The Noble Consort is the most favored in the harem

Chapter 15 - Gifts of Small Dishes

"Eunuch Dong, please rise."

Lin Wanyi said politely, somewhat surprised by the arrival of Dong Yuzhong. She thought to herself how timely the emperor was in sending gifts. She had just "caused" trouble in the Linzhi Palace, and now he was rushing here to add fuel to the fire? Truly, some people just loved to watch the excitement.

But all these thoughts were kept to herself, and she maintained a gentle and calm demeanor.

Dong Yuzhong waved his hand, and two young eunuchs followed behind him, carrying a brocade tray. What was laid out was not some rare and precious treasures, but rather two ordinary side dishes meant for congee.

The others were puzzled, but Lin Wanyi was the one genuinely astonished.

Wasn't this the same side dish that accompanied the fish congee last night? She had felt too embarrassed to use them then. Could it be that the emperor had noticed and decided to send them over for her to taste today?

Seeing everyone in a daze, Dong Yuzhong immediately explained,

"His Majesty said he noticed that the little mistress seemed to like them yesterday, so he specially sent them for you to try today. If you like them, he'll have the imperial kitchen send them over to you regularly."

In this palace, gifts of gold and silver existed, as did those of silk and satin. Even the finest food had to be carefully prepared over time. Two simple dishes didn't quite convey the emperor's intent.

If it was a sign of favor, it seemed a bit undignified.

But if it wasn't a sign of favor, this was still the first gift bestowed upon a newly promoted concubine.

Mu Daying suppressed her curiosity and glanced at Lin Wanyi beside her, who remained calm. She immediately turned to the young eunuch and said,

"His Majesty's kindness is greatly appreciated. Xiao Luzi, please accept them quickly."

"Yes, my lady."

"Since the items have been delivered, this old servant shall take my leave."

"Eunuch Dong, please walk slowly."

After saying this, they had someone escort Dong Yuzhong out, and Lin Wanyi sat at the table, looking at the two dishes and falling into thought.

Had she been so obvious last night?

Or was the emperor acting deliberately to shake her up? After pondering for a while without coming to a conclusion, she suddenly recalled what her father had once said before she entered the palace:

"The emperor ascended the throne young, and his thoughts are beyond what others can comprehend. Rather than hide things from him, it might be better to be straightforward; perhaps then you might gain some stability."

Thinking this way, she felt more at ease regarding the two dishes.

"Sister, sister..."

Lin Wanyi was pulled out of her thoughts by Mu Daying's calls. When she looked up, she saw her still wearing that pure expression from their first meeting.

"Forgive me for laughing at you, I'm accustomed to sleeping in late at home. Now that I'm in the palace, I'm up early, and I'm a bit dazed."

"In that case, I won't disturb you much. I'll come to talk with you another day."

"Alright, take your time."

"Don't worry, sister."

After sending Mu Daying off, Lin Wanyi finally let out a sigh of relief.