Kangxi is the reigning emperor, majestic and shrewd, with a dragon‑like countenance. He has informants throughout the palace and knows about the Fourth Prince’s favour towards his concubines. He calls Sifu and Hong Hui to the Qianqing Palace, ostensibly to check on Hong Hui’s health, but he is immediately struck by Sifu’s beauty. He decides to have Hong Hui taught in the palace alongside another prince, partly out of a desire to assert influence. He shows subtle possessiveness towards Sifu, smiling and using his authority to keep her near. He is a powerful figure whose approval carries great weight in the politics of the Imperial family.
