Lu Meng couldn’t remember the last time she had woken up this early.
She was dressed and freshened up entirely by her maids, her mind still floating in a daze.
Since she was supposed to light the way for Prince Jian'an before his morning court session, the maids, interpreting her eagerness, had styled her hair in an elaborate updo at the crack of dawn and adorned her with an extravagant set of jewelry.
Her lips were painted so vividly it looked like she had just feasted on a dead child. In the dim pre-dawn light, Lu Meng caught a glimpse of her reflection and nearly mistook herself for a vengeful ghost!
It was then that she remembered—she wasn’t herself anymore. She had become Zhangsun Lumeng. Her original appearance bore no resemblance to Zhangsun Lumeng; the only connection was the homophonic names.
Lu Meng raised her hand and touched the unfamiliar, youthful face in the mirror, barely concealed beneath the heavy makeup. She couldn’t help but marvel…
What a stroke of luck!
Forget about looks—Lu Meng had always considered her former self quite the beauty. But though she couldn’t recall Zhangsun Lumeng’s exact age, marriages in ancient times happened young, and this body looked at least a decade younger than her modern self!
Ten years—a whole decade of youth! How many such radiant decades did one have in life? Why waste them chasing after some elusive, intangible love and tormenting herself?
Lu Meng would only "torment" herself in pursuit of cold, hard cash!
As she admired her reflection, her gaze caught a maid tidying up the wedding dress and phoenix crown from the night before.
The pure gold one she had personally bitten as her escape fund!
No way!
"Put that down!"
Startled by Lu Meng’s sharp command, the maid holding the phoenix crown nearly dropped to her knees, assuming the new concubine was asserting her authority.
But Lu Meng quickly added, "Place the phoenix crown next to the vase. No need to put it away."
The wedding dress had gold thread embroidered into it, but pulling it all out wouldn’t amount to more than a couple of taels. The phoenix crown, however, was solid gold—it couldn’t leave her sight.
The maid hesitated but, seeing Lu Meng’s unreadable expression, complied swiftly, placing the crown beside the vase on the shelf.
Lu Meng had been testing whether the maid would obey or if the crown needed to be returned elsewhere. Seeing it settled by the vase, she relaxed—good, it seemed this treasure was hers to keep.
Once fully dressed, Lu Meng was helped to her feet by the maids. Though still groggy, the thought of that golden "overtime pay" motivated her to endure this early-morning duty for Prince Jian'an.
Since there was still time, a maid asked if Lu Meng wanted to eat something first.
She nodded. Though she had no appetite, heading to "work" on an empty stomach felt unbearable.
The maid brought over the red bean porridge mentioned the night before.
After simmering overnight, the beans had nearly dissolved into the thick, sweet broth, with dried fruits melting into the mix. The sight alone made Lu Meng’s mouth water. She took a sip with a delicate spoon—rich, fragrant, and perfectly sweet.
Maintaining the poised demeanor of a noble lady, she ate gracefully but efficiently, finishing the entire bowl. She longed for a second serving but held back—it might seem out of character.
Besides, the original owner of this body likely had a small appetite. Even this modest portion left her feeling full.
With a sigh, Lu Meng set down the spoon. The maid had mentioned a proper breakfast at dawn, so she wiped her mouth with a handkerchief, donned her cloak, and stepped outside.
The night was at its quietest. Since it was the morning after the wedding, remnants of red candles and lanterns lined the paths of the estate, their glow still flickering.
Lu Meng walked down the center, following the subtle guidance of Xiuyun and Xiuli—the two maids who had attended her since last night, though she still couldn’t tell them apart.
Luckily, as a new bride, she wasn’t expected to know her way around. The maids steered her effortlessly.
She had risen earlier than the roosters, draped in lavish attire, and made her way toward the main gate. Before she even reached it, she spotted a dazzling array of lanterns, guards, and carriages already waiting.
Lu Meng scoffed inwardly—if it was this bright, why did she need to hold a lantern to light the way?
Ancient people really knew how to make others jump through hoops.
Then the maids guided her through a series of smaller gates, leading her to a dimly lit courtyard where only a few dying lanterns flickered.
One of the maids handed Lu Meng the lantern she had been carrying and whispered, "Hold this steady, Lady Meng. His Highness will emerge shortly."
The other maid promptly extinguished her own lantern—probably to avoid stealing Lu Meng’s "credit."
Lu Meng wasn’t fond of such theatrics. Right now, all she wanted was to go back to bed.
But since the male lead was essentially her employer, she accepted the lantern and stood straight, gripping it firmly.
