Su Mingyu waved her hand with feigned modesty. "The First Prince is being far too generous. As I said before, I am truly inept at poetry. In Daxia, there are countless others who could easily surpass what I just recited."
The First Prince’s expression turned grim. He had lived long enough that if he still didn't understand they were giving the Canglang State a show of force, he would have lived in vain. He forced the Second Prince back into his seat, offered a bow to Emperor Chen, and retreated to his place with his tail between his legs.
Princess Lingzhao had achieved her goal; no one dared mention the marriage alliance again that night. Even Emperor Chen merely went through the motions, raising his glass to welcome the three princes as a formality. A few more noble ladies offered performances, but after the brilliance of Princess Lingzhao’s display, the guests’ enthusiasm had waned.
Chapter 81