Though I Am an Inept Villainess

3. Traditions, Rituals and Festivals
   The Festival of the Five Scales (Main Festival): The day when the Virgin of each palace must perform a public ritual offering to her deity. The Empress's score at this festival determines which palace will receive the most resources for the next year.
   Night of the Two Sevens (Ghost Festival): The only night of the year when the border between the world of spirits and humans is thinning. At this time, sacred cleansing rites are held, but it is on this night that it is easiest to perform a forbidden ritual (for example, the exchange of bodies).
   Morning Tea Etiquette: A daily obligatory procedure where the Maidens gather at the Empress Dowager. This is not just a tea party, but a duel of views, hairpins, subtle subtexts and a test of knowledge of palace laws.
4. Security System and Seal and Pass Rumors
   : Each Maiden and Concubine has a unique jade or silver token. Losing a token is considered a serious crime, as it opens access to closed sectors.
   Black Clan's "Crow Network": A secret information service inside the courtyard. In every palace, there is at least one female informant among the maids who report to the Black Palace.
   Official Language of the Inner Court: Concubines and Maidens use a special high-flown allegorical language. Direct insult or manifestation of anger is punished by lowering in status, so all intrigues are expressed through "compliments" and poetic metaphors.

1. Geography and Architecture
   The Five-Colored Palace is a grandiose castle-city located on a sacred mountain surrounded by high walls and waterfalls.
   Central Rim (Golden/Main Palace): The highest point of the complex. It is home to the Throne Room, the chambers of Empress Dowager Kogetsu, and the main Ritual Square, where imperial prayers are held.
   Four Poles (Palaces of the Elements):
   Red Palace (South): Built of mahogany and dark stone, decorated with open terraces, braziers, and lush gardens with scarlet peonies.
   Blue Palace (East): Surrounded by canals, artificial ponds with lotuses and deep libraries. The architecture is light, made of white stone and blue tiles.
   The White Palace (West): The most pompous and luxurious. Lined with marble, decorated with gold stucco, hanging gardens and fountains.
   Black Palace (North): Austere, shady and cool. Carved at the foot of the cliff, it includes dungeons, apothecary gardens with poisonous plants and archives of forbidden books.
   Winter (Abandoned) Palace: Located on the outskirts of the north gate, where the winds blow the strongest. This is a dilapidated unheated building with a thin roof, a courtyard overgrown with weeds and drafts, where the "guilty" and fading concubines are sent.
2. Secret Network and Service Areas
   Underground Passages and Service Corridors: The inner palace is riddled with a network of hidden galleries through which servants, guardsmen, and night delivery men move. It is here that secret meetings, poison transfers, and espionage conspiracies take place.
   Imperial Pharmacy and Laundries: Places where the real life of lower-ranking servants is in full swing. The pharmacy maintains strict ingredient books (which are often counterfeited), and laundries spread the latest gossip.
   Jade Dragon Gate: The only heavily guarded entrance to the Inner Palace. The passage through them is controlled by Kin Ukei's guard, and no item, servant, or medicine can enter without being searched.

3. Pharmacology, Alchemy & HerbalismIn
   this world, the line between traditional medicine and magic is very blurred.
   Alchemical Medicine: Healing is based on the circulation of vital energy (Qi) and a combination of rare magical herbs, minerals, and organs of magical creatures.
   Poison Control and Neutralization: The Black Dragon Clan (and some of Reyrin) have a thorough knowledge of the properties of poisons. The magic of poisons manifests itself in the creation of poisonous substances with specific properties (for example, poison that works only on people with certain elemental magic, or accumulative arsenic compounds).
4. The Divine Power of the Imperial Lineage
   The magic of the Emperor and the Crown Prince (Ei Gyomei): The highest form of divine magic. The Ei Imperial Family has absolute power over the palace's spiritual barriers. Their magic is able to suppress someone else's curse, protect the territory from evil spirits, and recognize lies on a subtle emotional/spiritual level.

1. Divine Magic of Maidens and Clans (Divine / Elemental Power)
   Each of the Five Clans receives magical power from their divine patrons - the Five Color Scales.
   Maiden Magic: The main contenders (Virgos) have the most amount of this energy. The level of magic determines the ability to perform sacred rituals in the courtyard for the well-being of the entire Empire (for example, praying for a rich harvest, preventing droughts, epidemics, or natural disasters).
   Connection with spirits: A strong Virgo does not just conjure - she acts as a "medium" and a guide between divine beings and the world of people.
   Physical Damage and Exhaustion: Using divine energy requires tremendous vitality. For girls with an inherently weak body (like Keigetsu), trying to perform a powerful ritual can be fatal, while Reirin, thanks to her perfect mental concentration, is able to effectively distribute spiritual energy.
2. Forbidden Magic & CursesThe
   plot is based on dark/forbidden magic, which is under the strictest taboo in the Inner Court:
   Body-Swapping Ritual: An ancient curse/alchemical ritual that requires special conditions (e.g., the arrival of specific astronomical festivals, such as the Feast of the Two Sevens or the Ghost Festival), special artifacts, and deep hatred or strong spiritual interaction between two people.
   Venomcraft/Curse-craft: The art of casting hidden spells on objects, clothing, food, or jewelry. Curses can erode the victim's health for years, mimicking natural diseases or dementia, which is actively used in the intrigues of the Inner Court.

