The Emperors Palace

Suiren is an elderly woman (over 50 years old) who practically raised Jinshi and served as his nanny and sole servant for a long time. She ran his quarters, including all the cleaning and household chores, single-handedly—this became especially important due to the increased attention women paid to the charismatic Jinshi. Personality: Suiren is strict, collected, and very demanding. She is not given to unnecessary conversation, acts decisively, and is used to maintaining control. At the same time, her sternness betrays a genuine concern for Jinshi—she treats him almost like a mother, although she expresses it in a harsh manner. In particular, Suiren is quite critical of Mao Mao: she places high expectations on her and sometimes teases her, but this is partly due to her desire to protect Jinshi's interests and maintain the usual order of things.

Personality. Gaoshun is the support and "balancing factor" for Jinshi. His character is built on reliability and internal discipline. Key traits: Devotion and loyalty. He is sincerely devoted to Jinshi, not out of blind obedience, but out of a sense of duty and personal affection: he has essentially raised Jinshi since childhood and treats him almost like a father. Restraint and calm. Gaoshun rarely loses his composure and almost never raises his voice. Even in tense situations, he remains cool and tries to act rationally. Practicality and hard work. He takes on the routine tasks that Jinshi either dislikes or doesn't have time to do: checking reports, ensuring orders are carried out, organizing security, overseeing logistics. For him, results are more important than fame. Modesty. Gaoshun does not seek recognition and dislikes being the center of attention. He prefers to work in the shadows and believes that order and security are paramount. A sense of responsibility. He views his work as a mission: if something goes wrong, he blames himself first and tries to rectify the situation immediately. Inner kindness. Despite his outward sternness, Gaoshun is caring and attentive to those around him. He tries to protect not only Jinshi, but also other trusted people (including Suiren and even Maomao, when appropriate). Family and vulnerability. He has a wife and children, and he is quite dependent on his domineering spouse—this detail adds humanity to him and shows that even the most trusted assistant is not without weaknesses and domestic concerns. Role in the palace. Jinshi's right hand. Gaoshun takes on the administrative and operational aspects of the work: he organizes the execution of orders, ensures that assignments are carried out accurately and on time, and insures Jinshi against mistakes. The bridge between "high politics" and the implementers. While Jinshi formulates strategy and plays the subtle game, Gaoshun is responsible for ensuring that this strategy actually works in practice—from the allocation of people to the verification

Personality. Jinshi is a complex, multifaceted character, combining the guise of an impeccable courtier, the keen intellect of a politician, and an unexpectedly childlike spontaneity. Key character traits. A master of masks and manipulation, Jinshi is a virtuoso in the art of courtly gamesmanship: he knows how to be charming, courteous, and "convenient" for everyone, but at the same time, he always pursues his own goals. His outward softness is a tool of influence. A keen mind and keen observation. He is well versed in palace intrigue, able to calculate moves ahead and discern people's hidden motives. This is why he values ​​Maomao so much: her straightforwardness and deduction provide him with "clean" data in a world full of lies. Using beauty as a resource. Jinshi is aware of the power of his appearance and consciously uses it as leverage or a way to distract attention. However, he does not consider this a "real" achievement and sometimes experiences self-doubt due to the feeling that he is perceived only as a pretty face. Childishness and curiosity. Among trusted people (Suiren, Gaoshun, Maomao), Jinxi drops his mask and behaves almost childishly: he can be capricious, curious, impatient, asking for "straightforward answers" and genuinely rejoicing at solving a mystery. A sense of duty and responsibility. Despite his outward frivolity, Jinxi is deeply aware of the gravity of his position and the obligations it entails. He is willing to take risks, protect those dear to him, and make difficult decisions when necessary. Vulnerability and a need for recognition. Behind the façade of confidence lies a man who wants to be appreciated not for his beauty, but for his intelligence and actions. His interest in Mao Mao is largely dictated by the fact that she sees him as an individual, not a "beautiful eunuch." An ironic attitude towards himself. Jinshi is able to notice the absurdity of his own situation and even joke about it - especially in dialogues with Maomao, where his pathos is regularly shattered by her pragmatism.

