Chapter 44: Proving Herself

Chapter 44: Proving Herself

The art exhibition was bustling with people.

As the capital's premier heiress and a rising star in the film and television industry, Yun Shuiyao's every appearance was a sensation.

Even standing amidst the esteemed painters, she remained the most dazzling presence.

Frankly, Yun Mu was quite tempted to stir up some trouble.

But with Elder Huo present today, it wouldn't be appropriate.

She had no intention of meeting those prominent artists; she just wanted to quietly admire two paintings from the sidelines.

"Yun Mu, give your opinion on this painting," Elder Huo pointed at a nearby 'Autumn Mountain Dwelling Mist' painting. After Yun Mu politely declined a few times, she eventually offered her insights candidly.

"The landscape is well inked, but the brushwork lacks strength. It's too mechanical, lacking the natural autumnal charm that should resonate..."

She frowned, originally planning to give more feedback.

But then a furious shout echoed, "What do you, little girl, know about it?"

A fifty-something-year-old gentleman rushed over, glaring at Yun Mu with gritted teeth. "Lack of brushwork strength, too much of a craftsman's touch. Do you know how much effort I put into this painting? It's even highly acclaimed in the international art scene!"

Yun Mu glanced at the signature on the painting. "You're He Qiushui?"

"That's me!" He Qiushui stood with his hands behind his back. "Where did you come from, little girl? How many books have you read to dare criticize my painting blindly?"

Yun Mu fell silent.

Huo Lao's eyes darkened as he stepped forward. "I asked her to comment. I wonder if I'm qualified to do so."

He Qiushui lifted his gaze, immediately startled. "Oh, it's Mr. Huo. Of course, you have the right. And who is this young lady?"

"My granddaughter-in-law, Yun Mu!" Huo Lao snorted.

"I see, you're Madam Huo. I apologize for not recognizing you earlier, please forgive me," He Qiushui wiped his sweat, not expecting to encounter such a formidable figure.

Yun Mu shook her head. "Mr. He has commendable painting skills, but lacks heart in his work. What a pity."

It was a blatant insult.

He Qiushui felt indignant, but he dared not refute Yun Mu or Old Master Huo's imposing presence.

At that moment, an announcement was made from the center of the art exhibition.

"The winner of today's painting competition is Miss Yun Shuiyao with her piece 'Gazing at the Moon.' Her technique is exquisite, and the brushwork is astonishing. As previously agreed upon, Miss Yun Shuiyao will become a disciple of Madam Si!"

Thunderous applause erupted from the audience below.

Many praised that Yun Shuiyao's 'Gazing at the Moon' was truly a masterpiece.

He Qiushui's gaze shifted as he said, "Madam Young Master Shao seems to have a profound understanding of painting. Why don't you offer your critique on Miss Yun's remarkable creation?"

Yun Shuiyao had won first place?

Curious, Yun Mu turned around to look at the stage.

As her gaze fell upon the painting, Yun Mu's eyes froze in an instant.

"‘Gazing at the Moon’?!"

That was her Gazing at the Moon, her own creation!

Yun Mu rushed forward, scrutinizing the artwork with keen eyes.

Not only was it her Gazing at the Moon, but it was also an authentic piece.

How could that be?

How did a painting from the Southern Mystic Continent end up in Country Hua?

Could it be that everything was real? The Ji Ming she saw before, and the connection between the two continents?

On stage, Yun Shuiyao noticed the hint of panic in Yun Mu's eyes below. A cold sneer echoed in her heart.

Yun Mu, this time, I have you beat.

Yun Shuiyao beamed with delight, her lips curling into a pleased smile as she exclaimed, "Thank you all for acknowledging my talent. Being able to become Elder Madam Si's disciple has always been my dearest wish, and today, I've finally achieved it."

Elder Madam Si had initially not been fond of this second Miss Yun, but she truly appreciated this Moon Gazing scene presented today.

Perhaps she had misjudged her before.

"Second Miss Yun's painting has indeed captured my heart. It's evident that you possess great artistic potential. If you don't mind, you may address me as your teacher from now on."

Yun Shuiyao's face flushed with emotion. "Teacher!"

She was about to kneel and formally pay respects when a clear, melodious voice interrupted.

"Wait, she didn't paint this picture!"

The previously bustling and exhilarating atmosphere suddenly fell silent, and all eyes turned to Yun Mu.

Yun Shuiyao's smile froze on her face, anger flaring within her. "What nonsense are you spouting?"

"I'm saying that this 'Gazing at the Moon' is not your creation; you stole it from someone else." Yun Mu stood tall, her voice clear and resonant.

Yun Shuiyao felt a moment of panic, but then she laughed openly without any attempt to hide her amusement. "Yun Mu, I know you resent me for taking the glory that was rightfully yours, and envy my superiority in everything. That's why you're trying to ruin me. But this time, your false accusation of theft is serious. You'll have to provide proof."

Indeed.

The art world had zero tolerance for plagiarism or stealing others' works, just as it did for slander.

It was well-known that Yun Shuiyao had been gifted since childhood, mastering music, chess, calligraphy, and painting. As for this Miss Yun... it was better left unsaid.

If Yun Mu were indeed slandering Yun Shuiyao out of jealousy, that would indeed be despicable.

"Yun Mu, you claim that Yun Shuiyao stole someone else's work. Do you have any evidence? If not, that's defamation!"

Madam Si also turned to Yun Mu. "Yun Mu, do you have any proof?"

Yun Mu replied coolly, "I am the proof. This 'Gazing at the Moon' was my work five years ago."

The scene fell silent once more.

One second, two seconds, three seconds...

Dead silence was followed by a tidal wave of laughter, mocking and derisive.

Everyone was openly ridiculing Yun Mu, looking at her with disdain and contempt.

Even Madam Si couldn't help but frown.

"Yun Mu, even if you have no evidence, you could at least come up with a plausible story. Who would believe that you painted this?"

"Exactly. And five years ago, you were just a fifteen-year-old. How could you possibly have produced such a technically profound painting? Not to mention, back then, you were an idiot locked up in a mental institution!"

"I say, she's here to cause trouble. Security, please escort her out."

Yun Shuiyao also laughed triumphantly.

How absurd!

Initially, she thought Yun Mu had truly seen through the fact that the painting wasn't hers and was secretly worried.

But to her surprise, that idiot actually dared to claim that she was the one who painted it. After all, this place was filled with the most talented and skilled painters in the country – who would believe her?

Yun Mu was indeed courting death on her own.

However, this was the right way to deal with her. A despicable person like Yun Mu deserved to be struck by lightning for pretending to be someone she's not!

"Tell me, did you really paint this?" Madam Si refused to believe that Yun Mu was such an arrogant girl.

Yun Mu nodded calmly. "Yes."

"How can you prove it?"

"How do you want me to prove it?"

The young lady before them had an earnest attitude and a composed expression.

Madam Si, however, had a strange feeling that the girl was not lying.

"Provided you can paint an identical 'Gazing at the Moon' right here in front of us, we'll believe you," Madam Si said.

The others chimed in, "Yes, paint one exactly the same!"