Schemes and Plans

The following morning, Ru Xuan awoke with a renewed sense of purpose. The initial shock of her new reality had subsided, giving way to determination. She needed to learn more about the palace and its inhabitants and to find a way to establish her independence.

She dressed in the traditional Han attire that Mei had laid out for her, finding the heavy silk garments cumbersome compared to her modern clothes. Nonetheless, she moved with grace and confidence, determined to adapt quickly.

"Mei, let's continue exploring the palace today," Ru Xuan said as they left her quarters. "I want to meet more people and learn about the daily routines."

"Of course, my lady," Mei replied, leading the way through the labyrinthine halls.

As they walked, Ru Xuan's mind raced with ideas. She knew that building a successful gown business would require resources and connections. She needed to find potential allies and gather information discreetly.

Their first stop was the palace library, a vast room filled with scrolls and books. The scent of aged paper and ink filled the air, creating an atmosphere of quiet reverence. Scholars and scribes moved about, engrossed in their work.

Ru Xuan approached an elderly scholar who looked up from his writing with a kind smile. "Good morning, my lady. How can I assist you?"

"I'm interested in learning more about the history and customs of the Han Dynasty," Ru Xuan said. "Could you recommend some reading materials?"

The scholar nodded and directed her to a section of the library filled with historical texts and records. Ru Xuan spent the next hour engrossed in the ancient scrolls, absorbing as much information as she could. Understanding the cultural and historical context of her new world was crucial to her success.

As she was reading, a shadow fell over the scroll she was studying. She looked up to see a young man with a mischievous grin and twinkling eyes. He was dressed in the attire of a palace servant, but there was an air of confidence about him.

"Good morning, Lady Ru Xuan," he said, bowing slightly. "I am Liu Feng, a humble servant of the palace. I've heard much about you."

Ru Xuan raised an eyebrow, curious about his intentions. "Is that so? And what have you heard?"

Liu Feng's grin widened. "That you are not like the other ladies here. They say you are brave and outspoken, not afraid to challenge the norms."

Ru Xuan couldn't help but smile. "People do talk, don't they? Tell me, Liu Feng, what brings you here?"

"I've heard you have a keen interest in starting a gown business," Liu Feng replied, lowering his voice conspiratorially. "I have some connections that might be of interest to you."

Ru Xuan's interest was piqued. "Go on."

"There are merchants and craftsmen who frequent the palace, providing goods and services. I can introduce you to some of them," Liu Feng offered. "In return, perhaps you could help me with a small matter."

Ru Xuan considered his proposal. She needed allies and connections, but she also needed to be cautious. "And what is this small matter you speak of?"

Liu Feng glanced around to ensure they were not being overheard. "There are some documents I need access to, but my position does not grant me the necessary permissions. I believe you might have more influence."

Ru Xuan nodded slowly. "Very well, Liu Feng. I will help you, but you must be honest with me. What do you need these documents for?"

Liu Feng's expression became serious. "There is corruption within the palace, my lady. Some officials are embezzling funds meant for the people. I intend to expose them, but I need proof."

Ru Xuan admired his courage and determination. "I will help you, Liu Feng. But you must promise to introduce me to these merchants and craftsmen."

Liu Feng bowed deeply. "You have my word, Lady Ru Xuan. I will make the arrangements."

With their alliance formed, Ru Xuan felt a surge of hope. She had found a potential ally in Liu Feng, and through him, she could begin to establish her business. But she knew that navigating the palace intrigue would require careful planning and strategy.

As they left the library, Mei looked at Ru Xuan with a mixture of curiosity and concern. "Are you sure you can trust him, my lady?"

"No," Ru Xuan admitted, "but we need to take risks if we're going to change our fate. Keep an eye on him, Mei, and let me know if you notice anything suspicious."

Mei nodded, her loyalty unwavering. "Of course, my lady. I'll be vigilant."

Ru Xuan spent the rest of the day meeting with various palace officials and observing the court proceedings. She paid close attention to the dynamics at play, noting who held power and who seemed discontented.

In the evening, she returned to her quarters, exhausted but encouraged. She had made progress, but she knew there was still much to do. She needed to find more allies, gather resources, and learn as much as she could about the palace and its secrets.

As she lay in bed that night, Ru Xuan thought about the challenges ahead. She was determined to carve out her own path and to change the course of her fate. And with her modern skills and unwavering determination, she knew she could succeed.

The next morning, Ru Xuan woke early, her mind already buzzing with plans. She dressed quickly and found Mei waiting outside her quarters, ready to assist her.

"Good morning, Mei. I need to meet with Liu Feng today. We have some important business to attend to," Ru Xuan said, her tone brisk.

