Next, Mu Yunjin watched with satisfaction as shock appeared in the eyes of the three people before her. She suppressed her smile, but her eyes remained cold as she waited for their response.

Mu Lingzhu bit her lip, wondering what had gotten into Mu Yunjin these past two days that would cause such a drastic change in her personality, even daring to defy her father.

Just as she was about to speak, Su Biqing beside her tugged at her sleeve, giving her a look to signal her not to say anything.

The Minister quickly regained his composure. Looking at Mu Yunjin, a hint of murderous intent flashed in his eyes. Perhaps his anger had reached its peak, as he immediately shouted, “Guards! Bind this rebellious daughter! Today I will have her whipped dozens of times to let her taste the discipline of the Mu family!”

Just as several servants appeared, preparing to seize Mu Yunjin, a voice interrupted, “Master, Madam, Mamma Qu from Empress Qin’s household has arrived at the mansion.”

Upon hearing that someone from Empress Qin’s side had come, the Minister, Su Biqing, and the others’ expressions changed. They glanced at Mu Yunjin standing to the side, then hurriedly strode toward the main hall of the mansion.

In the main hall, an elderly woman in palace attire stood waiting. Upon seeing the Minister and Su Biqing, she gave them a slight bow.

“Mamma Qu, there’s no need for formalities. Please, have a seat.” The Minister sat in the main position and gestured to a seat at his side.

Mamma Qu shook her head and smiled, “This old servant comes today with a verbal edict from Her Highness the Empress. Three days from now, at the hour of Chen, the Third Young Miss and Fourth Young Miss of the Mu family are summoned to the palace.”

…

…

“Lingzhu is also summoned?” Su Biqing’s eyes brightened upon hearing the title “Fourth Young Miss.”

Mamma Qu nodded, “This old servant has delivered the verbal edict. Three days from now, please have both Young Misses prepared.”

……

After Mamma Qu left, Mu Yunjin looked at the Minister’s ashen face and curved her lips slightly, secretly thinking that Mamma Qu had arrived at just the right time.

In three days, she would be entering the palace to see the Empress. The Minister wouldn’t dare to punish her now; otherwise, if she appeared with injuries, the Minister himself would face consequences.

Mu Lingzhu stood to the side, looking at the smile on Mu Yunjin’s face. Her fingers clenched slightly, wanting to speak but once again stopped by Su Biqing.

Su Biqing glanced sideways at Mu Lingzhu and smiled, “Pearl, tomorrow is the annual Literary Contest of our Diehua City. Numerous scholars and literati will gather here again. As the reigning champion for three consecutive years, don’t disappoint your father and mother this year either.”

After speaking, Su Biqing glanced at the Minister and Mu Yunjin.

Upon hearing about the Literary Contest, the Minister’s expression eased slightly. After glancing at Mu Yunjin, who was still standing in the hall, he snorted coldly, “What are you still doing here? Hurry back to your Shihua Pavilion!”

Mu Yunjin didn’t talk back. She just pursed her lips and walked out of the hall.

When she returned to Shihua Pavilion, she saw Zixiang standing outside, looking anxious. Upon seeing Mu Yunjin, Zixiang immediately broke into a smile and ran over.

“Young Miss, you’re finally back.”

Mu Yunjin poked Zixiang’s forehead and laughed, “Look at you all sweaty. What’s the rush!”

Mu Yunjin said with a smile as she walked inside.

After entering the inner room, Zixiang poured a cup of water for Mu Yunjin. After taking a sip, Mu Yunjin asked, “What’s the story behind this Literary Contest in Diehua City?”

“The Literary Contest is the most anticipated competition for the citizens of Diehua City each year. Because every year, the questions are set by His Majesty the Emperor himself. So many scholars hope to gain the Emperor’s recognition through this contest.”

“Our Fourth Young Miss, since her first participation three years ago, has consistently held the champion’s position, which has brought considerable glory to our Mu mansion.”

Zixiang spoke animatedly, but after her last sentence, she instinctively covered her mouth and glanced at Mu Yunjin’s expression.

Mu Yunjin, however, lowered her eyes as she listened to Zixiang, not taking her words to heart.

After a while, Mu Yunjin took another sip of tea and curved her lips, “Since this competition is so interesting, I must go and see it for myself tomorrow, no matter what.”

“Young Miss, you…” Zixiang’s eyes widened, and she seemed afraid to continue.

Mu Yunjin raised an eyebrow, “Why are your eyes so wide? Did I scare you?”

Zixiang nodded.

Mu Yunjin smiled, looking at Zixiang teasingly, “You know, being timid is not a good thing.”