The Favored Consort Who Can Read Mind

by Usui Takumii

not mine, asia novel dot net. Beware edited mtl.

2. 11 to 20

Chapter 11: Forbidden Palace Gardens

Fan Xueyao slightly frowned. Li Xiuyun truly had a big heart, daring to bribe the palace servants in broad daylight. Even if the servants wanted to accept the money, they wouldn't dare to do so under everyone's watchful eyes. Her actions were bound to backfire and only bring her embarrassment.

Sure enough, Songxiang frowned and calmly said, "Madam is joking. We are mere servants; how could we have such power? If madam has any requests, we would not dare refuse if within our means. However, the dietary regulations for the ladies-in-waiting are set by the Empress herself, and we cannot change them without permission. If madam is truly dissatisfied with the food, we will report it to the Food Office and ensure better preparation. Please bear with us."

To use the Empress against me!

Li Xiuyun almost shouted out loud, her expression changing from anger to panic.

Songxiang mentioned again that the ladies-in-waiting's meals were arranged by the Empress and suggested that if she was dissatisfied, they would improve the cooking. Clearly, she was using the Empress to warn Li Xiuyun. Li Xiuyun wasn't foolish and understood this well. Although she understood, she had no choice but to back down, lest she incur the Empress's wrath and bring trouble upon her family.

Seeing Li Xiuyun's changed expression, Songxiang remained composed and respectfully said, "We've delayed long enough; the food is getting cold. Ladies, please enjoy your meal while it's still warm."

Li Xiuyun was caught between a rock and a hard place, but fortunately, Yang Sunu intervened, "Let's try it first. These dishes look quite good. If you don't like them, we can always mention it to the Food Office later." She offered her a way out.

With Yang Sunu's help, Li Xiuyun awkwardly returned to her seat, picked up her chopsticks, and began eating, but the food tasted like wax to her.

The commotion had affected everyone's appetite, but Fan Xueyao didn't seem bothered. She sampled various dishes and ate her fill slowly.

Songxiang waited until everyone had finished eating before signaling the Food Office's maids to clear the table and pack the leftovers into boxes.

Everyone stood in the hall, and Li Xiuyun, having lost face, remained silent, creating an awkward atmosphere.

Feeling that this couldn't continue, Fan Xueyao smiled at Songxiang and said, "You haven't eaten yet, have you? Go ahead and eat now; there's nothing else here for you to attend to."

Songxiang also smiled, "Then I won't refuse. I'll go now. But with no one around, it might be inconvenient for the ladies. I'll leave first, and Cai Ping and Hongxian from the main room and east wing will stay to serve you. They'll take over shortly."

"Everything will be fine. You should go quickly."

Songxiang bowed and said, "I'll be back soon."

After Songxiang left, the room fell silent. Li Xiuyun, either angry at Songxiang or annoyed with Fan Xueyao, huffed and turned to Yang Sunu, whispering, "Who does she think she is? Acting like the mistress of the house. She's just another lady-in-waiting like us. How dare she make decisions for us?"

Yang Sunu felt embarrassed and frustrated by Li Xiuyun's lack of tact. This was their first conversation, and Li Xiuyun was already being unreasonable. She admired Li Xiuyun's elegant appearance but never expected her to be so immature. She found herself in a difficult position, feeling the other ladies' gazes on her.

Fan Xueyao, however, smiled warmly and said, "Madam is joking. I can't make decisions for anyone. I merely saw that Songxiang had been serving us for a long time and thought it was a good opportunity to let her eat as well. All the ladies here are kind-hearted and would never want Songxiang to serve us on an empty stomach."

Fan Xueyao's words were well-received. She explained her actions and complimented the others, making it impossible for them to find fault. If they were unhappy, it would imply they were unkind and ungrateful.

The other ladies agreed with Fan Xueyao, praising her kindness and generosity.

Seeing everyone siding with Fan Xueyao, Li Xiuyun became even more upset. She huffed, excused herself to Yang Sunu, and stormed off to her room.

Fan Xueyao sighed, wondering why Li Xiuyun had become so irrational. Was it because she had faced too many setbacks and lost her composure?

Deciding that dealing with a rebellious teenager was beyond her, Fan Xueyao resolved to avoid Li Xiuyun to prevent further conflicts.

Fortunately, Li Xiuyun regained her composure the next morning, returning to her usual graceful demeanor. This relieved Fan Xueyao, Yang Sunu, and Chen Duofu. Dealing with the previous day's Li Xiuyun would have been exhausting. However, everyone became more cautious around her, wary of triggering her sensitive side.

Three peaceful days passed when the head maid arrived with a smile, announcing that the Empress had granted the ladies-in-waiting permission to visit the East Imperial Garden outside Chuxiu Palace. Fan Xueyao knew this was a test of their character and virtue. Most of the ladies-in-waiting understood this as well.

In the past, noble ladies from prominent families entered the palace through formal invitations. Royal relatives and aristocratic ladies did not need external conditions to become concubines or imperial consorts. For officials' daughters, their virtues, talents, and beauty earned them invitations.

Unlike those selected or presented, these invited ladies received immediate titles upon entering the palace. Selected ladies, on the other hand, might enter the princes' palaces or the inner court, with only a few becoming concubines or consorts. Most held low ranks, but some exceptionally talented ones could rise to prominence despite humble origins.

For example, during Emperor Shunzong's reign, a skilled attendant introduced the courtesan Fu Yuxiao to him. Fu Yuxiao was beautiful and talented, and Shunzong favored her greatly. She lived extravagantly and was eventually titled Consort Fu, receiving numerous rewards. However, her arrogance and interference in politics led to her downfall.

Despite the unsatisfactory ending, Fu Yuxiao's life was still considered remarkable for a courtesan.

Returning to the present, most noble ladies entered the palace through formal invitations, but Emperor Jiaxi preferred a combination of selection and invitation to avoid excessive expenses. The initial rounds focused on physical appearance, leaving the final 300 ladies to be evaluated on their character and virtue. Only fifty would become concubines or consorts, while the rest would be eliminated.

Most of the ladies-in-waiting understood this, though some, confident in their status or beauty, believed they would surely become concubines.

After three days confined to the courtyard, the ladies were eager to explore the imperial gardens. Fan Xueyao and her companions joined the others.

The imperial garden indeed differed from ordinary places. At the entrance, Songxiang and the others presented their name cards to the guards, who allowed them in after checking. The main gate consisted of five rooms with mud tiles and a snake-shaped ridge, surrounded by white walls and carved stone steps adorned with Western-style lotus patterns. The architecture was elegant and refined, not ostentatious.

Fan Xueyao admired the gate, appreciating its beauty reminiscent of Suzhou gardens. However, many noble ladies found it too plain, lacking the grandeur expected of royal architecture.

Inside the garden, a green mountain range obstructed the view, with white rocks of peculiar shapes covered in moss and vines. Two paths were partially visible on either side.

Yang Sunu looked around and asked, "Which path should we take?"

Li Xiuyun pointed left, thinking that the left was more prestigious. "Let's go this way."

Yang Sunu nodded, "Alright, let's go this way."

Chapter 12: Beautiful Scenery and Beautiful People

The group walked in, stepping onto the path. After a few steps, they came upon a sparse grove of pale bamboo, with moss-covered stones and orchids growing abundantly. Dewdrops glistened on the flowers and plants.

As they rounded the emerald barrier, the scenery suddenly opened up before them. Lush trees and vibrant flowers bloomed around them, while a clear stream flowed gently from the depths of the flora into the crevices below. On one side stood a spacious and grand pavilion, its ornate beams and painted rafters hidden among the trees and hills. On the other side was a slightly steep slope, devoid of flowers and plants, except for a towering rock formation surrounded by various types of Taihu stones, completely obscuring the view behind it.

Yang Sunu was quite curious about what lay beyond. She said, "Let's go over there and take a look."

They walked on, hearing the gentle sound of water and catching a whiff of an enchanting fragrance. As they turned the corner of the hill, they saw vines and exotic plants hanging down, some crawling along the rocks, others draping over eaves and pillars, swaying like green ribbons. The place wasn't large, but the scenery was lush and abundant.

In the distance, they spotted a peony garden, a peony pavilion, a rose hedge, and a banana grove. Hundreds of peach and apricot blossoms bloomed like fiery clouds. The clear stream flowed downward, with vines hanging overhead and fragrant flowers floating on the surface.

Everyone smiled and clapped, exclaiming, "What beautiful scenery!"

They hurried to the peony pavilion, looking around. The vines swayed gently, revealing the floating petals in the water. Two rows of willows lined the pool, their branches swaying softly, making the water appear even clearer and more tranquil.

Those who knew their flowers and plants were dazzled, counting the rare species and marveling at each discovery. Those who didn't know much simply enjoyed the beauty and fragrance, feeling as if they were in a painting. Their eyes lingered, filled with admiration.

Just as they were lost in the scenery, they heard a commotion in the distance and looked curiously.

A group of seven or eight young women, all dressed in fine clothing, approached from the north. They seemed extraordinary, but their gazes were mostly fixed on one person.

One of the women wore a violet embroidered jacket and apricot skirt, with a yellow sash adorned with a jade butterfly pendant. She carried a honey-colored silk shawl embroidered with floral patterns.

She was looking around, her slender figure and almond-shaped eyes captivating. Her hair was styled elegantly, her brows like dark green ink, and her face like a blooming peach blossom. Her attire highlighted her delicate and radiant beauty, akin to a blooming hibiscus.

However, she had a somewhat cold demeanor. A servant girl kept talking to her, but she remained silent, her eyes showing signs of annoyance.

Yang Sunu was the first to look away. Chen Duofu noticed this and asked, "Do you know that woman in purple, Lady Yang?"