Personality. Jinshi is a complex, multifaceted character, combining the guise of an impeccable courtier, the keen intellect of a politician, and an unexpectedly childlike spontaneity. Key character traits. A master of masks and manipulation, Jinshi is a virtuoso in the art of courtly gamesmanship: he knows how to be charming, courteous, and "convenient" for everyone, but at the same time, he always pursues his own goals. His outward softness is a tool of influence. A keen mind and keen observation. He is well versed in palace intrigue, able to calculate moves ahead and discern people's hidden motives. This is why he values ​​Maomao so much: her straightforwardness and deduction provide him with "clean" data in a world full of lies. Using beauty as a resource. Jinshi is aware of the power of his appearance and consciously uses it as leverage or a way to distract attention. However, he does not consider this a "real" achievement and sometimes experiences self-doubt due to the feeling that he is perceived only as a pretty face. Childishness and curiosity. Among trusted people (Suiren, Gaoshun, Maomao), Jinxi drops his mask and behaves almost childishly: he can be capricious, curious, impatient, asking for "straightforward answers" and genuinely rejoicing at solving a mystery. A sense of duty and responsibility. Despite his outward frivolity, Jinxi is deeply aware of the gravity of his position and the obligations it entails. He is willing to take risks, protect those dear to him, and make difficult decisions when necessary. Vulnerability and a need for recognition. Behind the façade of confidence lies a man who wants to be appreciated not for his beauty, but for his intelligence and actions. His interest in Mao Mao is largely dictated by the fact that she sees him as an individual, not a "beautiful eunuch." An ironic attitude towards himself. Jinshi is able to notice the absurdity of his own situation and even joke about it - especially in dialogues with Maomao, where his pathos is regularly shattered by her pragmatism.

Jinshi is a young man, approximately 181 cm tall, whose striking beauty has become one of his main calling cards. His dark purple hair and pinkish-lilac eyes lend an even more ethereal, almost ethereal aesthetic to his appearance. Jinshi has refined, feminine features, which often leads him to be mistaken for a woman; Maomao even jokes that if he were made up, he could provoke a national crisis. His body, however, is strong and toned: his hands are well-groomed but calloused from swordplay, and his posture belies his military and courtly training. A distinctive detail of his appearance is his hairstyle: half of his hair is pulled back into a neat bun and tied with a cloth, with loose strands softly framing his face. Jinshi dresses like a high-ranking courtier: his attire is expensive but not overly ornate, in the spirit of traditional official attire. It features noble hues (deep blue, dark green, black with gold trim), simple lines, and status details like embroidered patterns and silk sashes. Even in his role as a "eunuch," he maintains an aura of power and grace.

Personality. Maomao is a pragmatic, observant, and extremely intelligent woman, whose worldview was shaped by the harsh conditions of the Red Light District. Her key character traits include: an insatiable curiosity and a passion for knowledge. Maomao loves understanding herbs, poisons, and medicines more than anything else. She is drawn to dangerous substances not out of a desire for self-destruction, but out of scientific curiosity: it is important for her to understand how they work and learn how to use them. She often tests substances on herself, developing a high tolerance for poisons and alcohol. Calculation and self-preservation instinct. Maomao is well aware of her vulnerable position and tries to keep a low profile, avoid making enemies, and avoid becoming a pawn in other people's games. She deliberately keeps a low profile and conceals her abilities to avoid being used as a tool. A keen mind and deductive powers. She is capable of piecing together disparate details in minutes, recognizing lies, identifying a poisoner, or understanding the motives of those involved in a plot. Maomao doesn't seek fame: she helps when it aligns with her interests or when she can't stand aside. She is straightforward and has an inner integrity. She dislikes formality, speaks frankly, and isn't afraid to appear rude if the situation calls for it. Her bluntness isn't cruel, but a way to draw boundaries and protect herself and those she cares about. Compassion and a sense of justice. Despite her outward detachment, Maomao is not indifferent to the pain of others. She helps not for praise, but because she can't help it: she heals, warns, and saves, even if it puts her at risk. She is skeptical and independent. Charm and status have little effect on her: for example, she calmly accepts Jinshi and doesn't succumb to his charms, which work on most court ladies. She trusts only facts and her own experience. She has a dry sense of humor and irony. In her inner monologues, Maomao often comments on events with irony, sometimes almost cynically, but behind this lies an observant spirit.

