Revenge for My Sister

My sister and I depended on each other for life.

That year, my sister assumed my identity and was taken to the Moon Pavilion.

I watched in horror as they cut open her heart and took her heart's blood—all for the vain ambitions of the Imperial Consort competing for favor.

Six years later, the Imperial Consort discovered me, a palace maid with a talent for making perfumes, and was thrilled.

But what she didn't realize was that while I could create beautiful scents, I could also craft deadly poisons.

***

Imperial Consort Jones was fuming.

The palace maids kneeled in a row inside the palace, heads bowed, holding their breath as they silently endured their mistress' arrogant temper.

"This incense is so cheap and pungent, are you all useless?"

On the sandalwood table were several porcelain bottles filled with incense ingredients.

In just three days was the Empress' birthday banquet, and Imperial Consort Jones had never gotten along with her.

She wanted to steal the spotlight from the Empress at the birthday celebration.

So the clothes and shoes were made with only the finest fabrics and craftsmanship.

But Imperial Consort Jones was still not satisfied.

She also wanted her clothes to have a one-of-a-kind fragrance.

As soon as she made this demand, a perfume workshop was hastily added to the Eternal Joy Palace.

Countless precious incense ingredients flooded in, and dozens of perfumers worked around the clock to concoct the unique scent the Imperial Consort desired.

"Since your noses and hands are so useless," Imperial Consort Jones said dismissively, "then drag out the one in charge first and cut off her nose and hands."

The maid kneeling in the front was so terrified that she collapsed on the ground, and before she could say a word, she was gagged by the guards and dragged away.

"If you still can't make it happen, each and every one of you can look forward to a miserable death."

"Your Highness."

As a lowly palace maid assigned to help the perfumers, I knelt at the very edge, certain not to draw attention.

Gathering my courage, I spoke up, "If you add a touch of lotus leaf and a pinch of mint to this incense, it will balance the strong scent and lend a refreshing elegance perfect for summer. I guarantee it will outshine all the other fragrances."

"Your Highness should give it a try," I added humbly, bowing low.

Imperial Consort Jones considered my words.

"Very well, go make it. If you fail, you can kiss your nose and hands goodbye."

"As you wish, Your Highness." I hurried to obey.

Three hours later, the newly blended incense was delivered to the inner palace.

Imperial Consort Jones bent to inspect it, her delicate brows relaxing into a satisfied expression.

I knelt anxiously in the center of the room as she approached.

"What's your name?" she asked.

I prostrated myself in a deep bow. "I am called Yuna, your humble servant, paying respects to the Imperial Consort."

"Not bad, you have some brains." She nodded approvingly.

"From now on, you will be in charge of making my incense."

"I am honored by your trust, Your Highness." I bowed again, heart pounding.

In a good mood, Imperial Consort Jones swept out to the Imperial Garden.

The other maids let out relieved sighs; some rushed to flatter me, while others gossiped behind my back.

But I didn't care.

I only had eyes for the spot where Imperial Consort Jones had stood.

She had no idea that a maid who had barely been in the palace five months was there to make her pay.