Yang Sunu nodded, her gaze returning to the woman. She spoke calmly, "She is the granddaughter of the Grand Princess of Qin and Wei."

Hearing that she was a princess's granddaughter, everyone's eyes widened with admiration. They couldn't help but stare, impressed by her noble aura.

Only Fan Xueyao knew who this woman was. She was the seventh daughter of the Changsun family, nicknamed Gui. Fan Xueyao had attended a flower-viewing banquet hosted by Gui's mother, the Princess Yongjia. At the time, Gui and her cousins had welcomed the guests.

Fan Xueyao smiled and said, "Indeed, she has a celestial beauty." She then stopped talking about Gui.

Yang Sunu glanced at her, appreciating her composed demeanor. Despite her humble background, Fan Xueyao remained dignified and unperturbed by the princess's name.

Suddenly, there was a commotion from the other group. Fan Xueyao looked over and saw two girls arguing. One wore a pine-green jacket and peach-colored coat, while the other wore a powder-blue embroidered narrow-sleeved jacket. The argument was too far away to hear clearly, but both girls looked angry.

Longsun Gui appeared annoyed and eventually said something that ended the dispute. The incident seemed to have ruined their mood, and Longsun Gui left shortly after, followed by the others.

Seeing only a few girls remaining, Yang Sunu approached the two who stayed behind and introduced them to the group. "This is Lady Lu and this is Lady Zhu," she said with a smile. Both greeted the group politely.

Fan Xueyao observed them closely. Lady Lu seemed mature and thoughtful, while Lady Zhu was plump and endearing, with big eyes and curved eyebrows.

After some pleasantries, Li Xiuyun asked, "We saw some commotion earlier. Was there something going on?"

Lady Zhu sighed, saying, "It was just a minor misunderstanding. Two of our friends got into a petty argument."

Lady Lu explained, "One of them stepped on the other's dress and couldn't apologize immediately. It was nothing serious."

Yang Sunu nodded, "Their temperaments are quite volatile. Such beautiful scenery shouldn't be marred by such trivial matters."

Lady Zhu agreed, "Indeed, it was rather disappointing. Longsun Gui left because of the disturbance, leaving only Lady Lu and me to enjoy the scenery."

Feeling uninterested in the conversation, Fan Xueyao found a quiet spot to sit and watched the flowers floating in the stream. Although her family was well-off due to her guidance, their home was small and lacked such expansive gardens. Her own garden consisted of a lotus pond and a few flower beds. Even the lotus was transplanted at her request, thanks to Li Rong.

Having seen the opulence of the imperial gardens, she realized how insignificant her family's residence was in Chang'an. This small eastern imperial garden was several times larger than their entire house, and every plant here could likely buy their entire estate.

Lost in thought, she felt someone sit beside her. It was Chen Duofu, looking nervous.

"I couldn't join their conversation, so I came to sit with you. Please don't mind me," Chen Duofu said, smiling timidly.

Fan Xueyao understood her nature and nodded, "Of course not. This isn't my place, and I wouldn't mind you at all. Sit and enjoy the scenery. I prefer quietness, though."

Relieved, Chen Duofu relaxed. She had always been overlooked at home and felt intimidated in the palace. She sought companionship, especially since she was often alone.

"Does Lady Fan usually do anything for fun?" Chen Duofu asked, trying to start a conversation.

Fan Xueyao leaned against the railing, her sleeve revealing a glimpse of her fair wrist. She looked at Chen Duofu, noticing her nervousness, and smiled warmly. "I usually read books, embroider, and play with my sisters. Nothing special."

Chen Duofu believed her and felt more at ease, realizing that noble ladies weren't so different from her. They continued chatting, with Chen Duofu occasionally glancing at Yang Sunu and the others.

Fan Xueyao sensed her curiosity and let her speak freely. Eventually, Chen Duofu couldn't resist asking, "Do you think any of us in our courtyard might become one of the fifty chosen as concubines?"

Fan Xueyao was surprised when she actually asked the question and couldn't help but look at her. Chen Duofu's face flushed, but his mind was in such turmoil that he had to ask for relief. In a fluster, he blurted out the rest: "My lady, with your exquisite beauty, you must be among the fifty chosen. But I wonder who among us is so fortunate; I doubt it could be me. Out of three hundred people, only fifty were selected!"

"How would I know? I don't even know who's in the other courtyards. It's all just guesswork. How can I say anything about this? Besides, the final decision rests with the officials and the Empress Dowager. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder; there's no certainty," Fan Xueyao said, somewhat helplessly. She knew Chen Duofu wasn't really seeking information but merely comfort. All she needed to do was reassure her.

"You shouldn't be too modest. My lady, with your grace and wisdom, your selection is almost certain. As the ancients said: 'Man proposes, God disposes.' We cannot force what is meant to be. My lady, do not worry too much."

Fan Xueyao spoke softly, her gentle smile and soothing voice calming him, making him feel at ease.

Chen Duofu's anxiety, which had plagued him for days, gradually subsided. After a moment of daze, he suddenly realized how overly anxious he had been, losing all composure. Whether he was chosen or not was beyond his control, as even the daughters of noble families feared rejection.

Realizing his behavior had been observed by the young girl before him, Chen Duofu felt embarrassed and said apologetically, "I was too hasty, and I fear I have made a fool of myself. Please do not take offense, my lady."

Seeing that he had come to his senses, Fan Xueyao smiled gently and did not dwell on the matter further.

The two sat quietly for a while. Yang Sunu suggested continuing their tour of the imperial garden. After enjoying the scenery, they returned to their respective rooms.

Chapter 13: The Final Selection

Time slipped by like sand through fingers, and before they knew it, a month had passed. During this time, the candidates were observed and evaluated based on their temperament, speech, gentleness, wisdom, and virtue, leading to the final selection of fifty candidates.

On this day, the final results were to be announced. Fan Xueyao rose early to wash and dress herself. Today's makeup should not be too bold, as that would appear overly eager and restless; neither should it be too light, which might seem disrespectful or aloof.

She styled her hair into a chuihuan fenshou hairstyle, which best showcased her demure charm. She adorned herself with a set of jade and pearl accessories, suitable for the warm weather of April, wearing a qiyao ruqun (a skirt worn over a short jacket).

Her lilac-colored embroidered peony patterned ruqun was paired with a pine flower-colored silk skirt, and a pink-white sash around her waist. The soft pastel colors were pleasing to the eye, evoking a gentle warmth akin to a breeze in early spring, making her look charming and delightful.

Songxiang was busy helping Yang Sunu with her makeup while Li Xiuyun sat in front of the mirror, waiting for her turn after Yang Sunu finished. Chen Duofu had already risen and dressed, but she was rather clumsy and could only manage a simple double bun hairstyle. She stood in front of the bronze mirror, trying to arrange her hairpins and silk flowers.

Although Fan Xueyao did not enjoy applying makeup, she brought a complete set of cosmetics when entering the palace, all carefully prepared by Li Rong. Her skin was naturally flawless, so she applied only a light layer of powder. She then used a rouge-tipped brush to gently dab her cheeks, giving them a rosy glow like peach blossoms.

Her eyebrows were naturally beautiful, resembling willow leaves, needing no further grooming. However, the powder had dulled their color, so she lightly traced them with high-quality indigo ink, enhancing their elegance.

Her lips were small and slightly plump, with a natural pink hue like cherry blossoms, inviting and alluring. She simply dabbed some lip rouge on her cupid's bow, then pressed her lips together to blend the color naturally.

The current trend among noble ladies was the meizi makeup, where black paper cutouts or even fish gills were used as decorative patches on the face. Fan Xueyao found this unappealing and chose not to use any. Instead, she painted a plum blossom on her forehead with prepared pigments.

Though her makeup was light, her bright complexion made it look fresh and elegant.

When she finished dressing, she turned around, and everyone in the room gasped in admiration.

Fan Xueyao smiled gently, nodded at them, and walked gracefully to the main hall to wait for the others.

After she left, Yang Sunu, Chen Duofu, and Li Xiuyun exchanged glances but said nothing. Songxiang, though not a professional hairstylist, managed to create hairstyles for Yang Sunu and Li Xiuyun, which, while not outstanding, were decent.

Despite their dissatisfaction, they knew it was the best they could do. After carefully applying their makeup and checking themselves in the mirror, they finally stepped out of the room.

"Lin Niangzi arrived quite early."

After exchanging greetings and confirming everyone's presence, Songxiang led the six women out of the house to the courtyard to wait. Soon, the residents of the main and east wing houses also emerged. Songxiang and two other maids led the eight candidates out of the courtyard towards Chuxiu Palace, where Auntie Xue was waiting at the intersection.

Upon arrival, Songxiang and the others reported to Auntie Xue, who asked a few questions and nodded approvingly.

While waiting, the candidates chatted idly with those they knew, creating a lively atmosphere filled with soft voices and fragrances.

Fan Xueyao scanned the candidates, having met most of them during the past month. Out of the fifty-four candidates, about seven had a high chance of becoming concubines. Apart from herself, Yang Sunu and Qin Zhuyuan from her courtyard, Lu Xiaoman and Zhu Yusu were also likely candidates.

Among the remaining two, one was Changsun Gui. Despite her difficult personality, few knew about it due to her noble background and impeccable manners, making her a strong contender. The other was Cao Shan, whose family background and virtues were commendable, though her appearance was ordinary and her personality subdued. Fan Xueyao had met her once and found her peaceful and harmonious, posing little threat despite her ordinariness.

Wearing a serene expression, Fan Xueyao continued her mental analysis until all the candidates had gathered.

Auntie Xue counted the candidates, nodded in satisfaction, and stepped forward. "Ladies, the hour is late. Are you all ready? If so, please form two lines and follow me to Chengde Hall."

The ladies looked at each other silently, then quietly watched Auntie Xue.

