If his position were not that of an Emperor, he would likely have become an outstanding painter. Just after ascending the throne, those princes, nobles, civil, and military officials were eager to showcase themselves, often competing and displaying their unique skills, turning the entire court into a lively arena. Thus, the Emperor created a world-famous painting called “Harmony Picture,” calling on his subjects to “combine three as one, achieve a single heart without division, forget each other’s right and wrong, and embrace harmonious atmosphere.”
Occasionally, Wan Zhen’er also served as a model, sitting motionless for the Emperor’s painting. The Emperor always painted Wan Zhen’er to resemble Guanyin. Wan Zhen’er was the Emperor’s Guanyin, his personal Guanyin.
Sometimes when in a great mood, Wan Zhen’er and the Emperor would enthusiastically visit the rear garden. In the rear garden, Wan Zhen’er encountered Empress Wu.
Empress Wu and her eunuchs and palace maids saw the Emperor and simultaneously approached, kneeling and kowtowing. Empress Wu’s voice was crisp and polite: “This concubine pays respects to Your Majesty.” The Emperor didn’t even look at her, casually waving his hand: “Rise.”
Empress Wu politely responded: “Thank you, Your Majesty.”
Wan Zhen’er pretended not to see her. She didn’t need to be polite to her. Originally, a concubine should bow to the Empress. If violated, the top could easily charge her with disrespect, imprisoning her for a month, or even inflicting punishment.
But Wan Zhen’er refused to bow! She believed that Empress Wu wouldn’t dare touch a hair on her. Everyone knew Wan Zhen’er was the most beloved woman of the current Emperor. Who would be foolish enough to provoke her?
Wan Zhen’er walked to one side, pretending to appreciate the flowers in the bushes. The flowers among green leaves were vibrant and competing for beauty.
Wan Zhen’er called: “Your Majesty, come quickly and see, these flowers are so beautiful.”
The Emperor walked over: “I love roses most. Roses are beautiful, just like my beloved concubine.”
Wan Zhen’er pouted: “Your Majesty, do you mean I’m like this rose, with thorns? You’re so bad! I don’t have thorns, okay?”
The Emperor laughed heartily: “My beloved, I just love that you have thorns.”
