Chapter 2: The Aura of an Emperor

“Every time Your Majesty visits my quarters, you return to Consort Li and tell her in detail everything that happened here. But Consort Li’s body is not as soft and yielding as mine, so there are things she cannot satisfy you with, and thus she resents me.”

At that moment, Noble Consort Hua felt utterly wronged, her heart aching as she wondered why His Majesty insisted on recounting every detail. It was only natural that being favored above the other consorts would make her the target of everyone’s envy.

Qin Xiao suddenly understood—it was all his fault.

Heart aching for his pitiful and lovable consort, he pulled her gently into his arms and said warmly, “Beloved, you’ve suffered. Rest assured, I shall see justice done for you!”

With the softness and fragrance of beauty in his embrace, a fire ignited in Qin Xiao’s chest.

By the next morning, Noble Consort Hua’s complexion was radiant and rosy—evidently, the night had been most restorative.

As she awoke, her slender jade-like hand traced across Qin Xiao’s broad chest. Memories of the previous night flashed in her mind—when had His Majesty become so skillful? Had he learned these arts from other concubines? The mere thought made her cheeks burn with shame and her heart pound furiously.

Alas, His Majesty could never belong to her alone; what use was his affection? Today he woke in her bed, but tomorrow he would rise from another’s.

Qin Xiao awoke from slumber, realizing at last why emperors so easily succumbed to a life of indulgence—drink today, enjoy today, pleasure and beauty at dawn!

“Beloved, as Imperial Physician Li advised, we must pay attention to balance, mustn’t we?”

“Your Majesty, please have mercy on your humble concubine.”

The spring breeze loosens more than just one’s spirit; it loosens one’s robes as well.

Beneath the dragon couch, garments lay scattered and belts undone.

After several hours, Noble Consort Hua could barely move, her face flushed with embarrassment.

Qin Xiao greedily savored the lingering fragrance emanating from her skin.

Noble Consort Hua’s willow-leaf brows were tightly knit, her cheeks flushed, and her fair skin glistened with tiny beads of sweat.

Her eyes were misty and alluring; Qin Xiao was hopelessly lost in their depths.

Within the bath, flower petals floated upon the water, shrouding their entwined figures.

Noble Consort Hua was dazed—had His Majesty changed his temperament? How could he be so gentle? How utterly shameful.

While the two played in the water, the little eunuchs outside were nearly frantic with anxiety.

“What should we do? Morning court is about to begin, and His Majesty still hasn’t emerged.”

“What else? His Majesty despises being disturbed while attending to such matters.”

“Hey, do you suppose His Majesty took some medicine? Noble Consort Hua cried out all night long.”

“Tsk tsk, you’re bold—do you have a death wish?”

The impudent eunuch stuck out his tongue, but then heard another cry from within, though not as clear and bright as in the night; now her voice was hoarse. The palace maids all felt a twinge of pity for their mistress.

To be tormented by His Majesty to such a state—her throat was raw.

“Your Majesty, it’s getting late—you must attend the morning court!” From atop the dragon couch, Noble Consort Hua couldn’t help but remind him. She dared not be the reason His Majesty neglected his duties, lest Consort Li punish her without mercy. As for the promises whispered in bed, she took them as nothing more than sweet nothings; she could hardly expect His Majesty to confront the ever-favored Consort Li on her behalf.

Hearing her words, Qin Xiao was jolted back to the reality of the Great Qian empire’s situation.

The Great Qian dynasty had become a silver spear with a waxed tip—all for show and nothing of substance. Beyond its borders, the Xiongnu were gathering restlessly; within, calamities and unrest abounded. Recently, officials had even submitted memorials reporting torrential rains and failed harvests.

No! Absolutely not!

I’ve only just transmigrated to become emperor—I won’t let go of a life surrounded by beauties and luxury so easily!

I must reform the court, strengthen and revive the Great Qian, and usher in a new golden age.

I must become an emperor celebrated through the ages—a sovereign whom even the legendary sages would praise as peerless!

I will never be a ruler who brings ruin. I don’t want anyone daring to threaten my women with, “You wouldn’t want your emperor to die, would you?”

“Hua Fei, you truly are my virtuous helpmate, the treasure of my heart. You’re right—diligence brings mastery, while idleness brings ruin. I shall attend court immediately!”

Noble Consort Hua was stunned. When had her words ever carried such weight? For His Majesty to call her his virtuous helpmate!

“Your Majesty~”

“That’s enough, beloved. Help me dress. Rest well, and when I finish with state affairs, I’ll return to discuss the mysteries of the bedchamber with you!”

A rosy blush flooded Noble Consort Hua’s cheeks, igniting a fire in Qin Xiao’s eyes.

At the palace entrance, as Qin Xiao stepped out, he suddenly turned back, leaned close to Hua Fei’s delicate ear, and whispered, “Beloved, how was I last night?”

“Oh, Your Majesty, how can you ask such things? I haven’t even recovered yet,” she replied shyly, unable to meet his gaze.

Her bashfulness only made him more eager for her response. He pressed on, “How is it when you walk?”

“Not very comfortable.” She lowered her head, mortified—what had gotten into His Majesty today, asking such questions?

Qin Xiao burst out laughing, feeling as if he’d reached the pinnacle of life—what could be more exhilarating?

He felt powerful—invincible.

In that moment, even his stride was filled with vigor, his face aglow with confidence as he marched toward the Golden Throne Hall.