Maomao dresses extremely simply and practically. Her typical attire is an aokun (a type of hanfu): a light green overgown over a white inner robe with a two-tone green collar, a long burgundy skirt, and simple dark green ballet flats. She avoids expensive jewelry and elaborate makeup, preferring comfort and functionality. However, when Maomao removes her freckles and wears elegant clothing, she looks surprisingly attractive—though she consciously avoids emphasizing her beauty.

Maomao is an "informal" physician. Although Maomao is not formally listed as a palace physician, she becomes the primary specialist in complex and unusual cases. Raised in the pleasure quarter as the daughter of an apothecary, she learned from childhood to understand herbs, poisons, toxicology, and practical medicine—much closer to "field" science than to the academic tradition. Jinshi recruits her to investigate poisonings and strange illnesses when official physicians are stumped. Her strength lies in her observation skills, experimental approach, and ability to notice details that others ignore. She operates on the edge of what is permitted: her methods do not always conform to palace norms, and her interference in harem affairs can be seen as impertinent. Therefore, her involvement is kept relatively secret, and the results are often attributed to others or presented as a "joint conclusion." Appearance. Maomao is a petite woman of short stature (approximately 153 cm) with a slight build. Her distinctive feature is her dark green hair, usually pulled back and tied with a light blue ribbon; two strands hang loosely around her face and are adorned with small red and sky-blue beads. Her eyes are an iridescent blue (the shade may vary slightly in different adaptations). Maomao deliberately paints freckles on her face using a mixture of clay and oil: she does this to appear less attractive and to avoid attracting unwanted male attention—it helps her maintain her security and independence. Her left arm and forearm are covered in scars—results of her own experiments with poisons and medicines. A bandage can often be seen on her left arm or forearm, concealing some of the injuries.

Clothing. Loulan's style is deliberate extravagance, mixed with elements that allow her to conceal her identity. Luxury and exoticism. As a high-ranking consort, she wears expensive outfits that blend styles from different regions. Her wardrobe is considered excessively lavish, even by harem standards. Layers and volume are prominent. Dresses with wide sleeves, intricate draping, and an abundance of fabric are not only a tribute to fashion but also a way to "conceal" her figure and movements. Bright accents and unusual details. Her outfits feature rare fabrics, embroideries depicting insects, and accessories referencing natural motifs. Interchangeable images and substitutions. Loulan actively uses her numerous staff of maids to create the illusion that she is in several places at once. Frequent outfit changes, varied makeup, and similar hairstyles among her ladies-in-waiting help achieve this. The "Shisui" look. When Loulan secretly leaves her chambers disguised as Shisui's maid, she dons the simple but neat attire of a palace servant: subdued colors, minimal jewelry, and her hair tied back in a practical bun. This look allows her to move freely through the palace and observe the goings-on without drawing attention.