She blinked sleepily, surveying the courtyard.
Compared to her own quarters, this place was staggeringly grand—the verandas alone were several times wider. Yet there wasn’t a trace of wedding decor, not even a hint of red. The sparse lanterns were all white.
Clearly, Prince Jian'an couldn’t care less about his new concubine.
Hah. Even better.
Since childhood, Lu Meng had dreamed of finding a wealthy, powerful man who would shamelessly adore her, beg to spoil her, and—crucially—be functionally useless in bed.
Who would’ve thought that a single transmigration would make her wildest fantasy come true?
Sure, there were minor discrepancies, but nothing she couldn’t overlook. Once the male lead promised to support her for life, Lu Meng felt she had already peaked.
Now she didn’t even have to worry about stocking her bubble tea shop.
Lost in thought, she stood waiting… and waiting. The prince was taking his sweet time.
Wrapped in warm layers and fueled by the red bean porridge, Lu Meng—judging by the clothing and temperature—guessed it was summer. The drowsiness crept back in.
Her head bobbed like a chick pecking at grain, nearly nodding off entirely before the prince finally deigned to appear.
Lu Meng glanced up at him, but her bleary vision made it hard to see. She didn’t bother with a second look.
Following the maids’ cues, she stepped forward dutifully, walking beside the prince to illuminate his path with her lantern.
But he walked too fast.
Lu Meng couldn’t mimic the maids’ skill of gliding effortlessly while keeping their upper bodies perfectly still. The moment she quickened her pace, her hair ornaments jingled wildly.
Now she was wide awake—and her cheeks stung from the metaphorical slap of reality.
Still, she kept up professionally, careful not to trip in the darkness.
If there was one thing she knew about female leads, it was that falling in pitch-black courtyards never ended well.
Fortunately, although the male lead walked quite fast, he wasn’t impossible to catch up with. Since he moved at a brisk pace, Lu Meng didn’t have to waste energy figuring out which way the gate was.
Once they reached a well-lit area with more people, Lu Meng immediately turned aside with the lantern in hand. After trailing him for a few more steps and seeing how he strode ahead with his nose in the air, she quietly stopped following. She handed the lantern back to her maid, signaling for her to take over, and prepared to slip away.
If she approached him now and the other servants saw her in this attire, they would surely bow to her—and that would give her away. She wasn’t here to vie for his favor, after all.
This was just her first day on the job, going above and beyond for the sake of diligence. One day was enough—goodbye and good riddance!
But just as she turned to leave, the male lead suddenly paused mid-step, as if sensing something, and turned around.
Spotting Lu Meng walking away, he raised an eyebrow in clear surprise.
Then, in two or three swift strides, he intercepted her and asked in a low voice, "What are you doing here?"
Lu Meng hadn’t expected him to double back. Startled, she jerked her head up, eyes wide, and stumbled backward a few steps before grabbing her maid’s arm to steady herself.
Then, lowering her head, she replied slowly, "This concubine…"
Did you grow eyes on the back of your head or something? You left, why the hell are you looking back now?
"This concubine came to light the way for His Highness," Lu Meng said, offering the goodwill.
But her expression held no trace of flattery—only nervousness.
Wu Linxuan stood before her in court robes embroidered with coiling dragons, his jade crown gleaming. Unlike the slightly intoxicated, radiant groom from the night before, he now exuded an air of noble elegance and imperial grace.
Frowning slightly, he studied Lu Meng, finding himself unable to decipher her intentions.
If she were trying to win his favor, why had she clearly been about to slip away before reaching the open area? And if not, why would a proper consort lower herself to take a maid’s task, rushing over just to hold a lantern for him?
Wu Linxuan disliked people or situations he couldn’t read—it made him feel like he was losing control.
So he said, "There’s no need for this. Don’t come again in the mornings."
Hell yes! Consider it done. If I wake up before sunrise again, I’ll take your surname!
But out loud, she immediately replied, "Understood."
She even dipped into a slight curtsy—whether the posture was correct or not didn’t matter, since no one could see how her legs were awkwardly positioned beneath her skirt.
Wu Linxuan was pleased by her obedient, no-nonsense response. But seeing her adorned with hairpins and meticulously made up, he suspected she had dressed up deliberately to catch his eye.
Quite the schemer.
With a flick of his sleeve, he strode off.
The moment his back was turned, Lu Meng silently yawned, tears rolling down her cheeks. She sniffled, patted her maid, and gestured for them to hurry back so she could catch up on sleep.
But then—what the hell was wrong with this guy?—he turned around again.
