Chapter Nine, The Waller Version of Dae Jang Geum

The wide-sleeved palace attire and the long flowing skirt resembled colorful butterflies dancing, surrounding a beautiful woman in the center. The woman sang beautifully, and I couldn't help but hum along softly to the tune. I had no idea which strategy she was representing; alas, when I changed the names initially, it was purely for fun, and I couldn't even remember which was which. However, her singing was truly remarkable, and she was quite lovely, giving off a refreshing aura. Suddenly, the crowd fell silent, as if they had all agreed upon it, quietly watching the performance of the "Thirty-Six Strategies" in the hall. Were they mesmerized? It didn't seem so, and I even noticed some people casting sympathetic glances at me. Just as I was puzzled, the woman made a significant mistake. Perhaps sensing the strange atmosphere in the hall and becoming nervous, she stepped forward but accidentally tripped over her own skirt, falling to the ground with a thud.

"Listen," Chengde said with a grin, "Hurry up and tie this for me, I want this one from you." I looked at him, ready to get angry, but then I thought that if I tied something on his hand while I had it on my foot, I would be taking advantage of him! So I took the silk thread and began to tie it for him.

It is not that I fear death, but rather that I truly do not understand the profession of being a ghost

This is clearly sung in my Goryeo dialect. Although the concubine's singing is not entirely accurate in some places, one can still grasp the general idea. How could it be said that it relates to avenging my brother? Could it be that the concubine does not even know what she is singing?

When she entered the room, I was lying barefoot on the bamboo couch, feeling dejected that there were no rice dumplings to eat. Seeing her come over again to tie that colorful thing on me, I couldn't help but speak harshly. Wan Yue, upon noticing my displeasure, was so frightened that she quickly knelt down, tears welling in her eyes. Looking at her cautious and aggrieved expression, I felt a twinge of regret. How could this princess, after only a few days of being spoiled, have developed such a temper? It was already enough to enslave her; after all, we are all human. Can one justify this in good conscience? Looking at her cautious and aggrieved expression, I felt a twinge of regret. How could this princess, after only a few days of being spoiled, have developed such a temper? It was already enough to enslave her; after all, we are all human. Can one justify this in good conscience?

"Everyone go down, it's all for the sake of enjoyment," the Empress Dowager said with a smile

Chengde smiled, pulled me into his embrace, rested his chin on the top of my head, and said, "Hmm, this is happiness!" I pushed him away, asking, "What kind of person are you? Is hitting someone your idea of happiness?" I rolled my eyes at him and said, "Don't get me wrong, the reason I won't go with Nangong Yue has nothing to do with you!" Chengde ignored me and simply took off his boots and got into bed.

However, sometimes, not causing trouble does not mean that trouble will not come to you

"By the way, why did everyone see such a performance at Zhou Guo's song and dance party tonight?" I asked. "They have committed the old gentleman's greatest taboo. This song has been passed down for a long time, but the old gentleman does not like this song and dance; it seems he has not liked it for twenty years. Therefore, almost no one sings it inside or outside the palace," Chengde said, glancing at the silk thread I had tied for him, looking quite pleased. Not like it? Then why did they still sing it? Moreover, it is an old song from twenty years ago. Don't they know? I was very puzzled.

Until the sun had risen high in the sky, Su'er and the others hurriedly entered from outside. Upon seeing Wan Yue still asleep, they hurried to wake her while apologizing to me. I gestured that it was fine, thinking to myself that since Wan Yue was outside my room, the dosage they had given her must have been more than enough, so it was no wonder she was like this! After tidying themselves up, they stretched their arms and legs in the courtyard before returning to the room, where Su'er had already brought Mantian in. I instructed Su'er and the others to leave, and I took a couple of glances at Mantian, who stood there neither servile nor arrogant, appearing quite calm. "Who decided on the song and dance yesterday?" I asked.

I pretended that nothing was wrong, signaled for the band to get ready, and then started singing by myself. Fortunately, this Princess Furong's voice was not as hopeless as mine used to be; at least she stayed on pitch. The song I sang was the only one I could perform well from my karaoke days with classmates, not because it was melodious, but because it had almost no melody and could be sung straight through without deviation.

Returning to the hall, I bowed respectfully towards the upper part and calmly stood beside me

Give me one more, I said

Today coincides with a festive occasion, may I ask if it is possible to allow the noble consort—" Before he could finish speaking, I suddenly stood up with a start. This truly was an impertinent request; he not only disregarded my identity as the Princess of the State of Zhou, but even forgot the title of Noble Consort Walle!

