Ning Shu felt a wave of relief wash over her as she stepped out of the imperial study. Cold sweat clung to her back, but the heavy weight of worry that had pressed on her heart was finally lifted.
Once back in Orchid Garden Palace, she ate a little, then lay down on her bed, succumbing to sleep. It wasn't long before Miao Qing woke her, announcing that there would be a banquet for the North Mongolian delegation.
Ning Shu changed out of her equestrian clothing and donned the luxurious princess garments she hadn't worn in ages. Her hair was adorned with an array of head ornaments, and the layers of her outfit were more intricate than she remembered, the long sleeves making her feel constricted and weighed down. The pressure from the ornaments felt as if they might crush her neck.
Miao Qing expressed a desire to accompany her, but Ning Shu quickly dismissed the idea. There was no way she would allow Miao Qing to see Li Wen—after all, her plan was to make Miao Qing suffer from withdrawal.
As Miao Qing watched, her resentment carefully hidden, Ning Shu strode towards the banquet hall.
The hall was brightly lit, filled with music that echoed throughout the space. The enchanting mix created an ostentatious atmosphere, one that threatened to ensnare all present in a haze of indulgence.
Upon entering, Ning Shu felt the mood shift as the guests turned to look at her. Inwardly, she cursed them. These men were celebrating the peace they had brokered at the expense of a woman—how could they still call themselves men?
"Jiahui, come over here." Li Wen raised his hand, beckoning her.
Ignoring the intense gaze of the second prince, Ning Shu approached Li Wen. After a respectful curtsy, she took her seat.
He Lianying's eyes followed her relentlessly, making her skin crawl with discomfort.
What the hell are you looking at? Ning Shu shot him a glare, only to freeze in surprise. She hadn't taken a good look at him before, but now she noticed how coarse and wild he appeared. His hair flowed freely over his shoulders, his collar slightly open, revealing a necklace made from wolf fangs. With broad shoulders and a narrow waist, his bronze skin exuded a raw masculinity that was starkly different from the refined elegance of the men of Great Yong.
Tsk. No matter how ruggedly handsome he was, it couldn't mask his cruel nature. Men like him were the worst nightmare for women.
When He Lianying caught her gaze, he grinned, an expression filled with determination. His eyes burned with a fierce desire as he recognized her appraisal, akin to a wolf sensing its prey.
Ning Shu wore different clothing tonight; her previous outfit had given her a valiant and cold demeanor, while her current luxurious garments highlighted her pride and elevated status, complementing her stern expression.
He Lianying's smile widened, revealing snow-white teeth that sparkled in the light, sending a chill through those who beheld it. He lifted his wine cup, toasting in her direction, his gaze burning with an almost predatory excitement. Ning Shu sneered at him, then turned her head away, deliberately ignoring his toast.