The soft rustling of the breeze through the leaves accompanied the gentle clinking of teacups as Lady Jiang Mu, Lady Qin Yufei, and the Empress Dowager sat in the beautifully adorned main garden. The scent of blooming chrysanthemums and orchids filled the air, blending with the warmth of the late morning sun.

Lady Jiang Mu had just finished reciting one of her poems, her voice as smooth as silk, earning a pleased smile from the Empress Dowager. Yufei remained quiet, sipping her tea and listening attentively, careful to avoid any misstep.

As the conversation shifted, the Empress Dowager suddenly turned her gaze to Yufei.

"Lady Qin," she began, "I have heard quite a bit about your zither performance during Tan Cheng's assessment. They say your playing is filled with emotion. I would like to hear it for myself."

Yufei stiffened slightly, her teacup frozen mid-air.

"Your Majesty..." she started, but before she could form a proper response, the Empress Dowager motioned to the zither player, who had been quietly playing in the background.

"You may stop," the Empress Dowager commanded the musician. Turning back to Yufei, her smile grew. "Let us hear that skill. Please, Lady Qin, show us."

Yufei's stomach churned, but she couldn't refuse. She placed her teacup down gracefully and rose, bowing deeply.

"As you command, Your Majesty."

A servant quickly brought a zither and set it up on a lacquered table. The polished wood gleamed in the sunlight, the strings taut and gleaming. Yufei approached the instrument, her fingers trembling slightly as she took her seat.

She glanced at Lady Jiang Mu, who was watching with an unreadable expression, her fan partially concealing her face. The Empress Dowager sat poised, her eyes fixed on Yufei with calm expectation.

Closing her eyes for a brief moment, Yufei steadied her breathing. Her fingers found the strings, and she began to play. The first notes rang out, soft and melodic.

Her nervousness melted away as the music enveloped her. She played a piece she had played many times but had rarely shared. The notes flowed seamlessly, rising and falling like waves.

The Empress Dowager's expression softened as she listened, her head tilting slightly, as though caught in the web of emotions Yufei's music conveyed. Lady Jiang Mu's fan lowered just enough to reveal a flicker of surprise in her eyes.

When Yufei finished, the final note lingered in the air, fading into silence. She lowered her hands slowly and looked up, her heart pounding in her chest.

The Empress Dowager clapped softly, her smile now warm and approving.

"Remarkable," she said, her voice carrying an air of genuine admiration. "Your playing is indeed as moving as they say, Lady Qin. It seems the palace has gained another rare gem that we should polish."

Yufei bowed deeply, her voice steady despite the emotions swirling within her. "Your Majesty is too kind."

As she returned to her seat, Lady Jiang Mu's gaze followed her, her fan once again concealing her thoughts.

Qin Yufei had just lowered herself back into her seat when the sound of clapping interrupted the tranquil atmosphere of the garden. All heads turned as the Crown Prince, stepped into view, his presence commanding immediate attention.

Dressed in resplendent royal robes of deep blue and gold, his every step exuded confidence and authority. His piercing gaze swept across the group before resting squarely on Qin Yufei. A smile tugged at the corners of his lips as he addressed the gathering.

"Truly remarkable," he said, his voice smooth and deliberate. "Lady Qin Yufei's talent on the zither is extraordinary. I find myself unable to forget the piece she played during Tan Cheng's assessment, even when I was but an observer behind the curtains."

The air grew quiet with his words, and both Yufei and Lady Jiang Mu immediately stood and bowed deeply to him. "Salutations to Your Highness " both murmured.

Bai Shengli nodded at them in acknowledgment before turning to face the Empress Dowager.

With a respectful bow, he greeted her, "Grandmother."

The Empress Dowager smiled warmly at him, but her eyes glimmered with curiosity as the Crown Prince, instead of taking his seat, turned to the man standing just behind him. The figure in black robes, whose presence radiated cold intensity, was none other than Shen Wei.

Bai Shengli gestured towards Yufei with a casual wave of his hand and asked,

"What does Imperial Preceptor Shen think of Lady Qin's performance? You were there that day as well, weren't you?"