Mei nodded, her expression serious. "I'll fetch him immediately, my lady."

While waiting, Ru Xuan reviewed her plans. She needed to start by securing the resources and connections necessary for her gown business. Liu Feng's introductions to the merchants and craftsmen would be crucial. But she also needed to be cautious and gather information discreetly.

Liu Feng arrived shortly, his demeanor respectful but with a hint of his usual mischievous grin. "Good morning, Lady Ru Xuan. Shall we begin?"

"Yes, let's," Ru Xuan replied. "Lead the way."

They walked through the bustling palace corridors, Liu Feng guiding her towards the marketplace within the palace grounds. As they approached, Ru Xuan noticed the vibrant activity: stalls displaying fine silks, precious stones, and intricate embroidery. Craftsmen demonstrated their skills, and merchants haggled over prices.

"These are the people you need to meet," Liu Feng said, gesturing to the bustling scene. "Many of them have influence beyond the palace walls. Building relationships here will be key to your success."

Ru Xuan nodded, feeling a surge of excitement. This was her chance to start building her business. She followed Liu Feng as he introduced her to various merchants and craftsmen, each more impressive than the last.

"Lady Ru Xuan, this is Master Zhang," Liu Feng said, introducing her to an older man with a keen eye for detail. "He is one of the finest silk merchants in the land."

Master Zhang bowed respectfully. "It is an honor to meet you, my lady. I have heard of your interest in starting a gown business. I would be delighted to provide you with the finest silks."

"Thank you, Master Zhang," Ru Xuan replied, smiling warmly. "I look forward to working with you."

They continued through the marketplace, meeting more key figures. Each introduction bolstered Ru Xuan's confidence. She knew that building these relationships would be essential to her success.

As they reached the end of the marketplace, Liu Feng turned to her, his expression serious. "Now, my lady, about the documents I mentioned. We need to access the records room in the east wing. It is heavily guarded, but I believe you can gain entry."

Ru Xuan nodded, her mind already formulating a plan. "Leave it to me, Liu Feng. I will find a way."

They parted ways, and Ru Xuan made her way towards the east wing, Mei by her side. As they approached the records room, Ru Xuan observed the guards and the layout. She needed a distraction.

"Mei, I need you to create a diversion," Ru Xuan whispered. "Something subtle, but enough to draw the guards' attention."

Mei nodded, understanding immediately. She moved towards a nearby corridor and began speaking loudly to another servant, causing a small commotion. The guards glanced in her direction, momentarily distracted.

Seizing the opportunity, Ru Xuan slipped into the records room. Inside, she found rows of shelves filled with scrolls and documents. She moved quickly, searching for the records Liu Feng needed.

After several tense minutes, she found the scrolls detailing financial transactions. She scanned the documents, her eyes narrowing as she identified discrepancies and suspicious entries. This was the proof Liu Feng needed.

Just as she was about to leave, she heard footsteps approaching. Thinking quickly, she hid behind a large shelf, her heart pounding. A guard entered the room, looking around suspiciously. He paused, then left, satisfied that nothing was amiss.

Ru Xuan exhaled in relief and slipped out of the room, the scrolls hidden beneath her robes. She rejoined Mei, who was waiting anxiously.

"Did you get it, my lady?" Mei asked.

"Yes," Ru Xuan replied, smiling. "Let's find Liu Feng."

They found him in a quiet courtyard, his expression lighting up when he saw her. "Did you find the documents?"

Ru Xuan handed him the scrolls. "These should be enough to expose the corruption."

Liu Feng scanned the documents, his eyes widening. "This is perfect, my lady. Thank you."

"Now, keep your end of the bargain," Ru Xuan said. "I need those introductions and support for my gown business."

"You have my word," Liu Feng replied, bowing deeply. "I will ensure you have the support you need."

Ru Xuan felt a sense of satisfaction. She had taken the first steps towards establishing her business and securing an ally in Liu Feng. But she knew this was only the beginning. She needed to continue building her network, gathering resources, and navigating the palace intrigue with care.

As she returned to her quarters, Ru Xuan felt a renewed sense of determination. She was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, armed with her modern skills and unwavering resolve. This was her new reality, and she was determined to conquer it, one step at a time.

Ru Xuan spent the afternoon meeting with the merchants and craftsmen introduced by Liu Feng. Each conversation further solidified her plans. Master Zhang had promised to supply her with the finest silks, and several skilled tailors and embroiderers had expressed interest in working with her. Her vision for a gown business was becoming more tangible with each passing moment.

By evening, she returned to her quarters, feeling a mix of excitement and exhaustion. Mei prepared a simple meal for her, and they discussed the day's events.

"Mei, do you think Liu Feng can be trusted?" Ru Xuan asked, savoring the warm soup.

