My palace is full of female protagonists.

Zhao Chengyu's tone carried a subtle hint of doting affection. He knew Yi Fei's temperament; though outwardly gentle, she possessed a stubborn, unyielding spirit. His words contained both warning and concern—his unique way of protecting Yi Fei.

Consort Yi nodded slightly, her eyes lowered, her long eyelashes casting soft shadows in the candlelight, making her appear exceptionally charming. Her voice was soft, with a slight, almost imperceptible tremor, like a petal swaying in the night breeze: "Your Majesty, I understand your good intentions and will certainly follow your instructions."

Zhao Chengyu smiled slightly. He knew that although Consort Yi had agreed verbally, she might have her own ulterior motives. He gently patted the back of her hand and said softly, "Qi'er is clever and quick-witted. With her around, I feel at ease. If you really want to go out and relax, go with her. At least I know you won't cause any trouble. If anyone provokes you, just have someone kill them. If they come up with a reason, the Prefect will handle it. Don't do it yourself and attract new pursuers."

A faint smile appeared on Consort Yi's lips. She knew the Emperor's concern was genuine, but she also had her own plans. She replied softly, "Yes, I will."

After Consort Yi left, Zhao Chengyu sat down at the table some time later, looking at the various candied dishes laid out before him, and couldn't help but feel a sense of感慨 (gǎnkǎi, a complex feeling of mixed emotions, including nostalgia and reflection). These dishes might not seem unusual in modern times, but in this era, they were a luxury. He knew that due to the limitations of equipment, the cooking techniques of this era were far inferior to those of his own world, especially for cooking methods like stir-frying, which presented a significant challenge.

He recalled that, in Zhao Yingqing's memory, the kitchen utensils of that era were very primitive. Ordinary people mostly used earthenware pots, while nobles used copper or clay pots. These utensils were far less heat-resistant and had poorer heat conduction than modern iron pots, so they were easily damaged during cooking, especially when stir-frying.

Zhao Chengyu picked up his chopsticks and gently lifted a piece of candied sweet potato. Beneath its golden exterior lay a soft and sweet interior. He knew that during the preparation of this dish, the chef needed to constantly turn the earthenware pot to prevent the food from sticking. Each turn could damage or even crack the bottom of the pot. This cooking method not only tested the chef's skills but also their patience and meticulousness.

He took a small bite, and the sweet taste spread across his tongue, warming his heart. He knew that people in this era were no less passionate about food than those in his own world. They had created their own unique flavors in their own way.

Night deepened, and the palace lights gradually went out, leaving only a faint glow in the Emperor's bedchamber. Consort Yi lay in bed in the middle of the night, unable to fall asleep. Scenes from her unforgettable dreams kept replaying in her mind, and complex emotions surged within her. She got out of bed, tiptoed out of her chambers, crossed the silent corridor, and arrived at the Emperor's bedchamber.

The palace maids on night watch were slightly startled when they saw her, but quickly regained their composure. They knew that Consort Yi sometimes came to see the Emperor at night. The maids bowed softly and then silently retreated to the side.

Consort Yi pushed open the door to the bedchamber and saw Zhao Chengyu and Zhao Qier lying on the dragon bed, their breathing steady and deep. She tiptoed to the bedside, carefully lay down, and tried not to disturb their peaceful sleep. Her hand gently grasped the hem of Zhao Qier's clothes, as if this could bring her a little comfort.

Zhao Qi'er, who was sleeping outside, sensed Yi Fei's arrival in his sleep. The corners of his mouth turned up slightly, as if he could feel her presence even in his dream. He unconsciously reached out and gently put his arm around Yi Fei's shoulder, drawing her closer to him.

Zhao Chengyu was still sleeping inside with his back to them. He heard the noise, but he just wanted to keep sleeping.

A warm feeling welled up in Consort Yi's heart. She knew that Zhao Qi'er's embrace was her safest haven, just like when her mother was still there, patting her to sleep. In this quiet night, she finally let down her guard and drifted off to sleep peacefully.

The next morning, the sunlight streamed through the bed curtains, gently illuminating Zhao Chengyu's face. He had just opened his eyes and saw that Consort Yi was still sound asleep, her face serene and peaceful. Zhao Chengyu quietly rose, not wanting to disturb her sweet dream.

