#palace forbidden city

[lotusinjadewell]

Huế, Vietnam. Credit to _im.rot_ (Instagram).

[thepastisalreadywritten]

Is this a computer chip? It's actually an aerial view of the Forbidden City. 🔲

—

The Forbidden City is the imperial palace complex in the center of the Imperial City in Beijing, China.

It was the residence of 24 Ming and Qing dynasty Emperors, and the center of political power in China for over 500 years from 1420 to 1924.

The palace is now administered by the Palace Museum.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world.

The Forbidden City is arguably the most famous palace in all of Chinese history and is the largest preserved royal palace complex still standing in the world.

[niteshade925]

Anyways, back to the regular scheduled programming: tomorrow's post is the last post (part 5) in the series for Shaanxi Archaeology Museum, and it has some nice stuff for hanfu lovers! The next museum is the last one I went to in Xi'an, and then it will just be life stuff until the posts of pictures from the National Museum of China

[duhdumb89]

A Forbidden Happiness | Chapter 48

The food spread over Shen huang gui fei's dining table was rank. There were plates of fatty, slimy meat, a bowl of strange fried noodles, greasy barbecue, and stinky mutton and camel dishes. The servants had to open every window and door so the sour smells didn't linger in her palace.

"Huabao," Shen huang gui fei said, cringing as her daughter slurped down a cup of sour yak milk, "Wouldn't you like something else to eat? His Majesty and I had lunch yesterday, and the food was so lovely. Should I send for some?"

Shaking her head, Huabao said, "Maybe later. This is all I've wanted since I returned! Ah! Thankfully, Royal Grandmother let me borrow her chef. A-niang, you don't want to try?"

Huabao placed a piece of slimy mystery meat on Shen huang gui fei's plate, a bright smile on her face.

Shen huang gui fei turned away from the sight with a strained laugh, "What about birds nest's soup? Jingse will make a fresh batch for you,"

Huabao wrinkled her nose before turning to the handmaid she'd dragged back to the palace, Tuya. Tuya was short, squat, and dark. In any other circumstance, Shen huang gui fei would have never let her set foot in Zhongcuigong.

"Are there any more of the sweet milk curds?"

"No, First Princess," replied Tuya.

"I'll just have Royal Grandmother's chef make more," said Huabao, returning to her meal.

Who was this girl sitting across from her? This wild thing? This stranger who nodded her head quietly as The Empress Dowager promised her a crop of maids to bring with her into her new household?

As the days passed, the distance between Shen huang gui fei and her child grew. Gone was the daughter who clutched her skirts and hung on her every word. Now, there was a woman who often stank of the stables and didn't care to even look at the portrait of her future husband. Huabao barely cared a lick about her marriage at all. Whenever Shen huang gui fei tried to guide Huabao about running her new household, the girl found an excuse to run away. Not to mention that her attitude during any of the pre-marriage ceremonies bordered on apathy. Huabao turned her nose up at the embroidery and calligraphy they had so much fun with, instead opting to run off, race horses, and shoot arrows with her brothers.

With each wall Huabao was determined to put up between them, Shen huang gui fei grew angrier. Her daughter would have never ended up like this if it wasn't for The Empress. Her daughter would still be her little girl and His Majesty's precious pearl if The Empress hadn't sunk her claws into her. Shen huang gui fei was sure that the bitch had something up her sleeve for Huabao's wedding. Why wouldn't she? Her maternal cousins were married to His Majesty's favored brother, she had two sons, and soon, she would have a direct connection to the Fuca clan.

If The Empress struck now, everything Shen huang gui fei had worked so hard for would go up in flames. Shen huang gui fei wasn't going to wait around and let that happen.

✺

Shen huang gui fei had never paid much attention to to Bai gonggong. He had been Fung gonggong's deputy eunuch for as long as she had been in the Forbidden City. Fung gonggong had always been the bigger fish, but he was, unfortunately, unswayable. As old as he was, he had no family to support or possibly hold hostage. He was an eunuch in all senses of the word, so a beautiful woman was as good as dirt to him, and he worshipped no one but the man under whom he rose to power: The Late Emperor. His Majesty was a close second, but the eunuch did everything in his old master's name. No concubine could push him to one side or the other, as he would defer to The Empress or The Empress Dowager as the rules permitted. Trying to bother with him was a waste of time and energy.

Bai gonggong, however, from what Jingse could gather, was nothing of the sort. He was easy to ignore and, for the right price, could get a servant where they needed to go. None of the concubines paid him notice, but he managed to collect a tidy sum from the other eunuchs and maids to switch departments or to keep secrets secret. It was rumored that the only reason he became Fung gonggong's deputy was because he was the cause of the front runner's violent end with a wild horse.

"Your Highness," he said, gesturing to the painted porcelain pots that his eunuchs held behind him, "I scoured the Storage House to find the finest gift for First Princess's wedding,"

The pots were fine. Certainly, nothing that Shen huang gui fei found to be up to her standards, but that wasn't the real reason she called him here anyway. If her intuition was correct then Bai gonggong wouldn't be opposed to helping Shen huang gui fei with her little problem.

"That one there," she said, pointing to a yellow and blue gourd-shaped pot, "Bring it closer,"

Before the eunuch holding her choice could even lift his head, Bai gonggong snatched it away and brought it to Shen huang gui fei.

Obedient. Good.

"Did you pick this one yourself, gonggong?" She asked, pretending to inspect the craftsmanship.

"Of course, Your Highness,"

A liar as well. Very good.

"You have a very good eye, gonggong,"

"This slave doesn't deserve your praise, Your Highness,"

"I'll take this one," Shen huang gui fei said, handing the pot to A'Fang, before nodding at Jingse, "Give Bai gonggong his reward,"

Bai gonggong's eyes glittered at the sight of the silver tael in Jingse's hand.