At this moment, almost everyone turned their gaze towards me

"Then have I offended the envoy from Goryeo today? Will there be any consequences?" I asked anxiously

Certainly, all of this is done under one premise, which is to avoid the Emperor! He gives me a very ominous feeling, which I cannot tolerate. Aside from this, I try to keep myself within my own palace, not going out to attract attention, also because I truly cannot be a qualified person of ancient times, whether in behavior or language. I can pretend for a while, but it won't be long before I reveal my true self, so it is safer to remain in my own territory. For safety, I have sent away quite a few of the palace maids, leaving only a few senior maids like Su'er and a few rough servants outside.

Get lost! I exclaimed in anger

Only a few did not smile, their faces having undergone a transformation from white to red, and then from red to black, resembling several chameleons. The one named Yuan Chun was even more infuriated, his face turning pale, almost to the point of spitting blood

"Have I changed?" I chuckle bitterly, "It's not that I have changed, it's just that after staying for a long time, some things will become burdens that I carry on my back."

It is advisable to frequently visit the Empress Dowager to curry her favor, as embracing her might prove to be of great benefit in the future. Each day, one should dutifully pay respects to the Empress, presenting oneself as a model of obedience and propriety, almost to the extent of swearing to the Left Empress that one has no interest whatsoever in her husband, imploring her not to take any action against me

"So, can you walk for me https://mhetushucomcom?" Watching Nangong Yue clasp my hands in his, placing them on his chest, I momentarily froze, unsure of how to respond. Leaving this deep palace means I would no longer have to live in fear every day; I could freely enjoy my remaining year outside. I was moved, truly moved. "I want you to be with me," Nangong Yue said, "to wander the world with me, to grow old with me, to be with me for a lifetime!" A lifetime! Leaving this deep palace means I would no longer have to live in fear every day; I could freely enjoy my remaining year outside. I was moved, truly moved. "I want you to be with me," Nangong Yue said, "to wander the world with me, to grow old with me, to be with me for a lifetime!" A lifetime! The three words struck my heart like a heavy hammer.

"If it's wrong, then it's wrong!" I said, "What else can be done? Why so much nonsense? Why are you here?" Nangong Yue smiled and said, "I came to take you out." After saying that, he reached out to pull me away.

I am helpless, as I have allowed Chengde to take full advantage of the situation

I have been practicing dance since I was five years old, and it has been thirteen years now

I was a bit stunned, to go out, and to go out with Nangong Yue? To escape this deep palace? But what about these palace maids? What about Chengde? Nangong Yue noticed my hesitation and turned back in confusion.

I understand that my elder brother, the Emperor, does not want me to know for my own good, but I am the princess of the Zhou Kingdom. You are the ones I brought with me. If something happens and I say I don't know, who would believe me? I said softly, pausing for a moment before continuing, "Mantan, you are also a clever woman; can't you understand this principle? We are already in the same boat, so what good does it do to keep things from me? If something were to happen, I wouldn't even know how to protect you." Mantan's body trembled slightly. We are already in the same boat, so what good does it do to keep things from me? If something were to happen, I wouldn't even know how to protect you. Mantan's body trembled slightly, and she knelt down, saying, "Your Highness, it's not that I am unwilling to speak, but I am also unclear about the situation. This performance was arranged while we were in the capital, and when we came here, Eunuch Hong specifically instructed us about it." Eunuch Hong? The old eunuch beside my elder brother, the Emperor?

In fact, I am a person who loves liveliness, essentially belonging to the type that fears the world is not chaotic enough. During this half month at the Palace of Valle, I have truly felt bored. There is no way around it; between life and excitement, I chose life. Between being an honest and straightforward person and a charming and carefree spirit, I still, rather disappointingly, chose to be human

The music came to a halt, and the "Thirty-Six Stratagems" all fell to the ground. The woman who had fallen was even more prostrate on the ground, her shoulders faintly trembling, likely in shock.

There is.

After the dance concluded, the Emperor smiled and nodded at the envoy, while the Empress Dowager praised the performance, causing the envoy to beam with pride. Another group of dancers came up, and to my surprise and delight, they turned out to be my "Thirty-Six Stratagems"!

Do you know how much trouble this will cause? You thoughtless girl!" he said resentfully, "This slap is because you let him hold your hand?

The effect was unexpectedly good. Although the people of Waller could not understand what I was singing, the astonished expressions on the faces of those few Korean envoys indicated that my performance had left them quite shocked. By the time I reached the second verse, the man beside Yuan Chun could no longer restrain himself and began to softly tap the table in rhythm with my low chant.

