My elder sister died in childbirth, leaving behind only a daughter before she passed away.
To consolidate the family's power, they sent me into the imperial harem.
Because of my father's military achievements, the Emperor summoned me to his chambers several nights in a row.
In the eyes of outsiders, I was a favored consort.
Among the consorts, I was a thorn in everyone else's side.
Only I knew how cold the floor tiles in Chengqian Palace were. After kneeling all night, my knees ached terribly.
The Emperor warned me more than once.
"Don't think I'll be moved just because you look a little like your sister. I only come to see you for the princess's sake."
On the anniversary of my sister's death, the Emperor got drunk. Calling out my sister's name, he spent a night of wild passion with me.
Not long afterward, the Emperor had someone deliver contraceptive medicine that had been tampered with.
"General Li's military achievements threaten to overshadow the throne. The harem must be on guard. The lives of everyone in the Li family, dozens of people, are all in your hands, Noble Consort Li."
Even the princess I had lovingly raised said, "Mother, you should do as Father says."
I was forced to drink the tampered contraceptive decoction, and began hemorrhaging on the spot.
When I woke, I suddenly felt at peace.
I requested to move to the Cold Palace.
This time, I would live for myself.
