Chapter 1: The Unwanted Summons

The morning sun filtered through the thin paper windows of Su Yao's humble cottage, casting a warm glow over the worn wooden floor. Su Yao sat at the rickety table, mending a hole in her father's tattered shirt with nimble fingers. The air was filled with the smell of steaming rice porridge simmering on the stove, and the distant chirping of birds provided a gentle backdrop to the peaceful scene.

"Yao'er," her mother called from the doorway, her voice hesitant. "There's... there's something I need to tell you."

Su Yao looked up, a smile playing on her lips. But the expression on her mother's face made her heart skip a beat. Her mother's usually bright eyes were filled with worry, and her hands were wringing the edge of her faded apron. "What is it, Mother?"

Her mother stepped inside and closed the door behind her. "The imperial edict has come. The emperor is holding a consort selection, and... your name is on the list."

Su Yao's hands froze, the needle pricking her finger. She stared at her mother in disbelief. "No... it can't be. I'm just a commoner's daughter. Why would they choose me?"

Her mother sat down beside her, taking her hand. "I don't know, my dear. But the edict is clear. In three days' time, you must report to the palace. If you refuse... " Her voice trailed off, but Su Yao knew the consequences all too well. Disobeying the imperial decree meant death, not only for herself but for her entire family.

Tears welled up in Su Yao's eyes. She had always dreamed of a simple life, of marrying a kind - hearted man from the village and raising a family in the safety of her home. The thought of entering the treacherous world of the palace filled her with dread. The stories she had heard of concubines scheming against each other, of lives destroyed by jealousy and ambition, made her blood run cold.

Over the next three days, Su Yao's small village was a flurry of activity. Neighbors came by to offer their condolences and advice, though most of it was filled with fear and superstition. Her mother spent hours sewing a simple yet elegant dress for the selection, using the finest fabric they could afford—a pale blue silk that had been saved for a special occasion.

On the morning of the departure, Su Yao stood in front of her cottage, taking one last look at her home. Her father, a strong - willed but gentle man, had tears in his eyes as he hugged her tightly. "Be brave, my daughter. Remember who you are, and don't let them change you."

With a heavy heart, Su Yao climbed into the waiting carriage. As it rumbled away from the village, she watched her parents grow smaller and smaller in the distance, until they disappeared from sight.

When the palace gates loomed before her, Su Yao felt a lump form in her throat. The towering walls were made of gray stone, and the golden - adorned doors seemed to mock her insignificance. She stepped out of the carriage and joined the other young girls who had been summoned—daughters of noble families, all dressed in their finest gowns, their faces a mix of excitement and nervousness.

A stern - looking eunuch led them through a maze of corridors and courtyards. Su Yao couldn't help but marvel at the opulence around her. The walls were painted with intricate scenes of dragons and phoenixes, and the floors were covered with polished marble. But beneath the beauty, she could sense an undercurrent of tension, as if the very air in the palace was charged with danger.

Finally, they were led into a grand hall. At the far end, on a raised dais, sat the emperor—a middle - aged man with a stern expression and eyes that seemed to pierce through her soul. Beside him were several women, their faces painted with elaborate makeup and their robes embroidered with precious jewels. Su Yao guessed they were the empress and the other high - ranking concubines.

One by one, the girls were called forward to introduce themselves. Su Yao watched as some curtsied gracefully, their voices steady, while others trembled and stammered. When her turn came, she took a deep breath and stepped forward.

"State your name and family background," the emperor commanded.

"I am Su Yao, daughter of Su Chen, a simple farmer from Qinghe Village," she replied, her voice surprisingly steady.

The empress leaned forward, her eyes narrowing. "A commoner? How did such a girl end up in the selection?"

Before Su Yao could respond, the emperor held up his hand. "There is something about her eyes," he said, studying her intently. "Something... different. She shall stay."

Su Yao felt a chill run down her spine. She had been chosen, not because of her beauty or her lineage, but for some mysterious reason that even she couldn't fathom. As she was led away to her new quarters, she knew that her life had just changed forever, and that the real test was only beginning.

In her small chamber, Su Yao sat on the edge of the bed, looking around at her new surroundings. The room was much larger and more luxurious than her cottage at home, but it felt cold and empty. There was a small window that overlooked a courtyard filled with blooming flowers, but the sight did little to soothe her nerves.

Just then, there was a knock on the door. A young maid entered, carrying a tray of food. "My lady," she said, curtsying. "I am Mei Ling, and I will be your servant. Please, eat something. You must be tired from your journey."

Su Yao forced a smile. "Thank you, Mei Ling." As she picked up a piece of steamed bun, she couldn't help but wonder what the future held for her in this palace of thorns.