In the deep palace of the Zhou Dynasty, with the consolidation of power by Emperor Han Yu, the harem also began to experience new changes.
The emperor gradually included young concubines, most of whom came from influential families, including daughters of high-ranking officials, as well as noblewomen offered by relatives and the royal family.
With the addition of new members, Chen Feng'er Queen found herself facing a whole new situation.
These concubines, each from different prestigious families, carry the expectations and complex backgrounds of their families as they step into the depths of the palace.
In the past, emperors often visited the empress's bedroom to spend time with her.
However, with the arrival of new concubines, if they are not summoned, it may disappoint the ministers.
In the magnificent palace of the Zhou Dynasty, Emperor Han Yu sat on the dragon throne, with a hint of imperceptible fatigue showing between his brows.
The eunuch respectfully held up a piece of paper, densely filled with the names of the palace concubines.
"Your Majesty, this is the list of concubines available for your visit today," the eunuch whispered, trembling as he presented the list.
Han Yu took the list and scanned it with deep, searching eyes. Besides the name Chen Feng'er, the list also included names such as Su Wanyi, Han Wanrong, Lin Zhi Ruo, Luo Ling, Wei Wanqing, and Li Yao.
His gaze finally settled on one name, the only daughter of this minister, a beautiful and talented woman.
Han Yu's lips curled slightly, seemingly quite satisfied with this choice.
"Tonight, let her come." Han Yu said lightly, his voice carrying unquestionable authority.
The eunuch immediately complied and quickly stepped back to deliver the order. Han Yu then set aside the list, with a hint of complexity flashing in his eyes.
Among these new concubines, one in particular stands out. She is Han Wanrong, the daughter of the current Grand Commandant, Han Weikang.
Han Weikang is the Grand Commandant of the current dynasty, in charge of the Grand Marshal's office, responsible for the assessment of military officers nationwide. At the end of each year, he evaluates their performance and reports to the emperor, providing the basis for the promotion or demotion of military officers.
A figure with considerable influence among court officials. His daughter, Han Wanrong, is renowned for her unparalleled beauty and profound literary accomplishments.
Upon learning this news, Chen Feng'er felt some internal turmoil, but she still maintained her usual composure and wisdom.
She knew that in this palace woven with power and conspiracy, every step needed to be taken with caution.
Today, Chen Feng'er and the second-rank concubine Chen Huang'er were taking a walk in Shanglin Garden when they unexpectedly encountered Han Wanrong.
Han Wanrong was wearing an exquisite palace dress, with a light and graceful demeanor, revealing a subtle and barely noticeable tension.
"Your Majesty, Han Wanrong pays respects to the Mrs. Wang and Consort Jiayu." Han Wanrong respectfully bowed, her voice soft and clear.
Chen Feng'er smiled slightly and returned the greeting, saying, " beauty Li, no need for such formality, please rise." Her tone carried a hint of unquestionable authority, but also revealed gentleness.
Chen Huang'er smiled slightly and his eyes showed a hint of friendliness, saying, " beauty Han, there's no need for such formality, we are all part of the palace."
Han Wanrong heard Chen Huang'er's words and a hint of gratitude flashed in her eyes. She responded softly, "Thank you, Your Majesty, Consort Jiayu. Han Wanrong is extremely grateful."
Three people continued to stroll in the garden, and Chen Feng'er's gaze fell on the peony blossoming on the side.
She stopped and carefully admired it, then said to Han Wanrong and Chen Huang'er, "Look at this peony, it blooms gorgeously, but it also has to endure wind, frost, rain, and snow. The palace is the same, appearing splendid on the surface, but in reality, it is full of challenges."
Han Wanrong and Chen Huang'er nodded at the same time, both understanding the meaning behind Chen Feng'er's words. Within these palace walls, every step must be cautious, and every word must be carefully considered.
Empress Chen then turned to Li Wanrong and asked in a calm tone, "Is Miss Han accustomed to life in the palace?"
Han Wanrong was slightly startled, then replied, "In response to Your Highness, this servant is still slowly adapting. The rules in the palace are numerous, and this servant is working hard to learn."
