Metamorphosis of an Ugly Girl – Part One

Li Qin quickly approached and helped her up, turning to the Emperor, “Father, I have met Miss Lin before; my earlier rudeness was unintentional.” The Emperor didn’t mind, “Qingqing is an extraordinary woman. It’s your fortune to know her.” Qingqing hastily said, “Your Majesty flatters me; I dare not accept such praise.” The Emperor laughed, “Why are you so formal this time? I liked how you spoke last time. Haha…” Qingqing responded, “Last time, I was ignorant and rude; this time, I dare not be so.” The Emperor pretended to be angry, pointing at Master Lin, “Lin Pu, have you disciplined Qingqing?” Master Lin just smiled without speaking, and Qingqing explained, “Father did not discipline me; he taught me the proper etiquette between sovereign and subject.” The Emperor did not pursue further, looking at the snow-covered garden, seemingly in a good mood, “Today, I brought the Crown Prince here to appreciate poetry and snow. Here’s what we’ll do: I’ll pose a challenge, and whoever composes the best poem will receive a great reward.” Li Qin asked, “What challenge, Father?” The Emperor stroked his white beard and smiled, “Naturally, it has to be about snow. Each of you will recite a poem, and each poem must contain the word ‘snow.’ If ‘snow’ is at the end of a line, that would be ideal.” Li Qin turned to look at the snowy scenery, quickly contemplating. Suddenly, Yafu stepped forward, gracefully bowing, “Your Majesty saw my elder sister’s talent last time; let me, Yafu, start this time.” The Emperor and the Crown Prince finally took notice of her. She had grown much taller since they last met, and though still young, her face was already delicately beautiful. She had a flying cloud hairdo with an ornate gold hairpin adorned with dangling pearls, and wore a red magnolia butterfly cloak over a pink silk robe. Her natural beauty was like the soft petals of a peach blossom, her bright eyes mesmerizing, and she looked quite mature for her age as she stood up. The Crown Prince was visibly taken aback, and Master Lin showed an expression of approval and satisfaction. However, Qingqing felt uneasy, knowing that if it were her, her father might accuse her of some improper conduct. The Emperor casually glanced at Li Qin, then coughed behind his hand, bringing Li Qin back to reality. The Emperor said, “The daughters of the Lin family are indeed extraordinary. Go ahead and speak.”