Indeed—
Le Yao Yao looked at Nangong Junxi with a playful smile, a smile that, in Nangong Junxi's eyes, was filled with mischief.
It made Nangong Junxi feel a shiver run down his spine.
However, before he could think too much about it, he saw Le Yao Yao suddenly act as if she were seeing him for the first time. She skipped around him and then exclaimed, "Wow, I didn't expect the Seventh Prince to have such flawless, fair skin! I wonder what skincare products the Seventh Prince used before!?"
Everyone has a desire to be beautiful, and that includes men!
Moreover, for a vain man like Nangong Junxi, although he felt somewhat puzzled by Le Yao Yao's words, it was clear that everyone loves to hear compliments. Nangong Junxi was very pleased with what Le Yao Yao said.
Thus, he quickly suppressed his earlier discomfort and with a snap, took out a Jade Folding Fan from his waist. He opened it and began to fan himself gracefully.
A proud smile appeared on his handsome face.
"Hehe, this prince is naturally gifted with beauty and needs no skincare!"
"Hehe, that's true! The Seventh Prince's skin is so fair and tender that even women can't compare! With those good looks, if you just draw your eyebrows a bit and apply some lip color, wearing a beautiful dress would surely make even the top courtesan step aside!"
As Le Yao Yao spoke, the smile on Nangong Junxi's face gradually froze.
Eventually, he realized that Le Yao Yao's sudden change in demeanor and continuous flattery had an ulterior motive, and that motive was—
"With the talent of the Seventh Prince, if he were to dress as a lady, he would surely outshine all others. Now, on behalf of our innocent girl from All-Day Yuan, I would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the Seventh Prince for his great kindness. We will never forget it!"
Le Yao Yao spoke with such emotion that it seemed she was genuinely thanking Nangong Junxi.
In the end, she even pretended to dab at her eyes with the corner of her garment, her shoulders shaking slightly. At first glance, it appeared she was moved to tears, but in reality, she was stifling laughter.
Nangong Junxi was no fool; he understood her act.
The others present were also clever and quickly caught on to Le Yao Yao's little trick. They couldn't help but chuckle quietly to themselves.
Moreover, they found this little eunuch increasingly amusing.
After all, in this world, which servant would be bold enough to scheme against a prince!?
Le Yao Yao was truly a unique oddity!
Contrary to what everyone else thought, at that moment, Le Yao Yao was secretly reveling in her own amusement.
Hmph!
You think you can compete with me? You're still too inexperienced!
If you want to play tricks on me by dressing in women's clothing, then why don't you try it yourself!
Besides, during this time, Le Yao Yao had encountered quite a few eunuchs within the royal residence.
The eunuchs who entered the royal residence all came from impoverished backgrounds.
Because of their family's poor conditions, these servants had to help with rough chores from a young age, resulting in their skin being quite rough, with only a few remaining relatively smooth. The rest were rather unattractive.
Even if they applied a thick layer of powder on their faces, it could not hide the fact that they were men.
Thus, there was a pressing need for suitable candidates! Even if Nangong Junxi refused now, he had no choice but to comply.
After hearing Le Yao Yao's words, Nangong Junxi gritted his teeth in frustration towards her.
Especially when he looked at her smug little face.
She resembled a spirited little fox, brimming with pride, which made him feel an overwhelming urge to pull her into his arms and give her a good thrashing.
But now, he didn’t know what to say!
He was already in a difficult position, and now he wondered if he was just digging his own grave.
After Leng Junyu instructed the Chief Eunuch, within less than an incense stick's time, all the eligible eunuchs and young attendants had gathered in the training square.
In Duke Rui's Residence, because the lord despised women, there were only a few Aunts in the kitchen; otherwise, there were no other women in the residence.
Moreover, the lord had decreed that no other women were allowed in the residence. Even relatives or daughters of acquaintances were strictly prohibited.
If someone broke the rules, the lighter punishment was to pack up and leave, while the heavier punishment involved a beating before being sent away.
After all, without rules, nothing could be accomplished. Working at Duke Rui's Residence required strict adherence to regulations, and favoritism or corruption was absolutely forbidden. If anyone were to find out, the consequences would be unimaginable.
At this moment, Le Yao Yao followed behind Leng Junyu, observing the neatly arranged lines in the square.
After the Chief Eunuch's report, it turned out that only one hundred individuals met the criteria within Duke Rui's Residence.
However, among them, very few had a delicate appearance that could pass as a woman without being discovered.
In the end, after much selection, only thirty young eunuchs aged between thirteen and eighteen were chosen.
