Chapter 12

The emperor had five surviving sons at the moment from different mothers respectively. The five handsome princes of the empire were the subject of whispered awe and fierce rivalry throughout the palace walls. To the outside world, they were the infamous quintet of unparalleled beauty and martial prowess, their faces gracing portraits and stories alike. But beneath the gilded facade lay turbulent currents of jealousy, ambition, and pain.Crown Prince Li Yuyan,

Second Prince Li Mingzhao,Third Prince Li Fenglin,Fourth Prince Li Wenji,Fifth Prince Li Renshu. They were all highly skilled and could pass for models or actors in the modern generation.

Crown Prince Li Yuyan was the first son of the Emperor. He was just a day older than the second prince.His mother was the Empress Dowager Xie Lian who is the legal wife of the Emperor, the highest woman in the harem.He was highly respected, but feared. Li Yuyan was sent to war when he was just 5 years old.His mother's health deteriorated after his birth, so she was sent to the Jade pavilion to recuperate completely.The second prince mother suggested that he learnt how to fight at that tender age. She gave reason that he would be the future emperor who must defend his people. His father just agreed without thinking.He fought his first battle at 5 and didn't die. He killed a pack of wolves when he was lost/ abandoned in a cave at 10. He was a top martial genius in the empire, mastering all five sacred sword styles, fighting styles and complex archery techniques before the age of 20. Known to fight blindfolded and still win. Also a calligrapher and strategist.He didn't grow up in the palace with his other brothers; he returned to the palace later as an adult.He was very reserved, cold and regal. Seen as untouchable, like a porcelain statue. He grew up with pressure to be perfect.He was emotionally neglected; was raised more like a crown jewel than a son.He only felt immense duty but little warmth from family. His mother was more Empress than "Mother." He didn't stay very much with his mother, so they had little bonding.

Li Yuyan was rumoured to be a cruel killer.Some story tellers in the capital said he had a heart of stone. Human lives didn't matter to him at all. He was said to be thirsty for blood. Everyone was afraid of him.His reputation as a cruel killer was due to his ruthless methods in battle. It was rumoured that he had killed all the maid servants assigned to him which was the reason why his quarters was completely empty except for the presence of his personal bodyguard. Breathing too loud in his palace could attract heavy strokes.A terrifying, cold-blooded prince who hides his face behind a fearsome bronze mask. Rumors say he had a great burn on his face gotten during one of his battles that is the reason he hides monstrous deformities beneath the mask.He has a complex character and it was difficult to understand him.

On the surface, he appears cold-hearted and indifferent, but deep down and in reality, he is kind and compassionate and uses his skills to protect those he cares about. He is incredibly kind-hearted but emotionally reserved due to childhood trauma. He witnessed betrayal and court politics from a young age, leading him to adopt a mask—not just on his face, but in his personality. He speaks little but observes much, always calculating. He secretly funds orphanages, rescues soldiers' families, and trains the palace guards anonymously.Behind the terrifying image lies the most beautiful man in the kingdom—sharp-jawed, extremely tall with sculpted and chiseled features, and piercing deep blue eyes. His skin is very fair, his nose aristocratic, and his presence radiates quiet authority. His skin has a warm, golden undertone and his hair is golden white.He moves with elegance and discipline, like a dancer honed for war. He wears the mask not to frighten, but to protect himself from the attention his beauty draws.None compares to him.He is feared and misunderstood due to his cold nature and reticence which is presumed to be arrogance but, he must hide his true self while carrying the burden of being heir apparent in a court full of snakes.However, this is a facade, and he is actually a just and fair prince who wants to protect his people.His palace had no servants because the second prince mother deliberately ensured that he had none and helped in spreading rumors about him denting his immaculate reputation. She did this because his mother was absent. So he only had one trusted ally Tianxue his bodyguard.

