Jade of Another World

Sunlight streamed onto the vermilion walls of the palace, creating a magnificent and resplendent scene. The birthday banquet for the Crown Prince's birth mother, Consort Xi, was held as scheduled, and the entire palace was immersed in a lively and festive atmosphere. Lanterns and decorations were everywhere, and palace servants bustled about, busy but orderly preparing for the various events.

Inside the Lin family mansion, a different scene unfolded. Prime Minister Lin had instructed his servants to prepare a carriage early on, as he was to take several young noble ladies from his household to a banquet at the palace. Lin Ning, Lin Wan, and Lin Qing and Lin Yi from the second branch of the family were all meticulously dressed and waiting at the mansion gate.

Lin Wan was truly well-prepared today. She wore a pink dress made of silk specially imported from Jiangnan, embroidered with exquisite floral patterns in gold thread, which shimmered brilliantly in the sunlight. The hem of her dress trailed on the ground, swaying gracefully with each step, as if flowers were blooming at every step. Her hair was styled in an elegant updo, adorned with a set of jade jewelry. The translucent, emerald-green jade complemented her fair skin, making her appear even more delicate and captivating.

She was filled with anticipation for the banquet, determined to make a perfect impression and strive for her future as the Crown Princess. In truth, the Crown Prince did indeed favor Lin Wan, and the two occasionally had private interactions. However, the Crown Prince understood that to solidify his power, he often had to completely obey the Empress Dowager Xi's arrangements in matters of marriage. For him, whoever provided the greatest support could become the Crown Princess; his affections were primarily for her and the position. Therefore, Lin Wan was also well aware that today's banquet was crucial. Only by leaving the best impression on Empress Dowager Xi could her chances of becoming the Crown Princess greatly increase.

Throughout the journey, Lin Wan silently planned what to say and do when she met Consort Xi. She thought that the birthday gift she had prepared was also very special and thoughtful. As long as she acted gentle, generous, knowledgeable, and showed her best side, everything would be fine. After all, her brother, the Crown Prince, regarded her differently.

Lin Ning wore a light blue dress, simple yet elegant. She hadn't planned to go, but an invitation from the palace prevented her from refusing. She figured she could also use the opportunity to observe the situation at the palace banquet and avoid getting involved in unnecessary trouble. Besides, she needed to find someone. These past few days, she'd been disturbed by the original owner's dreams; it seemed the original owner had a missing brother, and she kept dreaming of him being in danger.

Lin Qing and Lin Yi, the second wives, also attended the banquet in their finest attire. Although they knew that their selection to attend the banquet was mostly for show, they still hoped to meet some high-ranking officials and nobles at the banquet. If they could find a good marriage, that would be wonderful.

Soon, the carriage stopped in front of the palace gates. Everyone alighted and, led by eunuchs, headed towards the palace where the birthday banquet would be held. Along the way, filled with nervous anticipation, they gazed upon the breathtaking palace scenery—the pavilions and towers arranged in a harmonious arrangement, the flowers in the gardens vying for attention—but their minds were elsewhere. They hurried nervously towards the ever-changing banquet venue.

Upon entering the palace, one finds many noble ladies from the capital already there. They are all chatting quietly, seemingly smiling and laughing, but in reality, they are all secretly sizing each other up, comparing their clothes, jewelry, demeanor, and temperament. A subtle atmosphere permeates the entire palace, as if a silent matchmaking battle is taking place.

Lin Wan took a deep breath, looked up at the high seat of Consort Xi, clenched her fists, and vowed in her heart that no matter what, she must leave the best impression on Consort Xi today and must not miss this excellent opportunity to become the Crown Princess.

Today, Peng Yingchun, the daughter of the Right Chancellor, wore a pale yellow dress that fit her perfectly, highlighting her graceful figure. While not strikingly beautiful, she possessed a gentle and refined air, with a delicate charm reminiscent of a woman from the Jiangnan water towns. From a young age, Peng Yingchun had been carefully educated by the Right Chancellor, mastering various etiquette norms, and her every gesture exuded the elegance of a well-bred lady. Moreover, the Right Chancellor held a high position in the court and had intricate connections with the Crown Prince's faction, making Peng Yingchun a popular candidate for the position of Crown Princess.

