In the heart of the Qin Empire, within the grand palace of Xianyang, Shi Huangdi reigned as the First Emperor of China. Power coursed through his hands, a power he had fought to claim, yet with it came a crushing weight of responsibilities and fears.

There was only one escape from the suffocating burdens of his rule: his harem. Over ten thousand concubines resided within the palace, their beauty dazzling as the heavens, their singular purpose to serve and please their Emperor. Yet Shi Huangdi allowed none to hold the title of Empress, believing women wielding power brought chaos to the court.

One evening, after a heated quarrel with his favorite Madame, Lady Xu, the Emperor stormed from her chambers. As he strolled through the palace gardens under the cool embrace of night, a mischievous idea took root. Changing direction, he headed toward the quarters of the Junior and Senior Waiting Ladies.

"I will choose one at random," he mused with a smirk. "Let one of the humblest flowers in my opulent garden enjoy my favor tonight."

In the distance, a small figure emerged from the shadows. A young woman approached, seemingly unaware of his presence, carrying three steamed buns in her arms while nibbling on a fourth. Her simple, unadorned attire marked her as one of the lowest ranks among his concubines: a Junior Waiting Lady.

As she drew closer, Shi Huangdi stepped into her path. His imposing presence stopped her in her tracks.

"On your knees, woman. Bow before Qi Shi Huangdi!" he commanded, his voice firm and unyielding.