Chapter 90 Trying to tamper with things? No way!
Everyone looked in the direction of the sound and saw Song Yiqiu sitting upright at the table, looking calmly at the servant and nodding slightly to him.
The servant was taken aback, then, flattered, quickly bowed in return. In this context, her words of thanks were not only a sign of respect for the servant personally, but also a testament to her adherence to the martial tradition.
On the high platform, Crown Prince Xiao Yongjing raised an eyebrow slightly, his eyes filled with amusement.
The old emperor took in this scene, and although he couldn't see the faces clearly, he became somewhat curious about the people below him.
Some nobles and veteran generals nodded in approval upon seeing this.
One's attitude toward lower-ranking soldiers and officials best reveals a person's true character and vision.
In an era where the emphasis on civil affairs over military matters was growing, Song Yiqiu's composed and unflappable military bearing was all the more remarkable.
After this little incident, the drawing of lots began.
In order, the ladies took turns performing. Their performances, while not particularly stunning, were decent enough.
When it was Song Yiqiu's turn, everyone's eyes were unconsciously drawn to her.
After receiving clear instructions on the rules, how much of the true skill that this infamous female general will be able to demonstrate, be commensurate with her reputation?
Song Sangyu and He Jianren exchanged a meaningful glance; their plan had only just begun.
Ruan Jiawen covered her mouth and chuckled softly, her movements elegant, as she whispered to her companion beside her:
"Look, that's her. She's spent seven years in a place like the frontier, hanging out with a bunch of rough soldiers. What kind of ladylike demeanor could she possibly have? She probably can't even ride a horse properly anymore."
The girl beside him softly echoed:
"Isn't that right? I heard she's ruthless in the military, otherwise how could she keep those scoundrels in check? The title of 'Jade-Faced Yama' isn't given lightly."
Seeing Song Yiqiu's tarnished reputation, He Jianren was even more disdainful of speaking:
"Hmph, she's just relying on her family's influence. What kind of decorum is it for a woman to be wielding swords and spears? She'd better not lose her composure and bring shame upon the entire Song family later."
These sharp words drew low snickers from several girls around him.
Bai Mei frowned, then immediately let out a cold laugh, her voice clear and bright as she retorted without any politeness:
"Ladies, what you're saying is quite interesting. Can refined manners put food on the table, or even help you repel enemies and protect your country? When our generals slay enemy generals on the battlefield, they don't rely on mere curtsy and bowing!"
"As for the Jade-Faced Yama, that's a title of respect that strikes fear into the hearts of the Japanese pirates in Longnan. You all live in the capital and enjoy peace and tranquility, so you naturally can't appreciate the weight of this title!"
The young ladies blushed upon hearing this, but seeing the fierce aura of battle emanating from Bai Mei, they dared not refute her directly and could only shut their mouths in embarrassment.
There are always some who don't understand subtle cues and continue to provoke:
"Hmph, all that talk is just empty words, who knows if it's true or not? What kind of behavior is it for a woman to be wielding swords and spears? I hope she doesn't lose her composure and bring shame upon the entire Song family."
Standing beside Bai Mei, Qing Zhu, devoid of her usual gentleness, coldly raised her eyes and slowly spoke:
"Miss, you are overthinking it. Our general's achievements are the result of seven years of bloodshed and countless battles on the frontier. Every single one is recorded in the Ministry of War's military merit register, and no one else can speculate on its authenticity. As for his demeanor..."
She turned her head slightly to look at Song Yiqiu, who was about to get up, her eyes revealing pure admiration:
"To be able to command calmly amidst a vast army, to draw a powerful bow, to ride a spirited horse, and to protect the peace of the people—is this not a more commendable demeanor than being confined to a small space, only knowing how to compete for beauty?"
Qingzhu's words were subtle yet sharp, leaving the provocative young lady speechless for a moment, and even some truly reasonable people around couldn't help but nod in agreement.
