Chapter 836: Chapter 836: What's Wrong with a Slap in the Face_1

The Emperor flicked his eyelids open to take a quick glance, then lowered them again, indifferently fiddling with the string of pearls in his hand.

Jiang Ning recognized the pearl string. It was a personal belonging of Concubine Jin.

After Concubine Jin's passing, most of her belongings were buried with her. Only this string of pearls had become something the Emperor carried with him.

Regarding the first group of potential beauties presented, the Emperor gave no indication of interest.

His expression did not change in the slightest.

Yet, the Empress slightly furrowed her brows, seemingly dissatisfied. She complained, "What is the Ministry of Rites and Honglu Temple doing this year? The selected ladies are all of average appearance."

Though she was reprimanding the officials from the Ministry of Rites and Honglu Temple, she was implicitly criticizing Jiang Ning for being incompetent.

As if she had purposefully chosen candidates of mediocre beauty.