4. White Scale Clan (Silver Dragon Clan)
   Symbol and Element: Metal / Silver and Jade / Wealth and Prosperity.
   Sphere of Influence: Finance, Imperial Treasury, Jewels, Merchant Guilds, and Mining. The White Clan is the richest among all five.
   Clan characteristics: Proud, vain, accustomed to maximum luxury and external brilliance. Representatives of the clan believe that any problem in the world can be solved with the help of gold, influence and the purchase of the necessary connections.
   Representative: Sei Ryu (and Mrs. Kin Reiga).
5. Black Scale Clan (Black Scale Clan)
   Symbol and Element: Shadow / Obsidian / Medicine, Poisons and Ancient Rituals.
   Sphere of influence: Imperial medicine, pharmacology, secret intelligence, rumor gathering, and control of forbidden arts/rituals.
   Clan characteristics: Mysterious, secretive, dispassionate and pragmatic. They rarely engage in open power disputes, preferring to control the situation from the shadows due to their knowledge of the secrets of all other clans.
   Representative: Hey Rei (and Mrs. Gen Gosetsu).

1. Yellow Scale Clan (Golden Dragon Clan)
   Symbol and Element: Gold / Pearl / Light and Sacred Energy.
   Sphere of Influence: The main spiritual and ritual center of the Empire. Traditionally, members of the Yellow Clan have the highest status in the Inner Court, as their magic is directly related to the prosperity and blessing of the land.
   Characteristics of the clan: Noble, wise, brought up in an atmosphere of strict observance of sacred traditions. In society, the Yellow Clan is considered the standard of aristocracy.
   Representative: Reirin Kogetsu (originally) - the true "Butterfly of the Inner Courtyard".
2. Red Scale Clan (Red Scale Clan)
   Symbol and Element: Fire / Scarlet Silk / Passion and Conquest.
   Sphere of influence: Military expansion, foreign trade and sericulture. The clan has vast connections among high officers and regional rulers.
   Clan characteristics: Assertive, ambitious, short-tempered and uncompromising. The clan is used to taking its own by force, pressure and aggressive political alliances. Internal conflicts and fierce competition within the family are commonplace.
   Representative: Keigetsu Shū (and her mentor, Lady Shu).
3. Blue Scale Clan (Azure Dragon Clan)
   Symbol and Element: Water / Sapphire / Wisdom and Law.
   Sphere of influence: Judicial system, law, archiving, higher education and public administration.
   Clan Characteristics: Cold-blooded, disciplined, academically advanced, and strictly abiding by the letter of the law. In this clan, intelligence, self-control, strategies and logic are valued above all else, and emotions are considered a weakness.
   Representative: Kei Ka (and Ms. Ran Horin).

5. Military and Defense Corps (Imperial Guard)
   Captain of the Imperial Guard (Qin Wukei): Reports directly to the Prince and Empress. He is responsible for law and order, the investigation of crimes, poisonings and the protection of the territory from conspiracies.
   Guards and Guardsmen: Conduct searches, guard palace gates, and monitor the movement of concubines.
6. Maids of Honor and Maids (Palace Staff)
   Head Maids: Attached to Maids of Honor (e.g., Tohka in the Yellow Palace). They manage the life of the palace and monitor the observance of etiquette.
   Personal Attendants: Low-ranking servants (such as Lily in the Winter Palace) who do all the menial work of stoking the stoves, cooking, washing, and running errands.

Hierarchy of the
Inner Palace 1. Highest Level (Supreme Power)
Empress Dowager (Kogetsu): The head of the Inner Court, with veto power over any decisions. He heads the council of mothers-mentors and personally assesses the readiness of candidates for the throne.
Crown Prince (Ei Gyomei): Heir to the throne of the Empire. The Inner Palace exists to select his future Empress and main consorts.
2. Council of Mentors (Senior Concubines / High Diplomatic Corps)
Members of the highest nobility of past generations who control order in their palaces:
Lady Shu (Red Palace): A despotic, ambitious, and aggressive mother mentor.
Mistress Ran Horin (Blue Palace): Outwardly gentle and caring, but a cold-blooded and venomous manipulator.
Mrs. Kin Reiga (White Palace): A vain lady who is used to solving any issues with money and clan influence.
Lady Gen Gosetsu (Black Palace): The impassive keeper of medical secrets, poisons, and ancient rituals.
(The Yellow Palace traditionally reports directly to Empress Kogetsu.)
3. The Five Maidens (Pretenders to Empress Status)
The main candidates from the five great clans, each of which has a connection to elemental magic and deities:
Maid of the Yellow Palace (Reyrin / now captured by Keigetsu): Highest status, "Butterfly of the Inner Court".
Maid of the Red Palace (Keigetsu / now occupied by Reyrin): A "talentless villain" exiled for inadequate behavior and lack of strength.
Maid of the Blue Palace (Kay Ka): Strategist, intellect, and keeper of traditions.
Maid of the White Palace (Sei Ryu): A spoiled, rich, and capricious junior pretender.
Maid of the Black Palace (Hey): A mysterious, silent, and detached observer.
4. Disgraced Status (Exile)
Denizen of the Winter (Abandoned) Palace: Officially, this status is occupied by "Keigetsu" (in whose sickly body Reirin's soul is trapped). This is a cold, uninhabited palace on the edge of the territory, where seriously ill or disgraced girls are exiled.