He Jianren listened to these discussions and thought about his own plan. He was not angry. Instead, a smug look appeared on his face. He thought that no matter how sharp-tongued they were, they would make a fool of themselves in a moment.
Amidst widespread pessimism, Song Yiqiu remained calm and walked steadily toward the servant who had placed the bow and arrows.
Just as she reached out to take it, He Jianren jumped out as planned, his face beaming with an exaggeratedly concerned smile:
"Sister Yiqiu, wait!"
She strode forward, her voice sickeningly sweet.
"These crossbows are extremely delicate instruments. If anything goes wrong, it could hurt my sister. I have a friend who is an expert in this field, and I've also learned a little from what I've seen. Why don't I check them out for my sister first?"
As she spoke, her hand eagerly reached for the bowstring, ready to tamper with it as planned.
This heartwarming performance immediately won the approval of some ladies in the audience.
The Minister's wife nodded slightly and whispered to her companion beside her:
"This girl from the He family may seem a bit impulsive, but she's meticulous and knows her manners. We really can't be careless when it comes to weapons."
The other lady beside him nodded in agreement:
"Yes, Miss Song has been on the frontier for many years and probably hasn't been in contact with such exquisite bows from the capital for a long time. It would be better to have someone take a look. Miss He is doing this out of kindness."
Further away, a noblewoman who was on good terms with He Jianren's mother:
"Ren'er is such a kind-hearted and sincere child. Song Yiqiu was so rude to Sang Yu just now, yet Ren'er still cared for her without holding a grudge. Such magnanimity is truly rare."
Therefore, if Song Yiqiu were to refuse this kindness, it would be considered that she was ungrateful and narrow-minded.
As He Jianren listened to these discussions, a smug glint flashed in his eyes, and his hand reaching for the bowstring became even more assertive.
Just as He Jianren's fingertips were about to touch the bowstring, Song Yiqiu flicked her wrist, deftly avoiding her with a fluid and graceful movement.
She did not immediately react, but instead gently stroked the bowstring from the bow tip to the bowstring with her fingertips. The gesture was not like an inspection, but more like caressing the sword that had been with her for many years.
Then, she raised her eyes:
"I appreciate Sister He's kindness."
She curled her lips into a cold smile.
"But this bow, having accompanied me on the frontier for seven years, has long since recognized its master. I know every inch of it, every hair, even the slightest sound."
He Jianren broke out in a cold sweat as he listened to her words.
His fingertips paused on the bowstring at a certain point, then he casually withdrew them, revealing a knowing smile to He Jianren, whose face was ashen.
"It is indeed a fine bow, but this unnecessary noise should be avoided. Since Sister He is so enthusiastic about this art, why don't you try it out later? Talking without doing is ultimately just... a sham."
Pfft!
On his high seat, Crown Prince Xiao Yongjing, who had been leaning lazily against the back of his chair with a gloomy and indifferent look in his eyes, actually chuckled softly.
The laughter was soft, while Fu Langxing beside him frowned slightly, his eyes fixed on the bow in Song Yiqiu's hand, his face showing obvious worry.
Although he was prejudiced against Song Yiqiu, he knew that a broken bowstring was no small matter and could potentially cause injury.
He Jianren was so frightened by Song Yiqiu's ambiguous laughter that he could no longer utter a word and retreated back into the crowd in a sorry state.
Song Yiqiu said no more, took out his longbow, and mounted his horse.
She stood on her horse before Qi Xie, her gaze sharp.
Draw the bow, nock the arrow, and aim.
The entire movement was executed in one smooth motion, full of power. It was not a fancy move practiced by noble ladies in the capital, but a concise and efficient killing technique that had truly been experienced on the battlefield.
The three arrows flew in quick succession, so fast that only afterimages could be seen.
The arrows pierced the air, the arrowhead of the next arrow precisely splitting the fletching of the previous one. Three arrows, one after another, were firmly embedded in the same bullseye, penetrating to the very core.
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