Zhao Qi'er, already dressed with the help of palace maids, was ready to begin her new day. Zhao Chengyu said to her, "I've already spoken to Consort Yi. From now on, if she wants to go out, she must go with you and bring her entourage. You must also keep a close eye on her and make sure she doesn't become too unrestrained in the capital."

Zhao Qi'er nodded and replied, "Yes, Your Majesty. I will take good care of her."

Zhao Chengyu continued, "Once you're outside, keep an eye out for suitable military officers. If you find a suitable candidate, have the Empress prepare the dowry so that she can be married off in a grand and glorious manner."

Zhao Qi'er replied, "Understood, Your Majesty."

Zhao Chengyu then mentioned, "The blueprints for the opera house. Lord Lou will come to see you after court. Where would be a suitable place to meet?"

"The blueprints must be kept secret, otherwise some meddlesome memorials will come up." Zhao Chengyu's voice was deep and powerful, his gaze fixed on Zhao Qi'er. "We can't make pronouncements before construction has even started. Have the Empress write an edict to meet us in the side hall of the Imperial Study. Just arrange for more palace servants; there's nothing inconvenient about it."

Zhao Qi'er nodded slightly, a hint of doubt flashing in her eyes, but she quickly concealed it. She knew that the Emperor's words always had their reasons, even if she couldn't understand them at the moment. "Yes, Your Majesty. I will take care of it immediately."

Zhao Qi'er hurriedly left with her palace servants, her steps light and swift, as if chasing the footsteps of time, heading towards the Emperor's palace.

Zhao Chengyu turned and walked towards the outer hall, his movements composed and elegant, each step revealing the demeanor of an emperor. He changed into a simple dragon robe, the golden dragon patterns shimmering brilliantly in the morning light. He instructed the palace servants not to disturb Consort Yi, and then strode out of the bedchamber.

After the court session, Zhao Qi'er and the Empress had been waiting for some time in a side hall of the Imperial Study. The Empress's face was dignified and solemn, and she held the newly written imperial edict tightly in her hand. She knew that this edict concerned the construction of the opera house and also the Emperor's wishes.

"By imperial decree, Lord Lou is to meet me in the side hall of the Imperial Study." The palace attendant's voice was clear and firm in the square where the officials were walking after court. His gaze swept over the officials to make sure that everyone had heard his order.

Lord Lou accepted the order, a resolute glint in his eyes. He turned and led the palace servants swiftly to the Emperor's study.

In the bedchamber, Consort Yi finally awoke. She rubbed her sleepy eyes, looking at the empty bed, a sense of loneliness welling up inside her. But she quickly composed herself. She knew that Zhao Chengyu and Zhao Qier had more important matters to attend to; otherwise, Zhao Qier would have at least waited for her to get up before leaving. And she, too, had her own things to do.

She rose, and the palace maids quickly came forward to help her with her washing and dressing. The image of Consort Yi gradually became clear in the bronze mirror, her eyes gleaming with unwavering determination. She knew that in this dynasty, everyone had to strive for their future, and she was no exception.

Zhao Chengyu's seriousness today conveyed an unusual solemnity to the ministers in the court. His gaze was sharp, his voice firm, and every decision he made seemed carefully considered. After the court session ended, the ministers withdrew, their faces showing reverence and satisfaction, clearly surprised and impressed by the Emperor's performance. For the past two weeks, the Emperor's mental state had been noticeably poor, and on several occasions he had summoned the Empress to court to handle the aftermath, or simply fallen asleep on his throne.

Today was different. Zhao Chengyu slowly stood up. Although his body was slightly tired, his spirits were exceptionally high. He knew that as the ruler of a country, he had to remain clear-headed and focused at all times, and could not allow any slackening in the affairs of state.

"How did His Majesty feel about today's court assembly?" The Empress's voice came from behind him, gentle and concerned.

Zhao Chengyu turned around, looked at the Empress, and smiled slightly: "I feel very good today. The court session went more smoothly than ever before."

The Empress smiled slightly, her eyes filled with approval: "Your Majesty's performance today makes me very proud."

Zhao Chengyu gently took the Empress's hand, and together they walked out of the court and headed towards the Imperial Study. He knew that although the court session had ended, there were still many things that needed his attention.

