied respectfully, "Your Majesty, you are in good health, but your daily work with state affairs has left you feeling a bit weak. I suggest that you reduce your workload and consume more foods that nourish your Qi and blood, such as red dates, longans, and ginseng. Your Majesty should also take care of yourself and take some fertility-enhancing medicinal foods."

I nodded and said, "I've made note of this. Please prepare some medicinal recipes suitable for His Majesty, and I will have the imperial kitchen prepare them."

In addition to focusing on the king's health, I also began to take care of my own body. I ordered the palace maids to open a small medicinal garden in the palace, planting various herbs so that I could always have fresh herbs to make medicinal dishes.

I said to Wanqing, "Wanqing, this medicine garden may be small, but it's extremely useful. Arrange a few attentive palace maids to take care of it and ensure the herbs grow well."

Wanqing replied, "Yes, Madam. I will see to it."

In terms of government decision-making, I began to participate in reviewing memorials. Every afternoon in my study, I would carefully read the memorials and analyze their pros and cons.

Once, I came across a memorial regarding local water conservancy projects. It mentioned that in some areas, the disrepair of water conservancy facilities had led to flooding and severe suffering for the people. I frowned and said to the female official beside me, "This water conservancy project concerns the people's livelihood and should not be taken lightly. Go and summon Lord Li; I would like to discuss this matter with him."

When Lord Li arrived, I pointed to the memorial and said, "Lord Li, have you read this? The local water conservancy facilities are in such a dilapidated state. The court needs to allocate funds for repairs as soon as possible and send capable officials to supervise and ensure the quality of the work."

Lord Li nodded in agreement, "Your Majesty is absolutely right. I share this sentiment, but the court's finances are currently somewhat strained, so the allocation of funds requires further consideration."

After a moment's contemplation, I said, "I think we can first divert some funds from other less urgent projects. Water conservancy projects are of the utmost importance. We can also encourage local gentry and wealthy merchants to donate, and the court can provide certain rewards and commendations. This will alleviate the financial pressure."

Lord Li said admiringly, "Your Majesty, I have a good idea. I will arrange it right away."

I worked hard to build a bridge of communication between the palace and the imperial court. I often discussed state affairs with the king and informed him of the situation in the harem so that he would have no worries.

One evening, the king and I were chatting in his chambers. Gently massaging his temples, I said, "Your Majesty, today I have arranged a charity embroidery event in the harem. The concubines were very enthusiastic and embroidered many exquisite items, which will be sent to disaster-stricken areas to provide relief to the people."

The king smiled and shook my hand. "I am very pleased that my beloved concubine is so attentive. Under your management, the harem has become more harmonious and orderly."

I took the opportunity to say, "Your Majesty, while reviewing the memorials, I discovered that there have been some small-scale harassment from foreign enemies in the border areas. While these haven't caused any major disasters, they still require our attention. Does Your Majesty have any plans to address this?"

The king frowned slightly. "I have already sent troops to strengthen patrols and defenses, but the border is vast, so some are bound to slip through the net. Does my beloved concubine have any ideas?"

I pondered for a moment and said, "Your Majesty, I believe we can recruit local civilians from the border regions to form a militia, train them, and have them assist the army in defense. At the same time, we can strengthen diplomatic ties with neighboring friendly countries to jointly guard against foreign enemies."

The king nodded in approval, "My beloved concubine, your suggestion is excellent. I will discuss it with the ministers tomorrow."

Over time, I've become increasingly adept at my role as Empress, but I also know that challenges and difficulties can arise at any time. Whether it's the undercurrents within the harem or the complex situation at court, I must remain vigilant, steadfast in fulfilling my mission, and tirelessly working for the stability and prosperity of both the palace and the country.

In the harem, despite the constraints of the new palace rules, there are still some concubines who have evil intentions and try to destroy the harmony of the harem.

Once, I received news that a concubine was secretly spreading rumors that I was disrespectful during sacrificial ceremonies and would anger the heavens and bring disaster to the country. When I learned this, I did not panic.

I summoned everyone in the harem and solemnly addressed them in the main hall, "Recently, I have heard false rumors circulating within the palace. I have devoted my life to the court and the country, and everything I do is aboveboard. If such rumors were allowed to spread, they would not only disrupt the peace of the harem, but would also undermine the confidence of the court and the people. I hope that anyone who knows the source of these rumors, or who has been deceived into participating in them, will come forward now, and I will grant them a lenient sentence."

The concubines looked at each other in bewilderment, no one daring to speak for a moment. I glanced at them with a determined gaze, waiting.

Finally, a young concubine stood up tremblingly and said, "Your Majesty, it was Concubine Ning who asked me to spread the news. I know I was wrong."

I looked at Concubine Ning. She was pale, but she was still pretending to be calm. "Your Majesty, I am innocent. It was this little concubine who framed me."

I said coldly, "Concubine Ning, if you have nothing to hide, why are you so panicked? I will investigate thoroughly. If you truly committed such an evil act, I will not forgive you lightly."

After further investigation, I found irrefutable evidence that Concubine Ning was indeed the instigator of the rumor. According to palace rules, I severely punished Concubine Ning, demoting her to the rank of concubine, reducing her monthly allowance, and confining her to her home for six months.

This incident allowed everyone in the harem to see my determination to maintain order in the harem. Since then, the atmosphere in the harem has improved significantly, and the concubines have become more obedient to the palace rules and live in harmony.

In terms of state affairs, I continue to actively participate in decision-making and pay attention to various national affairs.

When I learned that the northern region was hit by drought, I was extremely worried. After discussing with the king, I decided to open the granaries to release grain and organize personnel to go to the disaster area to fight the drought and provide disaster relief.

I told the officials in charge of disaster relief, "This drought is severe, and the people are suffering. You must deliver food to the victims as quickly as possible, and organize people to find water sources and dig wells. Save every person you can."

The officials took the order and left, and I launched a fundraising campaign in the harem, calling on the concubines to contribute their own strength to the disaster area.

"Sisters, the people in the disaster-stricken areas in the north are suffering. Although we are in the harem, we cannot sit idly by. I hope that everyone can do their best to donate money and clothes to bring warmth to the people in the disaster-stricken areas." I said at the harem gathering.

The concubines responded enthusiastically and donated materials. I carefully registered these donations and arranged for them to be delivered to the disaster area.

I also played my part in foreign affairs. When foreign envoys arrived, I met them together with His Majesty. With my elegant demeanor and tactful words, I showcased our country's cultural heritage and the demeanor of a great nation.

When I met with the Western Regions delegation, they brought many precious gifts and featured their unique cultural performances. I watched the performance with a smile. After the performance, I said to the leader of the delegation, "Your country's performance was truly wonderful and truly eye-opening. It also made me realize the importance of cultural exchange between countries. I hope that our two countries can strengthen exchanges and cooperation in culture, trade, and other areas in the future, achieving mutual benefit and win-win results."

The leader of the delegation responded respectfully, "The Queen's open-mindedness is a blessing for both our countries. We will convey Her Majesty's words to our king."

With my achievements as Empress, my prestige within the palace and the imperial court continues to rise. However, I understand that this is inseparable from the trust and support of the King, as well as the cooperation of numerous ministers, maids, and eunuchs. I will continue to shoulder the heavy responsibility of being the mother of the palace, and strive for the future of the palace and the country. No matter how many difficulties and obstacles lie ahead, I will never retreat. I will ensure that this palace will prosper under my governance, and that the country will achieve glory through the joint efforts of the King and me.