Lan Yue found herself standing inside a place she had only ever imagined.
No—fantasized about.
Tall vermilion pillars rose into the night sky, carved with coiling golden dragons that shimmered beneath hanging palace lanterns. White jade floors reflected the lights like still water, and the air carried the faint scent of incense, wine, and blooming night flowers. Everywhere she looked, there was silk, gold, and restrained arrogance.
A royal palace, she thought dazedly.
A real ancient imperial palace.
For a brief moment, Lan Yue almost forgot how unlucky her life was.
Then she noticed the looks.
They weren't subtle.
Whispers floated through the banquet hall like gnats.
"Who is she? I've never seen her before."
"She's with the Zhao family, isn't she?"
"Is she a relative? Why does she look so plain?"
Lan Yue swallowed and glanced sideways.