Due to the lack of numbers, even Nangong Junxi's earlier thoughts of backing out were dispelled.
Although he felt somewhat awkward and wronged about having to disguise himself as a woman, at least he would have company in this endeavor. Thinking about it this way made Nangong Junxi feel much more balanced.
Little did he know that Le Yao Yao's true gender was actually female...
After selecting some suitable young eunuchs, everyone remained busy since in just three days, the annual Talent Show would take place.
Thus, under Leng Junyu's arrangement, the Chief Eunuch hurriedly had everyone choose their strengths so they could rehearse well over the next few days.
However, all of them came from impoverished backgrounds and had little understanding of any talents. But now there was no choice but to make do!
Among those chosen, there was Little Muzi.
For that one or two silver coins, Little Muzi was actually very happy after being selected.
After all, he only earned two silver coins a month, which he gave entirely to his family. However, there were simply too many younger siblings at home, so even though he sent all his monthly salary back, it was still not enough.
Therefore, this time, after receiving that one silver coin, Little Muzi felt incredibly good.
His face, which could only be considered fair-looking, was filled with vibrant energy and a bright smile, making Le Yao Yao feel a pang of sadness in her heart.
After all, if Little Muzi were in modern times, he would still just be a high school student!
But now, he had to bear the weight of the family, and he was also very easily satisfied.
After receiving one silver coin, he seemed as if he had gained the whole world in satisfaction.
Moreover, he wasn’t spending that silver coin on himself; it was for his family.
Watching him tightly clutch that silver coin as if afraid it would disappear made Le Yao Yao feel a deep sense of pity for him.
In her heart, she silently vowed that she would make something of herself and build a career here.
Even if she couldn’t become wealthy, she would ensure that Little Muzi lived well.
After all, Little Muzi was the closest person to her in this world…
As Le Yao Yao was lost in thought, Little Muzi, after rambling on about the uses of the two silver coins, suddenly seemed to remember something. She nudged Le Yao Yao and curiously asked,
"By the way, Xiaoyaozi, just now Chief Eunuch said that each of us selected must perform a talent on the day of the Talent Show. What are you going to perform?"
"Let me think..."
In truth, Le Yao Yao hadn't considered this at all.
However, she wasn't worried about the Talent Show at all.
After all, in the twenty-first century, her favorite and strongest skill was performing.
Whether it was reciting poetry, acting in a play, singing, or dancing, none of it posed a challenge for her.
What she was contemplating now was simply what to perform on that day.
Moreover, although the competition might be fake, surely the prizes wouldn't be fake!?
Thinking of this, Le Yao Yao suddenly had a spark of inspiration. She clapped her hands and jumped up from her seat, exclaiming,
"Oh right! I almost forgot! Even though this Talent Show is fake, there should definitely be prizes! Hehe, with how rich the prince is, he surely won't be stingy with that!"
Just the thought of the prizes made Le Yao Yao feel as if she had been injected with adrenaline.
After all, she was unfamiliar with this place and desperately needed money...
After thinking of this, Le Yao Yao hurriedly made her way toward the Elegant Breeze Pavilion, ignoring the puzzled expression on Little Muzi's face.
Just then, Mei and Xing had just come out of the study. Upon seeing Le Yao Yao's excited and surprised expression, they merely raised their eyebrows in curiosity.
Xing smirked teasingly at Le Yao Yao and said, "Xiaoyaozi, what's going on? Did you find some gold? Look at how excited you are!"
"Hehe, Brother Xing, Brother Mei, hello!" Le Yao Yao greeted them with a radiant smile.
After all, Mei and Xing were older than her, so it was normal for her to greet them this way. However, that was just her own perspective.
Hearing Le Yao Yao call them "brother" for the first time made both Mei and Xing raise their eyebrows in surprise.
However, Mei quickly returned to his usual cold demeanor, neither agreeing nor denying it, simply giving Le Yao Yao a slight nod.
As for Xing, hearing Le Yao Yao sweetly call him "brother" made his heart feel as if it were filled with honey; he felt a bit lightheaded.
After all, they, as Shadow Guards, were seen by others merely as servants to the prince. Even when people encountered them, they were only referred to as Shadow Guard Xing or Shadow Guard Mei.
Le Yao Yao's natural way of addressing them as "brother" felt fresh and friendly to them. Their fondness for her deepened even more.
After all, they had always served the prince loyally, and the prince's affairs were their own affairs.
The last incident involving the West River and South River had everyone in a frenzy. They were no exception.
