Yan Ge decided to go to the place where he jumped into the river first, maybe he could find a way to go back. What Xiunan and xiunu, it was better to leave this place of right and wrong as soon as possible.

However, before he even reached the door with the two maids, an angry voice sounded behind him.

"Where are you going early in the morning?!"

Yan Ge turned around, and saw Yan Xiaojing was standing not far behind him in a red official robe. Butler Yan Fu was accompanying him and sending him out.

"Good morning, Father. Are you going go out? I'm just going out for a stroll." Yan Ge walked over in a few steps.

Yan Xiaojing frowned and said, "Nonsense! The Xiunan Selection is in two days. You should stay at home and prepare yourself instead of running around all the time."

Yan Ge felt dissatisfied, but there was nothing he could do. Even if he went out after Yan Xiaojing left, it would be the same.

"Yes."

Yan Xiaojing glanced at him and instructed Yan Fu, "Yan Fu, accompany the Second Young Master to Madam's place."

"Yes, Master."

Yan Fu walked in front of Yan Ge and made a gesture of invitation.

"Second Young Master, please."

Yan Ge had no choice but to turn back.

However, he didn't find an opportunity to go out for two consecutive days. He couldn't avoid the selection, so he wanted to prepare early. He regretted not understanding the era better. If he had known what was coming, he should have watched that TV series in its entirety, at least gaining a four to five-point understanding of this dynasty.

After having dinner, he pulled Yan Su into the room and closed the door, talking to him for nearly an hour to finally understand the current situation. At the same time, he fully accepted the fact that he had a hundred percent chance of being chosen by the emperor.

The Yan family had been officials for four generations up to Yan Su, and Yan Ge was a true embodiment of "a family background of integrity", not to mention his own decent appearance. In particular, now that Yan Xiaojing held the position of Minister of Rites, a second-grade official, and Yan Su was a surveillance commissioner, a fifth-grade official, even if the emperor didn't favor Yan Ge, he would still be chosen for the sake of winning over officials or maintaining the face of his subjects.

However, Yan Ge wasn't very worried. As a person from the 21st century with open-minded thoughts, he had ways to fail the selection.

The next day was the day to enter the palace. Before dawn, Yan Ge was awakened from his sleep by Chunxi.

Qiuxi stood by the bed, holding a satin brocade robe, looking somewhat embarrassed. Ever since the Second Young Master woke up, he disliked extravagant objects, including clothing. She worried that it would take a lot of persuasion to convince him. So when she saw the Second Young Master calmly accepting the robe, she was a little stunned.

Yan Ge put on the clothes and absentmindedly touched under the pillow. He instinctively picked up the hairpin and tied his hair. It was an art for ancient men to style their hair, but luckily he had already learned it.

After getting ready, he headed to the reception hall. The eastern sky had just revealed a hint of pale light. The shadows of trees and buildings, near and far, appeared more peaceful in the morning light. The early morning breeze carried a slight chill, making the lights in the reception hall emit a warmer glow.

Yan Xiaojing, Madam Yan, and Yan Su had all risen early.

"Father, Mother, Elder Brother."

"Hmm," Yan Xiaojing glanced at Yan Ge and nodded in satisfaction. "Please, have a seat."

"You may leave." Madam Yan gestured to the servants in the hall.

The servants quietly exited the hall and closed the door, and Yan Ge knew that the three of them had something to say to him.

Madam Yan rarely showed seriousness, "Ge'er, when you enter the palace this time, you must be cautious. If you are not chosen, it's not a big deal. Our family doesn't rely on you for a living. But if you are chosen, remember your own safety within the deep palace. Do not forcefully assert yourself in any matters. As your mother, I ask for nothing more than your lifelong health and happiness."

Yan Ge was moved by her words and reassured her with a smile, "Mother, rest assured, your son understands. If I am not chosen, and neither Father nor Mother blame me, I will be content."

Yan Xiaojing glared and said, "Nonsense. I have told you before that participating in the selection is inevitable and cannot be avoided."

