I quickly said: “Your Majesty, your words are too humble! I have long heard of Your Majesty’s supreme musical skills, unmatched throughout Huanye. For me to play the zither before you is like wielding a knife before Guan Yu – utterly presumptuous!”
Finally, Dong Fanyan stepped in to mediate: “Both of you, stop being modest. Empress, please play a piece and let these two ministers be the judges!”
“Yes, this concubine obeys!” Nan Gong Qin Xue bowed slightly and elegantly sat before the zither, her fingers touching the strings while casting a glance at Bei Ting Zi Han.
Immediately, she concentrated, a song ‘Autumn Wind Ode’ flowed from her, drifting through the imperial garden, the music ethereal and melancholic, as if listeners were immersed in the misty rain of Jade River.
As the music stopped, everyone awakened. Dong Fanyan’s face showed a comforted expression, and he asked loudly: “What are the two ministers’ evaluations of the Empress and Miss Fei’s performances?”
Xi Lin Yan spoke first: “In terms of skill, both are equally matched, but in artistic conception, I believe the Empress’s is more profound!”
Damn! Is he serious? I seem to have been drawn into this inexplicable competition because of him, and now he’s switching sides!”
Could he be planning to marry the princess?
Dong Fanyan turned to Bei Ting Zi Han: “What do you think?”
Bei Ting Zi Han cupped his hands: “Like Xi Lin, I believe their skills are equal, but I prefer Miss Fei’s melody.”
“Snap!” – the sound of a zither string breaking. I looked over to see Nan Gong Qin Xue’s lips pale, her face disbelieving!
“I’m sorry, this concubine suddenly feels unwell and wishes to rest!” She stood up during the momentary distraction, her steps unsteady as she hurried to leave.
Got it!” he said faintly, walking past me.
I hurried to catch up, shamelessly saying, “Hey, can you help me get another signature?”
“What do you want so many signatures for?” He finally stopped, turning to look at me.
“To make money!” I said matter-of-factly.
Who knows what the future holds? As a time traveler, I can’t just do nothing! I want to open my own shop and make money!
He raised an eyebrow, suddenly leaning close, “What, has Xiliu Bao mistreated you?”