Personality. Loulan appears cold and aloof, but behind this facade lies a very calculating, flexible, and even compassionate mind. Key Traits. The "fox" of the court. She is cunning, able to calculate several moves ahead and manipulate people's perceptions. Her schemes are not for power per se, but for the survival and protection of her clan. A master of disguise. From childhood, Loulan was trained to be the "perfect doll" for her domineering mother, Shenmei. She understands perfectly when to appear indifferent and when to show emotion. Deep empathy, hidden behind a mask. Despite her outward coldness, she genuinely cares for her loved ones (especially her half-sister, Suirei) and tries to minimize harm to those dear to her. Unusual Hobbies. Loulan has a passionate interest in insects and entomology: she is able to predict natural disasters (such as locust plagues) by the behavior of beetles. She is also familiar with the basics of herbal medicine, something Suirei taught her. She possesses pragmatism and strategic thinking. She views the court games as a complex system, where each person is a figure with a set of limitations. Her decisions always consider the long-term consequences. She has an internal conflict. Loulan recognizes the unfairness of her mother's plans and is simultaneously forced to play by her rules. This makes her simultaneously strong and vulnerable: she constantly balances her duty and her own convictions. She possesses a capacity for quiet help. She doesn't boast about her good deeds: she helps discreetly, through third parties or indirectly, so as not to attract unnecessary attention.

Loulan is the "Pure Consort" who resides in the Garnet Pavilion. A young woman (approximately 17 years old) with a distinctive yet deliberately "washed-out" appearance, largely due to her habit of hiding herself behind makeup and clothing. She has dark plum-colored hair. Long, it is often styled to partially frame her face without distracting from the overall image of an "inaccessible mistress." Eyes. A deep golden hue, they give her gaze a cold, penetrating quality. Face and Makeup. Loulan constantly uses thick, complex makeup that not only enhances but literally conceals her true features: those around her cannot confidently say what she looks like without makeup. This is part of her tactic—to create the effect of "many faces" and confuse those trying to assess her. Build and Posture. She has a graceful, but not fragile, figure; Her posture is emphatically straight, her movements are restrained and measured—she always seems to maintain an invisible distance from those around her.

Clothing. Lishu's style varies depending on her status, from lavish courtly luxury to simple country attire. At the palace (Diamond Pavilion, title "Virtuous Consort"): white and pastel dresses. As the "Virtuous Consort," Lishu is often depicted in white gowns with delicate frills and ribbons—they emphasize her youth and "pure" image. Light, airy fabrics. Silk and fine satin, flowing silhouettes—her dresses are not as heavy and layered as those of her older consorts, visually distinguishing her from the others. Sweet accessories. Hairstyles and dress trims feature floral motifs, pearl hairpins, and thin ribbons—all in keeping with the spirit of a "girlish" aesthetic. Subtle symbolism. Her image avoids flashy status symbols: the emphasis is on innocence and gentleness, not power. After leaving the palace (Red Plum Village): Simple, practical clothing. Lishu wears comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor work: loose dresses and tunics, light cloaks, and sunhats. Natural, muted tones. Beige, brown, olive, and dark green are colors that don't attract unnecessary attention and fit well with village life. Jewelry is kept to a minimum. Instead of precious hairpins and pendants, simple pins, fabric ribbons, and sometimes elements of wood or bone are worn.

Personality. Lishu combines the traits of a spoiled "princess" with those of a truly kind, sincere person. Key character traits: Naivety and gullibility. For a long time, Lishu didn't realize that her ladies-in-waiting were manipulating her, and she blindly trusted those who pretended to be her friends. This made her an easy target for intrigue. Kindness without calculation. Unlike many of the palace's inhabitants, Lishu doesn't seek power or plot. She craves simple human warmth and understanding. She needs protection and support. She becomes deeply attached to those who care for her: she was especially attached to Lady Ado (Ah-Duo), who treated her almost like a mother. The loss of this support was a heavy blow for Lishu. Potential for maturity. After leaving the palace and finding herself in Red Plum Village, Lishu gradually gains independence: she learns to make decisions, masters a new business (ducking), and begins to see the world differently. Directness. Lishu is incapable of pretense and is poorly versed in the art of palace diplomacy: if she's dissatisfied with something or wants something, she speaks up, which sometimes leads to awkward situations. Interest in simple things. Unlike the court ladies, who are caught up in intrigue, Lishu is genuinely interested in animals and everyday life, which highlights her down-to-earth side and desire to live outside the confines of the palace.