Yan Ge felt even more pleased. It turned out that Yan Xiaojing also didn't advocate for his son to enter the palace as a concubine. With this in mind, he could proceed with his plan more confidently. Immediately, he expressed his guilt, saying, "Your son is ignorant. Only now do I truly understand the depth of Father's concern."

Yan Xiaojing's expression softened, and he said, "It's good that you understand."

Yan Su waited for his parents to explain before saying, "Second brother, as far as I know, there are more than thirty young men participating in the Xiunan Selection this time, and many of them are outstanding, so you may not be selected. If you are unsuccessful, you can marry freely. "

"Thank you big brother for your concern," Yan Ge said solemnly, "In case I am chosen, big brother will do his filial piety to my father and mother for me." "

When Yan Xiaojing heard this, he looked at his second son and smiled, and his heart was very relieved. Madam Yan even wiped her tears.

"Naturally." Yan Su said with a smile.

"Okay, it's almost time, it's not good to make people wait for a long time." Yan Xiaojing said.

The three of them escorted Yan Ge to the gate of the Yan Residence. A mule had already been waiting at the entrance, meticulously groomed and adorned with a celebratory red ribbon around its neck. Standing beside the mule were two officials from the Ministry of Revenue, dressed in grey livery.

Yan Ge could guess the reason for choosing a mule instead of a horse. In the past, in order to please his parents, he had been diligent in his studies and was quite familiar with ancient history. He had come across passages related to the Xiunu selection in the Qing Dynasty. Horses were typically used for military purposes and considered military supplies, so xiunan and xiunu were not qualified to ride horses, hence the substitution with a mule.

"We have seen Master Yan, Madam Yan, Young Master Yan, and Second Young Master Yan," the two officials respectfully greeted Yan Xiaojing and his family.

"No need for excessive courtesy," Yan Xiaojing chuckled and said, "You have worked hard. Please take care of my son during his time before entering the palace."

"It's our duty, it's our duty," the two officials hastened to reply.

Yan Ge climbed onto the mule, bid farewell to Yan Xiaojing, Madam Yan, and Yan Su, and the two officials led the mule towards the direction of the palace. Chunxi and Qiuxi accompanied him, seeing him off at the palace gate.

Yan Ge surveyed the ancient and picturesque buildings lining the streets, finding them rather captivating.

As the daylight grew brighter, the streets were gradually filled with more mule carts, carrying the aspiring concubines who had come from various places to enter the palace on the same day.

As these xiunu were women, they were eligible to ride in mule driven carriages, unlike the xiunan who rode on mules. Compared to them, Yan Ge considered himself fortunate. As the son of a high-ranking official, he did not have to travel a long distance just to let the emperor catch a glimpse, which could potentially be the only opportunity for most. Along the way, many carriage drivers voluntarily made way for Yan Ge and the other two xiunan, leaving him quite puzzled.

One of the officials saw his confusion and quickly explained, "Second Young Master Yan, as a xiunan of noble status, it is only proper for these xiunu to give way to you in the absence of clear rank."

Yan Ge was annoyed but smiled without saying a word.

The official thought he would get a coin as a reward, so he felt somewhat embarrassed, and refrained from further explanation.

Shops on both sides of the street gradually opened for business, and many people leaned out from their second-floor windows to witness the spectacle of xiunu and xiunan entering the capital. However, nobody dared to openly discuss the matters of the Emperor.

Coming from an illustrious family, Yan Ge was accustomed to being watched by others and felt no discomfort. He repeatedly contemplated his plan in his mind and by the time he snapped out of his thoughts, the mule had already come to a stop. They had arrived at one of the side gates of the palace—the North Gate.

By now, the sun had risen, casting its radiant light from the east onto the magnificent palace, overlooking the vast land below. It was grand and breathtakingly beautiful.

Yan Ge dismounted and surveyed his surroundings. At a glance, he could see a sea of beauties. The xiunu from various places were all dressed in exquisite attire, emanating a fragrant elegance, each with her own unique charm. Even though Yan Ge did not like women, he couldn't help but be captivated by the beauties before him, feeling overwhelmed by the spectacle. Among this group of xiunu, there were a few scattered xiunan who piqued the curiosity of the women, drawing their sidelong glances.

