The Enchanting Imperial Concubine (Book 2)

Chapter 246 - Changes

Time passed quickly, and soon it was early March.

According to the schedule set by the Ministry of Rites in February, this year's selection of talented women would begin on March 12 and last for a month.

Thus, by early March, the capital was already bustling with activity.

The talented women from various regions gathered together, and it was said that all the major jewelry and clothing shops were packed every day.

If there's one thing that makes the Nan Qi Dynasty particularly humane, it's the fact that the selection of women is entirely voluntary; there's no rule that requires the daughters of officials to participate.

Otherwise, this year, the age-appropriate Ye Lian would have no way to escape it.

Ning Chen had been busy these past few days, and he hadn't entered the inner palace for half a month. The inner palace, which had calmed down somewhat due to his absence, became lively again at the beginning of the month because of the upcoming selection.

It was also due to a visit of courtesy that the Empress suddenly brought it up.

"The list of talented women entering the palace this year has been submitted. I took a look, and they are all excellent girls with both talent and beauty. With new faces coming in, you all should be cordial and not bully them at will. It's rare to add some new colors to the palace, and it's also for the Emperor's descendants."

"Oh dear, Your Majesty, you should speak to Ming Xiurong about this directly. How could we bully anyone? The one who should really temper her temper is none other than Ming Xiurong," Shu Fei replied sarcastically.

Ye Yun cast a glance at her, and a cold smile appeared on her lips.

"My temperament has been like this since I was young. I've been in the palace for three years and haven't changed a single day. I usually keep to myself; as long as no one provokes me, I can't be bothered with anyone."

Her gaze shifted again to the Empress.

"But if someone breaks the palace rules first, I won't just let it slide. Empress, don't you agree?"

This was quite clear.

"If no one offends me, I won't offend anyone; if anyone dares to provoke me, I won't be polite."

Change my temper? Don't even think about it for a lifetime.

The Empress lowered her gaze, chuckling softly as she shook her head. "You, you... It's no wonder the Emperor likes you; you always have such a childlike disposition, very straightforward. The palace has always been strict with rewards and punishments, and Ming Xiurong should also pay attention."

"Thank you, Your Majesty, for your guidance. I will definitely abide by the palace rules," Ye Yun said, curling her lips into a slight smile and nodding.

Having reprimanded her adequately, the Empress then turned her attention to another matter.

"De Fei, how has the Second Prince been lately? I haven't seen that child for a while."

"Responding to Your Majesty, the Second Prince is in good health and growing quickly. He walks steadily now and can speak. Just yesterday, he called me 'Mother,' which made me very happy," Jing De Fei replied.

As she spoke, Jing De Fei's entire demeanor softened, and the warmth in her eyes radiated genuine affection.

Looking at her, it was clear that she cherished the Second Prince as if he were her own flesh and blood.

However, the Empress found this expression of maternal love painfully jarring.

Having also experienced a miscarriage, she still had no child, while Jing De Fei had the Second Prince. The path she had prepared for herself had been taken by another; how could she feel comfortable with that?