Feng Yin Wan raised an eyebrow.
"Why is Madam so nervous? This Princess Consort hasn't said you meant anything by it."
"I..."
Seeing that her attempt to explain was only making things worse, Qin Ru Lian quickly interjected.
"Sister, what you just said was quite harsh. It seems you've frightened Madam. It's just a piece of calligraphy. Ru Lian believes Madam meant no disrespect to His Highness, only offering well wishes."
She curved her lips, appearing to be fair and reasonable, which made Feng Yin Wan seem rather petulant and deliberately difficult.
Feng Yin Wan scoffed, "Miss Qin is indeed sensible. This Princess Consort was merely joking, yet the Minister of Rites' wife has taken it to heart."
She glanced indifferently at the large characters still held by a servant and decisively made her judgment.
"His Highness is healthy and vigorous, his nobility innate. He naturally needs no external aid. Since today is Miss Qin's coming-of-age ceremony, and the Minister of Rites' wife created this specifically for it, this Princess Consort believes Miss Qin should accept this calligraphy."
After giving the order, she noticed a steward nearby and immediately added a reminder.
"Oh, right. Since it's calligraphy, it should be treasured. You must have it framed and hung in the most conspicuous place in the main hall of Xiu Chun Courtyard."
Later, she'd secretly sprinkle some fluorescent powder on it. Then, the little white lotus would bump into it every time she got up at night, and see if she wouldn't be scared to death!
After her earlier remarks, anyone would find the calligraphy somewhat ominous. Now, hearing Feng Yin Wan's arrangement, Qin Ru Lian's face turned green and then purple, her expression a chaotic mess like an overturned palette.
Night Ting Lan, who had been "cursed" from afar, didn't fare any better. He couldn't even bear to look at the calligraphy and impatiently waved his hand.
"Take it away."
The Minister of Rites' wife, after subtly belittling Feng Yin Wan, had intended to use the opportunity to mention a performance, allowing Qin Ru Lian to showcase her talents in front of everyone.
Who knew that Feng Yin Wan's few words would throw her into disarray? Seeing the calligraphy set being taken away, Qin Ru Lian gritted her teeth and reluctantly stood up.
"Since Madam has gifted me with calligraphy, Ru Lian will play a melody in return. My skills are crude, and I hope everyone will forgive my amateurish display."
As soon as she said this, whispers erupted from the guests.
Feng Yin Wan also raised an eyebrow upon hearing this.
Amateurish display?
She thought it looked more like showing off!
Night Ting Lan clearly tacitly approved of the little white lotus's behavior.
"Then I'll trouble you."
As he spoke, a servant brought Qin Ru Lian's zither. She nodded and gracefully stepped forward. As her hands touched the strings, a beautiful melody flowed out, causing the crowd to gasp in amazement.
With a hint of pride, she glanced at Feng Yin Wan and then lowered her head to focus on her playing.
The music flowed like water, sometimes clear and pleasant, sometimes grand and imposing. The guests were captivated, unable to refrain from praising her.
"What amateurish display? This playing is even more beautiful than the courtesans of Huanyin Pavilion!"
"Yes, yes! Such superb skill. She is definitely worthy of being ranked among the top noble ladies in the capital!"
Qin Ru Lian secretly observed the reactions of the crowd, an undeniable sense of pride surging within her. She slowly ceased her movements, and the surrounding applause erupted instantly.
Among them, the applause from the main seats was the most distinct.
It grew louder, standing out from the general hubbub, even drowning out the praises of the other guests.
Qin Ru Lian listened, her heart immediately soaring with joy.
Of course, she knew Brother Ting Lan would like it!
She pursed her lips, suppressing her excitement as she quickly stood up, "Brother Ting Lan, there's no need..."
Before she could finish, she met Feng Yin Wan's bright smile and was stunned.
"Princess... Princess Consort?"
Feng Yin Wan nodded with a smile, "Miss Qin plays beautifully!"
"In this Princess Consort's opinion, even the foremost courtesan in the capital would be inferior to you! If you were to perform in a pleasure house, this piece alone would be worth a thousand gold!"
"With such musical talent, how can one remain unmoved? Yu Ping, quickly present your reward!"