The selection of new consorts had progressed considerably, and today marked the official ceremony. Those selected would receive a flower, signifying their imminent entry into the palace by imperial decree three days hence. Those who were not chosen would be presented with a sachet and sent home to proceed with their regular marriages.
Nan Ziyun had initially planned to sleep in. However, upon hearing that the selection was today, she immediately rose to join the festivities. It wasn't out of curiosity, but rather because she had heard that Yu Jingchen would also be present.
"Consort Chen Shu arrives!"
Yu Jingchen was somewhat surprised when Nan Ziyun appeared. Had the girl decided not to sleep in today? As soon as she entered, all eyes turned to her.
"Your Majesty!" Nan Ziyun performed a bow.
"Why have you come? Are you awake? Come up quickly and sit with me." Yu Jingchen's tone softened considerably.
Nan Ziyun, unconcerned by the gazes of others, walked directly to Yu Jingchen's side. He gently pulled her closer, drawing her to sit beside him.
Many of the consorts from the harem were present, and their hearts ached with envy at the sight. However, none dared to voice their discontent.
"All the ladies have come, so I thought I would come and see as well. Has it begun?" Nan Ziyun replied.
"It's about to start. You've arrived just in time." Yu Jingchen, seeing through her facade but choosing not to expose it, decided not to embarrass her. He then signaled for the ceremony to commence.
There were quite a number of hopefuls this time, though it was uncertain how many would ultimately be chosen. Nan Ziyun looked down at the crowd of brightly adorned women, feeling a slight unease. She secretly glanced at Yu Jingchen's expression and was immediately caught by his gaze.
Seeing his teasing smile, Nan Ziyun blushed and pretended to compose herself, turning her attention back to the candidates. The women of higher birth and more outstanding appearances were positioned closer to the front.
The first group included Bai Yusheng and Yu Yan, among others. Nan Ziyun currently harbored no good feelings towards Yu Yan.
"Yu Yan of Prince Yu's Estate, Bai Yusheng, daughter of Bai Yizhi. Does Your Majesty wish to keep them?" the Noble Consort inquired from the side.
"Mm," Yu Jingchen responded indifferently.
"Yes," the Noble Consort replied, and then ordered flowers to be bestowed upon Bai Yusheng and Yu Yan. This was all as expected, nothing remarkable.
His Majesty was not particularly invested in the affairs of the harem. Compared to the previous emperor, Yu Jingchen's harem was rather sparsely populated. Even now, there were fewer than twenty consorts, and even fewer who had received his favor. Especially recently, His Majesty had not visited any other palaces besides Consort Shu's.
Despite the envy from many, no one dared to act rashly due to His Majesty's presence. However, the arrival of new candidates changed the dynamics.
Nan Ziyun, nestled in Yu Jingchen's embrace, felt bored. She had not anticipated the selection ceremony to be so tedious, and she was on the verge of falling asleep. Yu Jingchen found her demeanor amusing. Just as he was about to comfort her to sleep, he suddenly heard a voice from below.
"This humble subject, Su Qianyuan, daughter of the Left Prime Minister, greets Your Majesty and all the esteemed consorts." A gentle and cool voice rang out. Upon hearing this voice, Yu Jingchen paused slightly and then looked over.
Su Qianyuan... the eldest daughter of the Left Prime Minister's household. Although she was merely a concubine-born daughter, she stood with composure and confidence amidst the crowd below, her demeanor no less than that of the legitimate daughters.
The Noble Consort, of course, observed Yu Jingchen's reaction. She turned her gaze back to Su Qianyuan below, a thoughtful glint in her eyes.