My palace is full of female protagonists.

According to the palace servants, Lin Yi was a young man of exceptional talent. He excelled in the imperial examinations, winning first place with his astonishing scholarship and becoming a rising star in the court. His writing was ornate yet profound, often drawing upon classical allusions and extensive references, leaving readers in awe. His performance in court was also outstanding; whether handling government affairs or dealing with emergencies, he demonstrated remarkable skill and wisdom.

However, Lin Yi's story goes far beyond that. The waiter revealed an even more interesting piece of information: although Lin Yi appears gentle and refined on the surface, he is actually a highly skilled swordsman. In the martial arts world, he is known as "Sword Yi," having single-handedly defeated many renowned martial arts masters, leaving behind numerous legendary tales. His swordsmanship is elegant and agile, flowing like clouds and water, leaving all who witness it in awe. It is said that he once protected innocent civilians from the bullying of thugs in a fierce battle with his longsword, earning widespread praise and respect from the people.

Lin Yi was undoubtedly a prodigy, possessing both literary and martial talents. He had the elegance and talent of a scholar, as well as the courage and responsibility of a warrior. His appearance at the grand banquet at the Crown Prince's residence added a touch of mystery and legend, greatly intriguing Emperor Zhao Chengyu and Empress Zhao Qi'er.

Standing within the resplendent palace, Zhao Chengyu gazed at the bright sunlight streaming through the windows onto the bluestone slabs, a complex mix of emotions welling up within him. He sighed, reflecting on how, in this vast land of ancient times, scholars were as rare as phoenix feathers, precious and scarce. Among these already rare individuals, those as exceptionally talented, skilled in both literature and martial arts, and holding a high position in the martial world, were even fewer. Having arrived with a modern perspective, he had initially believed that selecting talented individuals from outside the palace to serve as officials was an effective way to break with convention and drive change. However, reality had made him realize that his initial thinking was far too narrow and simplistic.

Lin Yi's name shone brightly in his mind at this moment, seemingly overlapping with the image of Zhan Zhao from the TV series "Justice Bao" he had watched as a child—a heroic figure who could both wield a brush and write calligraphy and roam the world with a sword. Zhao Chengyu couldn't help but think to himself that it would be a waste to keep a talent like Lin Yi as a mere civil official buried in paperwork at court. So, he turned to the gentle and dignified Empress Zhao Qi'er beside him and said, "Qi'er, what do you think of Lin Yi? Perhaps we could consider transferring him to the Ministry of Justice? They need someone like him who can both adjudicate cases and handle complex situations."

Upon hearing this, Zhao Qi'er smiled slightly, her eyes sparkling with wisdom. She said softly, "Your Majesty, your idea is excellent. However, why not take this opportunity, through the selection of a husband for Consort Yi, to also adjust the personnel structure of the court? We can record some suitable candidates and make timely adjustments. This will not only inject new vitality into the court but also allow every official to shine in their most suitable position."

Zhao Chengyu nodded upon hearing this, but his brows remained slightly furrowed, as if he were worried about something. "Qi'er, am I being too naive? I always think that a series of reforms can bring about a complete transformation of the country. But every time I think about the difficulty of implementation, I can't help but have doubts."

Zhao Qi'er gently grasped his hand, her eyes firm yet warm. "Your Majesty, no one's idea can be judged as naive or realistic before it is put into practice. The key lies in how we continuously revise it during implementation, balancing the interests of all parties to ensure the reform can proceed smoothly. Our country has two capable prime ministers and hundreds of loyal and diligent officials. As long as we unite as one and pool our wisdom, we can always improve our country step by step, making it more prosperous and powerful. Your Majesty, you need not worry too much."

Upon hearing the Empress's words, Zhao Chengyu's gloom gradually dissipated, replaced by a warm and resolute strength. He understood that although the road to reform was long and difficult, with a wise and capable wife like the Empress and the support of the entire court, he believed he could lead the country to a brighter future.

"Finding a husband for that young lady seems like a waste of talent compared to these other men," Zhao Chengyu said, a hint of self-deprecation and reluctance in his voice. It was as if, in his eyes, Consort Yi's pure, innocent, and unrestrained personality was something no talented man could match. "She's like a mother monkey all day, either looking for food or jumping around the palace. And if she went back to those mountains, wouldn't she be like a monkey ruling the hills? Could any man like that control her?"