During that time, they had worked tirelessly alongside the prince for three days and nights without rest. Seeing the prince's anxious demeanor over the matter made them feel a deep sense of sympathy.
So, when this little eunuch, Le Yao Yao, managed to devise a solution to the drought and flood crisis, their perception of him began to change.
Especially with the way the prince had been treating this little eunuch lately; they were not blind and could clearly see the difference.
However, even though this little eunuch was gradually gaining the prince's attention, Mei and Xing felt no envy or jealousy in their hearts.
After all, despite being nominally under the prince's command, they had fought alongside him for many years and held a deep respect and concern for him.
Moreover, they had previously thought that the prince was too reclusive. Despite possessing immense power, status, and wealth, he seemed unable to smile, as if he had no understanding of emotions at all.
Although they did not know much about emotions themselves.
Their identities were different from that of the prince.
They were Shadow Guards, who did not require emotions but only needed to be loyal to the prince.
Yet, they hoped for the prince to find happiness and live like a normal person!
Now, thanks to this little eunuch, the prince was gradually beginning to show some warmth towards others.
And he was starting to smile.
Therefore, Mei and Xing were also happy for the prince.
As for Le Yao Yao, it was naturally a bit different.
Le Yao Yao was unaware of Mei and Xing's thoughts. After hearing Xing's words, she simply smiled and said, "Brother Xing, is the prince inside?"
"Yes, he is!"
"Great, then I'll go in first."
Upon hearing this, Le Yao Yao darted in like a joyful little sparrow.
Watching her radiant smile, Star and Mei couldn't help but soften their expressions.
"Hehe, she really is an interesting little eunuch!"
...
When Le Yao Yao entered the study, Leng Junyu was sitting at the desk, deeply engrossed in a thick book.
Meanwhile, Nangong Junxi was idly surveying the surroundings of the study, as if looking for something to read or just passing the time.
After all, he knew his senior brother well; once he started reading, he would be completely focused, making it difficult for anyone to disturb him.
Just then, Le Yao Yao burst in with an excited expression, instantly transforming the previously bored Nangong Junxi as if he had been injected with adrenaline. His handsome face swept away the earlier disinterest.
His strikingly beautiful eyes sparkled with a brilliant light.
Perhaps he hadn’t even noticed his own unusual reaction!
Le Yao Yao was oblivious to this as well. Once she entered the study, all her thoughts were focused on the living Yama, who was deeply engrossed in his book.
It was noon, and outside, the sky was clear with no clouds, and the sun shone brightly.
The breeze carried a hint of warmth; summer had arrived.
The man wore a thin dark blue Long Robe, secured at the waist with a simple belt.
His Long Hair flowed like a waterfall, held back by a dark blue hairband.
Today, the living Yama appeared somewhat casual. However, even so, every movement he made exuded an innate elegance and nobility that captivated those around him.
Especially at this moment, as he lowered his head, fully absorbed in his reading.
Such seriousness was enchanting!
Seeing this, Le Yao Yao felt a jolt in her heart, as if an electric current had surged through her.
She couldn’t help but marvel inwardly; it turned out that the way the living Yama read was also so mesmerizing…
As Le Yao Yao pondered to herself, she remained completely unaware of a gaze that had been fixed on her since she entered the room.
Upon her arrival, her eyes were glued to Leng Junyu, not blinking even once, as if in his eyes, there was only Leng Junyu. This feeling of being ignored left Nangong Junxi feeling quite uncomfortable.
He muttered to himself in frustration.
Could it be that his charm couldn't compete with that of the senior brother!?
No way!?
In fact, he thought he looked quite good! Walking down the street, which girl didn’t throw him flirtatious glances!?
Moreover, the senior brother had a cold, icy demeanor; it seemed that just looking at him for a bit longer would leave one feeling chilled. He couldn't understand what this Little Servant saw in that iceberg instead of his own radiant sunshine...
Nangong Junxi continued to grumble internally, completely oblivious to the fact that at that moment, he resembled a child who couldn’t get any candy—feeling very jealous.
After seeing Le Yao Yao enter, he noticed her staring blankly at his senior brother, remaining in that dazed state for quite some time. Finally unable to hold back any longer, Nangong Junxi spoke up with a hint of anger.
"I say, you little servant! Do you even understand the rules!? You come in here and don’t even bother to greet us! Do you think just because you contributed an idea this time, you've forgotten your place!?"
With Nangong Junxi's displeased words, not only did Leng Junyu glance over slightly, but even Le Yao Yao, who had been lost in thought, slowly came back to her senses.
Following the source of the displeasure in the voice, Le Yao Yao blinked in surprise as she realized that there were indeed other people in the room!