Satisfied, Auntie Xue instructed the maids to arrange the candidates into two lines. Once everything was in order, she led the way, followed by four maids, guiding the candidates to Chengde Hall.

Chengde Hall was not far from Chuxiu Palace. Passing through a palace gate, they reached a spacious courtyard leading to the grand hall with its golden glazed roof shining under the sun, exuding opulence and majesty.

The courtyard was paved with wide, flat stone slabs, and the steps leading to Chengde Hall were surrounded by white marble railings carved with intricate Chang'e Flying to the Moon patterns. Below the steps, rows of Xiao Huangmen stood neatly, heads bowed. The palace maids lined up silently along the corridor, creating an eerie silence.

Auntie Xue led the candidates across the courtyard to the hall. As they stopped, a palace maid approached.

"Auntie Xue, are these the candidates from your courtyard?" The maid, around thirty, was slender and stern-faced, scanning the candidates with sharp eyes devoid of emotion.

Auntie Xue stepped forward and bowed respectfully. "Wu Dianzan, these are all the candidates from my courtyard."

Wu Dianzan nodded. "Are they all here?"

"All fifty-four candidates are present."

Wu Dianzan smiled faintly. "Good. Since it's not yet the appointed hour, let's wait here for the Empress Dowager's summons."

Auntie Xue bowed slightly.

After another fifteen minutes, Wu Dianzan entered the hall to report. Soon, she returned with a list, calling names. Those called were to enter the hall for selection.

Ten candidates at a time entered the hall. Fan Xueyao, due to her background, was placed later in the queue. Before entering, Auntie Xue had reminded them to greet the Empress Dowager and the imperial consorts properly.

Inside the hall, the ten candidates bowed to the Empress Dowager and the imperial consorts seated below her. Wu Dianzan then asked them to state their backgrounds and names. They stood quietly, awaiting the announcement of their fate.

An imperial consort in brown-red attire turned to Empress Dowager Wei, smiling. "This year's candidates are exceptional. Look at Fan Xueyao—her beauty and poise surpass even mine when I first entered the palace."

Empress Dowager Wei nodded, flipping through a dossier detailing Fan Xueyao's conduct since entering the palace. It praised her demeanor, intelligence, and virtues. Satisfied, Empress Dowager Wei looked at Fan Xueyao, noting her excellent attire and figure. She declared, "Selected!"

Fan Xueyao smiled slightly, bowing her head in restrained joy, showing both excitement and modesty. This pleased Empress Dowager Wei even more.

Of the ten candidates, only two were selected. Wu Dianzan escorted them out and called the next batch.

After returning to the courtyard, Fan Xueyao nodded reassuringly at Qin Zhuyuan, who looked relieved.

Back in the room, Yang Sunu and Li Xiuyun were sitting at the table, looking proud. Li Xiuyun asked eagerly, "Were you selected?"

Fan Xueyao paused, nodded, and retreated into the inner chamber.

Li Xiuyun felt a pang of envy. She knew Fan Xueyao's beauty would make her a formidable rival in the palace.

Chapter 14: Home at Last

Once all the candidates for palace ladies were selected, the imperial court began arranging for the ladies to leave the palace. Those who were not chosen would return to their hometowns, while those who were chosen would receive their appointments shortly from the Ministry of Rites.

When they returned to the palace next time, they would be official concubines.

The Fan family's carriage had been waiting outside the palace gates. Auntie Kang, Yan Ran, and Leng Xiang stood by the carriage, eagerly awaiting her arrival. Seeing Fan Xueyao emerge from the palace, they quickly surrounded her and helped her into the carriage. They asked anxiously if she had been selected, but Fan Xueyao only smiled in response. The three immediately understood and broke into wide grins, showing their gums.

The carriage stopped in front of the Fan family's main gate. With the help of the servants, Fan Xueyao stepped out of the carriage and entered through the main gate, passing through the second gate, and arrived at the flower hall. The entire household gathered there, and as soon as they saw her, they rushed forward in unison, asking, "Were you selected?!"

"Selected," Fan Xueyao replied with a gentle smile.

"Oh!" Everyone in the room was beaming with joy, and Li Rong, holding Fan Xueyao's hand, half-laughing and half-tearfully said, "Good child, you truly have great fortune!"

Fan Yelin's handsome face was filled with smiles, and he clapped his hands excitedly, calling for the servants to prepare a grand feast for tonight, so the whole family could celebrate together!

The servants happily carried out the order, spreading the good news throughout the house on their way to the kitchen. Soon, the entire Fan residence was filled with joy, and people were running around to share the news.

After the initial excitement subsided, Li Rong turned to her husband and said, "Let's go to the main house to inform Mother. She has been waiting for the news and shouldn't wait too long."

Fan Minghui was overjoyed and had completely forgotten about it. Only when his wife reminded him did he remember. He composed himself and said, "Let's go together. We'll have dinner there anyway."

Everyone from the main house then moved to the main courtyard. That night, the Fan family was bustling with activity, and even the usually estranged second and third houses were smiling and offering congratulations. Words of praise poured in like rain, almost overwhelming the main house.

That evening, when Fan Xueyao returned to her courtyard, Leng Xiang and Yan Ran hurriedly attended to her bathing.

"After I enter the palace, our courtyard will be without a mistress. I've been thinking that you two are not getting any younger and should be matched up. Instead of leaving it to others after I'm gone, why not let me arrange it now while I'm still here? I want what's best for you and won't let you suffer. If you're not willing, I won't force anything on you." As she slowly combed her hair, scented with jasmine oil, Fan Xueyao spoke softly.

"To avoid any misunderstandings, tell me now if you have anyone in mind. If you do, I'll arrange it for you these few days."

Leng Xiang blushed and looked down shyly.

Yan Ran, however, continued to dry her damp hair, smiling and saying, "Lady, whatever you decide is fine. We've served you since we were young and know your character well. Ten years of loyalty wouldn't lead you to mistreat us."

Fan Xueyao chided with a smile, "Always saying such sweet things. If I arranged something you didn't like, you'd surely resent me. Tell me, which boy do you fancy?"

Leng Xiang's eyes darted around, hesitating for a moment before leaning close to whisper something in Fan Xueyao's ear.

Fan Xueyao was slightly surprised and asked, "Why him? He doesn't seem particularly outstanding or lively."

Leng Xiang, her face flushed, explained, "I just find him honest. Last time, Hongxia tried to give him a handkerchief, but he refused outright. Later, he came back with a plain piece of cloth, asking me to embroider a handkerchief for him."

Hongxia was a maid serving the second lady, not particularly pretty but with a voluptuous figure. Many young servants fawned over her, giving her flowers and fabrics. Thinking of someone who could refuse her so firmly, Leng Xiang found him genuinely honest.

Fan Xueyao nodded but didn't immediately agree. "I'll call him tomorrow to see how things are at home. If it's suitable, I'll arrange it for you two."

Leng Xiang responded happily with an "Ah," giggling as she continued to massage Fan Xueyao's feet.

Yan Ran glanced at her, amused but secretly envious.

Fan Xueyao looked at Yan Ran and asked, "Now that Leng Xiang has someone in mind, what about you, Yan Ran? Do you have anyone you fancy?"

Yan Ran paused, biting her lip, and remained silent.

"Whether you choose someone or not, you need to tell me so I can arrange it for you," Fan Xueyao gently encouraged.

Yan Ran's heart raced, and with determination, she confessed, "I do have someone in mind, but my status is low, and I don't deserve him."

"You were trained by me, skilled in embroidery and abacus, read many books, and know a little about music and chess. What kind of person could possibly be unworthy of my Yan Ran? Tell me, which family's son is he?" Fan Xueyao already knew who it was but pretended to be displeased with Yan Ran's self-deprecation.

Yan Ran hesitated for a long time before speaking softly, "There's a Li's Wine Shop in the market. The owner is upright and kind, and I admire him greatly. But I am of low status, and marriages between noble and commoners are forbidden, so we can never be together."

"Really him?!" Leng Xiang exclaimed, "Isn't he an old widower?"

Yan Ran glared at her, spitting, "Mindless girl, he's only in his twenties."

"Someone in their twenties is an old widower..." Leng Xiang muttered under her breath.

Fan Xueyao, who already knew the truth, wasn't surprised. She had known for a while that Yan Ran had someone in mind but hadn't pressed the issue. She thought Yan Ran would bring it up eventually but realized that Yan Ran was too honest to consider freeing herself from servitude.

Yan Ran was seventeen, bought as a maid from outside. She was originally destined for a brothel but was saved by Fan Xueyao. For ten years, she had served her faithfully. Therefore, Yan Ran considered Fan Xueyao her benefactor and served her wholeheartedly.

If a servant wanted to buy their freedom, they typically needed to pay twenty years' worth of food and clothing expenses plus the purchase price. This might be difficult for ordinary families, but Fan Xueyao had always been generous with her maids. Ten years of monthly allowances and bonuses would be more than enough.

Yan Ran never mentioned this because she felt that asking for freedom would betray her benefactor. Even though she had saved enough money over ten years, she never considered freeing herself to marry the shopkeeper.

Realizing this, Fan Xueyao sighed and chided Yan Ran, "Silly girl, you've served me for ten years with all your heart. How could I not be grateful? Since you two are meant to be, I'll help you. Tomorrow, I'll talk to the empress and free you from servitude so you can marry the shopkeeper."

Yan Ran was stunned, her face expressionless, and then she suddenly knelt down, "Thank you, Lady! Thank you, Lady!" Tears streamed down her face. Yan Ran, usually calm and composed, had never shown such emotion. It was both pitiful and endearing.

Seeing Yan Ran's reaction, Fan Xueyao knew how much the shopkeeper meant to her. Loving him so deeply yet unwilling to leave her, she chose to follow her benefactor and repay her kindness. This showed how devoted Yan Ran was.