"Your Highness is too kind," he said, not hesitating to take the money. He bowed low, "We'll take our leave,"

"Stay a moment, gonggong. There's a task I'd like you to help me with," said Shen huang gui fei.

"I'm only a lowly deputy, Your Highness," Bai gonggong replied, "Perhaps Fung gonggong would be better suited to serve you?"

As deferential as the words were, there was no mistaking the way his grip tightened on the reward in his hands.

"No, you'll do just fine,"

Bai gonggong eagerly shooed the other eunuchs away.

"How may I serve you, Your Highness?"

✺

As the candles burned high and bright, a trickle of sweat slid down An pin's temple and nestled itself in the fabric of her collar. It was the height of summer now and she usually wouldn't subject herself to being steamed like a piece of fish, but she hunkered down in Dafuge for a reason. Cao taiyi had finally become worth An pin's while.

"Your Highness," Weiwei hissed as she hurried back from the courtyard facing windows, "Limei is here,"

Immediately, An pin began to poke at her thighs with a sharp pin to help the tears fall from her eyes. By the time Limei walked through the doors, An pin would have worked herself up into a respectable crying fit.

From what Weiwei could gather, Limei had been Guang pin's dowry maid and her closest confidant. Since Guang pin's death, the girl haunted the Forbidden City like a pale ghost, skulking from her new post at the Ice House to the Dafuge to pray for Guang pin's soul and back again.

The door creaked open.

"Meimei," An pin blubbered, "Meimei, I'm so sorry,"

"Your Highness?"

An pin pretended to be startled and whirled around.

"Your Highness An pin!" Limei said, dropping to her knees to bow.

An pin sniffled and rubbed the tears from her cheeks, "Rise,"

Limei glanced at Guang pin's memorial tablet, "Are you here to speak with my mistress?"

An pin nodded before gazing at the shrine, "Do you come here very often, Limei?"

Limei's eyes opened wide, as if she couldn't believe that An pin knew her name at all before nodding her head, "Yes, Your Highness. We never went a day without seeing each other...before, so it's become a habit,"

An pin sighed, "I came here because my heart is heavy. I was hoping meimei could ease my sorrows,"

"I didn't know that you and Guang pin were close, Your Highness," replied Limei.

Shaking her head, An pin pressed a hand to her heart, "We weren't. But I wish I could back and change things,"

Her voice dropped to a low whisper, "Maybe then I could have protected her,"

Limei reared back as if she had been struck, her pale face somehow going even whiter.

"What?" She croaked out?

An pin shook her head and scrambled to her feet, making a point to stumble even as Weiwei buoyed her.

"Nothing," An pin whispered, "I won't keep you from your conversation,"

An pin began ambling to the door.

"Your Highness, wait!" Limei said, running in front of her, "What did you say just then? What did you mean?"

Limei clawed at An pin's sleeve desperately. An pin snatched her arm away.

Weiwei pushed Limei to the side, "How dare you put your hands on An pin?! Get out of the way!"

An pin squeezed out more tears and brought her handkerchief to her mouth to muffle her sobs. It was a good performance but unfortunately, Limei looked defeated. She stood there quietly, not bothering to come after An pin again. What a waste!

However, just as An pin thought the whole endeavor wasn't worth her while, Limei sprung back to life. She planted herself in front of the door and kneeled.

"Your Highness, I beg you! I beg you! Please tell me! Please tell me so I can honor my mistress!"

Each cry was punctuated with a dull 'clunk' as Limei bashed her head into the ground.

Ah! Finally!

"Weiwei, help her up," said An pin.

Weiwei did as she was told.

Limei lifted her head as a thin stream of blood dribbled down her face. An pin pressed her handkerchief to it.

"You shouldn't hurt yourself like this, Limei,"

Limei shook her head, "This body is nothing. I'm only here to honor Guang pin's name,"

An pin released a theatric sigh, "If I tell you what I meant, do you promise to act sensibly?"

The girl nodded frantically, obviously lying.

Putting on a nervous tick and fiddling with her nail guards, An pin began, "When Wang Rong was alive, she was my dearest friend after we entered the palace together. We grew close for a time, but as His Majesty acquired more and more women and her favor wasn't so everlasting, she grew bitter and angry. Especially at your mistress,"

An pin paused for dramatic effect.

"One night, I thought to drop in and have dinner with Wang Rong. I didn't bother to announce myself because it was so late. She was talking to her maids and I heard her say... I...I didn't do anything about it because I couldn't imagine she would do something so drastic. And I couldn't imagine that Shen huang gui fei would help her,"

Limei's lips wobbled but no sound emerged.

"I didn't think of it again. After meimei's death, so many things happened. But a few months ago, she came to me in a dream and begged me to find the truth. She wanted me to know that it wasn't just the childbed that...that the labor didn't take her,"

"I began asking around," An pin continued, "I even sent a physician around to ask Guang pin's servants about her food and drink,"

"That was you? You sent that doctor?" Limei said before biting her lip, "What...what did he find?"

An pin blinked away a new set of tears, "Do you remember when a gift from Wang Rong came for your mistress? Herbs to keep her beauty?"

Limei, thankfully, caught on quickly to what An pin was implying.

"But, we sent it to the Imperial Hospital," Limei said, her voice shaking, "They said it was safe,"

"Do you know if they tested the entire jar or just the top?" An pin said, pulling a lie out of thin air.

Limei shook her head and pursed her lips, "I-I don't know,"

"That night, Wang Rong told her maids that she knew you sent the medicine for inspection and was glad she listened to Shen huang gui fei about filling the top of herbs with something harmless,"

"It was poison? She poisoned Guang pin?" 

"In a way. Guang pin was taking bu gu zhi. If you and I were to take it, even for years at a time, it wouldn't harm us. But for a pregnant woman, it's fatal,"

Limei crumpled to the ground and stared at An pin, in a dazed silence.

