Suddenly, the beautiful, haunting strains of a zither rang out, drawing Ying Ming Hao and the others' gazes back toward the stage in the center of the hall!
As the music swelled, a beauty approached gracefully through the air, countless white petals scattering around her!
She wore a plain white silk dress, its hem as light as clouds, swaying gently with her steps as though an immortal maiden had descended to earth.
Delicate plum blossoms were embroidered on her dress, their pink and white hues all the lovelier against the pure white fabric.
Her hair was swept into a high bun adorned with a green jade hairpin, its tiny inlaid pearls gleaming softly in the dim light.
A few strands of dark hair fell casually over her shoulders, lending her a touch of languid charm.
Her face was exquisite as a painting, her brows like distant mountains, their subtle shade seemingly traced in ink, carrying a hint of boldness without sacrificing gentleness.
Her eyes were clear as autumn waters, yet held boundless feeling, like a deep pool whose mysteries one could not help wanting to explore.
Her nose was straight and high, its slightly upturned tip giving her a playful, endearing look.
Her lips were red as cherries, their corners faintly lifted in an elusive smile, as though telling a story no one knew.
As she drew near, a faint fragrance drifted over, neither quite orchid nor quite musk, refreshing the heart and soothing the spirit.
Her voice was like an oriole emerging from a valley, clear and melodious, every word seemingly imbued with magic that held listeners spellbound.
She smiled gently, and that smile was like the warmth of the spring sun, instantly dispersing the surrounding gloom, as though the whole world had brightened.
"This humble girl, Du