After admiring the beauties for a while, Yan Ge's attention shifted to the xiunan. Among them, there were several who possessed remarkable looks and temperament.

Having already resigned himself to the possibility of being unsuccessful, Yan Ge remained composed and leisurely. He smiled, fanning himself with an adorned folding fan, and observed the various expressions of those around him with great interest.

Suddenly, he felt a strong gaze on him, prompting him to turn around in confusion, yet he found nothing amiss. He silently chastised himself for being overly sensitive.

After waiting outside the palace for a while, a head eunuch led more than a dozen young eunuchs to the gate of the palace, all dressed in black eunuch uniforms, each with delicate features, even the oldest eunuch was very good-looking.

Yan Ge had seen many kinds of men and women, but it was the first time to be so close to one who looked neither male nor female. He looked over curiously, then averted his gaze with a shudder.

The head eunuch was about thirty-four or thirty five years old, and his eight-figure eyebrows made him look weird. His status was probably relatively high, with an arrogance in his expression. His nostrils were almost facing the sky, and he ordered Xiunu and Xiunan to enter the palace door in turn with a sharp voice, and the servants and maids brought by the Xiunu and Xiunan could only wait outside the palace gate.

Upon entering the palace gates, there was a distinct change in atmosphere, as if entering a different world. The palace was guarded with strictness akin to legends. Every two meters around the courtyard stood guards with long spears, standing upright like wooden stakes, their countenances solemn, their gaze unwavering. Even the eunuchs, when they needed to converse, did so in hushed tones, their words and gestures exuding a sense of caution.

Even the ash-colored floor tiles, meticulously trimmed potted plants, and undisturbed silk banners seemed to carry an air of solemnity. The xiunu and xiunan, who had just been whispering and gossiping, immediately fell silent, their expressions cautious, though if one looked closely, one could still detect a hidden anticipation and excitement in their eyes.

After the xiunu and xiunan were stationed in the inner courtyard, the head eunuch ordered them to divide into two groups and form multiple rows.

Yan Ge discreetly surveyed his surroundings and clicked his tongue in amazement. By his estimation, there were at least a thousand candidates. As the books often mentioned, the emperor's harem consisted of three thousand beauties, and it seemed to be true.

At that moment, a familiar voice resounded in his mind: "Congratulations on successfully completing Mission 1 — participating in the selection. You will receive a reward of five taels of silver and one Transformation Pill."

"Main Mission 2 — obtaining the emperor's permission to 'keep the token.' If the mission is accomplished, a reward of ten taels of silver and two Poison Immunity Pills will be given. Please select 'Yes' to accept the mission or 'No' to refuse."

*'Keep the token' means the Emperor has accepted him as a male concubine (the Emperor selection).

Yan Ge didn't even need to think, he outright refused. Surprisingly, this time he didn't hear any warning from the system, which made him curious but more importantly, relieved. From this, he could deduce that even if he failed getting selected, it wouldn't result in any serious consequences, which was naturally the best outcome.

The head eunuch ascended the steps and spoke in a sharp voice, "This servant surnamed Li is responsible for this selection. This selection is meant to expand His Majesty's harem. All xiunan and xiunu who have been chosen to come here are truly fortunate. However, only those of noble character and descent have the opportunity to enter the harem and gather blessings for the emperor, continuing his lineage. Therefore, please remember that only those who pass multiple selections will have the chance to be bestowed by the emperor. The preliminary selection will now commence. Xiunu and Xiunan, please enter separate inspection rooms."

After a while, four eunuchs approached the front of the line for xiunan, with one who appeared to be the oldest saying, "Please follow this servant."

Including Yan Ge, there were a total of thirty-two xiunan who followed the eunuchs into a spacious compartment and neatly lined up in five rows according to their instructions. The head eunuch, the eldest among them, slowly walked past them, scrutinizing them from all angles without uttering a word.

Yan Ge witnessed a male candidate slipping a piece of paper into his hand, which was obviously a banknote.

The young head eunuch glanced around to make sure no one noticed and discreetly tucked the banknote into his sleeve.