Feeling touched, Fan Xueyao helped Yan Ran up and said, "You've served me for ten years, and now you're getting married. I won't let you go without proper dowry. Tomorrow, I'll send someone to the Prosperous Silver Shop to pick out a beautiful set of jewelry for you."

Leng Xiang pouted, "Lady, you can't favor Yan Ran alone. I've also served you since I was young."

"Don't worry, I won't forget you. You'll also have a grand wedding," Fan Xueyao reassured her with a glance.

The three of them laughed and joked late into the night before retiring to bed. Leng Xiang and Yan Ran laid down on small mats near the window, ready to attend to Fan Xueyao if needed.

With only a month left before entering the palace as a concubine, Fan Xueyao cherished every moment with her family. She worked to resolve the conflicts between her mother and sister-in-law, privately suggesting that if her brother and sister-in-law couldn't conceive within two years, they should choose one of her maids to bear children.

If the maid was honest and loyal, she could be freed and made a concubine. If not, she could be dismissed or neglected. If her sister-in-law eventually conceived, the concubine's children would remain secondary to the legitimate heir.

This was a common practice, and the Fan family had been lenient with Chen Shi, tolerating her inability to conceive for years without taking other measures. Chen Shi felt grateful and guilty but had resisted the idea of bringing in a concubine. Hearing Fan Xueyao's suggestion, she agreed immediately.

Solving her brother's issue, Fan Xueyao felt relieved. Now that the main house was strong and her mother was more assertive, the couple was happy, and the matriarch and the second and third houses posed no problems.

Chapter 15: Entering the Palace

Yan Ran was the first to marry. Fan Xueyao crafted two silver headdresses with auspicious patterns for her. Li Rong and Chen also added to her dowry, and Old Lady Fan gave her a pair of silver earrings. Privately, Fan Xueyao also gave her twenty taels of silver. With all these additions, Yan Ran, though an orphan, had a more substantial dowry than some daughters of minor officials.

Yan Ran had served her for ten years, always diligently and loyally. Despite her cold demeanor, Fan Xueyao felt grateful. However, the main reason she provided such a generous dowry was strategic. While the Fan family was wealthy, most of their wealth was communal or belonged to Li Rong's private funds. Previously, Fan Xueyao could use it freely at home, but once she entered the palace, accessing money would be inconvenient.

Yan Ran was intelligent, capable, and most importantly, extremely loyal. She was the perfect business partner. Fan Xueyao secretly discussed with Yan Ran and her husband that they would support her by doing business outside the palace to fund her needs within the imperial grounds.

Fan Xueyao also had her own private funds. Fan Minghui and Li Rong treated her like a precious gem, and her daily expenses were covered by Li Rong's private funds without revealing them publicly.

Li Rong had given her a small estate, which, after implementing various productivity measures, brought in over a hundred taels of silver annually, except during droughts or floods. This income was significant, especially considering it came purely from farming. Some families struggled to sustain their tenant farmers on barren land, let alone earn profits.

The estate was now managed by Fang, her wet nurse, who had lost her husband early and had only one daughter, Qiao Wa. When Qiao Wa was young, she suffered from a fever, and Fan Xueyao not only paid for her medical treatment but also helped her gain freedom and establish herself as a female household head. The wet nurse's family was deeply grateful and managed the estate faithfully.

After sending off Yan Ran and Leng Xiang, the imperial decree announcing the promotion of concubines arrived at the Fan residence. On this day, the Fan family adorned their home with red silk, burning incense in bronze vessels, and decorating with flowers from the garden. The entire household was silent.

Fan Yelin and other men waited outside the gate, while Old Lady Fan and the women stayed inside. A small eunuch rode up, and Fan Yelin greeted him. The eunuch said, "We're at the entrance; the procession will arrive in about a quarter of an hour."

Fan Yelin quickly sent someone to inform Old Lady Fan. After a quarter of an hour, the sound of hooves and footsteps approached. Several small eunuchs ran over, and everyone understood that the procession had arrived. They positioned themselves accordingly to welcome the officials.

The procession included eunuchs carrying incense burners, towels, embroidered handkerchiefs, wash basins, and fly whisks. Two eunuchs led a tall horse carrying the official delivering the decree.

They escorted the official inside, where he rinsed his mouth, washed his hands, burned incense, and everyone knelt respectfully to listen to the decree.

"Imperial edict: Considering the assistance in governing the inner court, the duties of the palace, and the need for virtuous ladies to aid in internal affairs, we have reviewed ancient customs and established new ranks. Fan, you possess gentle virtues and are well-versed in etiquette. Your reputation is commendable, and your position in the harem is fitting. Therefore, we hereby confer upon you the rank of Beauty. Cultivate your virtues, serve the palace diligently, and uphold the imperial favor."

It was the rank of Beauty, a fourth-grade position. Fan Minghui was overjoyed.

He had thought his daughter would receive the rank of Baolin at best, but she was granted the rank of Beauty, higher than his own.

"I've inquired about the rankings among the newly appointed concubines. You are among the highest-ranked. Only five others are above you: Lady Changsun is a Zhaoyi, as is the niece of Empress Wei. These two must be treated with caution," Fan Minghui emphasized.

"Among the others, the eleventh granddaughter of Duke Jiang is a Jie Yu, as is the daughter of Minister Shen, and the daughter of Grand Secretary Zhang. Duke Jiang is nearly eighty, with four sons, only two of whom are from his original wife. His third son, the father of Jie Yu Jiang, is a seventh-grade official. If necessary, removing him would not be difficult. Once Duke Jiang passes away, Jie Yu Jiang will be vulnerable."

"Cui Jie Yu... Minister Shen is talented, but since the emperor has just ascended, his position may change. It's uncertain what the future holds," Fan Minghui continued.

Fan Xueyao nodded. Minister Shen was a vice-premier, but in this dynasty, many officials held similar titles, making the position less significant. As a former emperor's minister, his future was uncertain under the new emperor.

"Only Zhang Jie Yu, whose father is a grand secretary responsible for compiling books. If he performs well, he could gain the emperor's favor and advance further," Fan Minghui explained.

Fan Xueyao knew her father was trying to warn her about potential dangers. However, having dealt with powerful officials in her past life, she understood that loyalty and background were not the only factors. Emotions and personal connections mattered, especially with an emperor.

She listened carefully, memorizing the relationships, knowing they would be useful. She needed to be cautious, as any mistake could be fatal.

That day, father and daughter talked for hours. Fan Xueyao returned to her room, wrote down the information in code, and stored it in a secret place.

The next morning, the imperial procession arrived. Amidst tearful farewells, Fan Xueyao boarded the carriage. Sitting in the luxurious vehicle, she watched the scenery through the gauzy windows, wondering when she would see it again. She hoped her next return would be triumphant.

The palace walls, adorned with colorful tiles, divided the sky into small sections. Ancient trees peeked out from the corners.

The carriage entered the palace gates, stopped at a small gate, and then switched to a smaller carriage. After a bumpy ride, it finally stopped at a palace.

Fan Xueyao stepped out and saw a green plaque inscribed with "Spreading Fragrance Hall."

The hall included front and back chambers, connected by flower-lined corridors. The courtyard was beautifully landscaped with blue-purple flowers and symbolic stone patterns representing longevity and prosperity. Ponds with vibrant yellow water lilies and potted flowers lined the walkways.

Satisfied, Fan Xueyao entered the back chamber, where the waiting palace maids bowed respectfully. She smiled and said, "Please rise. We'll discuss matters inside." The maids thanked her and entered.

Fan Xueyao sat down and looked around. There were sixteen maids assigned to her, four of whom worked in the kitchen. The twelve true maids stood before her, and she asked them to introduce themselves.

"Slave's surname is Mao, and my nickname is Zhu Zhu."

"Slave's name is Xiaohong."

"Slave's name is Chun Die."

...

The twelve maids introduced themselves: Xiaohong, Chuntao, Zhu Zhu, Xiaojin, Fuyun, Yuegu, Huaping, Su'e, Hong Xiao, Feng Yun, Qionghua, and Qiaoqiao.

Fan Xueyao nodded, memorizing their names and faces, and said, "Your names are fine. I'll call you by them from now on."

"Whatever the beauty commands." the twelve attendants said in unison.

Chapter 16: The Thing Called Bed

"All at your command, beautiful lady." The twelve maidservants said in unison.

Fan Xueyao nodded in satisfaction.

"How old are you this year? How long have you been in the palace? What skills are you proficient in?"

The maidservants paused for a moment to recall. They had only been in the palace for a few years and were just released from their aunties' tutelage to serve the concubines. Naturally, they were chosen for their outstanding qualities. Each one was confident and unafraid, eagerly sharing their ages and best skills with Fan Xueyao.

Among the twelve, the oldest was seventeen, while the youngest was only fourteen. All of them had just completed their training under their aunties and were assigned to the Spreading Fragrance Hall. These twelve were specifically designated to handle all matters within the hall, from serving tea and water up close to cleaning the courtyard outside, as well as delivering messages and items.

If there were no major issues, these people would be with her for a long time. Although they appeared obedient on the surface, their true natures and intentions remained uncertain...

Fan Xueyao suddenly let out a gentle laugh, her smile harmless like a kitten. Could any hidden thoughts escape her? No matter how well they pretended, they could not deceive her mind-reading ability! She was not afraid of their ill intentions; it was best if they kept them hidden forever. If they dared to show them, she would catch them.

"From now on, Guo Huaping, Du Qiaoqiao, Mao Zhuzhu, and Cao Su'e will attend to me personally. Du Qiaoqiao will manage the hairpins and accessories, Cao Su'e will manage the clothing, and Mao Zhuzhu, since you can read and write, you will manage the study. Guo Huaping, I see that you are quite mature, so you will manage my dowry chests and oversee all affairs in the hall." Fan Xueyao thought for a moment and assigned tasks to the four senior maidservants, then continued to arrange duties for the remaining eight.