Empress Zhao Qi'er listened quietly, a gentle smile playing on her lips. She stepped forward and gently placed her hand on Zhao Chengyu's shoulder, speaking softly yet firmly, "Your Majesty, you worry too much. Love is never sustained by external constraints or discipline. If you don't see eye to eye, you can't truly control the other person; but if it's someone you love, no matter how far apart you are, the longing in your heart will bind you tightly. You'll naturally want to be together every day, so why would you care about being controlled?"

Upon hearing this, a hint of relief flashed in Zhao Chengyu's eyes. He looked at Zhao Qi'er, as if he saw wisdom and gentleness shining in her eyes. Yes, love should be mutual and heartfelt, so why should he worry about external conditions and constraints? As long as Yi Fei could find someone who moved her heart and was willing to spend her life with her, no matter who that person was or where they were, he would sincerely wish them well.

"You're right, Qi'er." Zhao Chengyu gently patted Zhao Qi'er's hand, a long-lost smile appearing on his face. "I've been overthinking things. Let Consort Yi choose her own happiness. We just need to provide her with a fair and just opportunity to choose, and leave the rest to fate."

The Crown Prince's residence, this magnificent complex, appeared exceptionally solemn and serene in the afterglow of the setting sun. Inside the main hall, guests sat or stood, creating a lively atmosphere, but the truly prestigious seats were reserved in a quiet and elegant courtyard. Zhao Chengyu, the emperor, was personally arranging this grand event to select a husband for the Yi Consort. He had Xiao Kuangzi meticulously compile a list, listing the names of all the talented young men and arranging them in the most honored positions to demonstrate his high regard for them.

Afterwards, he sent someone to invite Yi Jingwei, the elder brother of the Yi Consort and an important figure in the Yi tribe. Once everything was ready, Zhao Chengyu entered the detached courtyard of the Crown Prince's residence. He had specially set up three seats behind the screen where the Crown Prince's seats were located, which was carefully prepared for the Yi Consort so that she could observe these talented young men up close and choose her favorite.

However, at this moment, Consort Yi was immersed in the tranquility of the inner palace, playing chess with the Third Young Master, while Mei'er played melodious music on the zither beside her; the whole scene was harmonious and beautiful. Suddenly, a palace servant announced from outside that the Emperor summoned Consort Yi to the Crown Prince's residence. Upon hearing this, Consort Yi was taken aback and asked in confusion, "To the Crown Prince's residence? Why?"

The third young master looked at Consort Yi, a complex light flashing in his eyes. He sighed softly and said, "The Emperor and Empress are probably thinking of choosing a husband for you, Grandmother Yi."

Upon hearing this, Consort Yi smiled helplessly. She sighed softly and said, "I can't speak for others, but the truth is, since I came to the capital with my brother and sister all these years ago, I've gotten used to being with them. I can't sleep at all without them. Although they are of noble status—one minute they're the Crown Prince and Crown Princess, the next they're the Emperor and Consort, and now they're the Emperor and Empress—I can't possibly bother them every day. I really don't know what I would do without them. So, I've never really thought about getting married."

Upon hearing this, the third young master's expression turned solemn. He slowly said, "Although my father had several concubines back then, I think he always had those he liked and those he didn't. Those he liked naturally belonged to his heart, while those he didn't, perhaps, could only silently endure loneliness. Grandmother Yi, you and the Emperor are not truly husband and wife, but you are still the princess of the Yi tribe, the only bloodline of the Yi tribe, and the lineage must be passed down. Isn't that right?"

Upon hearing this, Consort Yi fell silent. She knew that the Third Young Master's words were not without reason, but the reluctance and attachment in her heart made it difficult for her to make a decision. She looked at the Third Young Master, her eyes flashing with complex emotions. Finally, she slowly said, "Then let's go and see. You two will come with me as my palace servants."

The third young master nodded, indicating his understanding. He knew that the struggle and reluctance in Consort Yi's heart could not be resolved overnight.