Wu Linxuan had meant to inform his newly acquired consort that someone from the palace might come to summon her today. Normally, Nanny Wu would handle such matters, but last night, he had swiftly sent her off to a countryside estate to "reflect."
The new nanny would have to be called in from the city shops, which might take too long. Since he’d run into Lu Meng, he figured he’d just tell her himself.
But when he turned back, he saw his "Lady Meng" with tears rolling down her cheeks—just like the night before, crying silently yet beautifully.
Her hair was piled high with ornaments, her nose slightly red, and when she noticed him returning, her eyes widened in shock, like a deer struck by an arrow.
Wu Linxuan’s eyebrow twitched, his fingers tightening inside his sleeve.
She’s crying already?
"Your Highness…" Lu Meng quickly straightened up, internally cursing Wu Linxuan to the heavens while maintaining a respectful demeanor.
Wu Linxuan said, "Later today, someone from the palace will come to escort you inside. Be prepared."
Lu Meng’s heart sank. So there’s no morning greetings in the palace, but they’re waiting to ambush me there instead? Come on, what’s a consort even doing in the palace? I just want to sleep…
And how the hell was she supposed to prepare? She knew nothing about palace etiquette—she was doomed!
After delivering the message, Wu Linxuan noticed Lu Meng’s obedient "Understood," though she still refused to meet his eyes.
He had meant to leave, but hesitated, frowning at her reddened eyes. "If you insist on coming to hold the lantern, then do so."
What’s with the tears?
Having "magnanimously" granted permission, he walked off with a flourish.
Left behind, Lu Meng shed tears of genuine frustration.
Who the hell wants to hold your lantern?! Are you blind? Can’t you tell I don’t want to?!
Ugh, damn it! My precious sleep!
Supported by her maids on the way back, Lu Meng wilted like a frostbitten eggplant. Life is so unfair.
Not only did she have to risk her life in the palace later, but now she had to wake up at the crack of dawn every day?!
Lu Meng was so exasperated she nearly swore out loud.
Being a consort is not an easy job.
Meanwhile, her two maids were practically glowing with joy, their steps light. Even though His Highness hadn’t stayed the night, he had acknowledged their lady’s efforts today—even permitting her to come again!
Lu Meng didn’t notice their genuine happiness for her, nor did she realize these two maids were the only ones she had brought from her family’s estate—her most trusted attendants.
She dozed off again, too tired to even get up for breakfast, and slept until the sun was high in the sky. Finally well-rested, she lounged in bed as her maids helped her up.
Free of her morning grumpiness, she marveled at how luxurious it was to have everything done for her. She didn’t even have to leave the room to relieve herself—the chamber pot was spotless, and in winter, she wouldn’t have to suffer the cold.
Without lifting a finger, she was washed, dressed, and seated at the dining table.
It was already lunchtime. Lu Meng ate slowly—not out of pretense, but because she had stomach issues in the past and was used to chewing thoroughly.
Only after finishing did she suddenly remember Wu Linxuan’s warning about the palace summons.
She turned to one of her maids and asked, "Has anyone from the palace arrived yet?"
The maid—still indistinguishable to her as Xiuyun or Xiuli—bowed and replied, "Not yet. Once you’ve eaten, my lady can begin preparing. Nanny Xin, sent by His Highness this morning, is waiting. Would you like to see her now?"
Lu Meng relaxed. Good, they haven’t come yet. She had half-expected the maids to deliberately not wake her.
She studied the maid’s face—delicate and pretty—then glanced at the other. At least I can tell them apart now. One has a round face, the other a pointed one—watermelon seed and sunflower seed. Got it.
After the meal, Lu Meng picked up a pure white handkerchief and meticulously wiped her slender, delicate fingers.
Damn, my hands used to be decent, but I worked hard when I was younger—did all kinds of labor, so they weren’t this soft.
Now, her hands were like tender tofu—smooth and flawless.
"Call the nanny in," Lu Meng said after wiping her hands. The maids quickly cleared the table, and Lu Meng reclined on the chaise lounge in the outer chamber, half-leaning as she watched a figure enter through the doorway.
Lu Meng glanced over and realized this woman could hardly be called a nanny—she looked more like a young lady.
"This old servant is Xin Ya, greeting Lady Meng with respects."
The woman’s voice was mature and crisp, her appearance neat and tidy—the kind of person who clearly knew how to act decisively.
Lu Meng replied gently, "Rise, no need for formalities."
She almost laughed. So the "new nanny" the maids mentioned wasn’t a new nanny at all—just a nanny with the surname Xin.