Hearing this, Guo Huaping realized she was now the chief maid of the Spreading Fragrance Hall, and she couldn't help but feel overjoyed, trying hard to suppress her smile.

Fan Xueyao continued assigning duties to the other maidservants. After assigning the four personal attendants, she considered the ages and skills of the remaining eight and slowly said, "Huang Xiaohong and Liu Xiaojin will be responsible for washing and cleaning inside the hall. Wang Chuntao and Zhu Fengyun, you two will handle matters in the front hall. Wu Yuegu and Wang Hongxiao will be responsible for cleaning the courtyard and tending to the flowers. As for Sun Fuyun and Zhu Qionghua, you will be in charge of the teahouse and boiling water."

"From now on, apart from Guo Huaping, Du Qiaoqiao, Mao Zhuzhu, and Cao Su'e who will stay overnight in the hall, the rest of you will take turns on night duty."

Fan Xueyao smiled gently, her lips curved softly yet regally. "Let's start with this arrangement, and we'll adjust based on your performance later."

The twelve maidservants bowed again in gratitude. "We will serve you wholeheartedly, beautiful lady."

Nodding, Fan Xueyao looked outside the hall. "My dowry should have arrived by now. Chuntao, Fengyun, go check if the palace servants have come."

"Yes, we will withdraw," Wang Chuntao and Zhu Fengyun immediately bowed and left the hall.

"You may each go about your duties. I saw your luggage still outside. Huaping, lead them to the servants' quarters to settle down," Fan Xueyao instructed.

She had already inspected the Spreading Fragrance Hall upon arrival. It was spacious, but its layout differed from the Forbidden City she had seen before. Unlike the neatly symmetrical structures of the Forbidden City, the Spreading Fragrance Hall had no side chambers, only connected by corridors. The front hall had two rooms on either side, one for the small kitchen and the teahouse, and the other two were unused. The back hall had five rooms, with three side chambers on each side.

Behind the sleeping quarters was an open space, where the servants lived in low houses. Opposite the open space were three pavilions, residences for lower-ranking concubines. If an emperor was particularly lustful and indulged in debauchery, there might be too many lower-ranking concubines, even several living in one pavilion.

Fan Xueyao sent Huaping to settle the others, and once they dispersed, the hall became quiet.

After sitting in a carriage for a long time, Fan Xueyao felt her waist stiffen. However, she had just focused on receiving much information and did not want to forget anything, so she closed her eyes to rest, recalling the thoughts she had heard from the twelve maidservants.

It was natural that not all twelve maidservants were loyal to her. Despite being their mistress, they had just met and had not truly developed loyalty. Most intended to follow rules and do their jobs properly, but some were outwardly respectful yet inwardly disrespectful.

For example, Wang Hongxiao, while kneeling, was thinking about how to gain her trust and pass messages to Jia Sibin. Fan Xueyao silently noted Jia Sibin, intending to find out who he served. Otherwise, why would a mere attendant send someone to her small Spreading Fragrance Hall?

These four senior maidservants were carefully selected by her. Their thoughts were honest and diligent, with a bit of cleverness but no ulterior motives. Fan Xueyao decided to observe them first and replace them if necessary.

Fan Xueyao walked around the front hall and returned to the back hall, entering the western chamber, which was the bedroom. The entire back hall used floor-to-ceiling windows, providing ample light. The central room was decorated with elegant vine-patterned screens, while the side rooms were separated by flower-patterned lantern screens.

The golden woodwork was intricately carved and beautifully detailed, a style Fan Xueyao loved. The most striking feature in the chamber was a gilded lacquered nanmu canopy bed. Engraved with patterns of qilins and peonies, the bed was grand and ornate. The craftsmanship was exquisite, and the bed was surrounded by curtains of apricot red, bright and romantic.

The bed was covered with a hibiscus red silk quilt, adorned with auspicious patterns of a hundred children. Though slightly tacky, it clearly aimed to please her. As a concubine, having children was crucial, and who wouldn't want more?

The bed was spacious, with a three-paneled screen standing beside it. When sleeping, the curtains could be drawn, creating a cozy and secure space.

Fan Xueyao was particularly satisfied.

In her previous life, she had no family background and built everything from scratch. In the cutthroat business world and political arena, everyone seemed friendly but could turn vicious. She could not afford any mistakes, as one wrong move meant falling from grace. Every day was filled with scheming and stress, often sleeping only five or six hours. Therefore, the quality of her bed was crucial to restoring her energy in those brief hours.

She had a special attachment to beds. As a young orphan, she once lived with relatives, sleeping on a sofa in the living room. She had to wake up early to tidy up, not disturbing the male owner. This experience instilled a desire to be like him, commanding respect and authority.

Though she later learned he was just a minor clerk, the desire remained. She envied his power and wanted to be someone admired and respected, with everything under control.

She also wanted a bed of her own, comfortable and spacious, where she could sleep without fear of being displaced. This desire was as strong as her ambition to become powerful.

In her villa, every room had a comfortable bed, even though she didn't need so many. She always paid attention to bed-related items, buying sets of bedding. This habit persisted into this life.

She once heard of a high-ranking official in the capital who owned a dragon bed, a genuine imperial bed. Black and glossy, intricately carved with dragons and clouds, it exuded majesty. The official slept on it every night, even during naps. She envied him, not just for the precious sandalwood bed but for the privilege of sleeping on it. Others might buy such a bed but dare not use it, fearing accusations of aspiring to be an emperor. Yet the official flaunted it openly, making her envious and restless.

Later, she bought an expensive sandalwood rosary, black and glossy, with a strong fragrance. It was valuable, but it wasn't a bed.

Instead of feeling comforted, her longing grew stronger. Eventually, she gave away the rosary, trading it for a good opportunity. At least it served its purpose.

Chapter 17: The Summoning

The palace maids had just settled their luggage and assigned their sleeping quarters when Fan Xueyao's dowry arrived. All the newly appointed concubines were allowed to bring their dowries into the palace, though the number of boxes was limited. Although the imperial court provided for all their needs, the quality of these provisions ultimately depended on whether they were favored and how wealthy they were.

Money can indeed make the devil work.

Li Rong, fearing her daughter would lack funds in the palace, had converted family assets to provide a substantial dowry. Because carrying too much cash would be cumbersome and invite ridicule, she exchanged it for silver ingots. Four ingots weighing fifty taels each, ten weighing twenty-five taels each, and sixty weighing six taels each were cast.

In addition to these eight hundred and ten taels of silver, there was also a box containing two hundred taels of smaller silver pieces, ranging from five to one tael.

There was also a package of copper coins, amounting to several thousand. These smaller denominations were intended for tipping palace staff and other immediate expenses.

In those times, three taels of silver could sustain a family of three for an entire year.

When her half-sister Fan Zijing married, her dowry amounted to only one thousand copper coins. This was already generous, given that Li Rong considered her husband's limited offspring and her affection for her only daughter. Other nieces received even less—fifty or sixty thousand copper coins at most.

At home, Li Rong had personally shown Fan Xueyao the contents of her dowry, so she knew exactly what she had. Therefore, she simply called Guo Huaping to inventory and store everything in the storeroom, documenting every item meticulously.

One of the rooms in the western wing of the main hall was designated as the storeroom, while the other was set up as a resting area for the serving maids.

Fan Xueyao led Guo Huaping in cataloging her dowry and all the utensils needed for the Spreading Fragrance Hall. Huaping could read some characters, and whenever she encountered unfamiliar ones, she did not hesitate to ask. Fan Xueyao was always willing to teach her.

After half a day, they finally finished cataloging everything. Items not immediately needed were stored away, while jewelry, clothing, books, and stationery were organized by the maids Qiaoqiao, Zhuzhu, and Su'e. This clear division of responsibilities made it easier to track any discrepancies later.

As Du Qiaoqiao sorted through the jewelry boxes, Fan Xueyao watched. Her mother had commissioned many pieces, including eight matching sets and various individual items. There were gold and silver pieces, but solid gold sets were beyond their means. Despite earning some money, Fan Xueyao preferred to keep it outside the palace for future use.

While she couldn't afford a complete solid gold set, she could manage a few gold hairpins and combs. There were also several silver pieces with gold plating, a pearl set, a gemstone set, and even a decent jade set. She particularly loved a pair of jade earrings with red tourmaline.

The jade was a vibrant green, and the red tourmaline was a delicate shade between deep red and pink, making them exceptionally charming. The jade hoops were adorned with gold threads and red tourmaline, swaying gracefully with every step.

Du Qiaoqiao, trained under her aunt, had rarely seen such exquisite jewelry. Li Rong had hired skilled craftsmen, and some designs were drawn by Fan Xueyao herself. Each piece was a masterpiece, and Du Qiaoqiao couldn't help but admire them.

Once everything was stored, Xiaohong and Xiaojin brought copper basins and towels. Su'e helped Fan Xueyao wash her face and change clothes, while Zhuzhu, the most relaxed, offered her a cup of hot tea. They finally settled down.

"Beauty, it's almost time for lunch. Is there anything you don't eat? I'll inform the kitchen," said Huaping, putting the key to the ledger box in her sleeve.

Fan Xueyao nodded; she was indeed hungry. She had only eaten two fruit cakes that morning and hadn't had anything since. "I have no dietary restrictions except for two things: pepper and ginger must be removed after seasoning. Also, I don't like raw food, such as crab or fish sashimi. Please inform the kitchen accordingly."

"Yes, I'll go right away," Huaping smiled and left. Su'e, Qiaoqiao, and Zhuzhu exchanged glances and smiled.

