The female anchor turned into the dean of an ancient academy

Chapter 259 Go to the palace!

"This cream is truly magical. After using it, my skin becomes as smooth as a peeled egg." A lady excitedly shared with her younger sisters.

"That's right, the fine lines on my face have faded a lot." Another lady agreed.

As a result, Jinxiu Yantang's business became increasingly prosperous, and Cen Jiexiao's reputation grew, even reaching many households in the capital city of Qifeng.

Half a month passed in a flash, and the royal sacrificial delegation prepared to embark on their return journey to the capital for Kaifeng. Sunlight streamed through the window lattices, illuminating the dazzling array of bottles and jars on the counter at Jinxiu Yantang, while the air was filled with the delicate aroma of herbs. Just the day before the sacrificial delegation's return, Jinxiu Yantang welcomed a rare and distinguished guest.

That afternoon, a man in plain casual clothes, quietly followed by several guards, entered the Jinxiu Yantang. He was the current emperor, Chai Zhen, and his secret visit was solely to see this renowned beauty salon.

Chai Zhen's eyes flickered over the various skincare products on the shelves, a hint of curiosity in his eyes. He picked up a crystal-clear, jade-like porcelain bottle that exuded a delicate fragrance. A delicate label read "Ningzhi Yulu Cream." The cream inside the bottle was as delicate as cream, emitting an alluring luster.

"What is this?" Chai Zhen asked, gently stroking the jade porcelain bottle. His voice was gentle and magnetic, with a hint of imperial majesty.

Xiaozhi, as the acting manager of Jinxiu Yantang, naturally recognized the emperor traveling incognito. She had met Chai Zhen several times before, and although the emperor was dressed simply today, she recognized him immediately.

Xiaozhi hurried forward and bowed respectfully.

"Your Majesty, this is the latest skin care cream developed by our Dean Cen, called 'Ningzhi Yulu Cream'."

Xiaozhi paused briefly before continuing, "It can make the skin fair and smooth, and reduce fine lines. The effect is excellent. Many ladies have praised it highly after using it."

She glanced at the jade porcelain bottle in Chai Zhen's hand and added, "This cream is made with rare medicinal herbs and a unique secret recipe. It's meticulously refined through multiple steps. It nourishes the skin and delays aging. It's truly an excellent beauty product."

"Your Majesty, you must be tired after the long journey. Please go to the center's user room to rest for a while. I will go and inform Dean Cen right away." Xiaozhi observed his expression and said considerately.

Chai Zhen had always been curious about Cen Jiexiao, and now, seeing how exquisite and effective the skincare products she developed were, he became even more intrigued by this talented dean. He readily agreed and followed Xiaozhi into the private room.

Xiaozhi hurried to the backyard office and informed Cen Jiexiao of the emperor's arrival. Cen Jiexiao was both surprised and nervous to learn that the emperor had personally visited the Jinxiu Yan Hall. Not wanting to be careless, she quickly changed into a simple, elegant dress and approached Chai Zhen.

"Your servant, Cen Jiexiao, pays homage to His Majesty." Cen Jiexiao bowed respectfully with an elegant posture, neither humble nor arrogant.

Chai Zhen observed Cen Jiexiao with great interest. Her beauty and refined temperament were completely different from the heavily made-up and coquettish concubines in the harem. He felt a sense of freshness and naturalness in her.

"No need to be so polite, Dean Cen. I am here in disguise today just to see Dean Cen's beautiful house. It is indeed unique and it really makes my eyes light up!" Chai Zhen said gently, with a hint of appreciation in his tone.

He looked around and exclaimed: "It is worthy of being the symbol of prosperity of my Great Zhou."

The corners of Cen Jiexiao's lips curled up slightly, revealing a humble smile. She said softly, "Your Majesty, your praise is too much. I do not deserve it. I only have a basic understanding of medical principles and a few skills in mixing medicines. I really do not deserve such high praise from your Majesty."

Chai Zhen's gaze fell on Cen Jiexiao, his admiration growing even stronger. He picked up a bottle of crystal-clear "Ningzhi Yulu Cream" and asked curiously, "Is this 'Ningzhi Yulu Cream' made by Dean Cen?"

Cen Jiexiao nodded slightly and replied affirmatively, "It was developed by me."

She paused briefly and added, "This ointment's formula contains a variety of precious herbs and natural minerals, refined through multiple special processes. It can effectively improve various skin problems, restoring your skin to a fair, smooth, and radiant complexion."

A hint of surprise flashed in Chai Zhen's eyes, and he said with interest: "Oh? It has such magical effects? Then I must try it myself." There was a hint of anticipation and curiosity in his tone.

As he spoke, he opened the jade porcelain bottle cap of the "Ningzhi Yulu Cream" in his hand. A faint fragrance wafted out, refreshing his heart. He prepared to apply the cream on his hands.

Seeing this, Cen Jiexiao quickly stepped forward and stopped him, saying, "Your Majesty, wait a minute!"

Chai Zhen paused and looked at Cen Jiexiao in confusion.

Cen Jiexiao explained, "Your Majesty, this Cream is specially formulated for women. The ingredients it contains are more suitable for female skin. If Your Majesty wishes to try it, I can prepare a formula more suitable for men based on your skin type."

Chai Zhen was stunned at first, then burst into laughter. "Hahaha, Dean Cen is truly a wonderful person! This external-use ointment is actually divided into male and female types. Interesting, really interesting!"

Cen Jiexiao replied calmly, "Your Majesty is the supreme ruler of the land, the current emperor. Your body is precious, so naturally, I must be extremely cautious." She paused, then added, "Every product I develop is tailored to different skin types and needs, striving to achieve the best results."

Chai Zhen nodded in appreciation and said, "I'm very pleased that Dean Cen is so thoughtful." He replaced the lid of the jade porcelain bottle in his hand and placed it back on the table. He continued, "Since this Condensing Fat Jade Dew Cream is not suitable for my use, I will wait for Dean Cen to make a special plaster for me."

Cen Jiexiao responded respectfully, "I will do my best to prepare the most suitable ointment for Your Majesty."

Chai Zhen admired Cen Jiexiao's prudence and attentiveness even more. He thought to himself, this woman is not only talented and beautiful, but also so attentive and considerate, well-mannered, and elegantly spoken. If she could stay in the palace, she would definitely be a capable assistant to him, even... He narrowed his eyes slightly, his thoughts drifting away for a moment, then quickly regained his focus. He cleared his throat and asked casually, "Dean Cen, are you willing to enter the palace and serve me?"

Cen Jiexiao was startled, nearly crumpling the handkerchief in her hand. She hadn't expected Chai Zhen to suddenly make such a request. Enter the palace? Become a court physician? Or... something else? She didn't dare to think too much, only feeling her heartbeat quicken.

She paused for a moment, organizing her words, and then slowly said, "Your Majesty, I'm used to being free and uninhibited, and I'm afraid I'm not suited to the palace's red tape and strict hierarchy. I prefer to delve into my own little world, studying medicine and developing new products."

She paused, then added, "Also, there are hundreds of students in Zhaoyin Academy. If I leave suddenly, I'm afraid..."