For an uncomfortable stretch of time, the girl sat there, slumped at An pin's feet without a single blink. An pin fought the scowl that was desperate to be on her face. This wasn't the response she expected. She was hoping for righteous anger or woeful tears! Not this corpse.

Instead of slapping her, An pin said softly, "Limei? Are you alright?"

"Why,"

An pin paused.

"Why?"

Limei spoke again, "Why would Shen huang gui fei do this?"

An pin knelt on the ground before grabbing Limei's hand, "The back palace is a glittering slate of beauty that masks the evil of the mind. I thought we were close but after finding out the truth. I don't know what to think,"

"Do you think she did it so she could finally have a prince?" Weiwei asked, skillfully inserting herself into the conversation.

"I," An pin said, her lips quivering, "I can't believe that. Shen huang gui fei couldn't have know that meimei would even give birth to sons,"

"Your Highness, didn't you think it was strange that out of the blue, everyone was banned from visiting Guang pin, except for Shen huang gui fei? Could it be that she wanted Guang pin to think that no one but her cared for her?"

An pin shook her head, "I don't know what to think, Weiwei. I don't want to keep thinking of these things in such a holy place,"

She swayed to the side to make a point.

"Your Highness, you've gone pale. I'll take you back to Chuxiugong,"

An pin nodded, but before she let Weiwei lead her away, she kneeled to grab Limei's hands again.

"Don't lose your head over this Limei. Wang Rong and Shen huang gui fei may have wronged your mistress, but she was only the bottom rung in the ladder of this cruel place. If you truly want to honor Guang pin, you'll live a good, long life with her memory in your heart,"

Limei sagged to the ground as if her shoulders weighed a thousand pounds.

"I will, Your Highness. Thank you for your grace,"

"Your Highness," Weiwei said as they began their trek back to Chuxiugong, "Do you think she'll be able to do anything without your help? What if this was a waste?"

An pin shrugged, "I have faith in her. Though, if it amounts to nothing, I still have plenty of things in store for Shen huang gui fei,"

✺

Jiayi was broke. Absolutely emptied out. She would probably have to sell one of the gifts Xiang pin gave her to be able to send something back to Wei Jiayi's family. As perilous as the situation was, Jiayi didn't feel anything but the outrageous amount of butterflies in her stomach. Before Xiang pin had laid down for her afternoon nap, Jiayi asked permission to drop by the clothing house and pick up some fabric for a dress. It was only half a lie. She did pick out some fabric–a few bundles of rich black silk–but it wasn't for a dress.

It was for Prince Han's gift.

Jiayi had thought long and hard about what she could possibly give to someone like him and the idea finally came to her as she watched Xiang pin 'ooh' and 'ahh' over a brocade pajama set that The Emperor had sent her before declaring that she would sew a set for him as a gift in return. The thought nailed itself to the flesh of Jiayi's brain.

She and Prince Han were together. Those were the sort of gifts people gave to one another, right? Before she could lose her courage, Jiayi had spent the money and bought the fabric. The sight of it folded innocently in the basket on her arm made her heart race. She wouldn't just give Prince Han the pajamas, obviously. That would be too much! She would paint him something with her Hubi. Maybe when she asked Sang'er to give her Prince Han's measurements, she'd ask if Prince Han had any favorite poems or sutras so she could paint something to hang on his wall. Jiayi was so lost in her thoughts that she almost missed the sight of Shen huang gui fei's and First Princess's raised chairs. She moved herself to the side and kneeled as the entourage passed by.

Since First Princess's return, Shen huang gui fei's time revolved entirely around the wedding. While things had been quiet, they all knew better than to count Shen huang gui fei out. They were as vigilant as they could be. Jiayi rose to her feet as the servants passed her by. She paused as a familiar yet unfamiliar face brought up the rear of Shen huang gui fei's line of maids. She had seen the maid's face before, somewhere, but never as a servant of Zhongcuigong. Before she could bring a face to the name, a eunuch stopped in front of her.

"Wei guniang?"

Jiayi clutched her basket tightly. She had never seen this eunuch before, "Yes?"

"Fung gonggong has asked for you,"

Jiayi's throat dried up in an instant. She croaked out a laugh, "I'm sorry gonggong, but I have to return to my mistress–,"

"Her Highness Xiang pin has already been informed," he replied, "This way. Quickly," 

[starryeyed-seer]

Basically chipping away at a reverse suncrab role/species swap because. I need this rn. Anyway the judgement bazaar would be a nightmare ♡

[galentir]

For the soft asks: 2, 10 & 13 pls🐾👻

Ahh! More paws! *boop boop* 🐾

2. What’s your feel-good movie?

That would be one of my favorite movies of all time, Castle in the Sky 🩵 As a kid I always dreamt of finding a castle in the clouds and even today that thought never left me whenever I see a big cloud in the sky 😅

10. What’s something you’re excited for?

I'm planning to go to Ireland and work in a farm program later this year!

13. What’s your comfort food?

The boring answer would be ice cream, I love ice cream 😂 But meal-wise? Soup. Just chicken soup with bread. 👌

Thanks darling! 😊

[istern99]

Beijing Forbidden City . 2012 year.

[travelernight]

Ultimate China Journey: 30 Stops You Need to Make

[us-china]

From the historic roots of the #forbiddencity and the #palaceofversailles to today's exciting collaborations in film, music, and fashion, #china and #france are celebrating their 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties in style. Check out the cool exhibition filled with #cultural #relics and #artifacts that showcase their epic partnership in this episode of China Meets Europe! Check out the video and subscribe to the channel for more China’s stories!

[beyourselfchulanmaria]

中國北京的紫禁城歷時 14 年建成 (1406-1420)，有超過 100 萬工人參與建造。 這座宮殿建築群擁有 9,999 個房間，周圍環繞著 26 英尺（8 米）高的城牆和 171 英尺（52 米）寬的護城河。

The Forbidden City in Beijing, China, took 14 years to build (1406 to 1420) and more than 1 million workers were involved in its construction. The palace complex, which contains 9,999 rooms, is surrounded by walls that are 26 feet (8 meters) high and a 171-foot (52-meter) wide moat.