The kitchen responsible for the emperor, empress, and all the concubines' meals was known as the Imperial Kitchen. There was also a smaller kitchen within each palace courtyard for simpler dishes. In winter, food from the Imperial Kitchen often arrived cold, so the smaller kitchens were used to reheat it.

Usually, concubines preferred food from the Imperial Kitchen because the smaller kitchens were run by inexperienced maids. Thus, the smaller kitchens were mostly idle, preparing only snacks and refreshments. Occasionally, they cooked for guests or favored maids.

Since Fan Xueyao was new, she naturally relied on the Imperial Kitchen for her meals.

Huaping took three maids with her and returned quickly with food boxes. Qiaoqiao, Su'e, and Zhuzhu hurried to receive them and dismissed the maids.

Huaping asked, "Beauty, where should we place the table?"

Fan Xueyao, sitting on the couch in the well-lit room, pointed ahead. "Here."

Huaping agreed and quickly set up the table.

She had already confirmed today's menu, naming each dish as she placed it. Once done, she and the others stepped back to await further instructions.

Fan Xueyao sat up and saw three bowls, two rows, and a fruit platter. The three bowls contained quail soup, lamb tongue rolls, and wild boar ham from Yunmeng.

The two rows included carved golden spices, licorice flowers, and osmanthus flowers.

The carved honey candies were made from carved ginger and bamboo shoots.

The fruit platter had cherries, lychees, persimmons, loquats, dates, and pheasant.

Quail soup was made from quails, lamb tongue rolls were made from minced lamb tongues wrapped in egg rolls, and the wild boar ham came from two-year-old wild boars from Yunmeng, known for their unique flavor.

The carved honey candies were beautifully crafted but more decorative than edible. Fan Xueyao didn't eat ginger, so she focused on the wild boar ham. The other dishes were mainly for show.

She started with the wild boar ham, followed by the lamb tongue rolls and quail soup. She then ate some cherries and lychees before setting down her chopsticks. "Clear the table."

The remaining food was divided among the servants. Palace maids usually ate simple fare prepared by ordinary maids, so leftovers were a treat. To avoid frequent bathroom visits, they drank little water. Fish was avoided due to its smell, which could offend the mistress. Thus, they ate sparingly, ensuring they were full enough.

After eating, Xiaojin and Xiaohong brought clean water for her to wash her hands and tea for her mouth.

Having just eaten, Fan Xueyao didn't rush to rest. Instead, she walked around the Spreading Fragrance Hall, admiring its scenery. After about half an hour, she returned to her chambers for a brief nap.

Upon waking, two attendants led a group of maids to convey the emperor's summons for her to serve him. They also informed her of the etiquette required during such occasions.

This was expected, given that Fan Xueyao was the most beautiful among the new concubines. However, it was surprising, considering there were higher-ranked concubines like Changsun Zhaoyi, Wei Zhaoyi, Zhang Jieyu, Jiang Jieyu, and Shen Jieyu. Their beauty and noble backgrounds made them equally suitable.

Thus, being the first to serve the emperor was somewhat unexpected.

However, it's not bad to be the first to serve in the bedchamber. With fifty consorts, it would take fifty nights just to go through them all, and there were already over a dozen concubines in the palace. It would take more than two months to get around to everyone. After all, the emperor is human too, and nightly revelry is just a beautiful dream. Passion and novelty fade with time, and the first meal is always the most delicious, while subsequent ones become increasingly bland.

Therefore, those who serve earlier have an advantage. The later it gets, the more one tires of rich fare, let alone simple porridge and side dishes.

As dusk approached, the Spreading Fragrance Hall was bustling with activity. Xiaojin and Xiaohong helped Fan Xueyao bathe and freshen up, then used several dry towels to carefully wring out her thick, black hair. They applied just the right amount of pressure—enough to dry her hair without causing any pain to her scalp.

Chapter 18: Are You Afraid?

Su'e, who claimed to be skilled at styling hair, took out a jar of fragrant hair oil and held a comb in her other hand, ready to style Fan Xueyao's hair.

Fan Xueyao shook her head and said, "No need for the hair oil; I'm not used to it. My hair is naturally smooth and manageable, so it's best to style it while it's still damp."

"Without hair oil, your hair might frizz and look messy..." Su'e hesitated, worried that the final hairstyle would end up looking untidy and unrefined.

Fan Xueyao insisted, and Su'e, with some reluctance, put down the hair oil, opting instead for a simple coiffure known as the "tongxin ji" – a hairstyle that was both elegant and unpretentious. Fan Xueyao then chose a white jasmine blossom from a box and fastened it into her hair.

The "Tongxin Ji" was a hairstyle of remarkable simplicity, yet it was also one of considerable selectivity. As it gathered all the hair at the nape of the neck, it had the potential to reveal any facial imperfections. However, Fan Xueyao, with her petite visage, was well-suited to this style. It not only made her face appear even more diminutive but also highlighted her delicate eyebrows and her fair complexion. Furthermore, the hairstyle endowed her with an air of elegance and dignity, avoiding any semblance of being overly ornate or antiquated, making it an ideal match for her youthfulness and social standing.

This hairstyle was compact and did not require false hair additions. Otherwise, it would need many hairpins to secure it. During intimate moments with the emperor, having too many accessories could lead to accidents, which would be considered a grave offense. If the emperor were in the mood, he could easily remove the gold hairpin securing the bun, allowing her dark tresses to fall gracefully – a truly enchanting sight.

Makeup was, of course, necessary. Even though Fan Xueyao was naturally beautiful, like dawn light on snow, she could not meet the emperor without makeup. While not wearing powder or rouge might be seen as charming later, initially, it would be disrespectful and foolish.

Her makeup was light, without any powder. She didn't want her face to leave residue on the emperor's hands or lips during intimate moments. She applied a thin layer of rouge to her cheeks and adorned her forehead with a lotus-shaped forehead sticker. She left her lips bare, as they were naturally pink and plump. The rouge here was ineffective and dry, making lip lines visible, which was unattractive.

No wonder ancient women only dabbed a little lip rouge lightly, never fully coloring their lips, as it revealed every lip line, making them look unappealing.

She applied a bit of rose-scented lip gloss from home, which, although not as vibrant as rouge, made her lips look tender and inviting.

Ge Shangqin waited in the hall, and upon hearing the announcement, everyone turned to see a young maiden approaching. She wore a pale yellow half-sleeved chiffon blouse, a jade-colored shawl draped over her arms, and a water-blue skirt. Two emerald-green sashes accentuated her chest, making her curves more prominent. A small jasmine flower was pinned into her hair.

Her brows were lightly drawn, and her face was softly flushed.

Ge Shangqin, who had read a few poems, thought to herself: Her hair is like clouds, her eyes like paintings, like a delicate orchid in a secluded valley, unparalleled in beauty. Indeed, she is.

Seeing everyone's gaze fixed on her, she smiled gently, revealing a hint of shyness and unease typical of a maiden about to engage in intimate affairs. Her eyes shimmered like autumn waters, captivating and irresistible, making anyone who saw her long to hold her close and lavish her with affection.

Ge Shangqin nodded approvingly at Fan Xueyao's appearance. Although she hadn't applied powder, the light makeup suited her, making her look naturally beautiful. After all, she was going to serve the emperor tonight, not for everyday wear. Lighter makeup was appropriate.

Some new concubines often overdid their makeup and adorned themselves excessively on their first night, but most ended up removing everything anyway. The emperor wasn't a gentleman outside the palace who would take his time; he had no patience for lengthy preparations after romantic moments. Time was precious, and he wouldn't wait an hour for someone to remove their makeup and undress.

Experienced in such matters, Ge Shangqin wrapped a large red cloak around Fan Xueyao and respectfully escorted her to the Hongning Palace.

The Hongning Palace was far grander than her small Spreading Fragrance Hall. The imperial bed alone could fit several people side by side. Beds in this era were usually only two meters wide, but this one seemed to be nearly two and a half meters wide.

Fan Xueyao couldn't help but wonder if such a large bed was designed for the emperor to indulge with multiple women. She then pondered whether the imperial bed was unique to each emperor or passed down through generations. If the latter, how many people had lain on it? Thinking further, she felt a mix of envy and disgust at the emperor's numerous conquests.

Suddenly, footsteps approached from outside, and Fan Xueyao focused on listening. Waves of chaotic heartbeats and voices surged toward her. She looked up to see a man in a dark blue robe surrounded by a group of maidservants.

Fan Xueyao quickly rose to bow, and the emperor waved his hand to dismiss everyone else, gesturing for her to come closer.

She understood and helped him remove his cloak, hanging it aside, and said, "May the Emperor be blessed."

Chu Nan called her to rise, gazing deeply at the delicate and radiant maiden before him. In Chu Nan's eyes, Fan Xueyao was like a budding flower, fresh and tender, almost dripping with dew. She wore a light chiffon dress, her skin as smooth as snow, both delicate and pure. This vulnerable yet captivating maiden stirred conflicting desires within him – to both ravish and protect her.

Chu Nan suddenly felt a tickle in his throat.

"Are you afraid?" Chu Nan asked gently, pulling her into his embrace. His hand caressed her smooth skin, hidden beneath the thin chiffon, marveling inwardly: Ancient poets often compared a woman's skin to congealed fat or snow, but now he realized these descriptions were indeed apt.

Fan Xueyao hesitated, nodding slightly, then shaking her head. She had a set of pearly white teeth, which peeked out when she smiled, adding to her charm.

"At home, Auntie Jiaoyi taught me, and the two Shangqins also instructed me thoroughly. I can handle everything else, but... everyone says it will hurt. I've always been afraid of pain..."

No woman had ever spoken to Chu Nan like this before. He had asked similar questions to previous concubines, but they always replied confidently or professed their love. Seeing the slight lift of her blushing face, her long lashes fluttering, revealing her inner fear, Chu Nan felt a surge of tenderness. He chuckled softly and reassured her, "Don't be afraid. I'll be gentle and won't hurt you."