Chengde slightly shook his head at me, signaling me to endure. I glanced at the emperor; although a faint smile still lingered on his face, his eyes appeared somewhat indifferent, as if he were contemplating something else.

Which part of the Concubine Dance? Can we summon the musicians? asked Empress Zuo

The more I thought about it, the more interesting it became, and my sleepiness completely vanished as I lay awake waiting for Chengde to arrive. Around twelve o'clock, the window indeed opened quietly, and a figure slipped in.

"Just give it to me, isn't that enough?" I said, "Get up quickly, it is my fault, I shouldn't have taken my anger out on you, I apologize." Wan Yue, seeing me say this, hurriedly bowed and said: "It is the servant's fault for provoking the princess's anger."

"This slap is because you recklessly seek attention!" Chengde said softly, and the slap came down again. It seemed gentle and made no sound, but when it landed on the buttocks, it was excruciatingly painful

Upon waking in the morning, I waited for a long time but still did not see any palace maids come by, which left me somewhat puzzled. When I went to the outer room, I found Wanyue, who had been on night duty yesterday, sleeping soundly on the small bed. I then checked on Su'er and the others, and they too had not yet awakened. What is going on today? They have never behaved like this before. Suddenly, I recalled that last night, Nangong Yue and Chengde had come one after the other. Could it be that both of them played tricks on them?

Suddenly, I thought of my "Thirty-Six Stratagems". Since coming to the palace, I have not seen them again, and I wonder how they are doing. A foreign envoy stood up below and said he wanted to present the songs and dances of their country to His Majesty the Emperor. The Emperor smiled and nodded, and then a group of dancers dressed in their ethnic costumes came up. I couldn't help but laugh; isn't this just the Hanbok? Although there are some differences, they are generally quite similar. I couldn't help but take a few more glances at that envoy.

Su Er returned in a hurry after a short while, bringing with her an astonishing piece of news. A eunuch had just gone to the dance hall to convey the Emperor's decree, taking away Zhi Sang.

Suddenly, I felt a tightness in my chest, as if something was blocking my breath. Ignoring Chengde, I turned to walk towards the bed, but after taking just a couple of steps, I felt my feet leave the ground, as Chengde had picked me up from behind. I turned around and glared at Chengde, but saw that his expression was very serious, which left me momentarily stunned. Chengde carried me horizontally and took a few steps to sit down on the bed. "What are you doing?" I exclaimed.

People were dumbfounded, and I was even more dumbfounded! This, this, this is just too disrespectful to me!

"Your Majesty the Emperor," the envoy stood up and said, "Yuan Chun has an unreasonable request." The Emperor nodded, indicating for him to continue.

Is this the courtesan that Zhou Guo has presented to Your Majesty?" the envoy deliberately inquired, "Are there truly no others? These are even inferior to the lowest courtesans of our Goryeo!" After speaking, he let out a disdainful snort.

"Alright, I know I have wronged you, so get up quickly. If you don't tie it for me soon, I won't let it go!" I threatened with a smile. Only then did Wan Yue stop crying and hurried over to tie it for me. "Your Highness, it is not that this servant is being meddlesome, but tying this silk thread is a custom of Wala. You still have to attend the banquet tonight, and if you are the only one who does not tie it, I fear someone might take advantage of this—"

"Are you so happy just because you hit me?" I said resentfully

Chengde let out a cold laugh and said, "Those Koreans are indeed going too far. I can see that the old man is somewhat displeased today. Relying on the fact that he once sent troops for me, he seems to have forgotten his own surname. Moreover, the situation at the Korean border is also a bit unstable; teaching them a lesson wouldn't hurt. " I was still somewhat uneasy, not because of the Koreans, but because I feared that the emperor might cause me trouble due to my performance tonight. "Alright, alright, don't think too much about it. It's already good that the old man didn't lose his temper tonight," Chengde said, leaning closer to me with a playful smile, "Come on, give me a kiss. It's been so many days since you last came; I've missed you to death!"

Asking again in vain, there was nothing more to be gleaned, and she could only let Su'er take her back.

After the song was finished, it truly captivated the entire audience, even the Empress showed a pleased expression and asked, "This child is indeed clever; how is it that she can even speak Goryeo dialect? It sounds pleasant, but I wonder what the lyrics mean." Before I could respond, the man beside Yuan Chun began to recite: "When will the beloved return? When will the beloved leave? I wish to ride the wind and soar, yet I cannot find the beloved's shadow. Where is the beloved, leaving me all alone and lost? Oh dear, what should I do? If you do not return, please take me away with you. Oh dear, what should I do? If you do not return, please take me away with you." "You are mistaken; what you said is incorrect," I suddenly interjected.