It must be said that the banquet at the Crown Prince's residence was a true visual feast, a veritable gathering of handsome men. The dashing and talented young men were all seated in the highest positions, their charm captivating everyone present. Even Zhao Chengyu, as a man, couldn't help but worry that his Empress Zhao Qi'er might also be attracted to these young men; after all, such a beautiful sight even stirred his heart.

He glanced furtively at Zhao Qi'er, only to see the Empress gazing intently outside, her eyes seemingly filled with deep thought. Zhao Chengyu couldn't help but secretly ponder: "I once considered sending Zhao Qi'er out of the palace, but looking at her temperament—gentle and reserved—she's completely different from Empress Gao, that eagle-like woman. Empress Gao possesses grand strategies and can handle court affairs independently. Once she leaves the palace, she will naturally radiate the aura of a leading lady, becoming a powerful empress."

As for Zhao Qi'er, she was originally a noblewoman from an official family, yet she willingly accompanied a fallen prince into exile on the frontier, enduring hardships and trials. After returning to the capital, she faced numerous obstacles, rising step by step from Crown Princess to Empress. It's practically a live-action palace intrigue and power struggle drama script for a female protagonist. If her story were a book, she would now be living in the grand finale, enjoying the glory and happiness she deserves.

Thinking of this, Zhao Chengyu couldn't help but feel worried. He wondered: If Zhao Qi'er left the palace, would she be drawn into another power struggle because of the so-called female lead's halo? For example, would she find a prince to rebel, or become a core figure in some force? Once such thoughts appeared, they could not be shaken off, filling his heart with unease.

Zhao Chengyu dared not think any further. He picked up his teacup, took a small sip, and tried to calm the turmoil in his heart. He took a deep breath and decided to shift his attention to the banquet at the Crown Prince's residence, listening to the commotion there to see if he could glean any useful information. After all, tonight's banquet was not only for Consort Yi to choose a husband, but also to showcase the majesty and splendor of the imperial family. He couldn't allow himself to indulge in unfounded speculation and neglect the grand feast before him.

The Crown Prince's banquet slowly began amidst peaceful singing and dancing. Musicians gently plucked the strings, and dancers in gorgeous costumes gracefully moved about, creating a captivating scene. However, just as Zhao Chengyu had predicted, wherever there are many men, there are bound to be some "disputes," especially at a banquet that brought together so many talented young men.

At first, the song and dance performance was fairly orderly, but as the night deepened and the drinks flowed, the atmosphere gradually became more lively. Suddenly, a young official stood up, holding an exquisite fan inscribed with eulogies, and with a smile, proposed to the crowd: "Colleagues, tonight the moon is bright, such a beautiful night! Why don't we use our fans as swords, and our words as martial arts, to have a competition of eulogistic fan dances, to enhance the drinking atmosphere?"

These words immediately resonated with many of the young officials present. They all stood up, took out their fans, and prepared to show off their skills. Zhao Chengyu, sitting behind the screen, watched this scene with amusement, but also looked forward to this unique competition.

The competition began, and the first official to step onto the stage stood tall and straight, his fan flashing, each step seemingly telling an ancient story, each move imbued with profound cultural heritage. His fan dance possessed both the elegance of a scholar and the fortitude of a warrior, winning rounds of applause from the audience.

Next, the second official took the stage. His fan dance style was completely different from the former, emphasizing the combination of speed and power. He moved like the wind, and the fan in his hand seemed to transform into an invisible sword. Each wave was accompanied by a sharp whistling sound, dazzling and astonishing the audience.

Subsequently, more young officials joined the competition, each showcasing their unique fan dance styles: some graceful and delicate, like a poem or a painting; others powerful and vigorous, with an overwhelming momentum. Throughout the banquet hall, the interplay of fan shadows and melodious singing created a series of captivating scenes.

Watching the dance competition, Zhao Chengyu couldn't help but admire it inwardly. These young officials were not only exceptionally talented in literature, but also possessed remarkable martial arts skills and performing talent. Their fan dances not only showcased their individual charm but also added a touch of fun and vitality to the banquet.

Sitting to the side, Zhao Qi'er was also captivated by the exciting competition. She watched everyone on the field intently, a joyful smile on her face. She knew that such occasions not only allowed everyone to relax but also enhanced mutual understanding and friendship.