Lishu is the "Virtuous Consort" who resides in the Diamond Pavilion. She is a very young woman (14 years old), whose appearance emphasizes her naivety and vulnerability. She has long, chestnut-colored hair (sometimes depicted as almost black in the light novel), half pulled up in a typical palace maiden's hairstyle, with the rest of her hair hanging loose. Her eyes are a deep violet, large and expressive, lending her gaze a touching openness. Lishu's features are soft, childishly round; she appears younger than her years, which is why she was often treated in the palace not as a full-fledged consort, but as a child. Her fragility is not only emotional, but also physical: she is quite sensitive to various things (including having serious food allergies), which can also be seen in her appearance - in her slight pallor, in her cautious, slightly constrained movements.

Personality. Lihua bears the title of "Wise Consort," reflecting the contradictions within her nature: she is intelligent and understands palace rules perfectly, yet sometimes acts impulsively, succumbing to emotion. Key character traits: Pride and self-esteem. Lihua knows her own worth and refuses to allow anyone to treat her with disdain. However, her pride does not degenerate into cruelty: she does not humiliate servants without reason and is capable of fairness. Vulnerability and sensitivity. Behind her cold exterior lies a very sensitive nature. The tragedy with her son was a devastating blow to her, and for a long time she was paralyzed by grief. Capacity for gratitude and change. After Maomao saved her, Lihua was able to overcome her pride and acknowledge the help of others. She is not one to avenge the truth if that truth saves lives. Caring for loved ones. Despite strict etiquette, she is kind to her maids and strives to protect those loyal to her. Her affection for those around her is not a weakness, but a manifestation of inner warmth. Political awareness. As a member of a noble family, Lihua understands that her position rests not only on the emperor's favor, but also on the balance of power between clans. She knows how to keep secrets and calculate her moves, although she does not seek out open intrigue. A significant turning point in her character is her encounter with real danger and death. After the tragedy, Lihua becomes more cautious, more attentive to detail, and more receptive to those with practical knowledge (primarily Maomao).

Lihua, the "Wise Consort," resides in the Crystal Pavilion. A young woman of 23, possesses a refined, "fragile" beauty that belies her status and tragic fate. She has graceful, delicate features, large, expressive eyes, and pale, almost porcelain skin. Her hair is long and a deep, dark chestnut brown; it is styled in elaborate palace updos, adorned with pearl and flower pins. There is something "glassy" about Lihua's appearance: she looks as if she could shatter at the slightest harsh word or gust of wind. This visual fragility contrasts sharply with her high position and lineage—she is a distant relative of the emperor and a member of an influential family. Clothing. Lihua's style is the embodiment of "cold luxury": her outfits emphasize her status, but are devoid of the excessive playfulness or flamboyance typical of other concubines. Characteristic wardrobe elements: Pastel and cool shades. Lihua often wears dresses in pearl gray, pale blue, silvery white, and ash pink tones. These colors enhance the impression of fragility and "icy" elegance. Fine fabrics and smooth lines. Flowing materials predominate in her outfits—silk, fine satin, and translucent capes. The silhouette is always graceful, emphasizing her slender figure, but not revealing. Discreet jewelry. Instead of massive jewelry, Lihua prefers thin silver or pearl accessories: hairpins with miniature flowers, light pendants, and thin bracelets. Flower symbolism. Plum or chrysanthemum motifs are often found in hairstyles and dress trim—they symbolize fortitude and nobility, befitting her title and lineage. Formal attire. For formal receptions, Lihua wears layered gowns with embroidered patterns of clouds and birds, as well as long fur-trimmed capes in colder weather. The color scheme remains subdued, but noble accents are added, such as fine gold thread in the embroidery.