Character Card: ToukaBasic
Name
: Touka (冬華 / Touka).
Title: Head Maid of Yellow Scale.
Affiliation: Yellow Palace (Serves "Reirin", unaware that there is a Keigetsu inside the body).
Age: Approximately 17-18 years old.
Appearance
Facial and hair features: Strict, neat and very neat girl. She has smooth brown hair, gathered in the impeccable hairstyle of high ladies-in-waiting, and attentive, strict gray or brown eyes.
Apparel: Wears an expensive, high-quality dress of the head maid of honor of the Yellow Palace with neat embroidery, emphasizing the high status of the Yellow Clan.
Personality and Character
Professionalism and Diligence: Tohka is the ideal senior lady-in-waiting. She thoroughly knows all the traditions, etiquette and rules of caring for the Maid of the Yellow Palace.
Deep Confusion and Anxiety: Tohka used to genuinely love and respect the real Reyrin for her kindness and grace. But after the "body swap", Tohka falls into a silent shock: her beloved mistress (now Keigetsu) has suddenly become hysterical, rude, capricious, and does not know how to behave at official tea parties.
Hidden Suspicions: Unlike the other maids, Tohka knew every habit and gesture of the real Reyrin. She begins to notice the falsity in the behavior of the "new Reyrin" and experiences deep inner pain, not understanding where the former radiant Maiden has disappeared.

Character card: Lily (Riri)
Basic data
Full name: Lily (莉莉 / Riri).
Title: Personal Servant / Maid of Honor of the Winter (Abandoned) Palace.
Affiliation: Faithful servant Reyrin (currently with her in the body of the Keigetsu in the Winter Palace).
Age: Approximately 14-15 years old.
Appearance
Facial and Hair Features: A pretty, young girl with a round, good-natured face, large, expressive brown eyes, and dark hair tucked into two neat service bumps or ponytails.
Clothing: Wears the simplest, worn-out clothes of lowest-ranking handmaidens, made of coarse fabric in cool gray and blue tones. In the Winter Palace, he often wraps himself in an old shawl from the cold.
Personality and Personality
Ultimate Loyalty: Lily is the only person in the entire palace who genuinely loves and protects his mistress. She followed her into exile in the cold Winter Palace without the slightest hesitation.
Emotionality and Tearfulness: Very vulnerable and fearful. Lily often cries and worries about her mistress's poor health, poisoned food, or the injustice of the court, but she is also ready to stand up in front of any guard if she is in danger.
Hard work and Care: Ready to do any hard work - stoke the stove in the cold, cook medicinal decoctions and dry herbs.
Attitude to the "changes" of the mistress: Lily sincerely wonders why her "sickly and previously evil" mistress has suddenly become so calm, wise and unperturbed. However, instead of asking, Lily simply admires her mistress's new fortitude and follows all her unusual instructions.

3. Personality and Character
   Loyalty and Incorruptibility: Ukei is a man of honor and duty. For him, the protection of order in the Inner Court and the safety of the imperial family are in the first place. He cannot be bribed with gold or disarmed by female flirtatious tricks.
   Keen Sense and Analytical Mind: As the main protector of the palace, he is the first to react to suspicious incidents, poisoning attempts, and secret movements of servants. Ukei notices little things that others miss.
   Restraint and Dryness in communication: Holds strictly, strictly observes subordination. He is polite with Virgo candidates and concubines, but emphatically distanced.
   Attitude towards the main characters: Before the exchange of bodies,
   he considered Keigetsu ("talentless villain") to be a capricious and dangerous troublemaker.
   When Reirin is trapped in Keigetsu's body and sent to the Winter Palace, it is Ukei who regularly visits her on duty. Observing her inhuman endurance, iron calm during poisoning attempts and deep knowledge of the law, he begins to feel deep respect for her and a strong suspicion that the story of her "fall" hides something more.

Character card: Kin Ukei - Captain of the Imperial Guard

1. Basic Data
   Full name: Kin Ukei (錦 宇慶 / Kin Ukei).
   Title: Captain of the Imperial Guard of the Inner Palace / Commander of the Guards of the Five Palaces.
   Affiliation: Imperial Guard (A military clan reporting directly to the Crown Prince and Empress Dowager).
   Age: Approximately 20-22 years old.
2. Appearance
   Facial features and hair: A tall, masculine and attractive young man with a strong-willed chin, strict features and the toned body of a hardened warrior. He has dark brown or dark blue hair tied up in a practical ponytail and a sharp, attentive expression of a dark brown or amber pair of eyes.
   Figure and posture: Has excellent physical shape, broad shoulders and confident gait. Each of his movements betrays a professional swordsman and an experienced commander, ready to react to a threat in a split second.
   Clothing and Armor: Wears the elegant armor of the Commander of the Guard, dark gray or black leather armor with metal plates, over which a cloak with the crest of the Imperial Guard is draped. A ritual sword always rests on the belt.

