Outside in the fields, just North of the capital two very different conversations were happening with the Xiang sisters.  

“My child, you should be getting ready.” A calm collected voice spoke, an elder gentleman approaching Yue with his hands folded neatly in front of him dark brown eyes watching his niece train in the fields of his farm. “Your sister is quite excited.” 

“My sister cares for wealth and status, she’ll be [i]thrilled[/i] at the opportunity to become Empress.” Swiftly moving to the tree as she pulled three silver daggers that had been thrown at it, embedded in the bark as target practice. Glancing at her uncle she gave him a knowing look, clearly not over the moon at how her sister viewed things in life. Sighing to herself as her uncle just smiled in return knowing she was right. Mei was practically giddy at the invite. It wasn’t surprising as she’d taken their new status quite hard and had even refused to help out on the farm. Recalling the spoiled harsh words she had thrown at their uncle and the staff, [i]‘I will not sully my hands with work of the help. I am a lady, not a commoner.’[/i] 

“Yes, that is true, but think of it as a blessing in disguise. Remember, you can use her to your advantage. Whilst she gains his attention you will be free to move within the shadows.” Chuckling as he stroked his beard, watching Yue fiddle with the daggers he had gifted her as his eyes swept the empty land. Ensuring that nobody could overhear them as a gentle breeze swept through the farm. This kind of talk would have them killed faster than they could notice.  

Glancing up at the sky as if looking for an answer within the clouds, she knew what they had discussed. The assassination. Yue had trained herself relentlessly under the guidance of her uncle, focused solely on getting herself ready to carry out the most daring act she’d ever considered doing. Yue was no warrior, no killer and had never spilled blood before, but her uncle had full faith in her that she could complete this task and end the reign of Zhou Xiaolong. Stowing the daggers safely in her pocket she knew what she had to do.  

“I’ll do what needs to be done uncle.” A quiet promise, confirming to him that she was still intent on going forward with this plan. Risking her own life, as well as the last remaining members of what had been a great family. If she was caught, if she wasn’t successful, she had no doubt her sister would be slaughtered, the same for her uncle. The less that people knew, the better and perhaps it could give her sister deniability if the worst did happen.  

“Come, let the girls get you ready. That is if you still remember how to be a lady after sullying such delicate hands.” Her uncle teased with a laugh as he began to guide her back inside, the staff members had all been running around after Mei and ensuring she looked every bit royal that she could. Mei could be quite demanding, but they had all grown used to it.  

“Oh please, I can’t forget my upbringing. It was instilled in me. I know how to act.” Yue gave a light hearted smile, moving inside with her uncle already hearing the loud giggles of her sister who was buzzing from excitement at the invite.  

“Just think, me? An Empress?” Mei loudly proclaimed, talking to any member of staff that would listen to her. All who just nodded along and continued to style her hair as they let her prattle on about how much better life would be, that she would have her status once more. “Of course I won’t forget you, and maybe even my little sister. It’s only fair. Family after all?” Mei was already talking as if she had won, despite knowing that invites had gone out to all the eligible women she felt like she had won the competition. 

“Hear that my sweet little sister? I’ll be sure to make sure you are looked after.” Mei grinned, her eyes lighting up as her imagination clearly got the better of her.  

“Very kind of you, thank you.” The sarcastic comment did earn a look of distaste from her sister.  

“Now girls, I have a surprise for you both.” Signalling to the staff one of the girls brought in two boxes, both of which had a very beautiful fine piece of clothing for them inside. It was to help set an impression when they arrived. It had cost a pretty penny for him, but he needed to keep them both in the competition for as long as Yue needed to kill the emperor. “These should help make a fine impression when you arrive, I’m hoping it will give you both an edge. Perhaps catch his eye?” 

“Oh uncle, thank you! I was so worried on what I would wear. I didn’t want him thinking I’m not of good standing.” Mei practically grinned as she took the box, the excitement bubbling away as she truly believed she would be the next Empress.  

“No thanks needed, all I ask is that you are respectful, but most importantly enjoy yourselves.” Waving off the girls as he turned on his heel to arrange transport for them both, they had decided not to include Mei on their plan. The less she knew the better, and he had come to learn she was desperate for status once more and he knew that she would not be on board with this plan in the slightest.