My palace is full of female protagonists.

At this moment, Xiao Kuangzi carefully entered carrying a tray with a pot of warmed sake on it, clearly prepared for Zhao Chengyu. However, upon seeing this, Zhao Chengyu frowned slightly and gently shook his head, saying, "When your pores are open in water, how can you drink alcohol? It's not good for your health, no wonder many ancient emperors died young."

Upon hearing this, Xiao Kuangzi was startled and immediately knelt down to beg for forgiveness. Then, she cleverly replied, "It was my oversight. I'll go and change it to fruit juice right away. It will be made from the freshest seasonal fruit, guaranteed to satisfy you, young master." After saying this, she quickly withdrew and instructed the other palace servants to prepare.

Soon, Xiao Kuangzi returned with freshly squeezed juice, its aroma filling the air and refreshing the senses. Zhao Chengyu took the juice, sipped it, and immediately felt his mouth water; it was sweet and refreshing. He couldn't help but nod in praise, "Mmm, this is what enjoyment is all about!"

Xiao Kuangzi asked Zhao Chengyu in a soft voice, her tone tinged with a mixture of probing and concern: "My lord, for tonight's relaxation time, shall we invite Consort Zhen over again? You have always praised her massage skills, saying that they can relieve a lot of fatigue."

Upon hearing this, a complex expression unconsciously surfaced between Zhao Chengyu's brows, as if long-buried memories had been stirred up, and fragments of those memories about "Empress Zhen" surged through his mind. Empress Zhen came from a prominent yet low-profile family of traditional Chinese medicine practitioners. Her family had practiced medicine for generations, but it was through her father's efforts that he secured a place in the officialdom. Although his family had also invested a considerable amount of money in the court to help him climb the ranks and enter the capital, he was truly capable.

Unlike her parents' other children, Lady Zhen displayed extraordinary wisdom and talent from a young age. She not only inherited her family's medical traditions but also read widely, possessing an exceptional understanding and innovative approach to pharmacology and medicine. However, fate played a cruel trick on her; she, who advocated for female doctors, voluntarily became a court lady, a rare talent who enjoyed a period of great fame.

Zhao Yingqing, the Crown Prince, encountered Consort Zhen, a once-renowned female physician, who was now spending half a month in the laundry department, caught up in the scandals of the palace. Perhaps out of pity, or perhaps attracted by her resilience and talent, Zhao Yingqing unhesitatingly pulled her out of her predicament and brought her back to the Crown Prince's residence, giving her a relatively peaceful environment. During her time at the Crown Prince's residence, Consort Zhen not only continued to hone her medical skills but also became a "secret treasure" in the eyes of Zhao Chengyu and his advisors with her unique massage techniques.

However, for Zhao Chengyu, Consort Zhen's existence went far beyond that. Whenever her name was mentioned, an indescribable emotion would well up within him—admiration for her medical skills, sympathy for her plight, and even more so, speculation and reflection on the subtle relationship between her and the Crown Prince. He knew that although Consort Zhen held the title of "Consort," she was in reality merely a pawn in the palace intrigues; her fate was already inextricably linked to the imperial city, from which she could not easily extricate herself. Therefore, the two remained respectful to each other to this day, without children.

“Let’s leave it for today and let Consort Zhen rest,” he confirmed again. “She might be tinkering with her treasures again, and we shouldn’t disturb her. As for expenses…” Zhao Chengyu paused slightly, as if thinking about something, “Since the medicinal herbs we need recently aren’t expensive, that’s even better. However, Consort Zhen’s research might save lives in the future, so the investment is worthwhile. Just give her the same amount of money as in the past few months, so she doesn’t have to live a frugal life despite having the title of ‘Consort’.”

Upon hearing this, Xiao Kuangzi secretly admired Zhao Chengyu's thoughtfulness and consideration, and quickly replied, "Don't worry, sir, I'll take care of it right away. If Lady Zhen knew how much you care about her life and research, she would definitely serve you even more diligently. She would be very grateful for your kindness."

Zhao Chengyu waved his hand gently, and Xiao Kuangzi, seeing this, tactfully retreated outside the door. Zhao Chengyu soaked in the tea for a while longer before returning to his bedchamber. Xiao Kuangzi arranged the things in the room, then left and quietly closed the bedchamber door. Zhao Chengyu brewed another pot of tea alone in his study. The fragrant aroma seemed to dispel the day's fatigue. He took a small sip, the tea's fragrance calming his mind, before slowly rising and walking towards his bedchamber.