Zhisan has been practicing dance for ten years now

What about the one who danced alone last night

The man was taken aback, looking at me in some confusion, not understanding why I suddenly said such a thing. For a moment, everyone seemed a bit stunned. I looked at their expressions with satisfaction, thinking to myself that this was exactly the moment I had been waiting for. Glancing at Chengde, only that fellow was still looking at me with a smile, as if he knew I had ulterior motives.

The sharp voice of the eunuch rang out, and everyone inside and outside the hall hurriedly stood up respectfully, creating an instant silence in the grand banquet. The Emperor and the Left Empress supported the Empress Dowager as they entered the hall, followed by a beautiful woman who appeared to be in her thirties, with a cool demeanor and dressed in splendid attire, which made me glance at her a couple more times.

I found it amusing and thought to myself that you always scare me, but this time it seems it's my turn to scare you

Nangong Yue suddenly smiled and softly said, "I should have known long ago, but I just didn't want to believe it." I did not dare to look up at his face, I just couldn't. After a while, the room was frighteningly quiet. When I looked up again, Nangong Yue had already disappeared, leaving only Chengde grinning at me.

"I am guilty and have brought shame to the Great Zhou," the servant said as she knelt down.

The shadow approached the bedside, gently lifted the bed curtain, and upon seeing that there was no one inside, paused for a moment. However, it soon turned to look towards the bamboo couch. I suddenly realized that this person was not Chengde! His figure was slightly taller than Chengde's. I felt a surge of surprise; could it be that an assassin had truly come? But as the person took a couple of steps closer, I was almost overwhelmed with joy, quickly climbing down from the bamboo couch and throwing myself into his arms. Indeed, it was the long-missed Nangong Yue!

"Then why are you unwilling to go with me?" Nangong Yue asked stubbornly

"Who said I was crying?" Chengde reached out and wiped my face, then extended his hand in front of me and said, "If it's not crying, then what is it?"

I was so preoccupied with secretly watching my mother in Chengde that I did not hear anything the emperor said

"Princess, it is because the Kingdom of Goryeo sent troops to ambush our country that we suffered defeat, allowing Walle to occupy Wancheng," Su'er whispered resentfully in my ear

My stubborn temper has also flared up; I let him hit me, and instead, I do not struggle or cry out.

The fifth day of the fifth lunar month is originally our Dragon Boat Festival, but here in Wale, it has become the "Evening Spring Festival." Just from the perspective of the palace, it is evident that this festival is indeed significant, as the "leaders" attach great importance to it. Not to mention that Empress Zuo has already begun preparations for the evening banquet on that day; even Su'er and her companions have started to adapt to local customs by preparing various items needed for the celebration.

"Tears do not necessarily mean crying!" I said, "When one cries, it does not always have to involve tears." Chengde seemed a bit confused by my words, reaching out to pull me closer, saying, "I was just angry earlier and scolded you; don't hold a grudge now." He gently wiped the tears from my face with his hand and softly said, "I am very happy now, truly very happy"

I have finally officially begun my life in the palace. Living in this harem is not as fraught with tension as described in those palace tales. Firstly, it is because I genuinely do not wish to vie for favor. Secondly, as a princess of a defeated nation, I lack both beauty and a powerful background, so there are not many beauties who cast their gaze upon me. To them, I am not considered a rival.

Upon hearing Nangong Yue's question, I found myself back at square one, and couldn't help but roll my eyes. With a helpless sigh, I said: "I am not leaving, not because of you, but simply because I cannot let go..."

Nangong Yue raised his eyebrows in surprise, "Is it just because of this?" I thought for a moment and nodded, "Yes, it is just because of this. I cannot let innocent people lose their lives for my momentary pleasure." In fact, there were some words I did not dare to say, and so I left like this. Chengde will probably also be implicated.

"Your Majesty," I said aloud, "since the envoy has said so, please allow me to present my humble offering as well." The Emperor looked at me with slight surprise, raised an eyebrow, but suddenly smiled and nodded.

Yuan Chun had long heard of the favored concubine Fu Rong's proficiency in historical texts, as well as her talent in singing and dancing. The entire venue fell silent in an instant, leaving only the slightly arrogant voice of the envoy. A young man beside him gently tugged at his sleeve, hinting for him to refrain from speaking further, but he deliberately chose to ignore it

It was not until I returned to my palace after the banquet that I had accumulated a head full of questions. What I could not understand was why everyone had such strange reactions during the dance of the "Thirty-Six Stratagems"? Moreover, I offended the Koreans tonight; will I face their retaliation? Even if they do not take action, what about the Emperor? How will he view me? Can I continue to live leisurely? The more I thought about these questions, the more my head seemed to swell. I decided to stop thinking altogether, let Su'er and the others help me remove my makeup, then took a hot bath and went to bed.

