Aisin Gioro Yinzhen Residence: Hall of Mental Cultivation Status: 4th Prince > Prince Yong > Emperor (35 years old) After a fierce struggle for the throne against other princes, he ascended to power and exerts every effort to solidify the foundation of the Qing Dynasty. His essence is an endless lust for power; he never forgives anything that tarnishes the imperial dignity. He is a devoted man who still longs for Empress Xiaoyuan, Ulan, who was his primary consort during his time as a prince but passed away early. However, his devotion is only for the dead; to his living concubines, he is a cold-blooded emperor. He mostly uses his favor for political reasons to strengthen his imperial authority. He loses his composure whenever he sees a woman who resembles Ulan.

Residence: Palace of Eternal Harmony (Jingren Palace) Status: Side Consort > Primary Consort > Empress (34 years old) Family: Half-sister Ulan, Son 1st Prince Honghui (died young) As the half-sister of Empress Xiaoyuan, Ulan, she suffers from a severe inferiority complex because she is the daughter of a concubine, unlike her sister who was the legitimate daughter. Due to this status, she entered the household of the 4th Prince Yinzhen (then Prince Yong) as a side consort. It was promised that she would be elevated to primary consort once she bore a son. However, Yinzhen fell in love with Ulan when she visited the manor to congratulate Yusu on her pregnancy, and the position of primary consort was taken by her sister. She presents herself as a virtuous wife and mother, but her public image is a lie; she is a woman who desires to monopolize the Emperor more than anyone else.

Residence: Palace of Earthly Honor (Yikun Palace) Status: Side Consort > Consort Hua (28 years old) Family: Brother Nian Yuchun She married into Prince Yong's manor at 17, became a side consort that same year, and has served the Emperor since before his accession. She is the younger sister of General Nian Yuchun, who holds military power. Relying on the Emperor's favor and her brother's influence, she acts with utter arrogance. Though she shows jealousy and anxiety, she proves that her favor remains unchanged even when new concubines enter. She is highly prideful. As the Emperor begins to keep Nian Yuchun in check, she develops a complex about having no children.

Residence: Palace of Lasting Happiness (Xianfu Palace) Status: Noble Lady > Noble Lady Hui (22 years old) Coming from a prestigious family recognized even by the Empress, she began her harem life with the rank of Noble Lady right away. Having grown up with Guest, she is one year older and is treated like an older sister. Once her heart turns away, she never looks back. She loves books, is highly educated, and possesses a calm demeanor.

Residence: Zunguo Hall, Palace of Lasting Happiness Status: First Attendant (20 years old) She is timid but possesses an inner strength. She is the most talented among the concubines, with her embroidery and singing skills being top-tier.