39.914722°, 116.390556°

Source imagery: Maxar

[hsmagazine254]

Beijing Unveiled: A Journey of Wonders and Delights

Beijing Unveiled Beijing, the capital of China, is a mesmerizing blend of ancient history and modern marvels. This sprawling metropolis beckons travellers from around the world with its rich cultural heritage, iconic landmarks, bustling markets, and culinary delights. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through Beijing, showcasing the top attractions, shopping hotspots, delectable…

[ffcrazy15]

Someone needs to do an analysis on the way the Kung Fu Panda movies use old-fashioned vs. modern language ("Panda we meet at last"/"Hey how's it going") and old-fashioned vs. modern settings (forbidden-city-esque palaces/modern-ish Chinese restaurant) to indicate class differences in their characters, and how those class differences create underlying tensions and misunderstandings.

[theplotmage]

50 Worldbuilding Setting ideas for your fantasy book

Cities and Settlements

1. Capital City - The central hub of political power and culture in the realm.

2. Harbor Town - A bustling port city crucial for trade and naval activities.

3. Elf Village - A serene settlement hidden within a forest, home to elven inhabitants.

4. Dwarven Mines - An underground city where dwarves mine precious metals and gems.

5. Nomad Camp - A temporary settlement for wandering tribes and traders.

6. Market Square - The commercial heart of any major city, filled with vendors and artisans.

7. Sky City - A floating metropolis held aloft by magic or advanced technology.

Natural and Enchanted Locations

8. Mystic Forest - A dense, magical woodland filled with ancient trees and mythical creatures.

9. Enchanted Lake - A serene body of water with mystical properties.

10. Secret Cave - A hidden cavern that might contain treasure or danger.

11. Dark Swamp - A treacherous wetland often home to dark magic and creatures.

12. Forbidden Desert - A vast, arid expanse known for its harsh conditions and ancient secrets.

13. Floating Island - A landmass suspended in the sky, often home to unique flora and fauna.

14. Hidden Valley - A secluded, fertile valley protected from the outside world.

15. Charmed Meadows - Peaceful fields imbued with protective enchantments.

Magical and Supernatural Places

16. Wizard’s Tower - The abode of powerful sorcerers, filled with arcane knowledge.

17. Sacred Temple - A place of worship and spiritual significance, often protected by divine magic.

18. Haunted Castle - An ancient fortress inhabited by ghosts or malevolent spirits.

19. Necromancer’s Crypt - The lair of a dark sorcerer who practices necromancy.

20. Oracle’s Sanctuary - A holy site where oracles deliver prophecies and visions.

21. Magical Academy - An institution where young sorcerers learn the art of magic.

22. Alchemist’s Workshop - A place where alchemists experiment and create potions and elixirs.

23. Time Portal - A gateway to different eras, allowing travel through time.

Dangerous and Uncharted Areas

24. Ancient Ruins - The remnants of a once-great civilization, often hiding secrets or dangers.

25. Dragon’s Lair - The home of a fearsome dragon, filled with treasure and peril.

26. Cursed Forest - A dark, haunted woodland where malevolent forces dwell.

27. Battlefield - The site of a significant past conflict, often haunted by the spirits of the fallen.

28. Volcanic Wasteland - A desolate, fiery landscape wrought with volcanic activity.

29. Giant’s Keep - A massive fortress built and inhabited by giants.

30. Pirate Cove - A hidden inlet where pirates gather to plan their exploits.

31. Shadow Realm - A dark, parallel dimension filled with malevolent entities.

32. Frosty Tundra - A vast, icy wasteland where few dare to venture.

Cultural and Social Hubs

33. Royal Palace - The lavish residence of the ruling monarch and their court.

34. Thieves’ Guild - A secretive organization of thieves and rogues.

35. Warrior’s Training Grounds - A facility where soldiers and heroes train for battle.

36. Arena of Champions - A grand coliseum where warriors compete in combat.

37. Goblin Market - A chaotic and colorful marketplace run by goblins, offering exotic goods.

38. Hermit’s Hut - The secluded home of a wise hermit, often sought for advice.

39. Secret Hideout - A concealed refuge used by rebels or outlaws.

Mystical and Legendary Sites

40. Ethereal Gardens - Magical gardens with rare plants and enchanting beauty.

41. Celestial Observatory - A tower dedicated to studying the stars and celestial events.

42. Sanctuary of Lost Knowledge - A hidden library containing ancient and forbidden texts.

43. Sunken Ruins - The underwater remnants of a lost civilization.

44. Gryphon Nesting Grounds - A mountainous area where gryphons make their nests.

45. Spiral Staircase - An enigmatic, seemingly endless staircase leading to unknown depths.

46. Giant’s Keep - A colossal fortress built and inhabited by giants.

47. Protean Plains - A region where the landscape constantly changes, reshaped by powerful magic or ancient curses.

Adventurous and Explorative Spots

48. Treasure Hunter’s Camp - A gathering spot for explorers seeking lost relics.

49. Relic Seeker’s Cave - A cave rumored to contain powerful artifacts.

50. Explorer’s Outpost - A base for adventurers preparing for expeditions into unknown territories.

***

Discover the Ultimate Sci-Fi Fantasy Planner, designed by a fellow writer to transform your worldbuilding journey! This meticulously crafted template will unlock your limitless creativity and add unparalleled depth to your storytelling.

Why You Can’t Miss This:

• Comprehensive Worldbuilding Worksheets: Delve into political, cultural, historical, and economic facets to create a rich and immersive world.

• Series Support: Perfectly tailored for epic, multi-book sagas, ensuring consistency and coherence across your narrative.

