In Gratitude for Your Grace

Su Zhining was born with a natural fragrance that grows stronger in water.

Her scent stirs the soul, and no man can resist it.

Qin Yi has refused to see her, knowing that her repeated requests for an audience are meant to plead for the Prince of Jin, who is suspected of treason. Yet she disguises herself as a palace maid assigned to the bathing chamber and sneaks into the bath.

The capital's most celebrated beauty stands before him in soaked, clinging clothes. Water droplets trail over her lush, exquisite face, and her limpid eyes plead pitifully. "I beg Your Majesty to show mercy."

He has always been cold and desireless, but now his lungs are filled with the intoxicating fragrance he was forced to breathe in. In an instant, it rouses him, and only one thought remains in his mind.

"A rebel deserves death." He hears his own husky voice say, "If you want to plead for this rebel, madam, you'll have to offer me something in exchange."

The beauty looks innocent and bewildered, like a lost white rabbit. "What should I offer?"

He approaches step by step and hooks a finger into the sash of her robe. "That palace dress. Right now."

Theme: Save yourself in the midst of adversity.