Rows after rows of maids stepped forward, bowed, and stood trembling under Long Mingze's gaze.
The vast main hall was silent except for the echo of footsteps and the rustle of silk as every maid held their breath. Long Mingze stood upon the dais, hands clasped behind his back, his expression carved in cold stone.
His dark eyes scanned each face slowly, harshly, stripping away disguises, lies, and courage alike. One maid stepped forward. He looked at her once and shook his head.
Eunuch Fu flicked his sleeve. "Next!"
The rejected maid stumbled away, legs weak with relief and fear.
Another one walked up, her body trembling. Long Mingze's brows twitched slightly. His gaze lingered a little longer this time, then he scoffed and shook his head again.
"Next!"
The line thinned, and finally it was Xia Yuqing's row.