Personality and Character
Insight and Sharp Mind: Gyomei is a shrewd, reasonable, and strategically thinking ruler. He cannot be deceived by tears, false naivety or flattery. He is well aware of how cruel the intrigues of the Inner Court are.
True feelings for Rayrin: Ever since he was a child, he has genuinely admired Rayrin, affectionately calling her his "Butterfly" for her kindness, intelligence, and gentle grace. He was deeply concerned about her poor health, but he always saw her as a worthy future ruler.
Suspicious of Change:
After the body swapping ritual, Gyomei instantly notices that something is wrong with "Reirin" (whose body is now Keigetsu): she has become moody, greedy, and insecure. 
At the same time, he is stunned by the behavior of "Keigetsu" (the real Reirin) exiled to the Winter Palace. She carries herself with unbreakable dignity, displays phenomenal intelligence and calmness in the face of death.
Justice and Patronage: Despite his suspicions, Gyomei is an honest man. When he sees that the exiled "villain" begins to benefit the Empire and save people with his knowledge, he begins to secretly support her and investigate the true reason for her "transformation".

Character card: Ei Gyoumei - Crown Prince

1. Basic Data
   Full name: Ei Gyoumei (咏 尧明 / Ei Gyoumei).
   Title: Crown Prince of the Kingdom of Ei.
   Affiliation: Imperial Clan Hey (Possesses the highest Dragon divine magic).
   Age: Approximately 18-19 years old.
2. Appearance
   Facial and Hair Features: A dazzlingly handsome young man with a regal and sophisticated appearance. He has light golden (or platinum blonde) hair, neatly tied up at the back in a tight bun with a traditional princely crown (guan). The look of amber-gold eyes is cold, penetrating and serious. 
   Figure and posture: Tall, handsome, with a military bearing. In his every move, you can feel the innate royal grandeur and great hidden power.
   Clothing: Wears luxurious imperial robes in dark purple, dark blue, and gold, lavishly decorated with gold embroidery with dragons and ancient symbolism.

Character card: Lady Gen Gousetsu is the Senior Concubine of the Black Palace

1. Basic Data
   Full name: Gen Gousetsu (玄 傲雪 / Gen Gousetsu). 
   Title: Senior Concubine of the Black Palace (Worthy Consort) / Mother Tutor of the Black Dragon Clan (Geng Clan).
   Belong to: Black Palace (Palace of Obsidian / Black Scale).
   Age: Approximately 37-41 years old.
2. Appearance
   Facial and hair features: A strict, cold and incredibly reserved woman with an "iron" expression on her face. She has long, pitch-black hair styled in a neat traditional hairstyle with laconic jewelry made of dark jade and silver. The piercing, focused gaze of dark eyes almost never expresses emotion. 
   Figure and posture: The posture of a military strategist. She holds firm, moves absolutely silently, and her presence in the room immediately creates a tangible atmosphere of authority and mystery.
   Clothing: Prefers robes in deep dark shades of obsidian, dark purple, and midnight blue, decorated with discreet silver embroidery with the symbols of the Black Dragon Clan.
3. Personality and Character
   Cold Pragmatism and Dispassion: Mrs. Geng almost never succumbs to emotions. She was used to judging any situation in the Inner Court in terms of a real threat, balance of power, and effectiveness.
   Guardian of Medicine, Rituals, and Poisons: The Geng Clan is traditionally responsible for medical knowledge, pharmaceuticals, and the control of the dangerous ritual practices of the Inner Court. Ms. Geng is an expert in the symptoms of poisoning, rare diseases, and the arcane arts.
   Strict Mentor: A. Rei is demanding of his niece, trying to raise her to be an equally observant and cautious player. 

Character Card: Mistress Kin Reiga is the Senior Concubine of the
White Palace 1. Basic Data
Full name: Kin Reiga (白 玲雅 / Kin Reiga / Sei Reiga).
Title: Senior Concubine of the Noble Consort / Mother Tutor of the White Dragon Clan
Belong to: White Palace (Palace of Silver/White Scale).
Age: Approximately 36-40 years old.
2. Appearance
Facial and hair features: Dazzling, catchy and proud beauty. She has light porcelain skin, bright, expressive eyes, and lush, beautifully styled platinum-silver hair. On the face you can almost always read a smug expression and a slight condescending smile.
Figure and posture: Elegant, loving to attract maximum attention. It moves smoothly, like a model on the catwalk, demonstratively making numerous precious jewelry jingle.
Apparel: Mrs. Keene's outfits are the most expensive in the entire Courtyard. Snow-white, silver and cream silks, generously decorated with pearls, diamonds, heavy gold thread and lush trim of expensive fur.
3. Personality and Personality
Vanity and Narcissism: Mrs. Kyne is convinced that the White Clan is the financial heart and the main jewel of the Empire. She measures influence by gold, connections, and sheer brilliance, sincerely despising poverty or modesty.
Pampering Master: She raised Sei Ryu to be just as moody and demanding as she was. Instead of teaching her a deep palace policy, Mrs. Kyne teaches her to buy the loyalty of servants, put pressure on others with the help of the clan's wealth, and demand special treatment for herself.
Impulsive and Direct Political Style: Unlike the venomous Mrs. Shu or the secretive Mrs. Ran, Mrs. Kyne acts bluntly – if she doesn't like someone, she will openly crush her status, buy up other people's debtors, or stage a lavish demonstration of the superiority of the White Palace.

