Chapter 210: Gifted Poetry
Chapter 210: Gifted Poetry
By noon, Qujiang Lake had grown even more crowded.
The autumn sun cast a gentle glow, its warmth tinged with a crisp coolness. High above, pristine white clouds drifted across an endless blue sky—a breathtakingly pure scene that lifted the spirits.
Beneath the willow tree, Xiao Ming’s promise delighted the three men. But Qin Rui hesitated. “Your Highness, this poetry contest is hosted by the princess. The rules state entry is by verse alone. Frankly, for the past five years, we’ve been turned away at the door and mocked relentlessly. But now, with Your Highness’s peerless talent, surely we can share both fortune and misfortune?”
“Exactly! If we could tour the lake with Her Highness, I’d die happy tonight!” Zhu Yushu’s eyes glazed over with longing.
Du Boyuan elbowed him sharply. Zhu Yushu snapped back to reality, suddenly remembering that the princess was Xiao Ming’s aunt. His words bordered on disrespect.
“My apologies, Your Highness! That was nonsense—utter nonsense!”
Xiao Ming had always sensed something dangerous about his aunt. Beneath her harmless facade lay formidable influence—why else would Prince Wei go out of his way to indulge her?
“No matter. Better you three get the privilege than some pretentious scholar.” Xiao Ming grinned, utterly irreverent. To him, Princess Pingyang was no cherished relative.
The trio gaped, then nearly wept with gratitude. Qin Rui clasped his hands. “Your Highness, five years apart, and you’re still the same! For this kindness today, whatever you need in the future, we won’t refuse!”
“Won’t refuse!” Zhu Yushu and Du Boyuan echoed fervently. In their eyes, Prince Qi remained the same legend—always coming through for his friends.
Xiao Ming smiled faintly.