Second Prince Li Mingzhao appears to be gentle, charismatic, beloved by the people and nobles alike. Always smiling, always polite. A prince often seen giving alms and poetry readings. He is the son of the Noble consort Yan Second only to the Empress. Favored by the Emperor after the empress left the palace to regain her health. He grew up to be spoiled and adored. He is loved by everyone including Hua Lian. But in reality, he is a cunning, ruthless schemer who desires the throne more than anything. His kindness is a façade, and behind his gentle gaze is a calculating heart. He believes power is the only truth and that the end justifies any means.He is obsessed with surpassing the first prince. He has a poisonous aura and is very manipulative like his mother. He has a dark heart, he can smile and look harmless as a dove but he is the most deadliest.Though he is very handsome and poetic in manner, he can be absolutely chilling in private—especially to those who cross him.He is said to be the most handsome man in the empire that was because Li Yuyan was masked.He has a strong physique.He behaves like a gentle scholar with a perfect character.He is second only to Li Yuyan in martial arts. He is skilled in poison arts and political manipulation. He is a master of social grace, he can seduce a crowd with words and turn allies into pawns.His jealousy eats at him. He feared being second forever, which made him unpredictable and dangerous. He secretly harbors a childhood resentment for Li Yuyan's exceptional excellence in everything he does. He acts benevolent and soft hearted but he is actually an evil schemer who will stop at nothing to achieve his goals, including taking the throne even if it meant betrayal of his brothers. He didn't care.

Third Prince Li Fenglin was the only child of Concubine Bai Rong who was exiled. She was a low-ranked concubine, barely above She was accused of treason and exiled when Fenglin was a child.Fenglin was marked as a "traitor's son" growing up.He

grew bitter and always fought to prove himself.He used aggression to hide insecurity about his legitimacy and bloodline. He is arrogant, loud, and straightforward. Known for outbursts in court and constantly challenging his brothers, especially Li Yuyan and Li Mingzhao.He was also tall and handsome like his brothers with jet-black hair and chiseled features. He believed in the saying "What you see is what you get". He made no effort to hide his ambitions or emotions. He is brutally honest—even if it hurts him politically— he believes force is the best solution.He is trained in heavy sword combat and brute strength. A fierce brawler, not elegant or tactical. He's also a decent tactician but lacks patience.In reality, he is a deeply insecure man who masks his inferiority with aggression. He is constantly overshadowed by his elder brothers and tries to assert dominance to cover his wounded pride. Despite his flaws, he is not completely heartless—just bitter and envious. Jealousy fuels his rage, but deep down he wishes his brothers would accept him as an equal. Though Li Yuyan treats him equally but he is too blinded to see it.His pride, however, always gets in the way.

Fourth Prince Li Wenji was the child of

Virtuous Lady Liu Yanyan(Mid-level rank )in the imperial harem.She was a quiet, peaceful woman who stays away from politics. Often ignored in the palace. As a result he was raised with love but little protection.He inherited his mother's gentle heart.He was often underestimated because of his lower status, which made him a target for manipulation.He was quiet, thoughtful, and Though he is easily swayed and impressionable. He is good at heart but can be used as a pawn by those who know how to manipulate him.His skills in horse racing and archery made him a popular figure in the palace. However, his lack of decisiveness and tendency to be swayed made him vulnerable to manipulation.He was sweet and idealistic, but easily manipulated. He wants peace and love among his brothers, but this makes him naïve and vulnerable to schemers like Li Mingzhao or even officials seeking a puppet.He struggles between loyalty to his brothers and the ideals he cherishes. He must grow up and learn to see the cruelty of court politics if he is to survive.

Fifth Prince Li Renshu was very handsome, with a carefree and playful demeanor. He has a charming smile and a mischievous glint in his eyes. A troublemaker, prankster, and black sheep of the royal family. He often skipped court meetings to paint in the mountains or drink wine with artists. He is nonchalant and doesn't care about the palace or the throne and would rather live a simple life.His hatred for the palace system was deep. He just wished to have freedom and live life as a commoner. His exceptional artistic talents and love of nature make him a unique and refreshing presence in the palace. Despite being less skilled in martial arts, he is a kind, loyal and compassionate prince who loves his brothers dearly. His carelessness hides deep emotional intelligence and surprising wisdom. He sees through everyone's mask but wishes not to interfere. He wished they could all be a real family and not rivals. He is the only prince who openly says he loves his brothers—all of them. The fact that he lacked combat prowess didn't mean he couldn't defend only himself. His mother was Palace Maid Qiao'er though she was deceased. She was a servant (unofficial consort)She died giving birth to him. The Emperor gave her a title after her death—Lady Qiao as an honorary gesture. He grew up isolated, looked down upon as a "servant's child."Except for the first prince that really cared.He was raised by a kind old nanny.