Character Card: Mistress Ran Hourin is the Senior Concubine of the Blue Palace

1. Basic Data
   Full name: Ran Horin (藍芳林 / Ran Hourin). 
   Title: Senior Concubine of the Blue (Azure) Palace (Virtuous Consort) / Mother Mentor of the Blue Dragon Clan (Clan Ran).
   Affiliation: Blue Palace (Sapphire Palace / Blue Scale).
   Age: Approximately 38-42 years old.
2. Appearance
   Facial and Hair Features: A sophisticated, aristocratic lady with deceptively soft, warm features. She has deep dark blue hair styled in a perfect knobby hairstyle, decorated with hairpins made of transparent sapphire, silver, and mother-of-pearl. The eyes are azure, constantly radiating "caring" benevolence.
   Figure and posture: Holds perfectly straight, with impeccable observance of every rule of palace etiquette. Her movements are smooth, soft and quiet, and a calm, friendly smile almost always plays on her lips.
   Apparel: Wears luxurious yet discreet robes in sky blue, azure and silver-gray tones made of the finest silk with neat embroidery in the form of waves and blue dragons.
3. Personality and Personality
   Duplicity and Hidden Narcissism: At first glance, Mrs. Ran seems to be the kindest, most sensible, and affable of all the senior concubines. However, under this soft "motherly" mask hides a cold-blooded, arrogant and extremely sarcastic woman.
   Master of Subtle Manipulation: Unlike the aggressive and noisy Miss Shu (Red Palace), Miss Ran acts exclusively with Stoles. She pits other Virgos and Concubines against each other with the help of "accidental" compliments, skillful hints and sowing doubts. 
   Exactingness to Excellence: Sincerely proud of the knowledge and endurance of the Blue Clan. She promotes her niece (Kay Ka), demanding impeccable success in politics and knowledge, without forgiving the slightest manifestations of weakness or emotion.

Character card: Lady Shu (Shu Consort) - Senior Concubine of the Red Palace

1. Basic Data
   Full Name: Ms. Shu (Shu Consort / 朱夫人).
   Title: Senior Concubine of the Red (Scarlet) Palace / Mother Mentor of the Scarlet Dragon Clan
   Belong to: Red Palace (Scarlet Silk Palace / Red Scale).
   Age: Approximately 38-42 years old.
2. Appearance
   Facial and Hair Features: Sharp, fatal beauty with predatory facial features. High cheekbones, thin lips that often shrink into a contemptible grin, and almond-shaped, cold eyes. Hair of a deep chestnut-reddish or scarlet shade, gathered in an intricate, eye-catching hairstyle with long golden hairpins in the form of dragon claws.
   Figure and posture: Authoritative, fit, moves with a tough aristocratic grace. There is no softness in her posture - only constant tension and readiness to fight.
   Clothing: Wears bright outfits of scarlet, burgundy and gold colors made of expensive silk with heavy gold embroidery. She loves massive, ringing jewelry made of carnelian, rubies and pure gold.
3. Personality and Character
   Ambitious and Ruthless: For Mrs. Shu, the Inner Palace is an arena of war, and the girls are just pieces on the board. She is obsessed with the idea of putting a representative of the Red Palace on the throne next to the prince. 
   Despotism towards the pupils: It was Mrs. Shu who put pressure on Keigetsu, constantly humiliating her for her poor health, lack of talent, and "lack of talent". Her cruel demands and threats to exile the girl became one of the reasons that pushed Keigetsu to perform the forbidden ritual of body swapping. 
   Master of Blackmail and Intrigue: She is used to getting her way through pressure, spreading rumors, intimidating younger concubines, and gossiping. Unlike the intelligent and calm Empress, Lady Shu acts aggressively and impudently.

Personality and Character
Absolute Wisdom and Experience: Went through dozens of palace conspiracies, poisonings and intrigues in her younger years. It is impossible to deceive her with tears, fake modesty or feigned tantrums.
Keeper of the Balance: Her main goal is the security of the Empire and the selection of a truly worthy, intelligent and strong wife for the Crown Prince. She does not support blind favoritization and evaluates girls only by their real actions and intelligence.
Strict but Fair Judge: The "talentless and sickly" Keigetsu (in whose body Reirin is now) was previously treated with cold disappointment. However, when Reyrin begins to show phenomenal resilience, knowledge of the law and the ability to solve complex crises, it is the Empress who is the first to notice that the "girl from the Winter Palace" has the mind of a true ruler. 
Hidden Foresight: Knows how to play a subtle political game, pitting presumptuous senior concubines against each other and testing candidates for strength in hidden tests.