The weather has gradually warmed up, and I have started secretly designing lightweight clothing for myself, such as sundresses and sandals, and then closing the palace gates to enjoy my leisurely time

"If you have the guts, then call someone!" Chengde is completely acting like a rogue

I anxiously glanced at the Emperor, but there was no expression on his face, revealing neither joy nor anger, as he coldly and pensively gazed at the "Thirty-Six Stratagems" kneeling below.

I am feeling quite frustrated; that Korean envoy who just performed a dance has caused trouble again.

After lying in bed for a while, unable to fall asleep, I suddenly thought about how I had made such a big impression today. Would that fellow from Chengde not make a move? He would probably come tonight. With this thought, I quickly got out of bed, moved the bamboo couch to the corner of the wall, and thought to myself, come if you dare; this time, let's see how you will find me on the bed.

"What about Zhisang's wrestling? Was it intentional or..." I felt a bit startled; it seemed this was not just a simple song and dance. The trembling voice replied, "This servant does not know either." Is it truly not known, or is it that she does not wish to say?

Chengde remained silent with a sullen expression, turning me over and placing me on his lap. I wanted to break free, but my waist was firmly held by him. Did he intend to spank me? Surely not? This is all a trope from television; Chengde wouldn't resort to such a tactic, would he

I feel, it is you! I am delighted.

"Hey! Are you listening to what I'm saying?" I said, kicking him and speaking in an annoyed tone

My anger flared up suddenly, and I thought to myself, who do you think you are? You backstabber, how dare you act so arrogantly! Am I, Feng Chen Chu Yang, someone who can be easily bullied? I avoid trouble, but don't you dare take advantage of me! Just because I retract my neck, do you think I'm a turtle? Why don't you consider that I could also be a venomous snake?

The song is none other than the theme song "Call" from the Korean drama "Dae Jang Geum," which once swept across the country, and it is sung in the "original version"

I was so astonished that I could hardly speak, how fast it is, I fell yesterday and today I was summoned by the emperor, is it joy or sorrow? What scheme has the emperor brother devised? And what is the emperor's intention?

To endure or not to endure? I am contemplating the consequences of both choices, and reflecting on my current situation, I decide to endure. Why bother arguing with him over trivial matters? At worst, I can wait for an opportunity in the future to strike him from behind. I suppress the anger within me, lightly smile, and raise my glass to take a sip of wine.

Angry? I laughed, why would I be angry at you for no reason

Chengde grabbed my foot and, looking at the colorful thread tied around my ankle, asked with a smile, "Who told you, girl, to tie it on your foot?" Then he glanced at the same thread tied around my wrist, and proceeded to untie the thread from my foot. I struggled but could not break free, so I let him untie it. He took it off and handed it to me, but then he tore the one from his own wrist, extending his wrist in front of me, "Tie it on me!"

"Do you know how to dance the dances of that Goryeo country?" I asked softly

The vast sky quietly nodded.

Still unwilling to speak the truth? Man Tian glanced at me for a moment, his eyes filled with hesitation

Oh? You? I smiled and asked, "How many years have you been learning dance?"

Nangong Yue remained silent, still gripping my wrist, just looking at me quietly, as if waiting for my explanation. "I just walked away like this, Su'er and the others will be implicated, I... cannot," I said softly

It is called a banquet, yet the table is filled only with fruit, pastries, and wine, lacking any substantial offerings. Then there is singing and dancing, but as someone who cannot even sit through the "Spring Festival Gala," how could I possibly be interested in these performances? I watch the dancers twirling below with utter boredom, reminiscing about Guo Degang's crosstalk.