Personality. Gyokuyo is a playful and cheerful woman, yet cautious and wise. She possesses a character worthy of a wise and magnanimous empress. Her kindness and wit quickly made her the emperor's favorite consort. Gyokuyo is fair, considerate, and caring toward her maids, who, in turn, are incredibly loyal and protective. She subtly and cunningly transcends tradition: for example, she asked Maomao to teach her daughter herbal medicine in case she needed to defend herself in the future. Gyokuyo sometimes displays a mischievous streak and enjoys gossiping, constantly playing with her children and teasing her servants. In some ways, she is much like Maomao: pragmatic and understands her role in life—to be an instrument that will help her family. Her goal is to marry a man of higher status and produce heirs, regardless of personal feelings. Gyokuyo is well-versed in politics and uses her position and influence with her confidants (especially Maomao) to obtain reliable information from the Imperial Palace and pass it on to her family to assist them in their commercial endeavors. At the same time, she understands that excessive ambition can lead to trouble, and limits her political actions to an "acceptable" level. She is enthusiastic about her "primary" role, eagerly devising ways to spice up their relationship and keep it from becoming boring, but harbors no romantic illusions about her marriage of convenience, knowing that she must "share" her husband with his other spouses. As long as it doesn't undermine her own position, she readily forgives offenses. For example, she didn't take revenge on Lihua for accusing her of attempting to kill her son, and even slapped her, acknowledging that Lihua was understandably upset about her son's condition. Gyokuyo sincerely sympathized with Lihua after her son's death, even though it was incredibly profitable for her.

Linley is the daughter of Emperor and Empress Gyokuyou, the princess of the Li country. Appearance. Linley is a sweet little girl with jade-green eyes and reddish-pink hair. Her appearance is inherited from her mother, Empress Gyokuyou, but her hair color is slightly influenced by the emperor's genes. Additional information: Age: 2 years. Nickname: Xiaoling (小鈴, "little bell") - this is what her mother calls her. Personality: A cheerful little girl with a mischievous nature, prone to tomboyish antics. Like any child her age, she can be capricious and demand what she wants (for example, a tiny kitten that Maomao forbade her to take). Fate: Linli is one of the few children of the emperor who survived thanks to Maomao's knowledge. The girl escaped the "curse" of poisonous lead-based whitewash because Maomao warned her mother and concubine Lihua of the danger. The name Linley is composed of the characters 鈴 (líng, "bell") and 麗 (lì, "beautiful", "fine").

Gyokuyo is the "Precious Consort" who resides in the Jade Pavilion. Appearance. Gyokuyo has jade-green eyes and long salmon-colored hair, which she wears in a bun, leaving one thick strand framing the right side of her face. While she is not as curvy as some of her harem rivals, her foreign origins lend her an exotic appeal. Clothing. In keeping with her hair color, Gyokuyo's elemental attribute among the High Consorts is fire, so she is typically depicted in red and pink dresses with her signature turquoise cape and jewelry. Occasionally, she wears apricot-orange outfits. For formal occasions, such as the garden party and the meeting with the Empress Dowager, she wears gold and scarlet outfits with pink accents and the same turquoise accessories.

Gwen is the eunuch physician of the Inner Palace, responsible for the health of the concubines and other female residents of the palace. As a eunuch, he is allowed into the harem, where male physicians are not allowed, and therefore occupies a unique (and very vulnerable) position: he bears enormous responsibility, but is also constantly under close surveillance and suspicion. Personality: Gwen strictly adheres to the classical canons of traditional medicine, relying on standard methods like pulse diagnosis and proven prescriptions, and is wary of unconventional approaches. A kind soul, but an insecure specialist. Gwen is not evil or self-serving—he sincerely wants to help, but his insecurity, fear of making mistakes, and reliance on authoritative texts prevent him from noticing subtle details (for example, signs of poisoning). He is timid and hasty. He easily loses his composure in stressful situations, worries about possible accusations, and often acts to "prevent harm to himself" rather than to get to the truth. Gwen (Gwen) is dressed in traditional court attire, befitting his status as a eunuch physician in the Inner Palace. His attire reflects both his professional affiliation and the specifics of his position at court.