The princes usually laughed at her looks and called her nasty names.

On this bright morning, Hua Lian rushed through the palace corridors, clutching a parcel tightly. Her scarred face drew sneers and whispers, but she paid no mind. Today's errand was urgent.Hua lian was sent on an errand to get something outside the palace.She was in a great rush. She noticed a very tall figure clad in all black. Some people around were avoiding to meet his gaze. Some avoided him but she didn't care and went straight ahead to carry out her duty. Some others were hailing him with respect and reverence because of his awesome achievements in the military.They greeted him

Li Yuyan was greatly surprised, this was the first person that didn't know him.And she looked terribly deformed due to the scar on her face.This was the first person that didn't hail him or fear.

" Hey you! Don't you know me?"

" I'm sorry I don't really know you. Please if you will excuse me for a while. I'm really busy, I need to take my leave " with that she gently left him

He was totally surprised.

" Did that ugly girl just walk out on you? Doesn't she understand the privilege of standing before the star general?" asked Tianxue his bodyguard equally surprised.

Li Yuyan said nothing, but his mind lingered on the girl that was that bold not to salute him as royalty or the rumors.

When they arrived at the palace they were surprised to see her running after Li renshu.

Li renshu was dressed in very poor outfit, he could be mistaken for a servant boy. He even smeared dust on his face. The day was bright so he felt like causing some mischief. This was a good day for that, just when he was looking for a prey, he saw the famous scarred servant girl. Indeed, she was quite ugly but he felt deep pity for her. She was carrying something signifying she had just come back from the market. He used a caterpault to hit her with a little stone at the back of her head and hid. She looked at his direction but didn't see anybody. He did it again, while he was still hiding. She went to meet him directly.

" Why did you hit me with the stone?"

" Have you looked at yourself in the mirror? Are you blind. I didn't hit you at all" he said grinning naughtily

But the sling was sticking out of his pocket showing that he was the culprit.

With the flash of lightning, he snatched the parcel in her hands and took off. Hua lian was so enraged and gave him a hot chase. He was laughing joyfully like it was fun.All the princes came out to see what was happening because the noise was so much. It was fun, till Li renshu looked behind and saw the maid catching up with him. She was as fast as a cheetah, he was a fast runner but this pale maid with the scarred face was really fast. She dived and pounced on him both struggling for the item. He refused to let go of the item. It was quite an interesting scene. His brothers were quite ashamed of his character. Why they dragged , the parcel tore apart. Li renshu felt a bit sorry while Hua lian was managing to keep her calm.

"It's the ugly duckling"said Fenglin squeezing his handsome face.

" Just looking at her face is nauseating" said Wenji with a deep frown.

All the other princes were sincerely embarrassed on behalf of Renshu who seemed to lack shame. He was still giggling foolishly.

Mingzhao rushed up to both parties and separated the fight. He was great at acting nice publicly though in reality, he couldn't stand the ugliness of this new maid. A shame to the palace…

Renshu refused to apologize but his facial expression showed he was truly sorry.

The chief maid scolded her and punished her for fighting a prince. Hua lian was shocked at the discovery; so the troublesome young man was a prince.

What a day!

She scrunched up her fists in anger.

The head of the palace maids ordered that she would be flogged for her foolish behavior. She was tied up and two big logs were brought to hit her back but she was saved by the same boy who caused her trouble. The other maids ridiculed her and laughed at her. Some even cursed her. She felt so pained. A tear escaped her eyes as she sat on the grass gazing at the moon. But a familiar voice drawed her from her thoughts.

" Hey, I'm sorry for all the trouble I've caused you today. Don't cry so much because of your looks. It's true that you are very ugly and scarred but it is not your fault. Don't allow what people say about you get at you. Just be focused, you are unique in your own way " said Li Renshu as he patted her hair as if she was a little puppy.

" Thank you so much your Highness"

Hey! Stop the honorifics. It's an order. My name is Li Renshu. You are free to call me by my name at anytime. Besides, can we be friends?"

"Of course. We are friends already " said Hua lian with an adorable smile.

" Our lives are just similar. You have a scarred face and I have a scarred heart. I understand how it feels when you have nobody at your side to look up to. Don't mind me" Li Renshu said smiling as if it meant nothing.

Hua lian felt good to have a genuine friend in the palace when almost everyone was against her.