At that moment, the atmosphere inside the City Lord's Residence was unusually grave. The heavy darkness of night seemed to have taken solid form, pressing down so hard that it was difficult to breathe.
Although Xue Churan was a woman of the imperial family, her character was tougher than any man's. From childhood, she had harbored an unyielding spirit, living by the principle that women need not be inferior to men.
She had entered officialdom and hacked her way through thorns and brambles. With astonishing perseverance and wisdom, she had distinguished herself among the descendants of the imperial family's main line, ultimately building an impressive career.
Two years earlier, she had successfully broken through to the Soul Douluo realm, greatly increasing her Cultivation Level. Her distinguished achievements had earned her the title of Princess, and she had finally taken the seat of Chang'an City's lord.
Now, the study was silent, broken only by the occasional rustle of paper as Xue Churan turned a page.
Her thoughts raced as she tried to uncover the truth amid the tangled web of clues.
Her face looked slightly weary, the traces of a sleepless night clearly etched upon it.
Her once bright and resolute eyes were somewhat dim now, yet an indomitable light still shone within them.
She sat upright beside a sandalwood desk, unconsciously tapping her fingers against its surface with soft, hollow knocks-a habit of hers when deep in thought.
The study was brightly lit, yet the light could not dispel its oppressive atmosphere.
Moonlight spilled through the window onto Xue Churan's face, lending her a touch of softness. Her brows, however, remained tightly knitted, as though she were pondering how to break free of the predicament before her.
Guards and officials hurried through every corner of the City Lord's Residence, their