Fifty miles northwest of Star Luo City.
An endless red wall sprawled across the world like a colossal dragon, its winding outline vanishing into the morning mist.
From afar, the red wall encircled a grand estate. Every roof was covered in glittering golden glazed tiles, dazzling so brightly under the sun that it was hard to keep one's eyes open.
The main gate tower was towering and imposing. On either side stood two mighty white tiger statues, fangs bared, their presence awe-inspiring.
Inside the mansion, halls stretched one after another. Bronze bells hung from upturned eaves and rang crisply whenever the wind blew, every corner steeped in supreme dignity and splendor.
The White Tiger Duke Mansion covered an area of three thousand mu. It was the most distinguished residence in the Star Luo Empire aside from the imperial palace, displaying the Dai family's glorious military achievements from generations of guarding the border.
Led by Dai Yaoheng, Xiao Xiao and Xue Yuheng passed through corridors carved with ornate beams and painted rafters.
Beds of lilies grew beneath the corridors. Their pure white petals were beaded with morning dew, and a faint fragrance lingered in the air.
As they walked, every maid and guard along the way bowed in salute.
When they reached the entrance of the main hall, Dai Yaoheng stopped and turned sideways. "Your Highness Prince Gan, Miss Xiao Xiao, Mother is waiting for you inside."
Xue Yuheng nodded, then took Xiao Xiao's hand and walked into the main hall.
Inside the main hall, sandalwood incense curled in wisps.
A thick wool carpet covered the floor. At the head of the hall, seated upright in a grand armchair, was a woman wearing a plain brocade dress.
She looked to be in her thirties, with a gentle face, delicate brows and