Yan Ge nearly wanted to clap in delight. The more people bribed, the smaller his chances of being chosen. Soon, the head eunuch arrived in front of him, took a quick glance, and simply moved on, leaving Yan Ge no time to speculate about his thoughts.

After going through the process, six individuals were selected and led away by a young eunuch, their destination was unknown.

The head eunuch said, "Next, all young gentlemen need to undergo a body examination."

"Body examination?" Yan Ge was astonished. Although he was a modern person, he didn't have a penchant for undressing in front of others.

The xiunan standing on his left side smiled slightly and explained to him, "The first stage of the selection is a physical examination. Those with ordinary features, physical defects, poor health, or not being virgins are disqualified. For us men, it's relatively easier, but the selection for the xiunu will be more rigorous. They not only examine their bodies, including weight, height, measurements, hand and foot length, and virginity, but also assess their needlework skills in the second stage."

The head eunuch glanced at him but didn't reprimand him for speaking out of turn.

Yan Ge expressed his gratitude to the xiunan and secretly lamented. How exactly would they check if the xiunan were still virgins? Was it a physical examination of "that area"? He was relieved that his foresight told him that the talent selection wouldn't be so simple.

As the eunuch called out their names, the young men entered individual small compartments separated by screens. Some were left behind, standing to the side, while others were led outside by the eunuchs. Those who remained displayed a faint sense of joy on their faces, while those who were taken away appeared disappointed.

"Song Ruhao, son of the Song Chaobang, the Grand Tutor to the Crown Prince."

The young man whom Yan Ge had conversed with earlier respectfully nodded to the eunuch and walked to the other side of the screen.

'So, he's the son of the Grand Tutor to the Crown Prince. The Grand Tutor held a high rank, and the probability of his son being chosen was not low.' Yan Ge devoutly prayed in his heart, 'May Song Ruhao be selected, may Song Ruhao be selected…'

After a while, Song Ruhao emerged and stood beside those who had been left behind. Indeed, he had been chosen. When Song Ruhao noticed Yan Ge looking at him, he smiled, seemingly wishing him success.

It wasn't long before it was Yan Ge's turn. He stepped forward with a feigned expression of timidity, appearing nervous and apprehensive. Behind the screen, he heard the eunuch instruct him to undress.

He slowly and deliberately loosened his belt, and suddenly, his abdomen made a slight movement. There was a "poof", and an unpleasant odor filled the confined space.

The two young eunuchs behind the screen frowned, quickly covering their noses, and glared at him in annoyance.

"I apologize, I sincerely apologize…" Yan Ge wore a distressed expression on his face, but deep inside, he was extremely pleased. It was worth it to have secretly eaten some beans before leaving home. It wasn't easy to hold in this fart until now.

Coming from a prestigious family with a good upbringing, he had never engaged in such indecent behavior before, but there was no other choice. If he resorted to other methods of deception and was discovered, it would be a crime of deceiving the emperor, and it would certainly implicate the Yan family. This method, although unrefined, was the most appropriate and a one-time solution.

He shamefully said, "Eunuch, I deeply apologize. Yan Ge can no longer show his face to the world. It's better to have me sent out of the palace."

One of the young eunuchs, around eighteen or nineteen years old, immediately became furious and exclaimed, "Indeed, he should be sent out—"

However, before he could finish his sentence, another eunuch blocked him and whispered, "It's not allowed. This young master is the son of the Minister of Rites."

Yan Ge's heart skipped a beat.

The irritated eunuch cast a disdainful glance at him and impatiently said, "Alright, Master Yan, please wait over there."

Yan Ge was dumbfounded. Could he still pass under these circumstances?

"Master Yan, please," the young eunuch said with patience.

Yan Ge reluctantly moved aside, pondering his next steps. By this point, he was no longer as composed as before.

After the examination of all the candidates, a total of fifteen xiunan remained among the chosen ones.

The head eunuch spoke, "Congratulations to all the young masters who have passed the preliminary selection. In the coming month, you will be arranged to learn palace etiquette and rules together. After one month, the selected xiunu and xiunan will be presented to the Emperor in the Qufang Palace. If chosen by the Emperor, you will be conferred with titles of nobility and positions. At that time, you shall enjoy boundless glory and prosperity."

