The sound of music and laughter carried in a courtyard filled with young people.
Unlike the stately solemnity of the main hall, the courtyard of the younger generation was vibrant with life.
Lanterns of pale jade shimmered above, spirit wines poured freely, and youths of noble blood mingled like sparrows in spring.
"Did you see her? Bai Xueqing… truly like a fairy descended. I swear, when she lifted her sword in the competition, even the clouds seemed to pause!"
"Not only her beauty—her strength! Winning with such composure, such grace. That final strike—ha! If she had aimed at me, I'd have surrendered without question."
"I fell in love the moment I lay my eyes on her. She is truly the Most Beautiful Girl in Desolate Heaven Empire–No, in the world."
Murmurs of agreement rippled.
Bai Xueqing's name circled again and again, her victories and her beauty woven together until she seemed less a person and more a legend crafted in the span of a night.
