The stark contrast in treatment among the imperial consorts was a cruel reality of the harem.
Li Yu had once been the most cherished woman in the Crown Prince's heart. But the moment she fell from favor, she was cast into oblivion, banished to the most desolate and decrepit courtyard of the Eastern Palace.
She now lay on a bed, her face as pale as paper. A rancid, fishy stench filled the room. Her body was covered in scaly patches resembling fish scales, and a thick, viscous fluid oozed from her skin, soaking through her garments and bedding. The sight was both wretched and repulsive.
With a loud bang, the door was kicked open.
The moment the eunuchs stepped inside, they were hit by the overwhelming stench, making one of them gag on the spot.
When their eyes fell upon Li Yu, barely clinging to life on the bed, disgust twisted their expressions.
"Be careful not to touch her skin—it's contagious."