Shen Wei, a driven modern-day professional, unexpectedly finds herself transported to a historical era, landing in the most humble position imaginable: a maid within the opulent residence of the esteemed Yan Prince. While the Prince himself commands immense prestige, his inner court is a haven of complacency. His primary consort embraces a life of quiet contentment; a concubine yearns for an exclusive, monogamous relationship; another, a woman reborn, has abandoned all ambition after a prior life’s disillusionment with the Prince; and the remaining consorts are too timid to even attempt to gain favor.
For Shen Wei, a true titan of workplace ambition, this stagnant environment is an affront. “Move aside!” she proclaims, ready to unleash her relentless work ethic upon this assembly of “slackers.”
The Yan Prince, long accustomed to the uninspired routines of his harem, is suddenly jolted by the arrival of an extraordinarily talented courtesan. This new concubine is not only breathtakingly beautiful but also possesses remarkable skill in literature and dance. Her tireless dedication and constant introduction of novelty captivate the Prince, compelling him to look her way not just once, but for the rest of his life.
Years pass, and Shen Wei ascends to the zenith of power, becoming the Imperial Noble Consort, bearing children and enjoying the Emperor’s singular devotion. The former princess consort continues her serene existence; the monogamy-seeking concubine ages without ever realizing her singular wish; and the reincarnated woman persists in her simple, unadorned life.
After dedicating half a lifetime to relentless striving, Shen Wei finally achieves her ultimate goal: retirement. With her newfound leisure, she fully embraces a life of relaxation, shedding her ambitious facade. The now-retired emperor, bewildered by her transformation, queries, “You competed for favor just to retire?”
Casually munching on melon seeds, Shen Wei responds, “What else is there?” For her, life’s true purpose culminates in the peace of retirement. To the emperor’s further astonishment, as they navigate their middle years, other men begin to openly vie for his wife’s attention!
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