Yan Ge asked without politeness, "Is the selection process really that simple, sir? No consideration for musical talent, chess, calligraphy, or painting?"

His words instantly offended the other xiunan, who turned their heads and looked at Yan Ge with unfriendly eyes. The second young master of the Yan family had suggested evaluating musical talent, chess, calligraphy, and painting, perhaps because he excelled in those areas. Such a person who loved to show off was undoubtedly difficult to get along with.

The middle-aged eunuch shared the same thought and cast a sidelong glance at Yan Ge. He replied, "No need for that. You young masters are chosen because you are goodlooking. You should be grateful for the Emperor's favor."

The xiunan responded in unison, "Thank you for your guidance, sir."

Yan Ge remained silent, repeatedly thinking two words in his mind: It's over, it's over, it's over…

"Xiao Yongzi, Xiao Shunzi, lead the young masters to their residences."

"Yes."

…..

For the past month, Yan Ge believed he still had a chance, but after only two days, he realized a problem: he was still appointed by default! He deliberately performed poorly during the lessons on etiquette but the several teaching aunts only expressed disappointment, without any discontent or reproach. How could such a lecherous Emperor manage the country like this? The corrupt practice of "preselection" should have been rectified long ago!

This path was impassable. Yan Ge could only pin his hopes on the Emperor's selection. At this point, the only person who could reject him was the Emperor. With this realization, he decided to relax.

After spending some time with the other fourteen xiunan, Yan Ge quickly learned what to do. Song Ruhao told him that the Emperor's selection was based on three criteria: appearance, the Emperor's impression, and etiquette. As long as he found a way to displease the Emperor, everything would be fine.

Speaking of Song Ruhao, Yan Ge believed he would certainly be chosen. He liked men who were resolute and handsome, possessing a strong and robust image. However, Song Ruhao and the other xiunan were more delicate and refined, unable to catch his eye at all. That's why Yan Ge hadn't paid much attention to Song Ruhao's appearance initially. Later, he discovered that Song Ruhao was indeed a beautiful man with sword-like brows, refined and cultured, full of talent, and one of the most outstanding among the fifteen xiunan.

Intensive training took place every day, and time passed quickly. The one-month deadline was approaching. It seemed calm among the xiunan during this month. However, even if Yan Ge didn't pay attention, he heard about several major incidents that occurred among the xiunu. One exceptionally beautiful xiunu had accidentally fallen and disfigured herself, while another talented xiunu carelessly burned her fingers, rendering her unable to play the zither or paint…

On the day of the final selection, more than two hundred xiunu and xiunan lined up outside the Qufang Palace for the Emperor's selection. The Emperor, Empress, and concubines interested in the selection were inside the hall.

In groups of six, the xiunan and xiunu took turns stepping forward to be chosen by the Emperor.

In comparison to the xiunu, the xiunan were given priority and selected first. Due to his background, Yan Ge was assigned to the first group. To prepare for this day, he made sufficient arrangements, wearing ordinary clothes and deliberately using cosmetics to make himself appear less attractive.

Six people entered the grand hall and stood in a row below. Following the teaching aunt's previous teachings, they turned left, turned right, and turned back, allowing the Emperor and others to get a clear view of their faces, profiles, and figures. As he followed the movements with the other five individuals, Yan Ge felt awkward and clumsy, like there was a bug crawling all over his body.

After completing the turns, the eunuch called out the names.

"Song Ruhao, son of the Grand Tutor of the Crown Prince."

Song Ruhao took two steps forward, respectfully knelt down, and bowed to the Emperor and Empress.

"Greetings, Your Majesty and Empress. May His Majesty enjoy boundless peace, and may the Empress receive countless blessings."

After a moment of silence in the hall, a melodious female voice softly laughed, resembling silver pearls rolling on a jade plate. "Your Majesty, the son of the Grand Tutor's family is indeed outstanding and talented."

