AWB Chapter 418 The Birth of the Mirror
Chapter 418 The Birth of the Mirror
At the same time, under Ying Wuyou's command, the mirror was also created.
When the concubines in the harem who were closely associated with Lady Wang each acquired a large and clear dressing mirror, it undoubtedly became the focus of everyone's attention. This mirror not only clearly reflected a person's face and figure but also made dressing and grooming much easier.
However, this situation aroused envy and jealousy among the other concubines. Many of them had already seen through the current situation in the palace: ever since Princess Jiayang, Ying Wuyou, gained the favor of the King of Qin, the concubines in the harem had begun to deliberately get close to and build relationships with Ying Wuyou's birth mother, Lady Wang.
However, this so-called "friendly relations" are merely a superficial harmony; there is no real, deep affection between them. Everyone knows perfectly well that this relationship is nothing more than a stable state of mutual exploitation and self-interest.
Surprisingly, in just two short years, Ying Wuyou rose to prominence at an astonishing speed. Now, she is not only the most favored among all the princes and princesses of the Qin Dynasty, but she has also been granted unprecedented permission to attend court and assume several important positions in the government.
Moreover, Ying Wuyou demonstrated her exceptional political wisdom and skill. She cleverly used her special position in the King of Qin's heart to recommend several of her close siblings to the King's side, successfully securing them various positions and allowing them to participate in court affairs.
For princes and princesses, attending court and participating in politics was a dream come true. However, for Ying Wuyou, it seemed to be no difficult feat. She only needed to make a slight suggestion to the King of Qin, and she easily obtained his permission. This undoubtedly demonstrated how important Ying Wuyou was in the King of Qin's heart.
This also prompted many cunning concubines, princes, and princesses in the harem to consider befriending Ying Wuyou. After all, who wouldn't want to befriend such a person? And the mirror undoubtedly became an excellent entry point.
So, several concubines, princesses, and palace maids sprang into action. Some visited in person, while others sent word through intermediaries, all hoping for a chance to see the magical mirrors. Lady Wang, of course, understood their intentions. She warmly received these visitors and led them on a tour of the two mirrors.
As everyone entered the room, the first thing that caught their eye was the enormous full-length mirror. It stood tall against the wall, its surface smooth as silk, reflecting images with crystal clarity, seemingly capable of revealing every single detail of a person. The group gasped in amazement, crowding around to examine their reflections closely.
"My goodness, this mirror reflects me so clearly!" A concubine stroked the mirror, her fingertips trembling slightly, as if seeing her own reflection for the first time.
"No wonder Lady Wang's makeup has become increasingly exquisite lately; it turns out she has such a treasure to help her," another concubine murmured, a hint of envy flashing in her eyes.
Next, Madam Wang led everyone to the dressing table and showed them the small mirror used for grooming. Although this mirror was much smaller than a full-length mirror, it was equally exquisite. Its surface was polished smooth as a mirror, reflecting a clear and delicate face, with even the individual strands of hair clearly visible.
Everyone who saw the two mirrors was speechless with astonishment. Although they had all heard about the wonders of mirrors from others before, they were still amazed by their clarity when they saw them in person. These mirrors not only reflected people's images clearly, but even the slightest imperfections were clearly visible, which was truly astonishing.
Those concubines who were slower to act cursed inwardly upon hearing this. "Lady Wang's actions are clearly an attempt to win people over!" an older concubine said coldly.
“That’s right. Right now, Madam Wang is riding high, and even her faction of concubines is benefiting. If we don’t act soon, we might not even have a place to stand in the future.” Another concubine said worriedly.
"The problem is, that mirror is truly rare; even the King praised it highly. If we insist on asking for it, it would make us seem petty..."
Everyone remained silent, each harboring their own secrets.
They knew perfectly well that Ying Wuyou and Madam Wang were people they absolutely could not afford to offend! However, the resentment in their hearts burned like a raging fire, impossible for them to quell. Although they knew they were powerless against this mother and daughter, they simply couldn't swallow their anger and refused to bow down and fawn over Madam Wang, whom they had always looked down upon.
Thus, the two sides remained deadlocked, neither willing to yield. But Ying Wuyou? She didn't care at all! To her, mirrors and glass, once she mastered the production method, were as numerous as she wanted, practically worthless. Moreover, she had no intention of sending mirrors to every concubine in the palace. Her true aim was to make her mother, Lady Wang, the center of attention, the most influential person in the harem.
After all, given Ying Wuyou's current status, she had no need to deliberately curry favor with anyone. Giving away the mirrors was merely a small act of kindness she bestowed casually. But who could have imagined that these few mirrors would cause such a dramatic change in the situation within the harem?
As the concubines deliberately flattered Lady Wang, Lady Wang, at Ying Wuyou's behest, sent out more mirrors. This effectively divided the entire harem into two camps: the side with mirrors, naturally led by Lady Wang, and the side without mirrors, unanimously united to protest through silence.
However, their protests had no effect whatsoever on Ying Wuyou, nor on Madam Wang.
Meanwhile, with the tacit approval of King Ying Zheng of Qin, the mirror became the most sought-after gift in Xianyang.
Ying Wuyou not only presented the mirror as a gift, but also personally selected exquisite packaging and accessories to make it even more magnificent. Then, she meticulously arranged a small gift-giving ceremony, inviting the wives of several ministers from the court to attend.
During the ceremony, Ying Wuyou, with a smile, handed the mirror to each of the ladies and explained its unique features in detail. The ladies praised the mirror highly, saying it was a very precious gift.
Among those invited were the families of the brothers Meng Tian and Meng Yi. Although Meng Yi remains unconscious, his condition has remained stable without any abnormalities. This has brought some comfort to the Meng family, who have gradually accepted the fact that Meng Yi is still in a coma.
Ying Wuyou spoke with Meng Yi's wife for a while, inquiring about Meng Yi's recent situation and expressing her willingness to help if needed. Meng Yi's wife expressed her gratitude for Ying Wuyou's concern and also greatly appreciated the gift she had brought.