Once these big bosses are seated, the banquet can be considered to have officially commenced

Then it depends on whether you have that ability or not said Nangong Yue淡淡

"That's good. In a moment, I will sing, and you can just improvise a dance to the rhythm." Turning to glance at the envoy named Yuan Chun, I said to the Emperor, "Your Majesty, it seems the envoy is not interested in the songs and dances of the Zhou Kingdom. How about I sing a song from Goryeo instead? It might also alleviate the envoy's homesickness." The Emperor replied, "That sounds excellent." I walked over to the tables of those Goryeo gentlemen and smiled, "May I borrow the tablecloth from the envoy's table?" Without waiting for their response, I swiftly pulled down the silk cloth spread over the long table, causing various fruits to roll all over the ground, and the wine jug on the table was knocked over, spilling wine all over those individuals. This also might alleviate the envoy's homesickness. The Emperor said, "That sounds excellent." I walked over to the tables of those Goryeo gentlemen and smiled, "May I borrow the tablecloth from the envoy's table?" Without waiting for their response, I swiftly pulled down the silk cloth spread over the long table, causing various fruits to roll all over the ground, and the wine jug on the table was knocked over, spilling wine all over those individuals, which made the one named Yuan Chun widen his small squinty eyes in anger.

"There is no need for this pretense with me. I do not know what instructions the Emperor may have given you before your arrival, but this move is rather reckless," I said coldly. "The entire court is aware that the Emperor does not favor that tune; how could you be so oblivious? This is far too conspicuous!" The crowd, kneeling on the ground, seemed intimidated by my stern tone, lowering their heads in silence.

Those concubines, even the ministers' wives, looked at me with a disdainful gaze, as if I were the one who had just fallen. I felt a bit embarrassed, thinking it was too unfair for me. What does her falling have to do with me? Even if we are from the same state of Zhou, it shouldn't warrant such looks from you all

You get lost too! I said angrily

I still cannot leave I murmured

At first, people were surprised and then laughed; initially, it was just a muffled chuckle. By the time I was halfway through my song, the banquet was filled with laughter. At the beginning, the emperor was still trying to suppress his laughter, but later he could no longer hold it in. He raised his cup of wine, attempting to cover it up, but just as he took a sip, I sang with gritted teeth: "Kick, stomp, the pig that is being beaten..." He sprayed the wine all over, startling the little eunuch behind him, who hurriedly patted him on the back. Once the emperor laughed, it was no longer a big deal; those who had wanted to laugh but had held back also let loose. The imperial concubines and ladies laughed shyly, only covering their mouths with handkerchiefs, while the ministers could no longer care about such decorum, and some military officials had already burst into loud laughter.

How could I not know what I am singing? It seems that Lord Yuanchun did not hear clearly just now. I will sing it for you again. I chuckled lightly, then straightened my tongue and sang again: Wu Dalang, Wu Dalang, getting beaten by a pig, getting beaten, getting beaten by a pig, you hit the pig, the gourd hits the ground, oh brother! Ah brother! Ah brother, angrily kicking, kicking, the pig that is being beaten cries out, crying for its mother, and then it's over. Wu Dalang, Wu Dalang, getting beaten by a pig, he got hit, he got hit, getting beaten by a pig, he hits you, he also hurts, you bastard, hitting you, oh your brother, oh your brother, the brother cries. Although the melody is not exactly the same as before, people can still recognize that the lyrics are the same as the previous song, only that the previous singing was unclear, while this time it is articulated clearly.

Thank you very much. I said with a smile, pulling the tablecloth back to Mantian, allowing her to raise her arms. While loosely wrapping the tablecloth around her, I chuckled, "It is not easy for Lord Yuanchun to live, so let us not borrow dance costumes from her; let us make do, as it looks quite similar anyway." I intended for everyone to hear, so my voice was naturally not soft. After finishing, I tied a bow on Mantian's chest with the tablecloth, and upon seeing me dress Mantian in the tablecloth as a Hanfu, some people at the table had already started to laugh softly.

"It is this servant."

I know, " I interrupted Wanyue's words, looking at the thread that resembled a bracelet she had made, and thought it wasn't too bad, " Is there more? "

The envoy just translated incorrectly; this song tells a small story from my hometown, about two brothers. The elder brother, Wu Dalang, was bullied by a tyrant, and his younger brother, Wu Song, avenged him.

I am dizzy, how did they collide? This is hardly better than a comet hitting the Earth! I let out a couple of dry laughs, trying to discreetly pull my hand out of Nangong Yue's grasp, but I couldn't manage to do so. I could only anxiously look at Nangong Yue. He coldly stared at Chengde, tightening his grip on my hand as if to demonstrate his authority.

"Crying?" Chengde asked softly, reaching out to wipe my tears. I instinctively turned my head to avoid it, and Chengde's hand froze in mid-air, somewhat stiff.

The performance was indeed worthy of being the first strategy in the "Thirty-Six Stratagems"; her improvisation was still so impressive. However, the "tablecloth hanbok" I wrapped her in was somewhat amusing, making her originally graceful dance appear rather comical.

