The butler had everything arranged, so why were these people suddenly turning against him? With so many benefits offered, he couldn't believe that those ordinary citizens could resist the temptation of money.
However, the reality was that the vast majority of votes were going to Liu Qingxi. The voting was ongoing, and he had no time to interrupt and turn the tide.
If he could have used mealtime as an excuse to delay things earlier, now there was no reason for the vote counters to stop.
The people in the room felt his anger and instinctively shrank back, fearing that their master's wrath would be directed at them. Meanwhile, the counting outside continued.
Lin Shuhong's face was ashen, his fists clenched tightly, veins bulging as he sat at the table, panting heavily.
"What are you all doing? Wasn't everything going smoothly? Didn't we already bribe them?"
The butler and the other subordinates fell silent, their legs trembling. They all knew their master's temper; they were in deep trouble this time.
As Lin Shuhong fumed, the counting was nearing its end, with only the professional judges' votes left. However...
Lin Shuhong's last glimmer of hope gradually faded as those who had promised to support him at the banquet publicly reneged on their word, casting their votes for Liu Qingxi one by one.
His expression could no longer be described as merely ashen.
He never expected to fall victim to a girl in her teens. He was unwilling to accept it!
What power could a mere girl from the countryside possess? How could she change what he thought was a foregone conclusion?
Little did he know that in another room, a cold man’s quiet command altered the outcome of the competition, a result that should have belonged to Liu Qingxi.
The match not only attracted numerous common people but also caught the attention of many in the court.
As one of the main characters, Liu Qingxi was thoroughly investigated by everyone, and her identity as Yang Yichen's fiancée could no longer be concealed.
Colleagues of Yang Yichen in the court had mixed feelings upon seeing the outcome: "Lord Yang is truly impressive; not only is he exceptionally talented, but he also has such an outstanding fiancée."
"Indeed, being able to surpass Lin Shuhong, who has held the top position for so many years, shows exceptional ability." These individuals mostly praised Liu Qingxi, as her strength was evident.
However, with admiration comes envy. The more outstanding Yang Yichen became, the more paths he blocked for others: "Hmph, she's just a woman seeking fame, disregarding her duties. What's so special about that?"
"Women should stay at home to support their husbands and raise children. It's disgraceful to be out mingling with a bunch of men."
One young man, with a sideways glance and a casual demeanor, approached Yang Yichen: "Oh, Lord Yang, are you unable to support your family? Letting a woman go out to earn a living? Hahaha!"
The sarcasm was too blatant, especially in front of everyone and directly in front of Yang Yichen; it was a blatant slap in the face.
Several officials standing beside Yang Yichen were furious and were about to say something when Yang Yichen stopped them. He smiled slightly, his gentle face suddenly blooming like a plum blossom: "My woman is none of your concern."
In truth, he wanted to say, "What business is it of yours?" But his upbringing prevented him from using foul language.
"Pfft!" One person couldn't help but laugh: "Oh, I'm sorry! Please continue!" They had never seen someone so domineering and unyielding towards these young men.
These individuals belonged to prominent families; their ability to serve in the court was not only due to their own talents but also because of their family's connections.
Relying on their family as a backing, they looked down on everyone else. Naturally, someone like Yang Yichen, who lacked such roots, became their target for mockery and ridicule.
Some people simply do not give them face, and the feeling of being publicly slapped is hard to describe.
Unexpectedly, Yang Yichen continued, "With her immense talent and her own hands, she has built sturdy and durable houses for the people of the Western Moon Kingdom, contributing the most beneficial measures. During the earthquake, she bravely dedicated herself wholeheartedly to the people. With such a wife, what more could a husband ask for?"
Yang Yichen's words not only praised Liu Qingxi but also elevated her to a level of selflessness, dedicating herself to the construction efforts of the Western Moon Kingdom.
Once this height was established, who would dare to challenge it?
"If women can do this, shouldn't we men do even more?" said an official aligned with Yang Yichen.
"I'm just afraid some men are useless, occupying a position while merely living off their salary."
Tensions flared on both sides. Yang Yichen had no intention of backing down this time; retreating only made others think you were afraid and had to concede.
The way one handles matters in life is closely related to how they act in court. Yang Yichen was never someone who could be easily manipulated. Publicly supporting Liu Qingxi left many astonished.
"I didn't expect Lord Yang to defend his fiancée so fiercely; Liu Qingxi is truly fortunate."
"Looking at these two, they really are a perfect match!"
"Though business may be tough for women, they are no less than men. Our history has shown that time and again."
The crowd buzzed with discussion; most present were men, with a few older women. As for the Eldest Sisters, they naturally would not come to such a mixed gathering.
A young woman in her twenties sighed dreamily, "If only I had a husband like Lord Yang."
Sword Brows with a delicate contour, a high nose bridge, deep yet gentle eyes, and a faint smile at the corners of his lips that captivates women.
A person like him, as elegant as jade, stands out among the crowd. Although his features are youthful, it is not hard to see the extraordinary charm he will possess in the future.
Liu Qingxi stood on the second floor, while Yang Yichen observed her attentively, sweetness filling his heart.
Having someone who can stand by your side calmly, regardless of the pressure faced, is enough.
A warm current surged within him, and his eyes momentarily glistened with moisture; countless unspoken words were exchanged in their gaze.
In the bustling tavern, they saw only each other. No matter the time or circumstance, they would always be each other's most trusted confidants.
The outcome was clear; there was no need for further explanation—Liu Qingxi was the victor.
After being publicly humiliated, Lin Shuhong's expression was far from pleasant.
With so many witnesses present today, he could not evade responsibility. In his heart, he silently noted this against Liu Qingxi.
At the same time, he couldn't help but regret why he had to target Liu Qingxi, why he had to take this gamble, and why he had to gather so many prominent witnesses. It was akin to digging a pit for himself to fall into.
What a sour taste this is.
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