Character Card: Empress (Empress Dowager)

Full Name: Empress Kougetsu / Mrs. Ko.
Title: Empress Dowager of the Inner Court / High Mother of the Five Palaces
Affiliation: The Main Imperial Palace (a native of the Yellow Clan/Golden Dragon Clan of previous generations).
Age: Approximately 45-50 years old (retains majestic, unfading aristocratic beauty).

2. Appearance
   Facial and hair features: A mistress with an incredibly stately and majestic appearance. She has austere, perfect features, smooth fair skin and dark hair with delicate silver streaks, styled in a high, complex imperial hairstyle, decorated with precious hairpins with phoenixes and dragons. 
   Gaze: Deep, wise and penetrating eyes. One look from her is enough to silence and bow to any of the contenders. 
   Clothing: Wears heavy, luxurious robes in imperial purple, gold, and dark red with filigree gold embroidery. Each of her outfits highlights her undeniable absolute power in the Inner Court.

Character card: Ei Rei1
. Basic Data
Full name: Ei Rei (玄 玲芳 / Ei Rei / Gen Reihou).
Title: Maiden of the Black Palace / Heiress of the Black Dragon Clan.
Belong to: Black Palace (Palace of Obsidian / Black Scale).
Age: Approximately 16-17 years old.
2. Appearance
Facial and Hair Features: A mysterious and distant beauty with a "dark" aura. She has long, perfectly straight jet black hair that partially covers her face. The gaze of deep dark purple or almost black eyes seems piercing, as if she sees through a person.
Figure and posture: Elegant, moves completely silently, like a shadow. There is no demonstrative grace or fuss in her gait - only a smooth, almost mystical restraint.
Clothing: The outfits of the Black Palace are distinguished by strict dark tones - deep black, dark purple and midnight blue silk with delicate gold or silver embroidery in the form of night flowers and dragons.
3. Personality and Character
Withdrawn and Observant: Hey rarely expresses her opinion during general meetings and stays away from Virgo rivalries. She prefers to observe from the shadows, gathering information and studying the weaknesses of others.
A connoisseur of rituals, herbs, and poisons: The Black Dragon Clan is traditionally responsible for arcane knowledge, medicine, and the mystical and ritual practices of the Inner Court. Hey is well versed in the ingredients of rare potions and immediately sees the consequences of using secret rituals.
Neutrality and Pragmatism: It is difficult to draw her into petty intrigues or to persuade someone to side with the help of emotional manipulation. She only acts when it affects the interests of her clan or the balance of power in the palace.
Sharp Ear and Detective Sense: It is because of her knowledge of ancient magic and poisons that A. Rei is one of the first to suspect that what happens between the "new" Rhaereen and the former "talentless villain" in the Winter Palace goes far beyond the usual sudden change of character.

Character card: Sei Ryu1
. Basic Data
Full name: Sei Ryu (白玲羽 / Sei Ryu / Sei Reiyu).
Title: Maiden of the White (Silver) Palace / Heiress of the richest White Dragon clan.
Belong to: White Palace (Palace of Silver/White Scale).
Age: Approximately 15-16 years old (one of the youngest applicants).
2. Appearance
Facial and hair features: A doll-like, pampered beauty with very light porcelain skin, soft rounded features and lush, wavy ash-silver (or light platinum) hair. The eyes are large, expressive, sky blue or silver.
Figure and posture: Short, petite and fragile. Her movements are slightly capricious, but they betray a girl who grew up in absolute luxury and never knew refusal.
Clothing: The outfits of the White Palace are always striking in their splendor - snow-white and silver silk, placers of pearls, precious embroidery and elegant jewelry made of pure silver and jade.
3. Personality and Personality
Spoiled and Pride: Growing up at the head of the richest clan, Sei Ryu is used to getting whatever she wants. She sincerely believes that the best status and attention of the Crown Prince belongs to her simply by birthright.
Moody temperament: Quickly loses her temper if things don't go her way. She likes to be demonstratively offended, shed a tear or demand punishment for those who did not please her.
Frivolity and Innocence: Unlike Kei Ka or Reirin, Sei Ryu has little knowledge of real political poisons and conspiracies. Due to her naivety and arrogance, she often becomes a "blind tool" and a pawn in the hands of more cunning schemers (including incitement from Keigetsu).
Hidden potential: Underneath the layer of whims, there is not so much malicious intent as a banal desire to be recognized and the first in everything. If you reach out to her honor or prove her superiority with intelligence, you can lure her to your side.