In the imperial study, Zhao Chengyu and the Empress reviewed the records of today's court assembly. They carefully discussed each decision, ensuring that every policy would bring the greatest benefit to the country.

"Your Majesty, why are you suddenly so serious today?" the Empress asked curiously.

Zhao Chengyu smiled slightly, a profound glint in his eyes: "I think it's time to let the court officials see my determination and ability. I need to let them know that I am not just a monarch sitting on the dragon throne, but a leader capable of leading the country to prosperity!"

A flicker of emotion crossed the Empress's eyes. She knew that Zhao Chengyu's determination would bring an even brighter future to the dynasty. But she still said with concern, "You are the Emperor, the foundation of the nation. If you wish to implement reforms, you can select a group of pioneers to lead the new officials we are preparing to recruit. There's no need for you to be the first to take the lead."

Zhao Chengyu's sigh carried a hint of worry, his words revealing a deep consideration of the current situation. He knew that any reform required caution, as the slightest misstep could lead to unpredictable consequences.

“Now, those who are selected and lead new officials to operate independently must naturally keep to themselves. Only through refinement and rectification can the true villains be distinguished. Otherwise, they will be like a newly opened double-edged sword, only used to cut their own fingertips.” Zhao Chengyu’s words were full of philosophy, and his gaze was deep, as if he was thinking about a deeper issue.

The Empress listened quietly, her brows furrowed slightly, clearly pondering the same question. She knew the Emperor's concerns were not unfounded; the path of reform was fraught with thorns and challenges.

"Then why don't we let my maternal family do this? They have money, power, and..." the Empress suggested, her voice carrying a hint of determination. She knew that her maternal family possessed sufficient strength and influence to perhaps shoulder this heavy responsibility.

However, Zhao Chengyu shook his head, a resolute glint in his eyes: "Neither the Left Prime Minister, the Right Prime Minister, nor you or me, will do it. How can there be stable reforms if the country is unstable?" His words revealed a firm belief; he knew that any reform needed to be carried out in a stable environment, otherwise it would only backfire.

The Empress paced back and forth in the Imperial Study, her mind racing through candidates, but none seemed quite right. Suddenly, she stopped, a glint in her eyes: "Then there's one more person—Consort Leng."

A flicker of surprise crossed Zhao Chengyu's eyes, but it was quickly replaced by deep thought. The name Leng Fei came to mind; she was a clever and farsighted woman, perhaps truly capable of shouldering this heavy responsibility.

“Leng Fei?” Zhao Chengyu repeated the name, a hint of consideration in his eyes. “She is indeed capable, but this matter is of utmost importance, and we need to consider it carefully.”

Leng Linshuang, a name not widely known among the imperial concubines, wielded considerable influence in the courts and business circles of various countries. She was the second daughter of the main branch of the Leng family, a woman who grew up under the dual pressures of politics and economics. Her elder sister, Leng Linyi, was originally destined to marry into the Leng family, but was secretly abducted by a foreign prince on the eve of her wedding. The Leng family was forced to make her a substitute bride, and Leng Linshuang herself inevitably became a pawn in the family's power struggles.

The Leng family's history can be traced back several dynasties. Their members are scattered across various countries, serving as both merchants and officials. They navigated the line between power and wealth, holding relatively low official positions but wielding considerable real power and riches. Women of the Leng family, due to their family background and education, were often sought after by various states for marriage alliances. These unions not only brought economic benefits but also played a role in maintaining political balance.

From a young age, Leng Linshuang was taught to consider the interests of her family; her every move was related to the future of the Leng family. Her beauty and intelligence made her a treasure in the eyes of many suitors. However, her heart was filled with a yearning for freedom; she was unwilling to be a pawn in someone else's game, and she wanted to control her own destiny.

Among the women of the Leng family, Leng Linshuang was not the most outstanding, but her intelligence and independence made her stand out in the family. Her father, the head of the Leng family, although he had his own plans for her marriage, did not dare to easily ignore her opinion. However, fate played a trick on her, and she was forced to marry in place of her sister.

In fact, the women of the Leng family's main branch cultivated business acumen and political acumen, making Leng Linyi and Leng Linshuang, these daughters of the Leng family, representatives of the Leng family in various countries. They not only participated in the family's business activities but also in some ambiguous political affairs. Although their actions were discreet, every decision they made had a profound impact on the family and the country.