Wufu’s directness could be considered rude, leaving Princess Consort Wei not only shocked but also causing astonishment among many in the hall, because it was rare for someone to be provoked and not only refuse to retort, but even to counterattack.

Some would think her rude, yet others felt a sense of satisfaction, thinking: who told you to provoke her!

The one who picks the fight is the inferior one!

"You..." Princess Consort Wei was embarrassed and angry, thinking of this lowly countryside girl as extremely rude.

Wufu smiled faintly, looked at the Empress Dowager of Nanyue, and said, "Although my main training is in carving with my mentor, he is a great Confucian. Under his influence, though I am not proficient in composing poetry, I have learned a little."

She took a couple of steps, thought for a moment, and said: "Since it is the Empress Dowager’s birthday, I have a piece here to wish Her Majesty a long life."

The sound of the silk and bamboo instruments in the hall quieted down, and even next door, the conversation seemed to lower in volume.

"I’ve got it." Wufu said with a smile, "Your Majesty, please listen: Spreading wings in the winter dusk, soaring freely over the sea. A patch of white clouds drifts by, unaffected by the fierce waves. Character tested by wind and rain, resilience thwarts frost and snow, as seasons cycle through spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Where the sun and moon shuttle, a grand spirit pervades. On the same boat, moved by heaven and earth, how profound the intent. Raising emperors for years, bonds melt snow-capped peaks. Born open and broad-minded, smiling at changes of weather and fortune, with a masterful hand to dictate destiny. Today, I raise this cup, toasting the eternal pine from afar."

The grand hall was silent, as if the drop of a pin could be heard.

"Bravo!"

Someone started clapping first, and applause followed one after another.

This birthday tribute not only praised the Empress Dowager’s character and integrity but also subtly lauded her achievements in cultivating emperors, greatly pleasing her. 𝑓𝓇𝘦ℯ𝘸𝘦𝑏𝓃𝑜𝘷ℯ𝑙.𝑐𝑜𝓂

"Royal Mother." The Emperor of Nanyue walked over from the other side of the hall, holding a cup of wine, and half-knelt before the Empress Dowager, sincerely saying: "Your son is grateful for your years of care and nurturing, wishing you longevity as the Nan Shan, and fortune like the East Sea."

The Empress Dowager took the wine, her eyes slightly moist, repeatedly saying "very good".

The mother and son shared an emotional moment, and those in the hall pretended to wipe away tears from their eye corners in a show of being moved.

"County Magistrate Ruifu is indeed worthy of being the close-door disciple of Old Mr. Meng; her talent is exceptional, and this birthday tribute is truly excellent, worthy of a reward." The Emperor of Nanyue smiled and said, "Royal Mother, what should be bestowed?"

The Empress Dowager, also very pleased with the birthday tribute, said, "This child has a natural grace, so grant her a Jade Ruyi, and I will reward her with a set of Sapphire headdress."

"Thank you, Your Majesty, thank you, Empress Dowager." Wufu bowed.

Changping stood up: "Empress Dowager, Changping also has a poem to celebrate Your Majesty’s birthday..."

Yonghe followed immediately: "Imperial Grandmother, Yonghe also has a poem..."

Wufu knew that they were assisting her so that she wouldn’t stand out too much, and she quietly retreated to her seat.

As for Princess Consort Wei, who failed in her provocation, she nearly twisted her handkerchief into pickled vegetables.

Madam Wang also shared the same jealousy, not expecting Wufu to once again steal the spotlight.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the grand hall, Ah Jiu was full of smiles, with eyes brimming with pride.

As for Old Mr. Meng, he basked in the compliments and congratulations from those around him, looking extremely pleased.

His disciple, though not prolific in words, had composed only two poems so far, each being stunning. How could he not be proud?

Only Wu Lihong drank one gulp after another of sullen wine, feeling deeply bitter and envious while looking at Meng Songguan surrounded by people. This was supposed to be his glory, unfortunately...

However, as unfortunate as it is, one can only say that time once lost, can never return!