Character Card: Kei Ka1

. Basic Data
Full name: Kei Ka (藍瓊華 / Kei Ka).
Title: Maiden of the Blue (Azure) Palace / Heiress of the Blue Dragon Clan.
Belong to: Blue Palace (Palace of Sapphire / Azure Scale).
Age: Approximately 16-17 years old.
2. Appearance
Facial and hair features: Sophisticated, strict and cold beauty. She has straight, deep blue-black (or dark azure) hair, neatly styled into a perfect traditional hairstyle with exquisite stilettos. Shrewd, dark blue eyes with an icy and attentive gaze.
Figure and posture: Tall, fit, with an impeccable royal posture. In her every step, you can feel military discipline and aristocratic bearing.
Clothing: Prefers clothes of deep blue, turquoise and silver shades made of heavy silk. Her outfits always strictly comply with etiquette - no unnecessary jewelry, only the symbols and coats of arms of the Blue Clan.
3. Personality and Character
Intelligence and Prudence: Kay Ka is the main analyst and strategist among Virgos. She thinks exclusively in terms of facts, logic and benefit for the Empire, completely ignoring emotional outbursts.
Strict and Principled: Uncompromisingly observes the laws and the palace regulations. She does not tolerate intrigues, falsehood and hysterics. Prior to the body swap incident, she had a deep disdain for Keigetsu (in her original body), considering him a burden to the palace.
Observation: She is one of the first to notice the oddities in the behavior of the "new" Reirin (Keigetsu) and the "exiled" Keigetsu (Reirin). Keigetsu's icy falsity irritates her, but Reirin's steely endurance in the Winter Palace arouses her sincere professional interest.
Hidden Justist: At first glance, she seems callous and arrogant, but in fact she is guided by the principle of absolute justice. If she sees that someone has been framed dishonestly, she will not participate in bullying.

Blind Envy of Reirin: Constantly hearing praise for the "divine Butterfly of the Yellow Palace," Keigetsu developed a deep, poisonous hatred for Reirin. However, Keigetsu only saw the surface: the honors, the universal love, the Crown Prince's attention, and the status of future Empress. She sincerely believed that Reirin had gotten everything "for nothing"—because of her beautiful porcelain face and high birth, completely unaware of the titanic labor and hellish pain concealed behind that radiant smile.
2. Revenge and the Forbidden Ritual
Motive for the Exchange: Wanting to take everything from Reirin and take her place, Keigetsu committed the forbidden body swap during the Qixin Festival. She believed that with the golden robes and appearance of the Maiden of the Yellow Palace, she would automatically gain the Prince's love, the court's respect, and supreme power.
3. Trap and Shocking Reality (After the Exchange)
Unprepared for Hell: After occupying Reirin's body, Keigetsu found herself in absolute shock and horror. For the first time in her life, she experienced what it was like to live inside a fragile shell, constantly consumed by intense heat, wracked by cramps, and gnawed by mortal weakness.
The Fall of the "Radiant Maiden": Lacking the steely will and self-control of the real Reirin, Keigetsu is unable to hide her pain. In her new body, she cries constantly, throws tantrums, demands special care, and curses everything around her.
Loss of Respect: Her rudeness, lack of proper tea etiquette, and everyday helplessness stun Tohka, the lady-in-waiting, and contrast starkly with her former image of the "wise and graceful Reirin." Instead of triumph, Keigetsu finds herself trapped in her own hell, losing favor with the Crown Prince and the Empress Dowager with each passing day.
4. Attitude towards the exiled Reirin
Powerless Rage: Keigetsu is surprised and furious to learn that Reirin not only survived the "Animal Trial" but is also thriving peacefully in the frozen Winter Palace. And this infuriates her.

Background and Personality: Keigetsu Shu (Red Palace)

1. True origin and path to the Palace
   Daughter of lowly sorcerers: Keigetsu was not born into the luxury and privilege of the Red Clan's high nobility. She was born into a family of poor, little-known sorcerers. Her parents saw little future in their daughter, and in order to gain some profit or to sell off an extra mouth to feed, they sent her to the Inner Palace as a simple, low-ranking servant (maid of honor). Secret Heritage: The only valuable asset Keigetsu inherited from her family was rare, ancient, and dangerous forbidden magic (including the secret of the body-swapping ritual).
2. Lady Shu's Trap: False Motherly Love
   *Remarkable Talent: Upon learning that an inconspicuous lady-in-waiting possessed rare magical techniques, the vain and self-serving Lady Shu instantly devised a plan.

• Playing the "Loving Mother": Lady Shu dramatically elevated Keigetsu, officially making her the Maiden of the Red Palace and surrounding her with visual care, affection, and luxury. She created the illusion of maternal love that Keigetsu, abandoned by her own parents, had never known.
  *True Motive: Lady Shu was merely ingratiating herself with the naive girl. Her primary goal was to discover and appropriate Keigetsu's secret magic, using it to strengthen her own power over the Inner Court.

3. Complex and the Origins of Envy

• Blind Loyalty and Fear of Devaluation: Keigetsu tried her best to live up to Lady Shu's expectations, but due to her lack of a classical education and basic elemental magic, she still felt inferior and "talentless."

