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墨書 Inktalez
Sitting quietly before the guqin, I took a deep breath, pushing aside all distractions. My fingertips lightly brushed the cool strings, producing a clear note that instantly captured everyone's attention.
In my past life, I had also played the guqin in this Changyin Pavilion, performing a soft and lingering piece titled "Phoenix Seeking Phoenix," solely to please Zhao Yan. At that time, I was filled with joy, believing that the music could convey my love, unaware that it was merely a one-sided performance.
In this life, I would no longer play such sentimental tunes. What I intended to express was the clashing of swords and the galloping of horses, the essence of home and country.
After a brief moment of contemplation, my fingers danced across the strings, unleashing an impassioned and heroic piece called "General's Order."
As the music began, it carried a chilling aura, as if thousands of troops were charging forth. At times it was as urgent as a downpour, at others as somber as a battle cry, vividly depicting scenes of soldiers rallying on the battlefield and armies clashing bravely.
The civil officials present might have felt that the piece was grand in its scope, but those seasoned generals like the Duke of the State and Wei Yuan Hou felt their blood boil. It was as if they were transported back to those war-torn years, their gazes towards me filled with admiration and recognition.
Even the emperor nodded slightly, showing signs of approval.
Shen Ling and Liu looked pale. They had hoped to see me make a fool of myself but were surprised to find that not only had I not fallen into their trap, but I had also won resounding applause with my performance, even catching the emperor's eye.
Zhao Yan's expression was particularly complex. He watched me effortlessly commanding the guqin, his gaze inscrutable. This Shen Wei seemed increasingly different from the gentle and weak woman he remembered. The brilliance emanating from her was somewhat blinding and even hinted at surpassing his control.
As the final notes lingered in the air, silence enveloped Changyin Pavilion for a moment before it erupted into enthusiastic applause.
"Wonderful! What an impressive 'General's Order!'" boomed the Duke of the State. "Young lady from the Shen family, I never expected you to possess such ambition and spirit at such a young age!"
"Indeed! This piece is grand and inspiring; it is truly remarkable!" Wei Yuan Hou added with admiration.
I stood up once more and bowed to everyone. "You flatter me. The Servant Girl merely borrowed wisdom from others and understands only a fraction."
The emperor smiled and said, "Minister Shen has taught his daughter well! With such a fine daughter, she is indeed a perfect match for Prince Jing."
Scholar Shen quickly rose to express his gratitude, his face beaming with pride. Receiving such praise from the emperor was an immense honor.
Returning to my seat, Shen Ling immediately leaned closer with a forced smile and said, "Sister truly hides her talents well; even such an impassioned piece can be played. However... is it really appropriate for a young lady to perform such martial music?"
Her words hinted that I had lost my feminine grace.
I lifted my cup of fruit wine and took a small sip before replying calmly, "Though 'General's Order' is military music, it celebrates the loyalty and bravery of those who protect our homeland. Our dynasty's current prosperity relies on the bloodshed of our soldiers. The Servant Girl plays this piece to honor our ancestors and remind herself that as part of the royal family, one should cherish their country rather than indulge solely in romantic pursuits. What does my sister think?"
My words rang out firmly, not only silencing Shen Ling but also subtly mocking her previous insinuations about feminine grievances while clearly stating my stance and vision before the emperor and all present.
Shen Ling's face turned red from my remarks; she was left speechless for quite some time.
Seeing this, Liu quickly pulled her back and whispered a few reprimands.
The banquet continued, but the atmosphere was different from before. The gazes directed at me were filled with more respect and curiosity, while those aimed at Shen Ling were tinged with obvious disdain.
After Zhao Yan, there was little more communication between us; he only occasionally cast scrutinizing glances my way.
On the way back to the residence after the banquet, the carriage was enveloped in silence. Liu and Shen Ling both wore dark expressions, not uttering a word. My father, however, was in high spirits, constantly praising my performance today for bringing him face.
I leaned against the carriage wall, closing my eyes to rest. I had successfully navigated this palace banquet. Shen Ling not only failed to embarrass me but instead brought shame upon herself. Yet this was merely an appetizer; the real competition lay ahead.
Upon returning to Zhi Lan Courtyard, Qing Zhu excitedly said, "Miss, you were amazing today! Second Miss's face turned green!"
I smiled and removed my outer garment. "Stay calm; this is just the beginning."
I walked to the writing desk, picked up a brush, and wrote three characters on the paper: Manager Liu.
It was time to audit the accounts and reclaim our assets. I gently placed the paper with "Manager Liu" written on it over the candle flame, watching as it slowly turned to ashes.
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