As Le Yao Yao looked at Nangong Junxi's arrogant face, she couldn't help but raise a middle finger in her heart.
Damn it!
Status, status!
Yes, she Le Yao Yao was just a lowly eunuch now! She couldn't compare to their noble identities, but what was so great about him being a prince? He was merely fortunate enough to be born into the Imperial Family. Without that status, he was nothing at all!
Moreover, he was just a guest in someone else's royal residence, yet he acted more arrogantly than the host. The real master hadn't even spoken yet! What was he angry about? It was utterly ridiculous!
Le Yao Yao's dissatisfaction with Nangong Junxi deepened at this moment as she continued to grumble internally.
However, she was currently under someone else's roof and had to lower her head. After all, she was a eunuch now!
Thinking this, Le Yao Yao immediately put on a look of fear and trepidation. She lowered her head, narrowed her eyes, bent at the waist, and spoke with an expression full of apology and timidity.
"Your Highness, may you be blessed. Seventh Prince, may you be blessed. Just now, I did not forget my status; I simply saw that Your Highness was reading and did not dare to disturb you. Please forgive me."
Le Yao Yao directed these words at Leng Junyu. Although her tone was humble, it cleverly sidestepped the reason for her earlier lack of respect.
Leng Junyu observed Le Yao Yao's submissive demeanor, her head bowed low as if she were somewhat timid and afraid. Seeing this, his handsome brows furrowed slightly. He then cast a cold glance at Nangong Junxi.
Though there was no reproach in his gaze, it made Nangong Junxi feel somewhat uncomfortable.
Could it be that his senior brother was blaming him? After all, she was just a servant; why would his senior brother care so much?
Nangong Junxi felt a bit displeased, his beautiful Red Lips slightly pouting, resembling a child vying for attention.
It was no wonder; despite his noble status, Nangong Junxi was only seventeen this year, just a half-grown child!
It was natural for him to be a bit unruly and restless.
Leng Junyu understood his junior brother's personality well. He knew that while Nangong Junxi wasn't bad-natured, he and Le Yao Yao seemed like sworn enemies from a past life. Every time they met, the two would inevitably clash.
Having seen this many times, he had naturally grown accustomed to it.
Thinking of this, Leng Junyu lowered his gaze again and said without turning back, "What do you want with me?"
Hearing the tone of the living Yama—deep, indifferent, and cold—yet lacking any reproach, Le Yao Yao felt relieved. Remembering the purpose of her visit, she immediately lifted her flushed Little Face from running and excitedly looked at Leng Junyu, asking, "Your Highness, although this Talent Show is fake, there are still ten young ladies participating. I wonder if those who perform well will receive any prizes!"
"Prizes!?"
Upon hearing Le Yao Yao's words, Leng Junyu's handsome face momentarily froze. Then he raised his cold and proud yet strikingly handsome face. His Cold Eyes swept over to Le Yao Yao.
At that moment, Le Yao Yao's large and round Beautiful Eyes were fixed intently on Leng Junyu's face, as if afraid to miss any expression that crossed it.
Moreover, she was the kind of person whose thoughts were easily reflected on her face. Thus, when Leng Junyu looked up and saw the excitement and anticipation on Le Yao Yao's Little Face, he immediately understood her little thoughts.
He had never really thought about this issue before. In fact, this Talent Show was just a facade, and something unexpected could happen.
But now, when his gaze met the expectant eyes of the Little One before him, his heart softened involuntarily.
The expression on his face gradually became gentler.
After all, the little eunuch's eyes were filled with such anticipation and longing that it was hard to refuse.
So, after a long silence, Leng Junyu finally spoke up.
"Am I the kind of person who would be stingy!?"
"Huh?"
Upon hearing Leng Junyu's words, Le Yao Yao's delicate face momentarily froze, but she quickly understood what he meant.
Oh, by saying that, he was indicating that there would be prizes for this Talent Show!?
Thinking of this, Le Yao Yao felt as if she had struck gold; her lips curled into a radiant smile.
Her eyes sparkled with joy, and her red lips revealed a row of white teeth.
That smile was so innocent, bright, clear, and beautiful.
It was like a warm spring breeze slowly blowing into one's heart, bringing with it the essence of spring.
Seeing this, Leng Junyu couldn't help but smile lightly, the coolness of his thin lips curving slightly.
As he looked at Le Yao Yao with his cold eyes, a gentle expression gradually appeared on his face.
However, watching the two of them share a smile, Nangong Junxi felt increasingly uncomfortable.
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