Under the scrutiny of all eyes, Yan Ge dared not lift his head, so he was unable to identify the speaker but guessed it was the Empress. The Emperor remained silent, and Yan Ge couldn't discern his actions, but he heard the eunuch announce, "Song Ruhao, keep your token." This meant he had been chosen by the Emperor.

Song Ruhao expressed his gratitude, stepped back, and left the hall.

The second xiunan approached, but the Emperor and Empress showed no particular reaction. The eunuch then proclaimed, "Liu Weien, leave your token."

Next was Yan Ge's turn.

In front of the most esteemed individuals in the realm, Yan Ge's proud knees finally touched the ground. As he stepped forward, his movements were stiff, and even when he knelt down, he mistakenly started with his right foot. The Huangfu Dynasty was a land of etiquette, and the left side held more significance. Although this mistake was not insignificant, it was not enough to implicate the Yan family, making it just right. This was the ingenious method he had come up with.

Suddenly, a sharp gaze fell upon Yan Ge, seemingly piercing through his body.

Yan Ge's entire being tensed involuntarily, his reaction genuine. Then his eyebrows twitched as if he had just realized his mistake. His expression changed, and he quickly prostrated, trembling slightly. However, his subsequent reaction was a pretense.

After a long silence from above, the same female voice spoke again, gently saying, "Your Majesty, please calm down. The second son of the Yan family must have been too nervous. He seems like a composed person, and his nervousness has a certain charm."

Yan Ge furrowed his brows. This woman…

The Emperor still did not speak. After a moment, the eunuch announced, "Yan Ge, keep your token."

What?!

Yan Ge almost lifted his head to see if the Emperor was blind, but he retained his composure and suppressed his infuriation. He expressed his gratitude, then withdrew from the grand hall.

At this moment, the voice of the system sounded particularly gloating, "Ding. Congratulations on successfully completing Main Mission 2 – Obtaining the Emperor's permission to 'keep your token.' You have been rewarded with 10 taels of silver and 2 Poison Immunity pills. Main mission 3 – Being conferred by the Emperor. If the mission is successful, you will be rewarded with 50 taels of silver and a copy of the book "The Eighteen Arts of Yufu" To accept the mission, please select 'Yes.' To refuse the mission, please select 'No.'"

Damn it!

Yan Ge firmly chose "No" with determination, and once again, the system did not indicate the consequences of his refusal. Well, at this point, he still didn't know what exactly this system was all about.

After returning to his room in the temporary residence for the xiunan, Yan Ge paced back and forth, unable to come up with a corresponding plan. Once conferred, he would no longer have the opportunity to leave the palace. What other options were there? What other options?

Just when he felt helpless, a eunuch arrived with a royal decree.

"By the mandate of Heaven, the Emperor's decree states: Yan Xiaojing's son, Yan Ge, possesses extraordinary appearance and lively nature. I am greatly pleased, thus conferring him as Yan Daying, bestowing him with Chunfang Courtyard at Chunfeng Palace. This is my blessing."

Yan Daying…

Yan Ge's brow twitched, and he knelt down to express his gratitude.

"Yan Ge acknowledges the decree and offers gratitude. Long live our Emperor, for ten thousand years, ten thousand years, and countless more."

"Ding. Congratulations on successfully completing Main Mission 3 – Being conferred by the Emperor. You have been rewarded with 50 taels of silver and a copy of 'The Eighteen Arts of Yufu.'"

"Main Mission 4 – Being promoted to Changzai by the Emperor. If the mission is successful, you will be rewarded with 100 taels of silver and a copy of the "Imperial Pharmacopoeia." To accept the mission, please select 'Yes.' To refuse the mission, please select 'No.'"

*Imperial Pharmacopoeia refers to a collection or compendium of medicinal formulas, remedies, and prescriptions used in traditional Chinese medicine that were specifically compiled for use in the imperial court.

Yan Ge numbly chose "No."

The eunuch delivering the decree smiled and said, "Congratulations, Yan Daying. The Ministry of Internal Affairs will soon send two servants to accompany you, a palace maid and a palace eunuch. Barring any unforeseen circumstances, they will be with you at all times. They will escort you to Chunfang Courtyard, and once you arrive there, the Ministry of Internal Affairs will provide you with all necessary daily items, including the attire befitting your status."

