Chapter 5 Final Selection

A few days later, on a clear morning, the noble ladies of the palace gathered in the Imperial Garden almost simultaneously.

Compared to the delicate and youthful appearance of the court ladies, the noble ladies in the palace were dressed more elegantly and dignified. At first glance, they exuded extraordinary aura, giving people an inexplicable sense of superiority.

Compared to the uncertain fate of the court ladies, Guwalgiya, whose status had long been determined, was the most eye-catching. After all, she was personally designated by Kangxi, and although it couldn't be openly challenged, the concubines and consorts paid close attention to her in private.

Life in the harem, whether favored or not, was difficult for all women. Regardless of their private thoughts, they had to present their best side in public, concealing any clues to their true feelings.

Regardless of the thoughts of the consorts, Kangxi, who had come with his sons from a distance, was in a good mood as he looked at the charming and distinctive beauties in the Imperial Garden. Just as women liked handsome men, men also enjoyed pleasing and attractive women.

"The Emperor has arrived," the sharp voice of a eunuch instantly broke the awkward and cold silence in the Imperial Garden.

"We, the concubines, pay our respects to the Emperor and wish him peace and prosperity," Consort Tong led the concubines in bowing respectfully.

"We, the servants, pay our respects to the Emperor, long live the Emperor," the court ladies also knelt down, followed by the eunuchs and palace maids.

With a wave of his hand, Kangxi instructed Li Dequan to announce, "Rise."

Upon hearing this, everyone stood up. Compared to the composed attitude of the consorts, the court ladies seemed somewhat awkward and constrained.

"Sons, pay your respects to the mothers," the princes, led by the Crown Prince, also arrived and paid their respects. After the formalities, the consorts, led by Consort Tong, accompanied Kangxi to the main seat, while the princes took their seats on the side.

In the selection of court ladies, Kangxi did not always appear, especially not with the princes as he did now. The consorts had thought that Kangxi would follow the usual practice of leaving the selection to Consort Tong and others, except for the designated court ladies. However, to their surprise, Kangxi not only appeared but also brought the princes with him. At this, the consorts couldn't help but glance at Guwalgiya, speculating whether Kangxi's visit was related to her.

In contrast to the consorts' speculations and jealousy, the court ladies were visibly excited. Not only the Emperor, but even the adult princes had come. If they performed well, they might soar to great heights and enjoy a life of luxury.

"Li Dequan, let's begin," Kangxi chatted with Consort Tong and the other consorts before instructing Li Dequan.

"Understood," Li Dequan responded and immediately gave the order to start.

The first to enter were the Manchu court ladies from the Yellow Banner, arranged in rows of six, each showcasing their unique talents. Nowadays, not only appearance and demeanor, but also talents were important in the selection of court ladies.

Good manners and virtues were spoken of, but skills in music, chess, calligraphy, painting, cooking, needlework, and even singing and dancing were essential for vying for favor.

Facing the various pure and charming young court ladies who were earnestly showcasing their talents, Kangxi and the princes enjoyed the spectacle, while the consorts became increasingly jealous, forcing themselves to put on a smiling face.

The atmosphere was both sour and refreshing.

Wanxi, with delicate features but an unremarkable family background, deliberately kept a low profile. Although her exceptional beauty attracted attention, she did not receive special attention from Kangxi and the princes, especially with Guwalgiya and others in the spotlight. Nevertheless, Wanxi's stable performance eventually earned her a place.

As Kangxi continued to call out several names, the consorts looked on with eyes as sharp as knives.

Originally, several court ladies had been prepared by the consorts to be selected or rejected, but now, with Kangxi's words, their small calculations were instantly overturned.

After the selection, the court ladies who had been chosen awaited the Emperor's decree in the Chuxiu Palace, while those who had been rejected were arranged to leave the palace and return home, where they could marry at their own discretion.

Kangxi's decree did not come as quickly as expected. It was not until after noon, when everyone thought they would have to wait until evening, that the decree arrived. Apart from the designated Guwalgiya, most of the selected court ladies were from the Han Banners. As for those like Wanxi who were not chosen, they could leave the palace and await further instructions at home.

After the selection, the consorts with sons began to act together, preparing to request Kangxi to bestow the selected court ladies upon their sons.

As long as it was not the Empress or the primary consorts, as long as the selection was appropriate and Kangxi had no specific preferences, such requests were generally granted with a simple request.

One day, after the court session, Kangxi went to Yikun Palace for a meal, and Consort Yi eagerly welcomed him. In fact, compared to the calmness of Consort De, Kangxi preferred the straightforward enthusiasm and contentment of Consort Yi.

"Your Majesty, this month I have summoned several talented young women for discussions. I want to find suitable ones to serve Yinzhi and Yinti, especially Yinti. It has been two years since his marriage, but he still has no offspring. I am really worried about this!" Consort Yi was always straightforward in front of Kangxi, and she was the same now, speaking her mind without hesitation.

Kangxi took a sip of tea, slowly put down the teacup, and smiled, "Consort, handle this matter as you see fit."

Kangxi was always generous when it came to Consort Yi's straightforward requests, as long as they did not cross the line. Furthermore, despite being busy with state affairs, he still cared a lot about his sons.

"Your Majesty, even if I can make decisions, I still need to ask for your opinion. After all, Your Majesty knows Yinzhi and Yinti best." Consort Yi was always good at handling things. Although it seemed that both sons had no ambition to compete for the throne, pushing forward the father-son relationship was something that could never be given up at any time.

"Haha, Consort, your words make me want to say yes to everything!" Kangxi burst into laughter upon hearing Consort Yi's words.

What Kangxi liked the most was filial piety, brotherly respect, and sisterly love. Consort Yi's words undoubtedly hit the nail on the head, making Kangxi unable to help but feel happy.

Taking advantage of Kangxi's good mood, Consort Yi mentioned several talented young women, including Wanxi, one by one. Kangxi could only remember those he had arranged for, and among them, only Wanxi's beauty left a lasting impression.

"Yan, the daughter of Wang Da, is not bad. Let's grant her as a concubine to Yinti!"

"Thank you, Your Majesty."

When Kangxi left Yikun Palace, Yinti received the news. With his wish fulfilled, Yinti relaxed and came out of the study, coincidentally meeting Yine, who had come to see him. The two chatted and then went to drink together.

While Yinti was at ease, Consort Yi still had her own concerns.

There were quite a few talented young women in this group, but not many that satisfied her. Among the several talented young women she had mentioned earlier, apart from Wanxi, who was granted to Yinti, the remaining two were granted to Yinqi. It seemed fine, but Consort Yi still had some lingering worries.

Seeing Consort Yi frowning, Qimama couldn't help but comfort her, "Your Highness, since they are all in the palace, with you looking after them, nothing will go wrong."

"You old thing, all you know is to comfort me." Consort Yi smiled at the words and stopped dwelling on the matter.

As Qimama said, they were all in the palace, and with her watching over them, even if something happened, it could still be resolved.