"Thank you, Lady Meng."
Then Nanny Xin stood there stiffly, waiting for her new mistress to give instructions.
Lu Meng simply watched her, unsure of the protocol.
After a moment, Xin Ya quickly glanced up, meeting Lu Meng’s scrutinizing gaze, utterly baffled by her silence.
Hesitantly, she spoke, "His Highness specifically transferred this old servant from Meilan Garden to serve at Lady Meng’s side. It shows how highly His Highness regards you."
Lu Meng thought, Well, duh. He’s already boasted about giving me a life of luxury.
Just as she was pondering what to say next, a maid hurried in from outside.
"Lady Meng, someone from the palace has arrived and is waiting at the main gate."
Lu Meng had a sudden idea and looked at the new nanny. "Since His Highness specially assigned you here, he must trust your judgment. With the palace envoy waiting…"
She deliberately paused before continuing, "You handle the preparations."
Thank heavens! If not for this new nanny, Lu Meng would’ve lost her mind.
Xin Ya immediately bowed. "Understood."
Soon after, the new nanny directed the maids to dress Lu Meng in an excessively elaborate outfit and jewelry. Lu Meng counted—even including the inner undergarments, there were seven layers in total.
Staring at the blazing sun and lush greenery outside, Lu Meng thought, It’s summer! As someone who hated heat, she felt like she’d faint from heatstroke before even stepping outside.
Once everything was ready, Lu Meng was escorted to the gate, first boarding a sedan chair, then transferring to a carriage at the main entrance. Sweat poured down her forehead from the stifling heat.
Fortunately, a maid kept dabbing her face with a small cloth soaked in something powdery—probably ancient setting powder—or else she’d arrive at the palace looking like a mess.
As the carriage set off, Lu Meng noticed Nanny Xin exchanging words with a handsome young man from the palace.
Only when she heard Nanny Xin address him as "eunuch" did Lu Meng realize he was a palace attendant.
A real eunuch!
Curious, she stole several glances. He looked no different from a regular man—even more refined, with fair skin, no beard, and gentle manners, fitting modern standards of a pretty boy.
Finally, Nanny Xin handed the young eunuch a small pouch—likely money.
Lu Meng once again felt grateful for her quick thinking last night, securing this new nanny.
The carriage slowly made its way toward the palace. At first, Lu Meng was excited to see the imperial grounds, but the oppressive heat soon drained her enthusiasm.
By the time they reached the towering palace gates, her only impression was how the grand architecture blocked the sun, and the long palace pathway felt like a natural air-conditioned corridor—blissfully cool.
This wasn’t the main gate, but Lu Meng couldn’t care less which one it was.
Inside, the palace was eerily quiet, with maids and eunuchs hurrying about. Doors were everywhere—large gates, small gates, side gates—an overwhelming maze.
After passing through countless doors, Lu Meng was led to a lavish courtyard. The main hall’s doors were shut, and Nanny Xin whispered that this was the Empress Dowager’s residence, Anhe Hall.
At the entrance, Lu Meng knelt as the maids guided her, not needing to speak—a maid had already gone inside to announce her.
She only saw the outer gate, but beyond it were several more layers. No wonder no one expected her to speak; they wouldn’t hear her anyway.
But Lu Meng was already panicking, sweat breaking out. What should I say inside? How should I address myself? 'Your servant'? 'This humble wife'? Or just 'commoner'… Someone strike me with lightning! Her history grades in school had been abysmal.
Novels never agreed on these things either!
Kneeling directly under the scorching sun, she soon felt dizzy from the heat.
But the maid who’d gone to announce her didn’t return. Lu Meng, drenched in sweat, understood—this was a power play.
The maids and Nanny Xin had stepped back, leaving her alone. Her knees ached after just a short while.
No matter how hard she tried, she couldn’t recall how the original owner of this body had handled this situation. Her heart pounded. Even if the Empress Dowager didn’t grill her, she had no idea how to speak properly. If asked a few questions, her ignorance would get her burned at the stake before she even left the palace.
Squinting in the sunlight, Lu Meng suddenly had a brilliant idea.
First, pretending to wipe sweat, she lifted her wide sleeve to cover her neck and pinched the skin—like the old folk remedy of "scraping" to relieve heat.
It didn’t hurt and even cooled her down.
Soon, her neck was covered in alarming red and purple marks. Peeking down, Lu Meng thought, Wow, this body’s got some serious internal heat!
After finishing, she took a deep breath, steadied herself, and then—
Thud.
She fainted straight onto the ground.
