So she spoke in a gentle tone.
"You missed the selection due to illness, but I believe with my sister's stunning appearance, entering the palace as a concubine is only natural. I imagine uncle and aunt would also be pleased. If you are favored by His Majesty, it will surely benefit your brother's future. By then, not to mention the Imperial City Division—he could even be appointed to the Imperial Guards. Don't you think so?"
First a warning, then a sweet offer—Concubine Lin wielded the method of combining force with kindness like second nature.
Lin Wanyi understood her meaning perfectly. A faint smile graced her lips, as if to say: whatever the Concubine says is right. The two sisters chatted casually until Jiang Heqing returned and respectfully announced:
"Your servant greets the Concubine. Quan Zongguan of the Inner Court requests an audience."
"Oh? What brings him here?"
"He says he's here to deliver the daily records."
Daily records—logs of the emperor's nightly visits to concubines—were usually delivered by Eunuch He of the Jingshifang. For General Manager Quan to come personally... there had to be more to it.
"Let him in."
"I obey."
Jiang Heqing stepped out. Moments later, an older eunuch with a whisk entered, followed by two younger ones.
"Your servant Quanfu wishes the Imperial Concubine and Miss Lin good health."
So perceptive—Lin Wanyi had only been in the palace for two hours, and yet he addressed her accurately. Clearly, he was someone not to be underestimated.
"What is it you came to say?"
"First, to present today's daily record for Your Highness's review. Second, Lin Wanyi's green card has been prepared. Should it be sent to the Imperial Court today?"
"Efficient, as always. Since it's ready, go ahead and deliver it."
"Yes, Your Highness."
The entire exchange about Lin Wanyi sharing the emperor's bed was carried out as though she weren't standing right there. She, the subject of the matter, had no part in it.
After reporting, Quanfu withdrew.
Once outside Linzhi Palace, he paused and said to the eunuch beside him:
"Inform Deputy General Manager Qin to be especially attentive to Lin Wanyi's requests. If we please her now, it may benefit the Inner Court later."
"Yes, General Manager."
Quanfu turned briefly, gazing at the auspicious clouds hovering over Linzhi Palace. The Concubine's eye was sharp indeed.
Lin Wanyi was more stunning than the rest of the new entrants. If fortune favored her, she could rise high. As servants, it was time to place their bets.
With that, they left swiftly to deliver the green card to Qian'an Palace.
"We are sisters from the same family," said Concubine Lin, "Now that you've entered the palace, I will look after you. Yihua Palace is near Qian'an Palace. If His Majesty calls for you, the distance won't be an issue."
"Thank you for taking such care. This lowly concubine will remember your kindness."
"Good."
With nothing more to reminisce about, and once Quan Zongguan had left, Lin Wanyi returned to Yihua Palace. In less than half a day since entering the palace, she had already traversed several major sites.
Her legs ached terribly from the walking.
Xia An helped her remove her shoes and socks, massaging her feet gently. Her touch was just right, and Lin Wanyi soon felt the tension melt away.
"Chunqi has the energy to look around. You've had a hard time taking care of me."
"My lady, don't say that. It is my blessing to serve you."
As they spoke, Chunqi came bursting in, eyes sparkling.
"My lady, the hall on the left is bigger than our entire courtyard at home! There's a little side room at the entrance with a charcoal stove—perfect for making soup or tea!"
She beamed, having explored thoroughly.
"There's a flower pond in the front yard corridor with exotic flowers. I think it's camellia, but I'm not sure. And behind the house, there's a small pavilion—elegant and quiet. My lady enjoys tea, right? It'll be perfect for summer!"
Lin Wanyi laughed softly. "You certainly know how to enjoy yourself."
"Hehe, isn't it for your benefit?"
Chunqi's lively chatter eased the heavy tension in Lin Wanyi's heart.
Yes, now that she was in the palace, she had to live well—for herself and her family. One might as well find contentment instead of torment.
With the Imperial Concubine's protection and courteous servants around, it was a good time to start settling in.
The warm April sun shone in as lunch arrived—two dishes and a soup, per palace rules. The portions were generous, and the dishes delicate: fish and shrimp with wild greens, honey-pickled tofu, and bamboo shoot soup with shredded pheasant—light and nourishing.
Even the maids' meals were simpler yet delicious.
Chunqi's nose twitched at the scent of the soup, her eyes lighting up. Lin Wanyi chuckled.
"I can't finish it all—have a bowl."
"Thank you, my lady!"
Chunqi accepted eagerly, while Xia An hesitated.
Unlike Chunqi, she hadn't grown up with Lin Wanyi. She was placed in the Prime Minister's household at fifteen due to family connections, chosen for her medical knowledge.
Sensing her reluctance, Chunqi handed her a bowl.
"Our lady is generous to her servants. Don't worry."
When Lin Wanyi gave a gentle nod, Xia An finally accepted with thanks.
After the satisfying meal, Lin Wanyi grew drowsy. It had been an early morning, and dealing with people all day had exhausted her.
Just as she was about to rest, a eunuch arrived—a stranger, but dressed similarly to General Manager Quan. Lin Wanyi guessed he must be someone of status in the Inner Court.
He confirmed her guess.
"I am Qin An, Deputy General Manager of the Inner Court. Greetings to Miss Lin, and may you enjoy good health."
"Eunuch Qin, please rise."
She turned to Chunqi.
"Bring a chair for Eunuch Qin."
"You are too kind. I came to offer congratulations."
Lin Wanyi blinked in confusion.
Then he smiled, revealing the news.
"His Majesty has turned over your name card. Tonight, you are summoned."