Pushing open the door to the imperial bedchamber, a beautiful figure unexpectedly came into view, causing Zhao Chengyu to pause slightly in surprise. Consort Zhen was sitting gracefully at her desk, seemingly holding something in her hand. Upon seeing him enter, she quickly rose, her movements tinged with a mixture of fluster and shyness. She swiftly turned and gave Zhao Chengyu a graceful bow, her voice like a nightingale's song: "The physician Zhenzhen greets Your Majesty and thanks Your Majesty for your grace!"

Zhao Chengyu quickly stepped forward, helped Zhen Niangniang up, and said with a smile, "Zhenzhen, there's no need for such formalities between us. That money is just material possessions. If you can truly make a breakthrough in your medical skills, that would be the greatest reward for me." As he spoke, his gaze unconsciously fell on Zhen Niangniang's face. He saw that her cheeks were slightly flushed, and her eyes were sparkling with shyness and gratitude, which made Zhao Chengyu feel a touch of tenderness in his heart.

"What...what were you looking at just now?" Zhao Chengyu noticed the several medical books on the table and asked casually. Upon hearing this, Consort Zhen quickly handed over the medical books and explained, "Your Majesty, I was studying ancient books, trying to find clues to combat the epidemic. Your Majesty's grace has given me the opportunity to continue my research, and I am deeply grateful."

Zhao Chengyu took the medical book and gently flipped through a few pages. He saw that it was filled with notes and insights, showing how much effort Consort Zhen had put in. He looked up at Consort Zhen, his eyes full of admiration: "Zhenzhen, I have seen your talent and hard work. But have you ever thought about leaving this palace one day and soaring in the wider sky?"

Upon hearing this, Consort Zhen hesitated for a moment, but then her resolve hardened. "Your Majesty," she said, "I once aspired to be a lady-in-waiting in the palace, to use my medical skills to benefit the court, and to set an example for women throughout the land, so that people would know that female doctors can also stand tall and proud. Now, thanks to your grace, my reputation has spread far and wide, and many daughters of physicians have been inspired to dedicate themselves to medicine. I am already content and have no further desires."

Hearing Consort Zhen's words, Zhao Chengyu felt an even stronger surge of admiration. He gently patted her shoulder, his eyes filled with encouragement and tenderness: "Zhenzhen, your breadth of vision and ambition truly make even a self-proclaimed emperor like myself feel ashamed. You not only care about the court but also have your sights set on the world; such magnanimity and foresight are truly rare. Rest assured, as long as I, Zhao Chengyu, remain on the throne, I will do everything in my power to protect you and allow you to pursue your dreams without distraction."

At this point, Zhao Chengyu's thoughts seemed to drift further afield. He continued, "The world is vast, far beyond the sky we see. Beyond the open seas lie boundless continents, where the natural environment and vegetation are completely different from ours. Precisely because of this, their medical systems and treatment methods must also have unique insights and achievements."

Upon hearing this, Lady Zhen's eyes gleamed with curiosity and longing. She asked softly, "Vegetation, do you mean trees?" Zhao Chengyu smiled and shook his head, explaining, "Vegetation is a broader concept. It includes all plants that grow on the ground, whether they are tall trees, low grasses, climbing vines, or withered mushrooms, etc. They are all collectively called vegetation. The differences between these plants lead to their diverse uses in medicine, thus forming various unique prescriptions and treatments."

Empress Zhen listened intently, as if a whole new world had opened up for her. She couldn't help but ask, "Then, shouldn't we exchange medical knowledge with those distant continents and explore the mysteries of medicine together?" Zhao Chengyu nodded approvingly, "Exactly. However, the relationship between nations is not entirely stable now, and you are already an empress. I don't approve of you easily leaving the capital to travel. But you can exchange medical knowledge with foreign envoys and merchants who travel to the capital. They come from different places, and the medical knowledge and experience they bring will surely benefit you greatly."

Upon hearing Zhao Chengyu's words, Empress Zhen's eyes gleamed with excitement and anticipation. She asked, "Then shall we have a competition to see whose medical skills are superior?" Zhao Chengyu laughed and shook his head. "Competing in medical skills is not the goal. The real purpose is to learn and draw upon each other's strengths. We should embrace every medical system with an open mind, taking its essence and discarding its dross, to jointly promote the development of medicine. Only in this way can we truly benefit all people."