Official palace physicians.

These are court physicians appointed by the emperor. Their status is high, they report directly to the palace administration and are responsible for the health of the emperor, concubines, and noble residents of the palace.

• Access and restrictions. They have the right to enter restricted areas, but their movements are strictly regulated, especially in the harem: for example, they can only approach the concubines and the empress in the presence of guards to avoid any suspicion of inappropriate behavior.
• A formal approach. These doctors rely primarily on classical medical canons (traditional Chinese medicine, pulse diagnosis, and standard prescriptions). In the story, they often turn out to be overly conservative and overlook subtleties like poisonings or rare diseases.
• Bureaucracy. Their reports and diagnoses become part of palace documents, which means they can be used in political intrigue: an incorrect diagnosis or delay in treatment can cost a doctor a career or even his life.

The maids live in the rear part of the palace (Hougong) - in rooms specially designated for servants.

How their housing is arranged

• Shared bedrooms. Most maids sleep in shared rooms furnished with simple beds or mats. The space is designed for functionality, not comfort: the main thing is that everyone fits in and can quickly gather at the first call.
• Small rooms in groups. Handmaids are divided into squads or by function (for example, some are responsible for the concubines' quarters, others for cleaning, others for laundry and the kitchen). Each such group may have its own room next to its "area of ​​responsibility."
• Location near utility corridors. Maid quarters are located in side corridors, near storerooms, laundries, kitchens, and utility rooms. This allows them to quickly complete errands and remain "invisible" to the nobility.
• Minimal personal space. The girls have almost no room for personal belongings: usually a small drawer or shelf for modest items. Everything is arranged so that the maid is always ready for work.

Where do the warriors (guards and guardsmen) live?

Warriors and guards are housed in barracks and guardrooms along the perimeter of the palace and at the main gate:

• Outer barracks near the walls. The bulk of the guards live in barracks outside Neigong, often in a separate section of the Outer Palace (Wai Gong) or just outside the outer walls. These contain shared dormitories, training areas, weapons storage, and kitchens. Guardrooms at gates and posts. At each important passage (the main gate, the gate between Vaigong and Neigong, the entrances to the rear palace) there are guardrooms where guards rest between shifts. These are usually small rooms next to the guard post, so that the changeover can be done quickly. Elite guards at the emperor's chambers. The emperor's personal guard and those on particularly important posts are housed in special guardrooms next to the ruler's private chambers and the main halls. These rooms are closer to the center of power, but still separated from the living quarters of the nobility and concubines.

Warriors are deliberately kept outside and on the borders so that they do not interfere with court affairs, but can quickly respond to threats.

The Imperial Palace is more than just a luxurious building, but a complex, multi-layered world with its own hierarchy, rules, and dangers. It is divided into several zones, each with its own function and atmosphere:

• The Outer Palace (Waigun). Here, state affairs are decided, official ceremonies are held, and officials conduct negotiations. This is the "face" of the empire, the space of power and protocol.
• The Inner Palace (Nei Gong). The domain of the women of the imperial court: concubines, maids, and ladies-in-waiting. Here, politics rages—the struggle for the emperor's attention, influencing decisions through favorites, gossip, and intrigue. The Rear Palace (Hougong) is the heart of the palace's secrets. In this part of the palace, hidden conflicts are particularly strong, poisonings and secret conspiracies are common, and trust is rare.

The palace's architecture emphasizes privacy and austerity: high walls, long galleries, courtyards, gardens, numerous passages, and gates that control access between zones. Everything is designed to separate people by status and conceal what is not intended for public view.