• Lifetime Use: Invest once and enjoy a tool that will support your writing endeavors forever.

• Easy Navigation: Designed with a user-friendly interface, allowing for a seamless workflow and effortless organization.

• In-Depth Character Sheets: Develop complex, unforgettable characters that will captivate your readers.

• Centralized Information Hub: Keep all your worldbuilding details in one accessible place, making it easier to reference and build upon your ideas.

• Writer Tool Repository: Gain access to a curated selection of top tools from around the web, enhancing your writing process.

• Guided Writer Tasks: From idea generation to book publishing, this planner supports you every step of the way.

Don’t let this opportunity slip away! Experience the joy of writing with the Ultimate Sci-Fi Fantasy Planner and watch your world come to life. Build your universe. Inspire your readers. Act now and start your journey toward extraordinary storytelling.

Buy now for a 50% off to this planner!

[saphirafoxgirlspost1]

(Open Rp) Alternate Love Story in "The Fox princess and the Monkey King"

Long Ago, In the Kingdom Of Sakutopia Ruled by The Kind and Compassionate Emperor Of the Celestial world Connected in Every beautiful Kingdoms.. including The Jade Palace.. but There's One Land that was Forbidden and the New parts of hell was Known as "The Shadowland" Home of the great Shishagami who is a ruler of this Barrens of Decay, No one dared to go there because the entrance was Guarded by the Great Orc who will Attack anyone that tried to go in or Going out. Then There was a Kingdom Nearing this Waste land was Known as the Dark Kingdom Home of the Demonic Bats and Decay itself.. His name is "Koumori" The Son of the Great Shishagami and He was Known as the "Bat King", He's been Watching The beautiful Kingdom with his crystal ball hating all the beauties and Living until he Spotted The Princess Of the Sakutopia Name "Saphira Lorraina Fox" The daughter Of the emperor himself, He began to Fell in love with that beauty and he wanted her as a Trophy wife, His queen. He decided to Plan to marry his Daughter and taking over the kingdom Turning the celestial Realm into Darkness and decay, Then the Next day The Bat King arrives at the palace as the Emperor Demands an explaination why the bat King enters the kingdom uninvited Himself, Then The Bat king Told The emperor that He wanted a hand In marriage to His daughter.. The Emperor was furious and Shouted," You will Never Marry My daughter! She Sees you that your Not worthy for her hand! Begone you Vile Demon! Your Not Welcome to my kingdom!" The Bat King was Seething in rage..and Then He said," Fine but mark My words Your Majesty, Your Daughter will be Mine Either she Likes it or not! She Will be My Queen!" Then The Bat King Vanished from the kingdom.. The emperor was Worried about Saphira's Safety and Now, She is in Danger and So, He began to sent His daughter to the Jade palace where the Jade Emperor will Protect her Until the Bat king is being dealt with.. Before Saphira Head to the golden Carriage, her Father Stopped and handed her a Jaded Box, he said," My dear Daughter,, if the bat King is coming after you and ambush you.. You must go to the Human world and go to the Peach Flower Mountain, remember I told you about the Monkey king?" "Yes Father, you told me all about it..including his Life, the peaches, everything else. Why?" She asked.. then her Father answers," There you will find him.. He'll protect you from The Bat king." Then he hugged His daughter goodbye with tears running down on his cheeks. When Saphira got into the Golden Carriage and took off heading Down to the Jade palace but suddenly The Army of the Demonic Bats Ambushed them.. Then the Coach knew this would happen, So he summon the Portal to the human world and went through it..as the Portal Closed, Saphira Change into her Human Form.

Her hair is White as snow, Her eyes is Blue as a sapphire Sea and her skin is Pale as a moonlight.. While the carriage was taken her to the lovely area..it stopped by the docks and she comes out..and got in..and little does she know..she notice the beautiful Butterfly with a monkey face on the wings as she smiles, She knew that this Butterfly is rare to find it but little does she knows that this butterfly is the monkey king watching over her..When suddenly..She hears the bats screeching from the new portal..as she landed on sure and saw the mountains..and she began to run like hell..and saw the path to the top of the mountain.. Then She began grabbed her horse when it got out from the boat..she rides up there and made it to the cave.. she enters it..and sees the bolder is closed to be protected…The army of demon bats retreat after failing to enter the cave..The Bat king is Not Happy about it..So he Decided to Change into His Human form and Hides in the Big City waiting for her to Come to the city.. Meanwhile Saphira Saw the Ruines on the wall showing the life of the monkey King, every place turns gold as it shows it until she sees the monkey king and she said, "You there!" She sees him running and began to chase after him.. and when he stops and she said, "Wait I-" when she touched it..it went passed her.. and the gold faded as She gasp.. Then The Small Monkey face Butterfly appeared and She said, " I Should've Swore He was here.." Then Suddenly.. She sees the Monkey Face Butterfly Landed on the back of her hand and She looked at it and saw the golden eyes..and then The Butterfly said….

[duhdumb89]

A Forbidden Happiness | Chapter 53

The pajamas were finished.

Jiayi had haggled with gugu at the clothing house to get a nice piece of black brocade to edge the pants and the sleeves. It was easier than she thought to sew them in place. The fabric was a bit thicker and fiddly, but she got it together. It was a very handsome set, in her opinion. Prince Han would be more than happy with it.

There was nothing more to it.

Fung gonggong was buried and Bai gonggong  had been executed.

The sun rose and set.

The birds sang.

The Forbidden City moved on, and Jiayi moved with it.

Like a New Year's firecracker, the feelings that had exploded with the news of Fung gonggong's death had turned to dust and ash. In the end, there was no guilt, sadness, or even relief. There was nothing.

Around her, the world was unchanged. Behind the double doors, Xiang pin was taking her afternoon nap. She could hear the murmur of a few other servants out in the courtyard, sweeping and chatting. Molan and Pie'er were embroidering quietly on the other side of the table, and Ping'er was dozing quietly on the ground by the bedroom doors, Thunder snuffling in her lap.