Su'er entered, holding several outfits and lifting the curtain, asking me which dress I would wear to the banquet. I glanced at the clothes in her hands and replied: "I will wear whatever the other concubines wear. I will dress as they do; if they are glamorous, I will be glamorous; if they are simple, I will be simple. In short, the standard is that once I am placed among them, you should not be able to find me at a glance." I led Su'er and a few others to the Guangli Hall where the banquet was to be held. It was already quite late, and many concubines had arrived, but the Empress Dowager, the Emperor, and the Left Empress, among other high-ranking officials, had not yet come. As the little eunuch from the hall approached my seat, I began to carefully observe the banquet and could not help but admire the grandeur of the scene. The banquet tables extended from the hall all the way outside, beyond which was the former dynasty, outside the confines of the harem. The customs of Wale are far more open than those of the Zhou Kingdom, as can be seen from this banquet, which not only included the concubines of the harem but also high-ranking officials and their families, and even several foreign envoys.

Goryeo? Haha, isn't it that the names are the same!

Wanyue even learned from the palace maid of Wale to tie a colorful silk thread for me, saying that it can ward off evil.

"Are you listening to me?" I asked, suppressing my anger

"Do you know it's a burden yet still carry it?" I laughed, pulling my hand back from his. "There’s no way around it; even though I know it’s a burden, I can only carry it because it’s tied too tightly, and..." I gestured with both hands at my chest and said, "the knot is tied right here." Nangong Yue looked at me with a somber expression, unwilling to speak, which suddenly made me feel sad as well. What’s going on? After all this time, why does it have to feel like a parting of life and death? I punched his chest lightly and said with a low laugh, "It’s fine! Actually, the Valer Palace isn’t as terrifying as I thought; it’s just eating and sleeping every day. Look, haven’t I gained quite a bit of weight compared to a few days ago?" I spun around in front of Nangong Yue. He grabbed me and asked, "Are you still angry with me?"

As my gaze swept around, I noticed the princes sitting below, among them was Chengde. Our eyes met for a moment, and I was so startled that I quickly averted my gaze, yet I still caught a glimpse of Chengde's mischievous grin out of the corner of my eye

"Are you hitting me too? I didn't even pull his hand!" I exclaimed angrily, "Is there no reason to talk anymore?" Chengde was taken aback by my words, but then another slap came down, "Even if he pulls, it’s not allowed!" How boring! I was too lazy to argue with him. Perhaps my compliance surprised Chengde a bit; he stopped and pulled me up. "Have you had enough of hitting?" I asked coldly

Even the emperor's expression was somewhat displeased; these Koreans seem to be quite unaware of their own limitations, having even called me out by name. Can I still keep my head down?

"I cannot do it." I raised my head and said slowly and firmly, yes, I cannot do it, what can I use to accompany him? I can only stay in this world for one year

Nangong Yue paused for a moment and then asked, "What if the feeling is wrong?"

"I have known since the time I was at the Jiang family that you do not belong to this world," Nan Gongyue said softly. Seeing my surprised expression, Nan Gongyue gave a wry smile and continued, "Do you know why I am called Nan Gongyue?" Why is he called Nan Gongyue? Of course, with the surname Nan Gong, he must be called Nan Gongyue; could it be that he would be called Bei Gongyue instead? I thought to myself, your father wouldn't want that either. "Yue means to traverse; my mother should come from the same place as you," Nan Gongyue said. Seeing my surprised expression, Nan Gongyue gave a wry smile and continued, "Do you know why I am called Nan Gongyue?" Why is he called Nan Gongyue? Of course, with the surname Nan Gong, he must be called Nan Gongyue; could it be that he would be called Bei Gongyue instead? I thought to myself, your father wouldn't want that either. "Yue means to traverse; my mother should come from the same place as you," Nan Gongyue said.

Wan Yue observed that just a moment ago, she was extremely reluctant to wear this item, and now she was expected to wear another one, which inevitably raised some questions. However, years of palace life had instilled in her the habit of keeping silent even when faced with significant doubts. Therefore, upon seeing my request, she did not inquire further and went to fetch another one. I took the silk thread from her, and instead of allowing Wan Yue to tie it for me, I bent down and tied it around my own ankle. Then I extended my foot to take a look, and indeed, the effect was quite pleasing!

Is it really the case? When did I, Feng Chen Chuyang, become such a coveted figure? Two handsome men are vying for my affection? This scene looks just like a script written by Grandma Qiong Yao! Could it be that I haven't time-traveled? Am I currently filming a Qiong Yao drama?

