HRPM – Chapter 245 Forced into a Dilemma (3)

However, this tactic did succeed in attracting many noble young ladies who originally did not wish to appear in public.

After all, it was a supreme treasure. If they could obtain it, what did it matter if they showed their faces before the crowd for once?

“Hmph, so after all this, the Yun family is really just using this Moonlit Beauty Competition as a publicity stunt. The Yun family doesn’t yet have much reputation in the capital, but after tonight, I’m guessing ‘Yun family’ will become one of the most frequently mentioned names among the people of the capital tomorrow. They can then ride this wave of fame and immediately open shops to do business.”

As a merchant, Jin Luoluo quickly understood the strategy after thinking it through. She had not expected the head of the Yun family to be quite clever, knowing how to use hype to build a reputation.

Xiao Luo replied casually, “They invested so much into this—even willing to throw in priceless treasures—so naturally they came with a purpose. No matter what methods they use, as long as they are effective, isn’t that enough? The person in charge of the Yun family truly carries the style of their ancestors, handling matters with the bearing of a great commander.”

“Any beauties who have not yet registered may still sign up within the next quarter-hour. Any young masters wishing to support the lady they admire may also present gifts to the beauties. The beauty with the loudest support and the most gifts shall win first place.”

After the richly dressed middle-aged man finished speaking, many pleasure boats sent out smaller boats to register and receive flower tokens.

“This Dragon Pool Jade Cauldron interests this old master quite a bit,” the emperor said leisurely while seated at the bow of the boat.

Jin Luoluo rolled her eyes. “You’re the highest authority in Chuyun. If you’re interested, why not simply issue an order and have them hand it over?”

“In such an elegant competition, how could this old master commit such a forceful act? If I take it, I must do so with a proper reason.”

The emperor’s calculating eyes suddenly shifted toward Jin Luoluo, making her shiver instinctively.

“If Master is interested, I’ll immediately find a beauty with both talent and looks to represent you in the competition.”

The emperor made the final decision at once. “No need for so much trouble. You’ll do. I heard that at the palace banquet you overshadowed all the other flowers and stood out alone. This is your chance to perform. You shall represent this old master. I believe that with your abilities, you will surely dominate the competition and help me win back that Dragon Pool Jade Cauldron.”

Jin Luoluo immediately looked miserable. Wasn’t this just forcing a duck onto a perch?

“Master, I’m exceptionally skilled at arguing. If this were a verbal sparring competition, I’d definitely win first place for you. But take a good look—this is a talent competition. Aside from being sharp-tongued, I really don’t have any talents worthy of being shown on stage, so please stop making things difficult for me.”