Chen Feng'er turned to Han Wanrong and asked, " beauty Han, is there anything about palace life that you find difficult to adapt to? If so, please speak up, we will do our best to help."
Han Wanrong slightly lowered her head and spoke with a hint of humility: "Your Majesty, everything is fine for this servant in the palace, but sometimes I find the intricate rituals a bit challenging."
Chen Jieyu added softly, "There are indeed many rules in the palace, but you will get used to it gradually. If there's anything you don't understand, you can come to me anytime."
Han Wanrong nodded gratefully, her eyes revealing gratitude towards Chen Huang'er: "Thank you, Consort Jiayu. Han Wanrong will definitely work hard and not disappoint Your Highness's expectations."
"Thank you, Empress Mother." Han Wanrong stood up, her eyes showing admiration for Chen Feng'er.
Chen Feng'er nodded. She understood Han Wanrong's thoughts and also knew how high the expectations of her family behind her were.
She said softly, "The most important thing in this palace is to maintain a calm heart. Regardless of the wind and rain, we must adhere to our true selves."
Han Wanrong listened to Chen Feng'er's words and couldn't help but feel a hint of admiration in her heart. She knew that in the face of the Empress's wisdom and far-sightedness, she still had a long way to go.
At this moment, a distant sound of footsteps could be heard. It was a message from Emperor Han Yu's guard, announcing that the emperor had decreed to summon Beauty Han to attend him tonight.
Empress Chen couldn't help but feel a tightening in her heart. She knew what this meant. Taking a deep breath, she maintained a calm expression on her face, but a hint of complex emotions flashed in her eyes.
"Madam, are you alright?" Han Wanrong asked with concern in her eyes.
Chen Feng'er smiled slightly, hiding her inner turmoil. "I'm fine, Miss Li. You don't need to worry. This is the Emperor's favor, you should cherish it."
Han Wanrong nodded, a hint of gratitude flashing in her eyes: "Thank you for the reminder, I will keep it in mind."
After speaking, beauty Han hurried back to prepare.
Chen Huang'er, as a Second-rank concubine, quietly observed everything around her. Her eyes revealed admiration for Empress Chen and curiosity about Han Wanrong.
She softly said to Chen Feng'er, "Your Highness, your fair and kind treatment of every concubine in the palace sets a great example for us all."
Chen Feng'er turned around and smiled at Chen Huang'er, saying, " Hang'er, harmony is most important in the harem. We are all part of this palace, supporting each other is the only way to overcome every difficulty together."
Chen Huang'er nodded in understanding, a hint of determination flashing in her eyes: "I will definitely remember the teachings of my sister, Hang'er."
Han Wanrong was notified that she would be attending to the emperor tonight, and she felt both nervous and excited.
She stood in front of the bronze mirror, carefully grooming herself. Her face was adorned with light makeup, enhancing her beauty.
The palace maids surrounded her, carefully grooming her hair and dressing her in gorgeous attire.
In Han Wanrong's eyes, a complex mix of emotions shimmered, knowing that tonight would be a turning point in her life.
"Wanrong, tonight you must be extra careful in serving the Emperor," a senior palace maid whispered with concern in her eyes.
Han Wanrong nodded, a hint of determination in her eyes. "I understand. Thank you for your advice and concern, Mrs. Fang."
When Han Wanrong stepped into the emperor's bedroom, her heart couldn't help but race.
The candlelight flickered in the sleeping chamber, illuminating the entire room with a mysterious and solemn atmosphere.
Emperor Han Yu sat on the bed, his gaze falling on Han Wanrong, with a hint of admiration in his eyes.
Han Wanrong approached and bowed respectfully.
"Greetings, Your Majesty," her voice was as soft as a mosquito's buzz, yet carried a subtle, unnoticeable determination.
Han Yu nodded slightly, indicating for her to rise. His gaze was gentle, yet carried an irresistible dignity: "Han Wanrong, I am pleased that you have come to attend to me tonight."
Comment 0 Comment Count