Seeing me look at him coldly, Chengde lowered his hand and smiled, "What a loser, crying just because of a couple of hits?"

Nangong Yue stood there, staring straight at me. I wanted to pull my hand back from his grasp, but I found that he was holding it tightly, and I couldn't get it out. I gritted my teeth and said, "Alright, I won't hide it from you any longer. I am not from this world at all. Do you believe me?"

I was stunned, time travel? Is Nangong Yue's mother also someone who traveled through time? My goodness, I just feel a bit dizzy. "So, does that mean we are kind of fellow townsfolk?" Nangong Yue smiled and nodded, "Come with me, let's meet my mother; she is eager to see you too." Nangong Yue said with a smile. I looked at Nangong Yue, feeling even more conflicted, not knowing how to respond to him, when I suddenly heard a cold voice say: "She cannot leave, and you probably cannot leave either." I turned in shock and saw Chengde sitting by the window with his arms crossed, looking coldly in this direction. I looked at Nangong Yue, feeling even more conflicted, not knowing how to respond to him, when I suddenly heard a cold voice say: "She cannot leave, and you probably cannot leave either." I turned in shock and saw Chengde sitting by the window with his arms crossed, looking coldly in this direction.

Nangong Yue was somewhat silent. After a moment, he gently said: "You have changed a lot"

Nangong Yue pulled down the black scarf below and whispered, "How can you tell it is mine?"

Cheng De let out a cold laugh and jumped down from the windowsill, walking towards us. Nangong Yue gently tucked me behind him, his body tense. Well, war was about to break out! However, if these two started fighting, it would be truly absurd if we couldn't hear anything from outside! I hurriedly squeezed out from behind Nangong Yue, stood between the two, and said: "Stop! Let's talk it out, please don't resort to violence. We are all brothers, what is there to fight about?" Both Nangong Yue and Cheng De shot me a cold glare at the same time, and I ended up displeasing both sides!

I absolutely cannot let them fight! I gritted my teeth and said to Nangong Yue in a deep voice, "You should leave! I will not go with you." Nangong Yue stood there in a daze, and after a long while, he slowly asked, "Is it because of him?" What a fool; fighting with him in the palace, what good could come of it? I remained silent and nodded.

No need, the attire I am wearing today is not suitable for dancing. Please summon the dancer from earlier to come up, and I will sing while she dances. I said, and then I walked out of my seat and made my way to the center of the hall

The busy crowd bowed in gratitude to the "Thirty-Six Stratagems" and then withdrew. Empress Zuo gave me a slight nod and a smile, seemingly indicating that everything was fine, while the noble Consort Helan cast a cold glance at me, her lips curling into a mocking smile

Since that night in Chengde, I have not returned. I think this is for the best; why jump into a fire pit when one knows it is there? The handsome men here can be flirted with, but absolutely should not be loved, especially in a place like Chengde.

I finally finished singing the entire piece, and then I turned to ask earnestly, "Your Excellency, did you hear it clearly this time?" Before he could respond, I returned to my seat. Su'er and the others were looking at me with admiration, which made me feel a bit guilty. I thought to myself that I was indeed pushed to the limit; it was certainly better than being interrogated by that Korean fellow about historical texts, where every question would leave me dumbfounded. However, after tonight, my "fame" would likely spread far and wide. The Empress Dowager noticed that the Korean envoys were somewhat at a loss for words and quickly intervened to smooth things over, allowing the banquet to continue. After this interlude, I found it even harder to focus on the music and dance, my mind preoccupied with the potential impact of this evening on my future. The young Korean envoy sitting next to Yuan Chun occasionally cast inquisitive glances in my direction, which only added to my annoyance, prompting me to lower my head and drink a few cups of wine in silence. After this interlude, I found it even harder to focus on the music and dance, my mind preoccupied with the potential impact of this evening on my future. The young Korean envoy sitting next to Yuan Chun occasionally cast inquisitive glances in my direction, which only added to my annoyance, prompting me to lower my head and drink a few cups of wine in silence

"Ten years?" I scoffed, "After ten years of practice, you can only dance at that level? You are at least dancers of the Great Zhou Imperial Court; have you not seen grand occasions and still made such mistakes?"

"If you dare to hit me, I will dare to call out!" I threatened as I turned around, but before my words had even settled, I felt a sharp pain on my backside. It hurt! How could it be so painful even without a sound?

Seeing the seat of that cold beauty directly opposite me, I suddenly realized that she was the Helan Guifei whom I had never met, the old lady from Chengde! Goodness, is it that she has maintained herself too well, or did she marry too early?