General Zhao's daughter, Lady Zhao, truly lived up to her name, possessing a striking and captivating beauty. She wore a bright red brocade dress, the vibrant color highlighting her snow-white skin and making her appear even more alluring. Lady Zhao was straightforward and forthright. Having grown up in the army, she was highly skilled in horseback riding and archery. Although a woman, she possessed a heroic spirit that rivaled any man. She knew that the position of Crown Princess was not only a matter of personal honor but also crucial for her family. Therefore, at this banquet, she showed no weakness, her gaze resolute, displaying a determination to seize the position at all costs.

Liu Yushu, daughter of Lord Liu, is widely recognized as a calligraphy prodigy. Today, she wears an elegant, moon-white palace dress, without excessive ornamentation, yet exuding an ethereal scholarly air. Liu Yushu has been passionate about calligraphy since childhood, possessing considerable skill in the art. Her works have circulated widely among the literati of the capital, receiving high praise. She thinks that if she can stand out at this banquet with her talent and win the favor of the Crown Prince and Consort Xi, the position of Crown Princess might just fall into her family's hands. At this moment, she sits quietly, gently toying with a calligraphy brush in her hand, seemingly already planning how to showcase her calligraphy skills to increase her chances of success.

Looking at these formidable opponents, Lin Wan couldn't help but feel a little nervous. However, when she thought of all the preparations she had made for today's banquet, and the affection the Crown Prince had shown her, her fighting spirit was rekindled. She secretly warned herself that she must not show any weakness at this moment. She must rely on her strengths to surpass them in every aspect and leave an impeccable impression on Consort Xi.

As the banquet progressed, various performances took place one after another. First, the palace dancers presented a beautiful dance, their graceful figures and nimble steps winning rounds of applause from the audience. However, the noble ladies present were not interested in the dance at all; they were all waiting for the right opportunity to show off their skills and win the championship in this silent "battle," becoming the ultimate lucky one.

"The Emperor has arrived"

"The Crown Prince has arrived!"

"The Wise King has arrived!"

Originally, there were state affairs to discuss, but Consort Xi was a favored concubine, and the Crown Prince was her son, so the Emperor and the Crown Princes arrived after the state affairs were discussed.

The highly anticipated gift-giving ceremony filled the palace with an increasingly tense and enthusiastic atmosphere.

First came the emperor, the ruler of the land, whose every move was closely watched. The emperor slightly raised his hand, and the head eunuch beside him, understanding, respectfully stepped forward carrying a brocade box. The box appeared to be of extremely luxurious quality, embroidered with auspicious dragon patterns in gold thread. The dragons were so lifelike, as if they were about to take flight, displaying the majesty of the imperial family.

The Emperor smiled at Consort Xi, his tone kind yet imposing: "My beloved consort, today is your birthday. I have specially ordered this rare treasure to be found, wishing you joy year after year and eternal youth." With that, he gestured for the eunuch to open the brocade box.

The brocade box was opened, revealing a Guanyin statue carved from mutton-fat jade. The jade was warm and delicate, flawless, and emitted a soft glow under the candlelight, as if shrouded in a sacred radiance. The carving of the Guanyin statue was exquisite; the Guanyin's face was compassionate and serene, her robes flowing, every line smooth and natural, as if crafted by a divine hand, exuding an otherworldly grace. Everyone present gasped in astonishment. Such precious mutton-fat jade was already rare, and coupled with this masterful carving, this gift was priceless, a testament to the Emperor's deep affection for Consort Xi.

Consort Xi hurriedly rose, bowed respectfully, her eyes filled with emotion and joy, and said sweetly, "Thank you for your great kindness, Your Majesty. I will cherish this sentiment. I wish Your Majesty good health and a prosperous nation."

Next came the Crown Prince's presentation of his gift. Today, the Crown Prince was dressed in a bright yellow brocade robe and wore a golden crown. He stood tall and imposing, displaying the demeanor of a crown prince. He walked steadily to the center of the hall, followed by an attendant carrying an exquisite gift box.

