Chapter 161: What Do Cats and Mice Know About Music?

Words : 1295 Updated : Sep 23rd, 2025

Chapter 161 - 161: What Do Cats and Mice Know About Music?After Shen An voiced his opinion on Tang Yuehua's performance, Tom and Jerry nodded emphatically in agreement. That's right, it was just average—we could do better. The cat and mouse bobbed their heads like pounding garlic, making Xue Qinghe extremely curious. Could there really be someone in this world with greater musical talent than Tang Yuehua? 'Then again, Shen An only arrived halfway through the performance, so he might not have fully immersed himself in the music. I'll have her play again later.' Xue Qinghe thought to herself. "Come, come, Shen An, have a seat. Let me properly introduce you—this is Tang Yuehua, the mistress of the Moon Pavilion and instructor of imperial etiquette." "In one month, it will be the empire's annual aristocratic banquet, where nobles from all over will gather. It's a rare grand occasion, and Aunt Yuehua here is the one overseeing the event." "Aunt Yuehua, this is Shen An, my friend. His talent in cultivation is unparalleled—I've never seen anyone who could surpass him." "I've long heard the Crown Prince sing your praises. Now that I've met you, the rumors don't do you justice." Tang Yuehua smiled softly as she studied Shen An. The young man before her had an ethereal handsomeness, a gentle demeanor, and eyes as bright as stars. Just his presence alone made it clear he was no ordinary person. However, Tang Yuehua wasn't particularly moved by Xue Qinghe's claim that his talent was unmatched—in fact, she almost wanted to laugh. Sure, he might have some skill, but could he really compare to my eldest and second brothers? The Twin Stars of the Clear Sky Sect had once dominated the entire continent—those were true prodigies. While Tang Yuehua observed Shen An, he was also studying her. She was beautiful, her silver palace dress fitting her perfectly, and her grace was unparalleled—so far, Shen An hadn't met anyone who could rival her. Of course, her harp-playing was just average. Calling her a musical virtuoso was a bit of an overstatement. 'The aristocratic banquet of the Heaven Dou Empire...' Shen An mused silently. Now he understood why Xue Qinghe had invited him—it wasn't just a casual visit, but an opportunity to expand his connections. Xue Qinghe wore a knowing smile. She was well aware of Shen An's love for fame. Though she didn't fully understand it, of course she would indulge her only friend. This was a musical banquet, but also a gathering where nobles jostled for influence. For the younger generation, making a name for themselves here would instantly elevate them to stardom in Heaven Dou City. Shen An sat down beside Xue Qinghe, while Tom and Jerry plopped themselves at another table. Without hesitation, the two little rascals grabbed the delicate pastries on the table and stuffed them into their mouths, eating with gusto. Tang Yuehua personally poured tea for Xue Qinghe and Shen An, her hands as flawless as fine jade. She paused briefly before also serving Tom and Jerry. The two gave her an approving look. This woman might not be great at music, but she's got manners. Nice. Tang Yuehua's eyes sparkled with amazement. As someone well-traveled and acquainted with nobility, she had seen all sorts of rare treasures—but pets as extraordinary as Tom and Jerry were a first. "Aunt Yuehua, why don't you play another piece? Let Shen An witness what true musical mastery is. He must not have been paying attention earlier—probably couldn't appreciate fine art." Xue Qinghe sounded slightly indignant. Among friends, there was always an unspoken competition—one of them being the urge to show off something impressive the other hadn't experienced. Originally, inviting him to the Moon Pavilion was meant to both introduce him to the banquet and impress him in one go. Tang Yuehua's musical skill was considered peerless across both empires—even Xue Qinghe was entranced by it. Yet Shen An had calmly called it "decent." What a bumpkin. Though, admittedly, a very good-looking one. Tang Yuehua chuckled lightly. "Since the Crown Prince requests it, of course I shall comply. But first... may I pet this cat and mouse? They truly are adorable." Tom and Jerry paused mid-bite, staring blankly at her. Sure, you complimented us, but petting? That's a bit forward, don't you think? We're not that close. Tang Yuehua, perceptive as ever, immediately noticed their reluctance. Glancing at the pastry crumbs on Tom's whiskers, she smiled. "Ah, but the snacks seem insufficient. Servants, bring more—and a greater variety." Then, with a teasing look at Tom and Jerry, she added, "Well, little ones? May I pet you now?" The two exchanged a glance. This woman knows the rules. She's one of the rare ones who doesn't expect freebies. In the end, Tang Yuehua got her wish—stroking Tom's head and carefully patting Jerry's tiny noggin. Having spent years in high society, ordinary pets never caught her interest. But Tom and Jerry were simply too clever, too extraordinary—enough to awaken a girlish delight in her. Soft music soon filled the room, like pearls falling onto jade or a clear spring murmuring through a quiet forest. When the piece ended, Tang Yuehua confidently looked around. Xue Qinghe was entranced, her face full of bliss. Shen An, however, remained expressionless. Tom and Jerry were still stuffing their faces with pastries. Sёarᴄh the nôvelFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Tang Yuehua's smile froze. How could this be? Even birds and beasts were moved by her music—beauty transcended borders and species! Had her skill declined? But no—Xue Qinghe clearly loved it. 'This man must just have no ear for music. He doesn't know how to appreciate art.' She consoled herself inwardly. Xue Qinghe slowly opened her eyes, savoring the lingering notes. Seeing Shen An's indifferent expression, she felt a pang of defeat. Dammit. Failed to impress my best friend. This sucks. With a sigh, she said, "Shen An... is Aunt Yuehua's playing really just 'decent' to you?" Shen An looked slightly helpless. His musical standards had been spoiled by Tom's performances. It's easy to go from simple tastes to refined ones, but hard to go back. To him, Tang Yuehua's skill was just... okay. "Honestly, it might be because the music I've heard before was too perfect. So now, other pieces don't quite measure up." Shen An answered truthfully. Xue Qinghe frowned. "There's no way anyone in the continent surpasses Aunt Yuehua. Shen An, tell me—who is this person? I'd love to meet them." Tang Yuehua's gaze sharpened. Could such a person truly exist? She wasn't arrogant, but she had never met anyone who surpassed her in music. In fact, she felt a flicker of anticipation. If such a master exists, I'll do anything to learn from them and break through my current plateau. Seeing their skepticism, Shen An tilted his chin toward Tom and Jerry, who had just polished off the last of the pastries. "Right there. Them." At that moment, the two were rubbing their round bellies, even picking at their teeth with their fingers. Tom casually popped out his entire set of teeth and started cleaning them with the tablecloth. Shen An: "..." Xue Qinghe: "..." Tang Yuehua: "..." Even with her refined temperament, Tang Yuehua felt a flare of irritation. If you don't understand music, just say so. But using a cat and a mouse as an excuse? What do a cat and mouse know about music?

Chapter 161: What Do Cats and Mice Know About Music?

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