Character Card: Keigetsu Shu

1. Basic data
   Full name: Keigetsu Shu (Japanese: 朱苔月 / Keigetsu Shu).
   Title: Former Maiden of the Red (Purple) Palace / Currently - False Maiden of the Yellow Palace (after performing the forbidden body swap ritual).
   Affiliation: Originally the Red Palace (Scarlet Dragon/Silk Palace), now illegally occupies a place in the Yellow Palace.
   Age: Approximately 16–17 years old.
   Appearance and Physical Condition: Keigetsu Shu (Red Palace)
   (The body that Keigetsu originally inhabited, but which became Reirin after the exchange)
   Facial and Hair Features: A striking, striking beauty with strong, expressive features. She has lush, deep dark brown or fiery scarlet hair and sharp, piercing dark eyes.
   Physical Condition (Key Trait): A perfectly healthy, strong and resilient body.
   She has high resistance to cold, good immunity and excellent physical potential, which Keigetsu herself never developed.
   The skin looks alive, fresh and rosy, not pale.
   What changed after the exchange: When Reirin entered this body, she felt genuine elation! After a lifetime spent in bed with a constant fever, Reirin's strong Keigetsu body feels like a true gift. Even in the cold Winter Palace, Reirin is genuinely happy to be able to walk freely, carry firewood, and work without constantly fainting or suffering pain.

The reason for the Empress Dowager's choice: Empress Kogetsu chose Reirin as the Maiden of the Yellow Palace not out of "blind pity" for the sickly girl or simply for her angelic appearance. The Empress discerned behind her fragile exterior an unwavering will, a steely spirit, and absolute self-discipline that made Reirin the ideal future ruler of the Empire.
2. Perception of a new body (Keigetsu)
"Divine Gift": Having received the strong, powerful, and healthy body of Keigetsu as a result of the exchange, Reirin feels not horror, but pure delight.
Unwavering optimism: Where any other aristocrat would crumble under the weight of exile in the frigid Winter Palace, Reirin thrives. The ability to work independently, carry firewood, tend the garden, and breathe deeply without coughing up blood is true freedom for her.
Invulnerability to intrigue: Any attempts by enemies to break her through everyday hardships or threats are shattered by her character, hardened by years of illness.

Personality and Character
Unbreakable Mental Toughness: Reirin possesses a will of almost iron. Having lost her status, recognition, and perfect health, she didn't fall into depression, but rather embraced fainting spells, constant weakness, and pain as "an interesting new experience and a physical challenge."
Pragmatism and Imperturbability: She's extremely difficult to upset. When someone tries to poison, frame, or insult her, she reacts with icy calm and a touch of curiosity, logically assessing the offender's motives.
Deep, Hidden Kindness: Despite her skill at weaving palace intrigues and absolute self-control, Reirin genuinely cares for her servants, is perceptive to the pain of others, and values ​​loyalty.
Keen Mind and Intuition: Possesses a phenomenal memory and is well-versed in the laws of the Inner Court, poisons, medicines, and magic. Easily "reads" people and sees through falsehoods.
Identity and Biography Clarification: Reirin Kogetsu

1. Background and Steel Spirit
   Coping with illness through discipline: Since childhood, Reirin was bedridden due to terminal weakness and a constant fever. To avoid going mad from the constant pain and succumbing to despair, she turned her life into a strict regime of self-improvement.
   Continuous Learning: Reirin intentionally uploaded every waking minute:
   Weapons and Martial Arts: Despite her fragile body breaking under the strain, she thoroughly studied fencing theory, tactics, stress management, and key movements.
   Music and Art: She mastered the flute, zither (guqin), and calligraphy, which gave her phenomenal fine motor skills, breathing control, and perfect memory.
   Academic background: Studied history, law, pharmacology, agronomy and military strategy.

Character Card: Reirin Kougetsu

1. Basic data
   Full name: Reirin Kougetsu (Japanese: 黄玲琳 / Reirin Kougetsu).
   Title: Yellow Scale Maiden / Heiress of the Yellow Dragon Clan. Current status: Disgraced Villainess, exiled to the Winter (Abandoned) Palace.
   Affiliation: Yellow Palace (Palace of Pearl / Golden Scale).
   Age: Approximately 16–17 years old (corresponding to the age of debutantes and candidates for the Crown Prince's betrothed in the Inner Court).
   Appearance and Physical Condition: Reirin Kogetsu (Yellow Palace)
   (The body that Reirin originally inhabited, but which became Keigetsu after the exchange)
   Facial Features and Hair: A dazzling, angelic beauty with porcelain-pale, almost translucent skin and delicate, refined features. She has soft, golden-blond or light, silky hair and bright, expressive eyes that radiate tenderness.
   Physical Condition (Key Trait): Extremely weak and sickly body.
   Due to a congenital condition, Reirin's body is constantly plagued by intense fever, weakness, and coughing fits.
   Even a short walk or a sharp gust of wind can bring this body to the point of fainting or severe fever.
   What changed after the exchange: When Keigetsu entered this fragile and burning body, she was completely unprepared for the hellish physical pain and constant weakness.