Chapter 169

Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations

“If you believe I’m unworthy because I once admired a fellow musician, 1 apologize,” Fang Jiayi maintained her poise. Her tone was neither obsequious nor arrogant as she continued, “You mentioned earlier that even if you were to take on a disciple, it wouldn’t be from the Fang family. I’m not sure what transgressions the Fang family committed in your eyes, but as a senior, you have the prerogative to choose a disciple according to your preferences. 1 understand and won’t press the matter. In fact, I acknowledge my own shortcomings and don’t consider myself exceptional enough to warrant your favor.”

“However, your remark below the stage, stating that I’m unworthy of donning Yanli’s attire and jewelry in front of so many people, was disheartening. You might not be aware, but I’ve long regarded you as my idol. I diligently pursued piano proficiency to feel closer to you.”

Fang Jiayi’s words skillfully painted Mu Youlan as an ill-mannered, arrogant individual who took advantage of her seniority to belittle her juniors. It cast Mu Youlan in an unflattering light.

Observing this turn of events, Mu Youlan found herself facing an adept manipulator, a shrewd young woman who, despite her youth, displayed a keen understanding of how to control narratives.

“I never expected Chairman Mu to exhibit such behavior. Fang Jiayi earnestly learned the zither to bridge the gap between them. While it’s understandable if Mu Youlan declines to accept disciples, making such audacious statements is truly distressing for Fang Jiayi.”

“Fang Jiayi looks quite elegant in Yanli’s creations. Is it not an intrusion for Chairman Mu to comment on her choice of attire? One’s dress is a matter of personal freedom, and it’s not Chairman Mu’s concern.”

“Even if Chairman Mu chooses not to support the younger generation, publicly embarrassing them is wholly inappropriate.”

“Chairman Mu seems to lack decorum…”

“Thankfully, Fang Jiayi possesses a magnanimous heart. As an affluent young lady, her generosity and character set her apart from the ordinary.”

The majority of onlookers sympathized with Fang Jiayi, praising her ability to reshape public perception with just a few well-chosen words. Triumphantly, she glanced provocatively at Mu Youlan, sensing she had gained the upper hand.

Yet, Mu Youlan saw through her tactics and scoffed, “Your composition at the climax of the song is a copy of Senior Qingyin’s ‘Wish’!”

As soon as these words were spoken, the entire venue fell silent. What? Fang Jiayi’s climax had actually plagiarized Senior Qingyin?

Senior Qingyin was a legend in the piano world. In recent years, she had won countless awards both domestically and abroad. She was a master-level figure who was ranked first with Elder Qian! However, Senior Qingyin was even more mysterious than Elder Qian. No one knew what she looked like or how old she was. They only knew that she was a woman.

“Chairman Mu, why are you so sure that Fang Jiayi plagiarized Senior Qingyin’s work?” The host hurriedly tried to smooth things over. “I’m also a fan of Senior Qingyin, but I’ve never heard of Senior Qingyin’s song called Wish… Do you have evidence?”

Upon hearing this, Fang Jiayi felt much more at ease. Even the host did not know that Qingyin had the song ‘Wish’. Moreover, she had clearly found the climax of the song in Fang Yuan’s room! That was Fang Yuan’s manuscript!

Besides, she had searched online many times, but there was no similarity at all. That was why she was relieved to participate in the competition with her song! Fang Yuan raised her head lazily and observed everything on the stage with an air of indifference. Even Song Ling’s angry voice from behind didn’t escape her notice.

“What’s wrong with Chairman Mu? It’s one thing if she doesn’t want to award Jiayi, but accusing her of plagiarizing a master’s work is another level of embarrassment! Jiayi’s piano skills are exceptional. Is she really going to accuse her of stealing someone else’s work?” Song Ling expressed her frustration, eager to rush onto the stage and confront Chairman Mu.

Fang Liguo intervened, restraining Song Ling. “Perhaps Chairman Mu has heard numerous piano pieces, and when she heard something vaguely similar, she assumed Jiayi had plagiarized. Let’s wait and see.”

Lu Chen felt a sense of unease. “Chairman Mu has always been fair. She wouldn’t make such an accusation without sufficient evidence.”

“All Chen, why don’t you believe Jiayi? You praised her just now…” Song Ling voiced her disappointment.

“That’s indeed strange…” Madam Bi chimed in, “Didn’t you mention that Chairman Mu was interested in Jiayi and wanted to take her as a disciple? Why did Jiayi claim on stage that Chairman Mu doesn’t like her and isn’t willing to mentor her?”

Caught off guard, Song Ling faltered. “Is, is that so?” She had inadvertently contradicted herself. In her attempt to impress Madam Bi, she had fabricated a story about Chairman Mu’s interest in Jiayi. Now, her lie was exposed.

Madam Bi looked at her with disdain, clearly seeing through the fabrication. “Evidence? Of course, 1 have it!” Mu Youlan declared resolutely, capturing the attention of everyone present.

Fang Jiayi’s complexion turned pale. This was unexpected!

“Before I present the evidence, I have one question for you, Fang Jiayi. What is the climax of your piece ‘Sorrow’?” Mu Youlan asked deliberately, her words hanging in the tense air..