She Went From Nobody to Royal Favorite

What kind of concubine is this? She's clearly a divine beast that guards the palace. It's perfect for my harem to ward off evil spirits. Your Majesty. This... The general gave birth to me, delivered a lifetime of children. What's this? This is giving birth to Nezha! When I was five, while other girls were chasing butterflies, I was running around the courtyard with my younger brother on my back. At ten years old, I went to the martial arts arena and was praised by a passing instructor "A strong, broadshouldered general!" This girl is truly a genius in martial arts. Hey, she's definitely strong. But being strong doesn't stop me from being beautiful. Oh, it's lunchtime. Sang Sang, you must believe there's always someone who appreciates your beauty in this world. Yes, there will definitely be next time. Alas. Sang Sang! Go stay with Grandma for a while. Grandma, I'm here. This body is strong, the most capable of handling things. Grandma likes that. While others sew flowers, I play chess with Grandma; while others recite poetry, I read military books with Grandma; while others practice delicate steps, I ride horses in the mountains. Imperial decree arrives.

Mingzhu, entering the palace is truly a fine place to be. The imperial court—oh, the imperial court has plenty of food! Father, just say it straightaren’t you relieved at last to pass this extra expense onto the emperor? What nonsense are you talking about? Father is simply happy for you. Still, we should bring something substantial along. Mingzhu, once you’re in the deep palace… Don’t worry, Father—I’ll plant radishes. What is there to fear? Announce that all the maidens are to come before the throne. I can’t possibly let the Xie family’s reputation suffer. Now, this rouge—ah, cut, cut, cut! Select Xie Mingzhu, daughter of Xie Huaiyuan, Grand Censor of the Dali Temple, to appear before the emperor.

Who is this young lady, so robust and sturdy? Your Majesty, the Empress Dowager. Where did things go wrong here? How on earth did they manage to bring such a behemoth in? This humble servant, Xie Mingzhu, pays her respects to Your Majesty and Her Imperial Highness the Empress Dowager—rise. Lady Liu Xie is both dignified and composed; she is hereby appointed Consort Duan, residing in Jinghua Palace. I offer my thanks, Your Majesty—long live Your Majesty. Ah. I think I understand his expression quite well. With that look on his face, it’s as if he’s saying: “Since the harem is already in such a state, might as well invite a guardian beast to ward off evil.” Jinghua Palace is a fine place—though a bit dilapidated, it’s spacious and peaceful. This humble servant, Fushun, offers his respectful greetings to Consort Duan. This humble servant, Qingxing, dares to pay her respects to Your Majesty. Very well. Then let them all stay. Ah. Please clear this space for me—I have use for it.