"No need to trouble yourself, Eunuch," Yan Ge's lips curved as he took out a few silver coins from his sleeve to reward him.

The eunuch delivering the decree smiled broadly. "Thank you for the gracious reward, Young Master. I shall take my leave."

"Please take your time, Eunuch." Yan Ge politely escorted him to the door. Better to deal with the King of Hell than with troublesome little demons. It was better to avoid offending people in this palace.

Not long after the eunuch left, the two servants assigned by the Ministry of Internal Affairs arrived. Yan Ge hadn't even had a chance to see their faces when they prostrated on the ground.

"The servant Xiao Zhan pays respects to Young Master!"

"The servant Wan Xiang pays respects to Young Master!"

"You may rise."

"Thank you, Young Master."

The young palace maid and eunuch stood up, respectfully positioning themselves on either side. The petite palace maid had an ordinary appearance, but her eyes were quite lively. The young eunuch, not much taller than her, had a clean and pure countenance, resembling a delicate youth. Both of them appeared to be around sixteen or seventeen years old.

Commanding such young children made Yan Ge feel a twinge of guilt. He spoke just a few words, "In the future, serve this young master diligently, and I shall never mistreat you."

The two of them knelt down together, expressing their determination, "Yes, Young Master!"

Yan Ge waved his hand, "Rise, and let us proceed to the Chunfang Courtyard."

"Yes."

The three of them walked towards the Chunfeng Palace at a leisurely pace. Xiao Zhan and Wan Xiang provided an introduction to the palace's situation for Yan Ge in hushed tones. Despite their young age, having spent a considerable amount of time in the palace, they were knowledgeable about various matters.

Chunfang Courtyard was one of the residences for the imperial consorts in the harem, and ever since the first batch of male consorts were granted residence there years ago, it had almost exclusively been assigned to male consorts. The Chunfang Courtyard was a small annex belonging to the Chunfeng Palace.

Upon reaching the Chunfeng Palace, they encountered several palace maids and eunuchs bustling around, engaged in moving various activities. The three other xiunan also resided in the Chunfeng Palace.

Yan Ge instructed Wan Xiang to inquire, and it was revealed that Song Ruhao had been promoted to Song Guiren, holding the rank of third-class consorts. Du Zhengfeng had become Du Changzai, holding the rank of fifth-class consorts. Zhou Wenhuan and Yan Ge were both conferred as Da Ying, holding the rank of fifth-class consorts as well.

Wan Xiang whispered softly, "Young Master, within His Majesty's harem, the ranks for the female consorts from lowest to highest are Daying, Changzai, Zhaoyi, Jieyu, Guiren (Consort), Pin, Fei, Guifei (Noble Consort), Huang Guifei(Imperial Noble Consort), to Huanghou (Empress).

"For the male consorts, the ranks range from bottom to top as: Daying, Changzai, Shirén (scholar), Cairen, Guiren, Shiqing, Caiqing (honorable official), Guiqing(Noble Consort), to Huang Guiqing (Imperial Noble Consort)."

"When the xiunan and xiunu first enter the palace, they can only obtain the ranks of Guiren and below. The servants address those below the rank of Guiren as 'Young Master,' while those above are referred to as 'Niangniang' for the imperial consorts while the male consorts are called by their specific titles. Logically speaking, consorts below Pin do not have the qualifications to reside in the main hall of a palace. However, among the four male consorts, Song Guiren holds the highest rank, which allows him to reside in the main hall of Chunfang Palace."

Yan Ge casually asked, "When did the two of you enter the palace?"

Wan Xiang and Xiao Zhan both replied, "Three years ago."

Yan Ge said, "You both have a better understanding of the palace than I do. Remind me whenever necessary."

"Yes!"

After a moment's hesitation, Wan Xiang added, "Young Master, it is not permissible to use the term 'I' within the palace. If it is overheard by someone with ill intentions, it may be deemed inappropriate."

Yan Ge paused, nodding in acknowledgment.