Upon hearing this, Consort Zhen's eyes seemed to freeze instantly in the night breeze. She gently lowered her eyelids and lightly wiped away the tears that were about to fall from the corners of her eyes with her delicate embroidered sleeve. Her voice trembled slightly but resolutely: "Your Majesty, I appreciate your kindness, but this is absolutely impossible. In this deep palace, every move must be made with caution. The slightest carelessness could bring endless disaster. If my personal matter causes unrest in the palace, or even tarnishes the reputation of all female physicians in the land, then all my efforts and sacrifices will be in vain. That would be a burden I cannot bear."

She looked up, her eyes flashing with determination and resolve. "From a young age, I aspired to study medicine, hoping to use my skills to help people and save lives. Even if I can only save one person, it would be an honor for me as a physician. Now, thanks to the Emperor's favor, I have been granted the title of 'Consort Zhen,' which allows me to practice medicine in the palace and benefit all people. This honor is what I have sought in my life, how can I easily give it up because of a momentary thought?"

At this point, Consort Zhen's tone took on a resolute and tragic air. "If that day ever comes, I would rather end my life with a white silk ribbon when my medical skills and reputation are at their peak than let my purity and medical skills be disgraced. At that time, perhaps I can leave behind the eternal name of 'chaste and virtuous female physician,' which will be passed down through the ages alongside the Emperor's illustrious name. This can be considered my dedication and commitment to the medical profession."

Hearing Consort Zhen's words, Zhao Chengyu felt a mix of emotions, his brows furrowed. He had never met a woman so resolute yet deeply affectionate. He knew his suggestion was flawed, yet he couldn't help but try to offer her some solace and comfort. "Zhenzhen, why are you so determined? I just... just wanted you to have something to rely on in this palace besides your medical skills. If you truly don't want that, then so be it, I will never force you. But do you know that in this world, besides medical skills and fame, there are many other things worth cherishing and pursuing?"

He paused, his tone softening, "If you really want a child to rely on, you don't have to do it this way. We can... we can think of other ways. In short, I won't let you be alone and helpless."

Upon hearing this, Consort Zhen felt a surge of warmth in her heart. She looked at Zhao Chengyu gratefully and said softly, "Your Majesty, I appreciate your kindness. But all I ask for is to devote myself to medicine and save people from suffering. As for anything else, I have no extravagant desires. I only wish to spend the rest of my life with medicine and do my part for the benefit of all people."

Seeing that Consort Zhen's attitude was resolute, Zhao Chengyu knew that any further persuasion would be futile, so he sighed and decided not to force the issue. He pondered for a moment, his tone heavy with helplessness, and said to Consort Zhen, "Have you ever considered that if one day I am gone and you also meet with misfortune, then your life's medical achievements and hard work might become a 'death warrant' for your family? But if these achievements can be inherited by a prince or princess, at least it can bring a guarantee to your family, protecting them from unnecessary troubles. However, if it is a prince, he will also lose the qualification to become the crown prince."

Upon hearing this, Consort Zhen's expression changed slightly. She quickly knelt down, clasped her hands before her forehead, and replied respectfully and earnestly, "This concubine has never dared to harbor any improper thoughts about the Crown Prince, but Your Majesty's proposal is something I truly need to seriously consider. If I ultimately decide to accept it, I will personally prepare a small garment for you as my reply. However, please allow me a few days to sort out my thoughts and also to explain this matter to my family."

Seeing that Consort Zhen had finally relented, Zhao Chengyu, though reluctant, knew it was a well-considered decision and said no more. He gently waved his hand, indicating that Consort Zhen could leave. Consort Zhen bowed and slowly withdrew from the palace.

After Consort Zhen's figure had completely disappeared, Zhao Chengyu murmured to himself, "If it weren't for your superb medical skills and your loneliness and helplessness in this deep palace, how could I have thought of such a way to help you? In the end, I just hoped that you could have a good ending, so that all your efforts and sacrifices wouldn't be in vain after I left. As for myself, who would willingly touch a strange woman?"

He slumped back onto the bed, a wave of regret washing over him. When Consort Zhen was present, he hadn't asked her for a massage; now that she was gone, trying that ancient technique was pointless. He closed his eyes, trying to pull his thoughts away from the chaos, but the image of Consort Zhen's skillful hands moving deftly among the herbs, gently caressing the patient, kept replaying in his mind…