Mei hesitated before replying. "He seems genuine, my lady, but we must remain cautious. The palace is full of deception."

Ru Xuan nodded thoughtfully. "You're right. We'll proceed carefully."

Just as she finished her meal, there was a soft knock on the door. Mei opened it to reveal a young servant carrying a letter. He bowed and handed it to Ru Xuan before quickly departing.

Ru Xuan broke the seal and read the letter. It was from Liu Feng, requesting a secret meeting later that night. He had uncovered more information about the corrupt officials and needed her assistance.

"We'll meet him, but we must be discreet," Ru Xuan said, folding the letter. "Prepare for a late-night excursion, Mei."

As night fell, the palace grew quiet. Ru Xuan and Mei slipped out of their quarters, moving through the dimly lit corridors with silent steps. They reached the designated meeting spot, a secluded garden near the eastern wall of the palace.

Liu Feng was already there, his face partially illuminated by the moonlight. "Thank you for coming, Lady Ru Xuan," he said in a low voice. "I have more to show you."

He led them to a hidden alcove where he had spread out several documents and maps. "These are records of the officials' activities. They've been embezzling funds meant for the people and diverting resources to their own estates."

Ru Xuan examined the documents, her expression growing serious. "This is substantial evidence. We need to ensure it reaches the right hands."

Liu Feng nodded. "I have a contact within the Emperor's inner circle who can help. But we must be careful. If we're discovered, it could mean severe consequences for all of us."

Ru Xuan looked at him, her resolve hardening. "We can't let fear stop us. The people deserve justice. We'll deliver this evidence and expose the corruption."

They spent the next hour discussing their plan, carefully outlining each step to avoid detection. Ru Xuan's mind was sharp, her modern strategic thinking blending seamlessly with her understanding of the palace dynamics.

As they finished, Liu Feng turned to her, his eyes filled with admiration. "You truly are remarkable, Lady Ru Xuan. Your determination is inspiring."

Ru Xuan smiled, though she remained focused. "Thank you, Liu Feng. But this is only the beginning. We have much work to do."

They parted ways, each returning to their quarters under the cover of darkness. As Ru Xuan lay in bed, she couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. The palace was a labyrinth of secrets and power struggles, but she was determined to navigate it with skill and grace.

The next day, Ru Xuan continued to build her network. She spent time with the craftsmen, discussing designs and fabrics, while also keeping a keen eye on the palace's political landscape. Her gown business was steadily taking shape, and she was becoming known for her modern and innovative designs.

One afternoon, as she was working on a new gown design, a servant arrived with a message. "Lady Ru Xuan, the Emperor requests your presence in the main hall."

Ru Xuan's heart skipped a beat. She had managed to avoid direct encounters with Emperor Zhao since their first meeting, but now she would have to face him again. She knew she had to be composed and confident.

She dressed in one of her own designs, a gown that blended traditional Han elements with a modern twist. The silk flowed gracefully, and the embroidery depicted scenes of strength and resilience. She hoped it would make a strong impression.

As she entered the main hall, she saw Emperor Zhao seated on his throne, his expression inscrutable. The hall was filled with courtiers and officials, their eyes following her every move.

"Lady Ru Xuan," the Emperor said, his voice echoing through the grand chamber. "I have heard much about your endeavors. It seems you are quite the enterprising woman."

Ru Xuan bowed deeply. "Your Majesty, I am honored by your words. I strive to contribute to the prosperity of the palace."

The Emperor's gaze was intense, yet there was a hint of curiosity in his eyes. "Your designs are unlike any I have seen before. They speak of innovation and strength. Tell me, where do you draw your inspiration?"

Ru Xuan met his gaze, her voice steady. "Your Majesty, I draw inspiration from the desire to blend tradition with progress. To honor the past while embracing the future."

The Emperor nodded, seemingly pleased with her response. "You have a unique vision, Lady Ru Xuan. I look forward to seeing more of your work."

Ru Xuan bowed again, feeling a mix of relief and determination. This was a significant moment. Gaining the Emperor's favor, or at least his interest, could provide her with opportunities and protection.

As she left the main hall, she couldn't shake the feeling that Emperor Zhao was more complex than he appeared. His interest in her work hinted at a depth that she had not expected. She would need to learn more about him and his motivations.

Returning to her quarters, Ru Xuan felt a surge of energy. She was making progress on multiple fronts: her gown business was gaining traction, she had forged valuable alliances, and she had caught the Emperor's attention. But she knew that the real challenges were just beginning.

She would continue to navigate the palace intrigue, expose the corruption, and build her business, all while staying true to herself. The road ahead was uncertain, but Ru Xuan was ready to face it with courage and determination.

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