The tension in the air seemed to heighten as all eyes shifted to Shen Wei. He stepped forward slightly, his tall frame and dark robes giving him an imposing presence. His lips curled into a slight grin, one that sent a chill down Yufei's spine.

"As a fervent zither player myself," Shen Wei began, his voice deep and unhurried, "I must acknowledge Lady Qin Yufei's raw skill. Her ability to convey emotion through her playing is rare indeed. Though unpolished, it carries a sincerity that is hard to ignore."

His words, though complimentary, felt sharp. Yufei's hands, hidden within her sleeves, clenched tightly.

The Crown Prince chuckled, seemingly pleased with Shen Wei's response.

"It seems you've earned the approval of even Imperial Preceptor Shen, Lady Qin. That is no small feat."

Yufei bowed again, her gaze fixed on the ground. The Empress Dowager watched the exchange with quiet interest, her gaze flicking between her grandson, Shen Wei, and Yufei. Meanwhile, Lady Jiang Mu sat perfectly composed, though her fan moved a bit faster.

The Crown Prince took his seat beside the Empress Dowager, gesturing for the gathering to resume. Yet, as Yufei sat back down, she couldn't shake the weight of Shen Wei's gaze, which lingered on her for just a moment longer before he, too, turned his attention elsewhere.

Boldly, Shen Wei suddenly spoke, his gaze steady as he addressed the group with calculated precision.

"Perhaps, with the guidance of a suitable teacher," he began, his voice measured yet resonating with confidence, "Lady Qin Yufei could make swift progress and refine her raw talent."

The statement hung in the air, drawing the attention of everyone present. Qin Yufei stiffened slightly, unsure of where his words were leading. Her hands, still folded neatly in her lap, grew clammy as she felt the weight of his intent pressing down on her.

The Empress Dowager, ever sharp and perceptive, broke into a warm chuckle.

"Oh, Imperial Preceptor Shen, all in this court know of your unmatched skill with the zither. Why not take it upon yourself to guide Lady Qin? Surely, there could be no better teacher for her."

The suggestion brought a ripple of reactions into the otherwise serene garden. Bai Shengli's smile faltered ever so slightly, though he quickly masked it, his expression returning to one of neutrality. Lady Jiang Mu's fan paused mid-movement, her eyes narrowing as she studied Shen Wei.

For a moment, Shen Wei appeared contemplative, his chin still resting lightly on his hand. Then, a small, unreadable smile formed on his lips as he replied,

"Your Majesty flatters me. But such a task would require much time and patience, as well as Lady Qin's willingness to learn. I do not know if I am the one she needs. But... if Her Majesty truly believes I am suited for such a role, I would not dare refuse the honor."

Qin Yufei's heart sank. Of all things, she hadn't expected this. Being under Shen Wei's direct scrutiny, after the unnerving way he looked at her during the lessons, filled her with apprehension. She glanced briefly at Bai Shengli, hoping he might intervene, but the Crown Prince remained silent, his face unreadable.

The Empress Dowager clapped her hands together, pleased.

"It is decided, then. Imperial Preceptor Shen will guide Lady Qin Yufei. I trust this arrangement will only bring her closer to the level expected of a royal concubine."

Shen Wei clenched his fist on the table.

Yufei opened her mouth to protest but quickly bit her tongue. To refuse would be unthinkable, and any resistance would only invite questions—or worse... Instead, she bowed her head deeply, her voice low but steady.

"I am grateful for Your Majesty's kindness and for Imperial Preceptor Shen's guidance."

Shen Wei's smile finally deepened slightly.

"Then we shall begin at your earliest convenience, Lady Qin. I trust you will bring your zither when we meet."

The Empress Dowager beamed, pleased with the outcome, while Bai Shengli's gaze flickered briefly between Shen Wei and Yufei. If he was displeased, he didn't let it show. Instead, he leaned back in his seat, masking whatever thoughts ran through his mind.

As the gathering continued, Yufei couldn't shake the unease creeping up her spine. Shen Wei's acceptance indeed felt more like a calculated move than an act of generosity, and she couldn't help but wonder what motives were hidden behind his behavior.

