Rifa

Lihua, also written Rifa, is one of the Emperor's four high consorts in The Apothecary Diaries. She lives in the Crystal Pavilion of the rear palace, the private quarters where the Emperor's wives and their servants live. She is among the women the Emperor favors most.

When the story begins, Lihua is in a very dark place. Her baby son has died, and her own health is getting worse and worse. At first, nobody understands why. The cause turns out to be poison hidden in her makeup. Her cousin Shin, who served as her head lady-in-waiting, knew about the danger but ignored it out of jealousy. Maomao, a young apothecary working as a palace maid, sees what is wrong and is sent to care for Lihua until she recovers.

Lihua is intelligent and proud, and she keeps her dignity even while grieving. After Maomao's care saves her life, she comes to trust the young apothecary, and the two build a friendly bond. Her recovery is one of the early turning points of the series. Later, she gives birth to another son, a healthy boy who becomes the Emperor's heir.