Smoothing the silky clothes, Jiayi folded the pajamas and tucked them into the basket on her lap. The reality of it slithered around in Jiayi's mind. How much blood had she spilled to live this simple life? How much more would it take to keep it?

And why did the idea of it not horrify her more?

Before she could answer the question, Thunder erupted into furious barks. He leaped from Ping'er's lap and trotted to the front door.

"Ah! Sixth Prince is back for lunch," said Molan.

Jiayi rushed to pick up Thunder, hoping she would quiet down and not disturb Xiang pin.

"Hush, you!" Jiayi said.

In all her defiance, Thunder continued to bark, only settling down when Sixth Prince stepped through the door.

"I'm starving," he whined, "I want hotpot for lunch,"

Jiayi guided him to the recently vacated table where Molan had already left a basin of water and a cloth for Sixth Prince to wash up.

"I apologize, Sixth Prince. Xiang pin said you've had hotpot too many times this week. Would you like some fish instead? Or dumplings? I can call for a nice spread,"

Sixth Prince huffed and scrubbed his face and hands. He leaned back to peer at Xiang pin's closed bedroom door.

"Just go get it for me," he whispered, "A-niang is napping. She wouldn't even know!"

"I absolutely would,"

Xiang pin's slightly sleepy voice cut through the room. Ping'er hurried to slide the doors open for their mistress.

Sixth Prince froze as his cheeks blushed red, "A-niang! You're awake!"

Xiang pin took a seat next to Sixth Prince and shared the basin and cloth to freshen up, "The only way I could sleep through Thunder's barking is if I was dead,"

Always happy to be included, Thunder shrieked and wiggled her way out of Jiayi's arms to paw at Xiang pin's feet.

Xiang pin clicked her tongue, "Who do you think you are trying to turn my girls against me? You've eaten so much hotpot this week there's bone broth coming out of your ears!"

Sixth Prince moaned in annoyance, nearly toppling off his chair with how far he leaned back.

"Little brat," Xiang pin hissed as she pinched his cheeks, "All you eat is lamb hotpot anyways! You'll become just as fat as Thunder with the way you're going,"

Sixth Prince shrugged, "I think I'd look good fat. And if lamb's the problem, let's do shrimp hotpot!"

When Thunder barked enthusiastically, Sixth Prince hoisted her into his arms, "See? Thunder wants hotpot, too,"

"Thunder would eat her tail if she could," Xiang pin groused, "She's just one big roll!"

The room erupted into laughter.

"Your Highness," Jiayi said once she had conquered her giggles, "How about braised chicken and vegetables? And then we can save the hotpot for a special occasion,"

"Like Prince Han's birthday!" Said Ping'er.

Xiang pin clapped her hands, "Yes! Be a good boy and wait for Prince Han's banquet,"

"That's so far away!" He protested.

"It gives you more time to think of a present," Xiang pin said with a shrug. She nodded at Bolin, "Go fetch lunch. Braised chicken and vegetables,"

Sixth Prince groaned, "I'll starve!"

"I'd hope so! Aiyo, every time I turn my head, you're sprouting another inch. If I send for another set of clothes for you, the embroidery maids will riot. No! Eat your chicken and starve,"

As Sixth Prince began to quibble with Xiang pin, the room came back to life with noise and color. The floors squeaked as the servants went to and fro to finish their tasks and chatter flowed around them like water.

This is why Fung gonggong's end bothered her so little. How could it not be worth it when this is what it got her? All the strife and worry faded to nothingness as she watched their little lives play out before her eyes. She wanted nothing more than to live out the rest of her days like this. After doing so much to have it, why wouldn't she fight to keep it?

✺

The characters on the document on the desk were beginning to blur in front of The Emperor's eyes.

"Your Majesty,"

The Emperor blinked to clear the fuzziness from his sight. Zhang Wei was standing opposite the desk, holding a covered tray.

"From Shen huang gui fei," the eunuch continued.

The Emperor fought back a sigh. He was in no mood but gave a nod.

Zhang Wei placed the tray on a nearby table, lifted the cover and presented the golden plate to The Emperor.

"Bai tang gao*, Your Majesty,"

The Emperor stared at the glistening white, diamond shaped cakes topped with pale pink camellia buds.

"Shen huang gui fei is also asking if you plan to visit Zhongcuigong tonight,"

He then understood the motive behind her gift.

The Emperor shook his head, "Faithfulness and longevity," he said with a laugh.

Taking a bite of a cake, he shook his head again. Too sweet. There was always a misstep with Shen huang gui fei these days. The flower was a poor choice as well. Bai gonggong's investigation was thorough–her actions made it clear who she was faithful to. Not to his legal wife and, therefore, not to him. How could she claim such a thing after her small-mindedness ended with the murder of his father's most beloved eunuch?

He knew that as a concubine, there would always be bitterness in Shen huang gui fei's heart, but she was becoming unruly. The Emperor had spent many years pampering her and promoted her to a status that someone from her family background rarely had. She had privileges and a lifestyle that women worldwide would kill to have.

And this is how she decided to behave.

He washed the cloying taste of sugar from his mouth with a mouthful of tea. There wouldn't be a point in scolding her. Shen huang gui fei would deny, argue, and find someone else to blame. There was no chance for punishment either. The news of it would be a blight on Huabao and her marriage. It would sour his relationship with the Fuca clan if they thought they were given the daughter of a criminal.

In any case, the Gods had taken care of her retribution in his stead. As much good fate as The Emperor had, it didn't always trickle down to his children. If Shen huang gui fei were smart, she would take Yiru contracting the cough right before Bai gonggong's crime as a sign to stop her nonsense. Unfortunately, The Emperor wasn't sure Shen huang gui fei was up to the task.

He pushed the plate to the side and returned to his work.