Fan Xueyao bit her lower lip shyly, nodding slightly, her voice barely audible, "If you say you'll be careful, I'm not afraid anymore."

Chu Nan's heart softened, finding her innocence endearing. He wondered if she truly believed him or if she was just trusting him blindly. Then he realized her youth and purity were natural. The feeling of being trusted brought him comfort, like drinking warm water on a cold day. This made him even more affectionate, gently lifting her and placing her on the bed.

Fan Xueyao watched the man above her, her heart racing. She wasn't sure if her nervousness stemmed from the long wait or the fact that the man above her was the true emperor.

Chu Nan gazed into her dazed, dreamy eyes, feeling a surge of heat coursing through his veins, making his breathing quicken and stirring a warmth below. He reached for the emerald-green sash around her waist...

...

Chu Nan's large hand gently stroked Fan Xueyao's back, feeling the smooth, soft skin beneath his touch. It was more exquisite than the finest silk. The sensation was incredibly soothing and irresistible.

Even more delightful was the intimate connection, making him feel like he was floating on cloud nine. Initially, there was some discomfort due to her inexperience, but as he patiently and gently continued, the warmth grew, creating a harmonious rhythm.

As they progressed, the maiden beneath him unconsciously relaxed her lips, her mouth slightly parted, her breath quickening, and she began to emit enticing sounds.

There were many other wonderful reactions, but they need not be detailed.

Chu Nan had never experienced such responses from a woman before, and he found it fascinating. He gritted his teeth, sweating profusely, trying to prolong the moment to hear even more enchanting sounds.

When he slowed down, Fan Xueyao whimpered in discomfort, opening her hazy eyes to glare at him. But she met his curious and expectant gaze, which startled her, causing her to tighten. Chu Nan responded with a sudden surge, turning gentleness into a storm. Fan Xueyao felt like a flower or leaf tossed in a tempest, helpless and overwhelmed.

Chu Nan had never imagined himself so passionate about such intimate affairs. He had never been particularly interested in them, which was why he had only a handful of concubines before becoming the crown prince. That number was remarkably low, even for minor officials who kept dozens of beauties for pleasure. Yet, he was the crown prince!

But now, seeing Fan Xueyao's flushed face, hearing her breaths, and feeling her playful and endearing demeanor, his heart melted, wanting nothing more than to hold her close and lavish her with affection. At the same time, he couldn't resist the urge to continue, igniting another storm.

Fan Xueyao was too exhausted to keep her eyes open, only able to push him away weakly, her soft hands barely making an impact.

Chu Nan smiled, his voice gentle, coaxing her. Fan Xueyao tried to hide, her adorable attempts making Chu Nan kiss her exposed eyes.

"Be good," he coaxed, "It will be over soon."

At first, Fan Xueyao believed him, but eventually, she sobbed, accusing him of lying.

Chapter 19: Meeting the Empress

A group of female officials stood in the main hall of Hongning Palace, listening to the faint sounds of panting and moaning that carried from afar. The younger and less experienced ones had flushed cheeks, trying to maintain a composed demeanor while their eyes darted around, occasionally meeting each other's gaze, only to find similar nervousness.

"SILENCE! What decorum is this in Hongning Palace?" Ge Shangqin frowned and whispered sternly. The female officials immediately quieted down, lowering their heads and refraining from any further fidgeting.

Ge Shangqin straightened her posture, exuding the authority of a senior official. She listened intently to the sounds coming from the inner chambers, realizing it would be some time before things concluded. She was quite surprised.

Although she had only started managing the emperor's bedchambers and the consorts' visits after his ascension, it had been three years now. She had always thought the emperor was indifferent to women, but today's display was completely unexpected. It seemed not that he was indifferent, but rather that the previous consorts were not of high enough quality to pique his interest. Now, with Consort Fan Xueyao, a beauty of unparalleled grace, the emperor was clearly invigorated.

Ge Shangqin felt elated. Having an empress favored by the emperor was a good thing; the palace had not seen good news for years, causing the empress dowager and the officials to worry. However, there was little they could do about it. The emperor would only summon a consort about ten times a month, and even then, the encounters were brief—about two quarters of an hour. During busy periods, he would skip them altogether, treating it merely as a physical need.

How could a man of his age lack the vigor typical of his peers?

It was no wonder none of the consorts had conceived. The emperor was already twenty-five and had only two princesses, which made the imperial lineage seem thin. If only there were a prince, there would be hope. This time, the empress dowager had repeatedly urged the emperor to agree to the selection of new consorts. She had also instructed Ge Shangqin to observe which consorts the emperor favored and arrange more frequent visits, hoping for a prince soon.

When Fan Xueyao opened her eyes, it was already bright outside.

"Consort Fan has risen?"

As soon as she sat up, the nearby palace maids noticed and rushed over to help her get dressed. Despite her initial reluctance, Fan Xueyao, having experienced intimacy thrice, felt extremely sore and weak. Her legs felt like noodles when she stepped on the ground, but the maids supported her steadily without any fuss.

"The emperor has ordered that if Consort Fan rises, she may bathe in fragrant water before returning to Spreading Fragrance Hall," said Ge Shangqin, who had hurried over upon hearing Fan Xueyao had awakened. Two maids behind her held new clothes.

Fan Xueyao nodded, appreciating the gesture. A bath was just what she needed, especially since she was still exhausted. Last night's hasty bath had only washed away sweat, leaving her feeling unsatisfied. And then the emperor had pulled her back into bed again.

The large lacquered bathtub, capable of accommodating three or four people, was filled with half a tub of fragrant water, emitting a pleasant aroma. Fan Xueyao leaned against the backrest, her eyes half-closed, enjoying the warmth and comfort. Two maids massaged her shoulders, applying just the right pressure, making her feel even more relaxed.

No wonder these maids served the emperor; their skills were better than those of her own attendants, Yan Ran and Leng Xiang. It was truly enviable. Why did she have to be reborn as a woman? If she had been a man, perhaps she could have become an emperor herself.

Of course, that was just a joke. Starting a rebellion or seizing power was no easy feat. She had patience, but such endeavors required too much trouble and luck. Being a consort and giving birth to a son to become an empress dowager seemed easier. With proper planning and fortune, she might even ascend the throne as an empress regnant!

After a long soak, Fan Xueyao redressed and was escorted back to Spreading Fragrance Hall. Chun Tao and Feng Yun waited at the entrance, leading all the palace staff to kneel as she arrived.

The hall had been freshly cleaned, and the kitchen had prepared a table of delicate snacks, anticipating her hunger. As soon as she entered, Hua Ping and Qiao Qiao helped her sit down and asked, "Consort, it's early. Shall we serve you some snacks before heading to the empress's palace?"

Fan Xueyao, feeling hungry, nodded. "They are thoughtful. Serve them."

Xiaojin and Xiaohong brought in basins, pots, towels, fragrant ointments, and soap, ready to assist her with washing. Fan Xueyao waved them off before they approached. "Take them away. I've already bathed in Hongning Palace."

Hearing this, Xiaojin and Xiaohong beamed. "The emperor treats Consort Fan so well."

Zhu Zhu, who had brought tea, smiled as she handed it to Fan Xueyao. "I've never heard of any consort receiving such treatment before. Usually, they are taken back right after serving the emperor or early the next morning."

Fan Xueyao narrowed her almond-shaped eyes and leaned against the armrest, exuding a lazy elegance that dimmed the surrounding light. Her every gesture and smile revealed a natural allure, making everyone blush. No wonder the emperor treated her differently after just one night. Even as women, they found her captivating.

Ignoring the envy and jealousy among the maids, Fan Xueyao pondered something else. Zhu Zhu was right; usually, consorts were taken back immediately after serving the emperor or early the next morning. However, Zhu Zhu didn't mention that the empress was an exception.

Emperor Chu Nan seemed indifferent to women, unlike most emperors who summoned consorts to their chambers. He preferred to visit the consorts' quarters, except for the empress, whom he visited regularly.

Fan Xueyao considered the empress her greatest rival. The empress was legitimate and had the advantage. To win the emperor's favor, she had to compete with the empress. Her mother, Li Rong, had attended royal banquets and audiences, but her status was low due to her father's rank. Thus, her mother had only glimpsed the empress from afar, leaving a vague impression.

She had casually asked her mother about the empress, receiving vague praise about her beauty and grace. But such compliments often contained flattery, and only a real encounter would reveal the truth. Today, she would pay respects to the empress, finally getting a chance to assess her.

Lost in thought, the kitchen brought in snacks: four-colored steamed buns, sweet dew cakes, four-color soup, and a dish of cherry preserves. Fan Xueyao, tired from the night before, preferred something light. The non-greasy dishes suited her taste perfectly.

After eating two buns and sipping some soup, she gestured for the food to be removed.

"Shall Consort go to Chiaofang Palace now?" Qiao and Xiang helped her wash her hands, while Hua Ping offered tea.

Fan Xueyao rinsed her mouth and nodded. "Help me dress and style my hair."

"What hairstyle does Consort prefer today?" Hua Ping asked, unsure of her preferences.

After considering the styles, Fan Xueyao replied, "A simple Suoyun hairstyle. It's late, and we shouldn't be late for the empress's breakfast."

"Understood."

After dressing and styling her hair, Fan Xueyao checked the time, finding it still early. Taking a deep breath, she left a few maids behind and headed to Chiaofang Palace with the others.

In Chiaofang Palace, the empress had learned from the historical records that Chu Nan had summoned the first new consort. Already dressed, she awaited the new arrival. This wasn't her first time receiving a new consort, but she still felt uneasy. She knew that as the emperor, he must take new consorts, and her husband was far better than many past emperors.

