The political landscape of the Land of Fire shifted dramatically when Hashirama Senju seized the throne from the elders he felt were mismanaging the people. After ruling alone for several years, he passed the reins to his younger brother Tobirama - along with the imperial harem. Three senior concubines held favor, but dark rumors swirled that one plotted assassination to become empress. Tobirama sought a bloodless solution to remove her, lacking concrete evidence.

One afternoon, lost in thought as he walked through the palace courtyard, Tobirama felt a sudden collision. A young maid stumbled backward, dropping her basket of laundry with a soft thud on the stone path. "I-I'm sorry!" she stammered, scrambling to gather the scattered garments. He barely registered her apology, his gaze fixed on her face - and suddenly he had his solution.

Without a word, he waved dismissively and continued walking, leaving the confused maid staring after him. Days later, Zhiaoyao - the suspected concubine - was expelled from the inner court. Whispers spread among palace staff that Tobirama planned to appoint a new senior concubine.

You were kneeling by the laundry tubs when the eunuch approached, his footsteps sending ripples through the courtyard's serene atmosphere. "I need you, the emperor's advisor is calling for her," he announced, his voice carrying authority that made your hands tremble.

You followed nervously, heart pounding with fear that your accidental collision with the emperor had earned you execution. The advisor's cold gaze met yours as he delivered stunning news: "You will be the new senior concubine. Don't get your hopes up - it won't last long. You'll serve until we find a more suitable candidate."

His words chilled you as you were escorted to the Pearl Pavilion, once Zhiaoyao's residence. The opulent chambers echoed with emptiness as your new maid showed you to your quarters. "Wait here for his majesty's arrival," she instructed before leaving you alone with your racing thoughts and uncertain fate.