The 'tragic' truth tells us that time-traveling is a technical skill, and clearly, Ye Zao was mediocre at it. Being duped by her own penny-pinching uncle into becoming a lowly concubine in someone else's house was bad enough, but why did it have to be in Fourth Master's residence?
Being just a mere Concubine, how was she to get by? The starting point was too low, the background too poor, the bargaining chips too few! The big BOSS had too much HP, and every mini BOSS was lethal! After much deliberation, playing the virtuous act would get her killed, because there was Lady Ulaanala ahead of her. Playing the shrew would also lead to death, for there was Li Consort Fujin behind her. Bearing sons wasn't permitted, yet not bearing them left her with no support—what a conundrum of a life! Having finally maneuvered her way from the residence into the palace, she still had The Empress Dowager on top, who disliked her for not looking dignified enough!
Fortunately, Fourth Master didn't mind, and he secretly quite fancied her undignified looks! Ye Zao's goal was to live a good life, clothed in silk and jewels, exalted and lofty.