"I'll stay here," he said.

There was nothing but the sound of flipping pages and the song of the crickets outside until Zhang Wei interrupted him, again.

"Another gift for you, Your Majesty,"

The Emperor didn't look up from his work, "Put it on the side table,"

"I'm not sure she'll fit, Your Majesty,"

"Send her away. She can come back in the morning,"

"Are you sure you don't want to see me now, Your Majesty?"

The voice that came through the door quenched a thirst that The Emperor didn't know he had. It was familiar. He yearned for it daily.

"Your Majesty," the voice sang sweetly again, "Don't you want to see me?"

The Emperor heard the doors swing open, and the soft hush of dainty footsteps grow louder. It was like a Tang dynasty goddess glided into the room wrapped in yellow and gold silks. Even with her face covered with a round fan, The Emperor knew who she was.

"This concubine wishes The Emperor peace,"

"Lower your fan," he said.

"Why should I?" The Goddess said, shaking her gilded mountain hair**, "You wanted to send me away,"

The Emperor laughed and went to help Huifen off the ground. As she came to her feet, she tilted the fan, revealing the face of a bygone beauty that he had only ever seen in a 9th-century scroll. A glittering, lotus shaped huadian† brought out the charming red she had powdered her face and lips with.

"I've never seen this costume before," he said.

Huifen giggled and spun around, and the stamped shawl around her arms fluttered in the wind, "I thought after seeing so many Qing dynasty beauties that a Tang dynasty darling would be more exciting,"

Yes, watching Huifen's milky breasts dance under her blouse and skirt was far more exciting than ruminating over Shen huang gui fei's blunders.

The Emperor tugged her into his arms, inhaling the soft scent of the rose powder Huifen tended to dust her neck with.

"You like this sort of dress? I'll have an entire wardrobe made up for you and just you,"

The Emperor would strip every other woman in the palace naked and clothe Huifen in pearls and jade if she only asked.

But she would never ask.

Whenever he went to play outside the palace walls and found himself in a brothel, there was a game he liked to play. He'd dress like a wealthy nobleman, giving out silver taels like they grew on trees. Each time, a cunning girl would latch onto him, declaring her love and devotion, aiming to be his kept woman or, better yet, his concubine. When he was sure the girl had already planned how to decorate her courtyard, he would tearfully confess the "truth" of the money being stolen or borrowed or some rubbish. The look on their faces...so typical.

The truth he rustled up for Huifen, had been, in his opinion, the best lie yet. He was a disgraced merchant who lost most of his money on bad investments. He came to spend what little he had left at the brothel and when his pockets were empty, he was going to kill himself.

Instead of the screaming, crying tantrums his confessions usually incited, Huifen had laughed! Not only did she laugh, but she also asked him how he planned to die. Wrong footed, he blurted out that he aimed to poison himself. Huifen then said that if he gave her what was left of his money and let her sell his fine clothes, she'd have them use the best wine for his last drink and play a lovely song on the guzheng for him to leave to.

A soft, sweet-scented hand pulled him from his memories. Huifen stared up at him, her painted eyebrows furrowed.

"You look so tired, Your Majesty," she said as she stroked his beard, "Shall Zhang Wei and I ready you for bed?"

The Emperor sighed, "If I only I could be so lucky to slip into bed with you, but there is always work to be done,"

Huifen pouted, the strangely dark stain on her lips glistening, "I suppose I'll have to spend my night with the thought of you, Your Majesty. I shouldn't keep you from your work,"

The Emperor tightened his hands around her slender waist, "You are the strangest concubine. I lament over the hard work I have left and you don't even offer to keep me company. Huifen, do you even love me?"

Huifen rolled her eyes, "Aiya, I love you very much, but all the love in the world can't make watching you read military strategy or whatever it is interesting. I'm a woman, Your Majesty, not a God,"

"You're a brat!" he replied.

Huifen gasped, "Your Majesty! How could you?!"

She dramatically pulled herself from his arms. "I came all this way to dazzle you with this costume, and you treat me so poorly. Ah! I'm going back to Chengqiangong to cry in my jiejie's arms,"

The Emperor laughed at the dramatics of it all. Huifen joined in, coming back to press a quick kiss to his lips.

"Maybe we'll get more use out of this outfit when I serve you tomorrow night, Your Majesty,"

"You're so sure I'll flip your tag?"

Huifen looked up at him from beneath her full and feathered lashes, "Just a guess, Your Majesty. I'll take my leave,"

One of his life's ultimate cruelties was watching Huifen leave. At least he could comfort himself with the thought of spending the night with her soon. Returning to his desk, The Emperor caught sight of Shen huang gui fei's bai tang go. It almost made him laugh. Had his Noble Imperial Concubine had the opportunity to distract him, she would've jumped at the chance. Nothing was ever enough for her.

He pointed his chin at the cakes, "The little eunuchs can have those,"

"Your Majesty is too kind," Zhang Wei replied, handing them off to another servant.

Yes. He was.

✺

Morning greetings were so dull. Nothing The Empress had to say had anything to do with An pin at all. Very few things kept her interested these days. Her work on Shen huang gui fei was slow going and without an earnest bosom buddy, she mostly spent her days wandering around from garden to garden with her shadow, Wang chang zai. An pin was so bored that she almost contemplated letting her be alone with Cao taiyi.

Only almost.

The explosion of glee that she felt when Yiru had fallen sick had already faded away. Shen huang gui fei didn't much worse for wear so An pin couldn't even take much joy from that. Yiru was holding on from what Cao taiyi was saying, and the other one was still perfectly fine. What was Limei doing in that palace? An pin had given her everything she needed to encourage her to act, and there was still nothing.

How had Shen huang gui fei been able to do this? With just a few perfectly put words, she could convince anyone that what she wanted was what they wanted to do all their life. Her hands never had to get dirty. An pin swallowed a sigh. She hoped that The Empress would run out of things to say soon so she could back to her palace and wallow. 

