I woke up as the Villainous Empress

The tea party atmosphere exuded harmony as the ladies engaged in lively conversations, boasting about their dresses and accessories. When the snacks and milk tea were served, the guests who hadn't attended Yang Ning's first tea party, were surprised to see the milky and creamy tea. It was different from the clear, fragrant teas they were accustomed to drinking on usual occasions.

They harbored reservations about the distinctive flavor of the unique tea, yet confident in Guo Yurong's refined taste, they decided to give it a try. "Hmm! What tea is this? It's remarkably distinct, creamy, and absolutely delightful," exclaimed one of the ladies, unable to contain her pleasure after taking a sip.

Zhu Yating nodded in agreement and turned her gaze towards Guo Yurong. "Lady Guo, where did you acquire this exquisite tea? It's truly delicious and flavourful; I have never experienced a blend that's simultaneously sweet, creamy, and delicious. Your taste is as refined and unique as ever," she complimented, savoring another sip of the beverage.

Guo Yurong, casting a smile toward Yang Ning, responded graciously to Zhu Yating's praise. "Credit must go to Her Highness. It was her recipe that introduced us to the concept of Milk Tea. Enchanted by its flavors, I requested her to teach my servants how to prepare it. I am delighted you all enjoyed it," she said, redirecting the acknowledgement to Yang Ning, attributing the success to her.

"Absolutely! We were pleasantly surprised when we sampled this delightful tea at the palace. And it wasn't just the milk tea; Her Highness had also crafted some uniquely delicious fried snacks that we couldn't get enough of. Her Highness is not only stunning but incredibly knowledgeable in every aspect. Her gifts weren't just valuable; they were also unique and practical.

If she decides to market those items, I'm confident her business would thrive in the capital," exclaimed one of the ladies who had attended Yang Ning's tea party, brimming with excitement.

Zhu Yating's expression stiffened upon learning that the milk tea recipe originated from Yang Ning. Unintentionally, she had offered compliments that opened the door for others to sing Yang Ning's praises. "Oh, really? Well, it's delicious, but I personally prefer lighter teas that aid digestion.

These sugary, sweet teas aren't the healthiest choice, but I suppose they have their appeal," she remarked with a teasing tone, subtly deflecting from the fact that she secretly enjoyed Yang Ning's milk tea.

The other ladies frowned at Zhu Yating's comment, feeling a sense of discomfort. Hesitantly, their eyes turned to Yang Ning, who remained silent, serenely enjoying her tea and snacks, seemingly unaffected by Zhu Yating's sarcastic remark.

A collective sigh of relief echoed through the group. Fortunately, the Crown Princess displayed no signs of a short temper. Otherwise, Zhu Yating might have faced a pointed rebuke for her impolite attitude.

"Lady Zhu, you were praising the milk tea just a moment ago, and now it's suddenly heavy and fattening. If that's the case, perhaps you should reconsider your fondness for sweets and fried snacks throughout the day. They might pose more harm than this milk tea," one of the ladies spoke up in defense of Zhu Yating.

Zhu Yating frowned but chose to remain silent in response to the woman's remark. Instead, her gaze shifted toward Yang Ning, who continued to sip her milk tea and indulge in the snacks, seemingly unaffected by the conversation.

Observing the lack of impact on Yang Ning and the support she received from others, Zhu Yating pursed her lips and muttered under her breath while taking another sip of the milk tea, "It's not like she made it herself. Why are they making it a big deal? Hmph!" Although not everyone heard it, those seated close to Zhu Yating and Yang Ning, who was sitting opposite her, caught the comment.

Yang Ning couldn't help but chuckle at Zhu Yating's apparent displeasure and her attempts to downplay the compliments. Despite the brewing drama, Yang Ning found it amusing and continued sipping her tea. However, she couldn't help but notice Zhu Yating's change in expression, as if she had just discovered poison in her cup.

'She truly is a drama queen,' Yang Ning thought to herself, finding the situation more entertaining than bothersome. Yet, she couldn't help but acknowledge that Zhu Yating's tricks didn't surpass the drama created by Chang Ah herself.

___

After everyone had enjoyed the tea and snacks, Lady Guo surveyed the gathered ladies and announced, "Since we've gathered here, I have arranged some activities for everyone to enjoy."

Anticipation sparkled in the eyes of the ladies as they inquired, "Activities? What kind? Another round of horse riding, perhaps?" One of the ladies speculated.

Yang Ning, who had never attended Guo Yurong's tea parties before, was taken aback. 'Horse riding? I thought the women of this world were more conservative. It's surprising that they're considering such activities,' she mused, intrigued by the idea and curious about what else Guo Yurong had in store.

Guo Yurong glanced at Madam Liu before revealing the surprise, "No, it's not horse riding. Today, I have organized an archery competition. Since all the ladies are present, it's time for everyone to channel their inner knights and engage in some friendly competition. The winner will receive a custom-made dress designed by me, free of charge."

A murmur of excitement rippled through the group. "A dress designed by Lady Guo? That's an irresistible prize. I am determined to win this competition."
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"Archery? How thrilling! I have watched my husband and his friends play, but I never thought I would get a chance to try it. I am a bit nervous about how well I'll do, though."

Zhu Yating nodded with a smug smile and added, "Considering my family's military background, I received archery lessons when I was young for self-defense. Don't blame me later if I win this competition." She boasted confidently, wearing a triumphant expression as if victory was already assured.

Yang Ning, who had remained silent until now, was surprised by Guo Yurong's choice of activity. She hadn't expected an archery competition; she had envisioned something more traditionally feminine, like an embroidery contest or a cooking class. However, knowing the unpredictable personality choices and personality of Lady Guo, the archery competition suits her more than the embroidery game.

Smirking at Zhu Yating's boastful comment, Yang Ning thought, 'Looks like it's my day to shine. Zhu Yating,'