Bai Shengli's mind raced as he tried to make sense of Shen Wei's sudden acceptance. Shen Wei had always been unpredictable, but this move felt deliberate. But... why would he make time to teach her? Shengli couldn't suppress the reluctance bubbling in his chest. Yufei already had so little time to accompany him, and now Shen Wei would monopolize even more of it.

Still seated beside the Empress Dowager, Shengli's gaze lingered on Qin Yufei, who appeared tense and withdrawn. He decided he needed to find a way to connect with her despite the new arrangement. Perhaps, he thought, if he could find books about music, it might give them something to discuss too.

On the other side, Lady Jiang Mu's fan moved listlessly, her expression suddenly pale. She leaned forward slightly, placing a delicate hand on her forehead as if the heat was overwhelming her.

"Your Majesties, Imperial Preceptor Shen." she said weakly, her voice laced with feigned fatigue, "I fear the heat of the day has taken a toll on my health. Might I be excused to rest?"

The Empress Dowager turned her gaze to Jiang Mu, her eyes narrowing ever so slightly before softening with a nod.

"Of course, Lady Jiang Mu. Shengli," she said, turning to her grandson, "why don't you escort Lady Jiang Mu back to her quarters? A walk in your company might do her well."

Bai Shengli blinked, surprised. "As you wish, Grandmother," he replied, rising from his seat calmly. Internally, however, he was conflicted. While he respected his grandmother's wishes, he couldn't help but feel frustrated that this meant even less time near Yufei.

Jiang Mu lowered her fan slightly, her expression unreadable. She rose gracefully, giving a polite bow to the Empress Dowager, Shen Wei, and a fleeting glance at Yufei before she turned to Shengli.

"Thank you, Your Highness," she said softly.

As they walked away from the garden, Shengli's silence was heavy. Shengli stole a glance at her, wondering if her ailment was genuine. Yet something about her demeanor seemed calculated, her steps deliberate despite the weak act she'd put on earlier.

"Are you feeling unwell, Lady Jiang?" Shengli asked, his voice calm but probing.

Jiang Mu offered him a small, practiced smile.

"The excitement of the day must have overwhelmed me," she said, her tone neutral. "But I will recover with some rest. Thank you for your concern, Your Highness."

Shengli nodded, though he wasn't convinced. As they continued toward her quarters, he resolved to keep a closer eye on her. Something about her didn't sit well with him, and he couldn't help but feel that she, like Shen Wei, had motives of her own. After all, she was still the daughter of the Prime Minister.

Bai Shengli kept walking silently beside Jiang Mu, his mind elsewhere. Although he felt Jiang Mu occasionally glancing at him, as if waiting for him to say something, he remained distant.

When they reached her pavilion, Jiang Mu stopped at the entrance and turned to him with a soft smile.

"Thank you for escorting me, Your Highness," she said, her tone gentle and composed. "Would you care to join me for some tea before you leave?"

Shengli shook his head politely.

"Thank you, Lady Jiang, but I must return to the Empress Dowager. Please rest well," he replied, his head bowing slightly before turning to leave.

Jiang Mu stood there for a moment, watching him disappear into the distance, her smile fading as soon as he was out of sight. She entered her pavilion, the doors closing behind her with a soft thud.

Sitting at her desk, Jiang Mu's serene demeanor shifted into something more focused. She reached for her writing brush, dipped it into the inkstone, and began to write.

The selection is complete. Lady Qin Yufei has been named Royal Concubine. Shen Wei has involved himself, and the Crown Prince seems restless about it. Awaiting your order.

She paused, her brush hovering above the paper. After a moment of thought, she rolled the paper carefully and tied it with a thin string and tucked it into a small lacquered box. She called her maid.

"Take this and ensure it is delivered promptly," she instructed.

The maid nodded, taking the box with a bow before slipping out of the room.

Left alone, Jiang Mu leaned back in her seat, her fingers tapping lightly on the desk. Her gaze drifted to the window.

"Let's see how long you can hold onto him, Qin Yufei," she murmured to herself, a faint smirk tugging at the corner of her lips.