An pin had just sat, up, waiting for the signal to leave when Lian fei spoke, "Your Highness, I have something to announce. I'm two months pregnant,"

How nice.

"What wonderful news, meimei!" The Empress replied, "The Imperial Hospital confirmed?"

Lian fei nodded.

"It's a shame you won't be able to come to Mulan, but it's lovely to see you finally be blessed with pregnancy. The Empress Dowager will be pleased,"

"Yes," said Shen huang gui fei, "Now that His Majesty's daughters are starting married life, another princess would go perfectly,"

Everyone knew that was as good as cursing the pregnancy but all Lian fei could do was thank her for the well wishes. Judging by the tightness in Shen huang gui fei's jaw, her jiejie wasn't pleased with the news. Not many in the room were. The main hall was stuffed to the brim with the new young girls that Xiang pin had been pawning off to The Emperor, and they were viciously jealous that an old hat had gotten pregnant before any of them.

"Congratulations, meimei," De gui fei said.

That set off an avalanche of well wishes, sincere or not.

"His Majesty will be overjoyed by this," said The Empress, "Prince or Princess, another child so soon after Yiru and Yizhong is a cause for celebration,"

"May I tell him, Your Highness?" Lian fei asked.

Before The Empress could reply, Shen huang gui fei said, "You should bring Xiang meimei with you to make sure His Majesty doesn't miss out on this joyous occasion,"

An pin had to hide her snicker behind her fan. Goodness, Shen huang gui fei had to be fuming to be so blunt. Usually an insult like that would've been wrapped in silk.

Ever the diplomat, The Empress jumped in, "I'm sure Xiang meimei has her plans for the day. Lian fei, why don't we wait at Yianxindian for His Majesty to return from court? You can tell him then,"

"Thank you, Your Highness," Lian fei beamed.

Again, An pin was readying herself to leave when The Empress said, "Shen huang gui fei, it's very kind of you to think of Lian fei, but I think it's best you spent your energy on making sure that Yizhong doesn't follow in his brother's footsteps,"

The air in the room vanished. An pin was baffled. Since when did The Empress speak like that to anyone, let alone Shen huang gui you fei? An pin looked around the room. More than a few mouths were ajar in the face of the callous remark, while many others were eagerly waiting for Shen huang gui fei's response.

She stared at The Empress, her face stony and impassive, before giving a brittle smile.

"Thank you for the reminder, Your Highness,"

"You're so welcome, meimei," said The Empress.

The Empress stood, "Let's hurry along, Lian fei,"

An pin and her fellow concubines kneeled to send her away with respect. When An pin glanced at Shen huang gui fei during the chorus, her lips were shut tight. 

_________ * A type of Chinese pastry made from rice flour and white sugar. ** Tang dynasty noblewoman hairstyle, E Ji † Traditional ornamental forehead makeup

Previous Chapter | Next Chapter

[crazerk]

When you find yourself among the few women chosen to become a concubine in the Imperial harem, you have a chance to carve your place in court.

The life of a concubine might seem luxurious and idyllic, but behind the silken curtains of the harem, dangerous games are played. Games where the wrong words will cost your life, betrayal, lies and secrets are commonplace and gaining the shah’s attention is paramount to your survival.

Start out as a princess, disgraced noble or captive.

Intrigue, intrigue and more intrigue.

Dramatic events on par with a soap opera

Revenge, backstabbing, forbidden love, plots and more.

Rise the ranks by outsmarting or eliminating your rivals.

Produce and raise heirs to secure your place.

Influence politics through the emperor or seize power for yourself.

Learn fire magic or join a cult of chaos.

Live a life of leisure and the pursuit of higher education or a life of hedonism.

Inspired by the Sassanid dynasty and Persian mythology.

Shah Khazunef

He is calm, perspective and far less ruthless than his father before him but they share the same cunning nature and intimidating aura. Khazunef has deep brown skin, dark hazel eyes and silky mid length black hair that frames his face perfectly.

Fang

A former slave whose fighting prowess earned him freedom. He has since become a close friend of Khazunef and they regard each other as brothers. He serves as an informal advisor and spy to the shah but shirks any formal duties. Fang is charismatic and extroverted with copper red hair, rose skin and blue eyes.

Persa

Her name means dove and fits her gentle demeanor. She was raised a princess in a land of mountains and snow that was conquered by Shah Arzad. Upon the fall of her city and murder of her family, she was brought to the capital to serve in the palace. She has honey blonde hair, dark brown eyes and alabaster skin.

Ignasia

Ignasia is a fire priestess and staunch follower of the faith. Although born a noble, she gave up all claims and titles to serve in the fire temples as a guardian of the eternal flame. Ignasia has dark hair, darker eyes and a regal, reserved bearing.

Valide Zarayan

She is the ruthless and ambitious mother of Khazunef, originally a distrusted foreigner who rose to great power in the court of Shah Arzad. She rules over the harem like her own little kingdom and holds influence over her son.

Shahbanu Yaris

The wife of Khazunef and shahbanu of the realm. Yaris wed the emperor when he was 17 and she 26 in an alliance that strengthened the empire and influences it to this day.

Vizier Rubien

The grand vizier and advisor to the Emperor who Khazunef considers a father figure. Rubien is fiercely intelligent, loyal and wise. He remains dedicated to his work and helping the Emperor rule justly.

Averus

Averus is a high priest and soothsayer of the court. His advice is sought by all and a bad word about you from his lips can sully your reputation and relationships beyond repair.

Consort Iltani

Former consort and favorite of Shah Arzad. Her name is whispered like a curse, and her influence spreads far wide even though the valide has her currently imprisoned within the palace.

This story is for mature audiences, please proceed with discretion! Story will contain violence, drugs, alcohol, death, suicide, infanticide, harm to animals, miscarriages, abuse and sexual themes.

Demo