Hua Jing's voice lingered in the air, her words laced with an undeniable sharpness. The Prime Minister's smirk did not waver as he finally turned to face her fully.
His dark robes, embroidered with golden patterns of dragons twisting in an eternal dance, shifted slightly with his movement.
The eerie glow of the lanterns nearby cast long shadows on his face, accentuating the unsettling amusement in his expression.
"Lady Hua Jing," he greeted smoothly, his voice like silk over a blade. "I had not expected to see you here either, but fate has a peculiar way of bringing people together at the most opportune times."
Hua Jing took a deliberate step forward, her delicate fingers lifting her veil, letting the soft fabric slide away to reveal her face. A dangerous smile curved on her lips, a smile that did not reach her eyes. Her gaze locked onto his, unwavering, piercing, and calculating.