Entering Chiaofang Palace, Fan Xueyao was greeted by the fragrance of musk and orchids. Several dozen maids wearing blue embroidered robes bowed as she entered. She acknowledged them and approached the empress, bowing deeply before taking her seat.

Empress Xu was in her early twenties, with above-average beauty. Her elaborate hairstyle revealed an oval face, fair skin, triangular eyes, and thick, long eyebrows painted with black ink. Her lips were painted into the popular small cherry shape.

Aside from the unappealing eyebrows, Empress Xu was quite beautiful, though her small eyes and under-eye bags made her look older and less vibrant. Whether this was natural or due to lack of sleep, it was hard to tell. Her makeup was fashionable, indicating she valued appearance.

While Fan Xueyao observed the empress, the empress studied her. At first glance, she found Consort Fan exceptionally beautiful. She had heard rumors about a particularly lovely lady named Fan, and now seeing her, she confirmed her beauty.

Dressed modestly, Fan Xueyao wore a light-colored bodice partially covered by a yellow embroidered robe, revealing a green skirt. Her hair was adorned with a few small flowers and a jade hairpin, with matching earrings.

Her slender figure and graceful demeanor lacked the immaturity typical of her age, instead exuding a refined elegance. The empress, as the wife, found it hard not to admire her, understanding why the emperor had kept her overnight in Hongning Palace.

Chapter 20: Filial Piety

"It's almost time for breakfast. Don't go back; eat with me." Empress Xu waved her hand, summoning a palace maid to inform the kitchen to prepare the meal.

She had invited her, but Fan Xueyao could not simply accept. She quickly stood up and said, "I dare not. It wouldn't be proper. I'm not defying Your Majesty's wishes, but if others found out, those who understand would know that the Empress is considerate, while those who don't might think I am frivolous and disrespectful. My daily rations are already quite generous, so I dare not impose on the Empress." She curtsied again. "It's indeed getting late, so I'll take my leave."

Empress Xu had invited Fan Xueyao to test her, as Fan Xueyao was exceptionally beautiful, and she was wary of her. Seeing that Fan Xueyao knew her place and adhered to the hierarchy, she was greatly satisfied. A woman who understands propriety is good.

She wasn't genuinely fond of Fan Xueyao and didn't insist on keeping her for the meal. Seeing her earnest refusal, she agreed. "Very well, you speak reasonably. I'll have the kitchen send a dish of stir-fried meat to your Spreading Fragrance Hall. It's Ma Shangqin's specialty. Try it when you get back. If you like it, I'll have the kitchen send it regularly."

From the moment Fan Xueyao entered the hall, Empress Xu's expression remained unchanged—dignified, noble, and benevolent. This combination exuded an air of authority. Yet, there was something about it that made one feel distant and condescending, though it was hard to pinpoint why.

It was rumored that this Empress came from humble origins, the daughter of a minor official, and entered the palace as a maid in her youth. It was then that Empress Wei, now Empress Dowager Wei, took notice of her, elevating her to her current position. There were whispers outside the court that Empress Dowager Wei favored her for her respectful demeanor. At the time, the Emperor was still a prince in a difficult situation, and Empress Dowager Wei feared that a clever princess consort might bring trouble. She certainly couldn't marry him a high-born lady.

One wonders how this Empress, who presents herself so formally to the concubines, behaves before the Emperor. Does she maintain the same demeanor or try to please him? Fan Xueyao was curious but maintained her respectful demeanor as she thanked the Empress and led her maids back to the Spreading Fragrance Hall.

After handling some important state affairs, Chu Nan put down his vermilion brush, leaned back on the couch, and closed his eyes, recalling the charming beauty from last night, a slight smile playing on his lips. Seeing Li Huairen enter with freshly brewed tea, he asked, "Did Concubine Fan return?"

Li Huairen hesitated, then bowed. "Concubine Fan has returned."

"Did she enjoy the fragrant bath I bestowed upon her?"

Li Huairen paused again, then bowed. "According to Ge Shangqin, Concubine Fan bathed for nearly two quarters of an hour, and after dressing neatly, returned to the Spreading Fragrance Hall. She appeared content and smiled pleasantly, indicating she was very pleased."

Hearing this, Chu Nan's expression softened and became more joyful. He felt restless, as if a cat's tail was flicking inside him, making him want to do something. He knew he wanted to summon Fan Xueyao again, but considering it was her first night of favor, her body must be tired. He couldn't bear to burden her with another night of service. Besides, there were fifty new concubines, and he couldn't favor just one.

Despite knowing this, Chu Nan still felt somewhat discontent. The pleasure he experienced last night surpassed that of his other concubines. He felt almost as if he would be settling for less by going to another.

"Open the treasury and fetch the set of peach blossom fuchsite jewelry, along with a few rolls of the latest silk fabrics, and send them to the Spreading Fragrance Hall," Chu Nan thought of Fan Xueyao's charming appearance last night and felt that the peach blossom design suited her perfectly.

Li Huairen knew about the peach blossom fuchsite jewelry; it was a rare treasure from the Western Regions. Wan Zhaoyi had admired it, expecting to receive it as a gift, but the Emperor never mentioned it again. Wan Zhaoyi had hinted at wanting it, but the Emperor refused.

He also learned from Ge Shangqin that Fan Xueyao had served the Emperor well last night, lasting for a long time. It seemed the Emperor truly favored her. Thus, Li Huairen decided to keep a close eye on Fan Xueyao.

Receiving such lavish gifts after just one night of service delighted Fan Xueyao. Not only did it signify the Emperor's favor, but the gifts themselves were exactly what she desired. Her family was not wealthy, and although they were considered well-off among their peers, they couldn't compare to the truly affluent families. Her mother had brought much money into the palace, depleting her savings, while others could easily afford such luxuries.

She couldn't expect further financial support from home anytime soon, and her business ventures were still in their infancy. These gifts saved her money and pleased the Emperor, achieving both goals.

Fan Xueyao happily examined each piece of jewelry. The peach blossom fuchsite set included a hairpin, a hair ornament, a headdress, a heart-shaped pendant, four flower headpins, a pair of earrings, and a necklace.

She especially loved the necklace, with its sparkling jewels, golden accents, pink fuchsite, red carnelian, and brilliant gold, all harmoniously combined. Holding it, she couldn't resist trying it on, admiring herself in the bronze mirror. The jewelry complemented her fair skin beautifully.

"The Emperor's gift truly suits you, Concubine. The gems are vibrant, and your skin is as white as snow, like morning light on snow, radiant and dazzling," Huaping recorded the items while Qiaoqiao, serving beside Fan Xueyao, marveled at the necklace's beauty and praised her.

Fan Xueyao chuckled. "Your words are sweeter than honey today."

Qiaoqiao blushed, though she meant every word. She was eager to please, hoping to become a trusted confidante. Seeing Fan Xueyao's appreciation for Huaping, she felt a bit anxious.

"Don't tease me, Concubine," Qiaoqiao said seriously. "I'm not flattering you. Even the Emperor chose this gift, proving my words are true."

Fan Xueyao smiled, gently touching the peach blossom pendant.

These exquisite pieces were too precious to wear immediately, which was a shame. She had just left a good impression on the Empress and needed to be cautious. Appearing too ostentatious might provoke the Empress's disapproval, which would be detrimental.

The Empress was the Empress, standing in the rightful position. Fan Xueyao had no leverage against her yet. She needed to remain low-key.

Discretion was familiar to her. Playing the fool to catch the tiger was a skill she mastered.

In addition to the jewelry, Chu Nan bestowed several rolls of fabric—silk, brocade, and satin, in various colors. Huaping recorded them, and Fan Xueyao asked, "How many rolls of gauze did the Emperor give?"

Huaping remembered clearly. "Four rolls: two of light gauze, one of Wu gauze, and one of patterned gauze. The Wu gauze and patterned gauze are pearl white and silver red. The light gauze is lilac and autumn fragrance color."

Fan Xueyao nodded, appreciating the colors' versatility. Since she had everything she needed, she decided to use the lilac light gauze to embroider a sachet.

With the sun shining brightly, she moved to the corridor, enjoying the fresh air. The palace maids arranged a couch, armrests, and tables, but Fan Xueyao stopped them from burning incense. They settled her comfortably in the courtyard.

The corridor was lined with lilies, their faint scent mingling with the grass, refreshing her senses. She preferred natural scents over heavy incense.

Qiaoqiao offered, "Shall I pick some flowers for you, Concubine?"

"No, thank you," Fan Xueyao declined, seeing Qiaoqiao's disappointment. "Let's pass the time by embroidering sachets. Whoever does the best will get an extra dish from the kitchen tonight."

The maids' eyes lit up. Having never enjoyed such privileges, they eagerly began. Huaping, being clever, asked, "What kind of patterns do you prefer, Concubine?"

Fan Xueyao thought and replied honestly. She liked a wide range of designs, particularly floral and bird motifs, but disliked geometric patterns, finding them old-fashioned.

With this guidance, everyone started working. Fan Xueyao sat on the couch, leaning on the armrest, playing a game of Go with herself for entertainment. After a couple of rounds, feeling tired, she lay down for a nap.

After some time, Zhu Zhu, who hadn't joined the competition, woke her up. "Concubine, it's getting late. Let's go inside. You might catch a chill from the evening breeze."

Rubbing her eyes, Fan Xueyao got up, feeling dizzy. The sunlight had blurred her vision. She was supported by two maids as she entered the hall, sipping hot tea to clear her mind. She mused that she shouldn't sleep outside anymore, but the warmth and fresh air were too tempting. Perhaps she should make an eye mask.

The dinner sent by the kitchen was more sumptuous than usual, including a dish of yellow croaker, which was not typically part of her rations. The young maid explained respectfully, "This is a special dish prepared by Ma Shangqin, using fresh yellow croaker caught this morning."