After bowing to Consort Xi, the Crown Prince said, "Mother, I wish you a happy birthday. May you be blessed with good fortune and all things going smoothly. This is a gift I have carefully prepared; I hope you will accept it." With that, he took the gift box and opened it himself.

Inside the gift box was a set of headdress jewelry crafted from deep-sea red coral. The coral was vibrant and eye-catching, a fiery red, and each piece was of uniform texture and regular shape, clearly selected after careful examination. The headdress was also inlaid with delicate pearls and gemstones, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship and ingenious design. From the hairpins and hair ornaments to the earrings, everything was exquisite and truly eye-catching.

When Consort Xi saw the gift, her smile deepened. She said with satisfaction, "Your Highness is so thoughtful. This red coral headdress is truly beautiful, and I like it very much." Upon hearing this, the Crown Prince also smiled happily and returned to his seat.

Next, it was Prince Xian, Nangong Jin, who presented his gift. Today, Nangong Jin was dressed in black, his demeanor elegant and refined, yet with a touch of aloofness that seemed somewhat out of place in the lively banquet atmosphere, yet inexplicably drawing attention. Holding a simple yet elegant gift box, he walked unhurriedly to the center of the hall, bowed to Consort Xi, his manners impeccable yet conveying a sense of neither servility nor arrogance.

Nangong Jin said, "On the occasion of the Imperial Concubine's birthday, I, the Prince, have prepared a small gift to wish Her Majesty a blessed birthday, good health, and happiness." After speaking, he opened the gift box.

Inside was an ancient painting. Unfolded, the scroll revealed it to be a landscape painting by a renowned artist from a previous dynasty. The painting was magnificent, with undulating mountains, swirling clouds and mist, and rushing rivers, as if one could feel the spiritual energy of heaven and earth contained within it. This painting not only possessed extremely high artistic value but was also a rare treasure, as very few have survived to this day due to its antiquity.

When Consort Xi saw it, a hint of surprise flashed in her eyes. She knew the value of the painting and praised it with a smile, "Your Highness is so thoughtful. I have long admired this ancient painting, and I never thought that my wish would come true today. Your Highness has gone to great lengths." Nangong Jin bowed slightly, responded with a few polite words, and then returned to his seat.

Afterwards, the other concubines in the palace also presented their gifts. These gifts from people of noble status were all unique and wonderful, making the atmosphere of the banquet even more lively. The noble ladies present, looking at these luxurious and precious gifts, felt even more that they had to be royalty and use all their skills to stand out in this grand banquet.

The noble ladies all carried carefully prepared gifts, hoping to shine in front of Consort Xi and the Crown Prince with their sincerity and win more favor for themselves. The air was thick with the subtle tension of competition.

When it was Lin Wan's turn to present her gift, she gracefully walked to the center of the hall, bowed to Consort Xi and the Crown Prince, and then instructed her maid to present the gift. The maid carefully held an exquisite sandalwood box, which emitted a faint sandalwood fragrance and exuded an elegant quality.

Lin Wan took the box and respectfully opened it. Instantly, an embroidery work appeared before everyone's eyes, eliciting gasps of amazement from all present. It was a long-lost double-sided gold thread embroidery, a picture of a hundred beauties. The embroidery was exquisite, and the expressions and postures of each beauty were lifelike, as if they would step out of the embroidery at any moment.

Upon closer inspection, the entire painting is embroidered with the finest gold thread. Under the dazzling lights of the palace, the gold threads shimmer with a brilliant light, making the whole painting appear incredibly luxurious. What's even more astonishing is that the eyes of each beauty in the painting are inlaid with pairs of gemstones of different colors. These gemstones are crystal clear and have a dazzling array of colors: deep blue sapphires, like a tranquil night sky; vibrant rubies, like burning flames; and warm emeralds, like tender leaves in spring. They are cleverly combined to add a unique charm to the painting, making each beauty seem to have a soul, radiating brilliance in her eyes.