Chapter 7

Unexpectedly, I felt a sense of clarity and turned to return to my seat.

However, at that moment, a low voice suddenly came from behind the curtain.

"The Emperor is pleased. The daughter of the Liu family, your music was beautiful."

"!?"

Surprised, I stopped in my tracks.

When I turned back, the curtain remained lowered, but I knew the words had come from Lord Canglian.

The gathered people murmured in surprise.

To be addressed directly was something I, and they, had never expected.

Amid the spreading unease, I pressed my trembling heart and bowed gently.

"Linfeng, this way."

A lady-in-waiting quietly approached and led me to my father's side.

Father had his usual composed expression.

Seeing his demeanor, a sudden doubt arose in me.

What did Father really want?

As I stared at his profile, Father glanced at me and gave a sly smile.

Praises for me came one after another from the surrounding officials and ministers.

– As expected of the Liu family's daughter. Not only is her appearance remarkable, but what a wonderful performance.

– A princess with such thoughtfulness will surely make a fine wife.

At that moment, I realized.

Father's goal was not the Empress's throne, nor Lord Canglian, and certainly not the Li family.

By entering me in the selection for Empress, his aim was to showcase me to the heads of influential families.

Upon reflection, it made sense.

The Emperor is only five years old, and Lord Canglian had consistently declined any marriage proposal with me. If the Li family was the only realistic option, he could have arranged my marriage without any hesitation from the start.

There was no need to bring me to such a place.

By declaring myself a candidate for Empress, it indicated that I had no set match.

This was Father's opportunity to secure a more advantageous marriage.

Father wanted to marry me to Lord Canglian, but he didn't get a favorable response.

Ideally, he should have immediately started promoting me to other families. However, if we approached them directly, they would see us as desperate.

So, he had me nominated as an Empress candidate and made me perform the erhu as a debut.

Being able to perform in front of the imperial family would make me more desirable in marriage negotiations. Moreover, the fact that I could afford such elaborate attire would show that I was a well-cared-for daughter.

I knew Father used me for political gain, but to be put on display like this was infuriating!

With nowhere to vent my anger, I remained silent.

My clenched fists trembled.

"Well done."

Father's words only increased my anger.

You greedy Right Chancellor...!

I knew he had no ordinary affection for me, but it still made me furious.

"I hate you."

I whispered this in a voice so low that no one else could hear.

"Say whatever you want."

Father raised the corners of his mouth in amusement and faced forward.

Even as the next performance began, I remained quietly enraged.

---

Available on May 17th!

"Attendant to the Emperor" Novel Volume 2 & Manga Volume 1

The novel version is about half new content, filled with new episodes!

It offers a deeper look into Ziyou's growth, Linfeng's work, and Canglian's deepening affection and plight!

Please enjoy it!

In the manga version, the beautiful world created by Yuki Yoshimura is truly stunning.

The handsome and pitiful appearance of the older brother and Canglian...! (ノД`) The world of Chinese splendor is packed in.

Additionally, both the novel and manga versions have furigana for names, making it stress-free to enjoy Chinese content.

Thank you, Square Enix...!

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