A plate held a neatly folded dress, the fabric rich and shimmering, yellow and peach pink, as bright as a flower.

On another plate was a box of exquisite porcelain jars with painted patterns. It looked like rouge and powder?

"There will be a tea party in the palace the day after tomorrow. My beloved concubine, please wear this dress."

"yes."

"Also, you must put on this box of perfume that day."

Cui Nianmi said without hesitation, "I'll make a note of it."

Xuan Ling was surprised by her ready agreement, and glared at her with his black eyes, as if exploring.

Cui Nianmi knelt down and kowtowed:

"I am willing to go through fire and water for the Emperor, even if it means death."

She understood the emperor's intention, yet remained so calm and composed.

Xuan Ling wondered why this woman was like this?

Cui Nianmi sensed Emperor Xuanwu's doubts, and she didn't dare let him know that she acted like this because she had deep feelings for Qi Yan.

Express loyalty:

"Since I was young, my grandfather has taught me that loyalty to the emperor is the greatest filial piety. I entered the palace for no other reason than to share the emperor's worries. I am truly blessed."

She was working for the family behind her, so Xuan Ling put aside his doubts.

He has always used and controlled the women in the palace, and the women in the harem treated him the same way. They competed for his favor not for love, but for wealth and glory, and for the prosperity of their family.

He protects the country and the people, but he is alone, like the last sound floating on the lights of thousands of homes.

Until Zhong Cuigong saw the woman with clear eyes.

It's a heartbeat, a momentary excitement of the blood.

Xuan Ling gently twisted the jade Buddhist beads,

Sheng Xiyan, I have never used you, how about you to me?

Half an hour later, Eunuch Fu reminded: "Your Majesty, it's time to go to the morning court."

Xuan Ling stood up and said, "You should get enough rest these two days. You don't need to go out."

Cui Nianmi bowed and said, "I obey your order."

After the imperial carriage left, the palace maid Jin Ya came in and touched the gorgeous clothes.

"Wow, it smells so good, my lady. Is this scented satin?"

Cui Nianmi opened the rouge and powder box, and the powder inside exuded a rich and sweet scent.

She closed the box, looking ready to die.