Chapter 15; A Trap

The rest of the royal family was taken aback by her exceptional skills - she was truly a prodigy. They hadn't expected such extraordinary talent from her. Her acumen and abilities surpassed all their expectations, leaving them in awe. Her performance was nothing short of remarkable, and it became evident that she was a force to be reckoned with. After their impressive display, Mei Xiang and Ming Julian both bowed respectfully to the Emperor.

"Good, both of you performed well. I will reward each of you generously for your skill and dedication," the Emperor promised, his words carrying the weight of his authority. The duo clasped their fists in gratitude and nodded appreciatively, expressing their thanks before returning to their seats. On the sidelines, Ming Han signaled to Wei Dan.

"Investigate more about her," Ming Han whispered discreetly to the latter. Wei Dan, simply nodded in response.

Mei Xiang's curiosity was piqued as she whispered to Zhang Lin, "Who is he?"

Zhang Lin responded in a hushed tone,

"He's the third prince, Ming Han."

Mei Xiang mused, "Hmm, Ming Han..." as she discreetly observed him, sensing an air of danger and cunning about him.

As a group of entertainers emerged and greeted the emperor and empress with clasped fists and lowered expressions, Mei Xiang and Zhang Lin remained on the sidelines, watching the interaction unfold.

The entertainers collectively greeted the royal family with reverence, saying in unison,

"Greetings to the emperor and empress. Greetings to the royal family."

Mei Xiang couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to Prince Ming Han than met the eye, and she made a mental note to keep a close watch on his actions and intentions. As the woman in a veil turned Mei Xiang, she offered a polite greeting,

"Greetings to Mei Xiang." Her eyes briefly met Mei Xiang's before she continued speaking,

"We are the Dragon Theatre Troupe, here to perform for the royal family." The emperor nodded, signaling his approval of the troupe's presence. The woman's appearance was striking, despite the veil that partially concealed her features. Her delicate attributes were revealed - fair skin, perfectly shaped eyebrows, long thick lashes, and slanted jasper eyes that exuded a sense of mystery and allure. Her beauty was undeniable, enhanced by her intricate yashmak that added an air of intrigue to her presence. Her jet-black hair was meticulously styled in a bun, adorned with shiny hairpins and accessories that glistened under the palace lights, adding a touch of elegance to her ensemble. Draped in an exquisitely detailed kimono that shimmered in the light, the woman took center stage, commanding attention with her regal presence. Positioned at a table of superior design, her instrument elegantly displayed before her, she settled into her seat and began to play the zither with a masterful touch. Her long, elegant fingers moved with precision and skill, strumming the strings in a fluid and captivating manner. The melody that resonated from the instrument was enchanting, weaving through the air with a soothing and melodious quality that enraptured all who listened. As the entertainers danced gracefully to the enchanting music, after a moment Ming Han's expression suddenly shifted, darkening with an unspoken intensity. The tune being played….

Ming Huan's keen observation skills honed in on the woman's utilization of spiritual energy, noting how she expertly dispersed small amounts of internal force, creating a subtle but potent impact. His instincts told him that there was more to her performance than mere entertainment.

As his gaze shifted towards Mei Xiang, he discerned the true extent of the woman's power. Larger amounts of energy were being directed towards Mei Xiang, a realization that set off alarm bells in Ming Huan's mind. He recognized the technique being used –The Gentle Ripples of Spring technique.

The Gentle Ripples of Spring technique was a beguilement technique known for its insidious effects, it lured its victims into a state of beguilement, weakening their senses and rendering them defenseless against manipulation. It was not inherently powerful as the tune wielded by the group possessed a potential that extended beyond its initial appearance.

Although it was accessible to all practitioners of tunist arts, it held potential for devastating consequences in the hands of skilled cultivators of tunist arts. All who specialized in this form of cultivation could harness its abilities, making it a sought-after tool. However, in the wrong hands, its destructive capabilities were evident.

A sudden realization struck Ming Huan as a distant memory resurfaced in his mind. Echoes of haunting melodies- the intoxicating lure of a mystical tune- the haze of confusion that enveloped the senses- the conjured vision of the chaotic dance of death all flooded back to him. In that moment, a deep understanding dawned on him, his eyes narrowing with recognition. The pieces fell into place as Ming Huan connected the dots—a figure emerged from the shadows of his memory. Suyuan, the enigmatic ninth member of the elite cadre of assassins known as the Shadow Assassins, a formidable force hailing from the infamous Black Mage camps. The mere mention of Suyuan sent a shiver down people's spines, the aura of power and mastery that surrounded the assassin casting a foreboding presence over the unfolding events.

As the duo glanced at Mei Xiang, their suspicions were raised. Mei Xiang exuded an air of fragility as she propped her arm on the table, appearing vulnerable and uncertain.

Despite her outward vulnerability, there was a hidden strength in her eyes that hinted at a deeper understanding of the technique's true potential. Mei Xiang's presence alone seemed to unsettle Suyuan, her unease palpable in the tense air that surrounded them. It was clear that she held a power beyond what they could comprehend, making her a formidable force to be reckoned with in their midst.

As Mei Xiang sat her head on her arm on the table, her complexion paled noticeably, a sickly hue spreading across her features. Concern flickered in the eyes of the duo, their unease deepening at the sight of her deteriorating condition. In a sudden realization, Ming Huan, with a sharp intake of breath, detected a sinister aura emanating from the current wave of tune directed at Mei Xiang. A tense energy crackled in the air, signaling impending danger as the duo became acutely aware of the looming threat.

In a sudden flurry of movement, Ming Yuan instinctively reached out, pulling Mei Xiang toward him in a desperate attempt to shield her from the impending danger. However, their hurried action resulted in an unexpected tumble, with Mei Xiang landing on top of him as they both crashed to the floor. Ming Yuan's heart raced erratically, the proximity of their bodies sending a surge of emotions through him.

As they lay intertwined, Ming Yuan's gaze met Mei Xiang's dilated eyes, her intense stare captivating him in a moment of shared vulnerability and connection. A sense of familiarity tinged with a hint of unfamiliarity washed over him, creating a stirring sensation in his heart that left him reeling.

Meanwhile, Ming Huan, attuned to the danger surrounding them, swiftly channeled his spiritual energy to push Zhang Lin out of harm's way. However, in the chaos of the moment, Zhang Lin was propelled backward, colliding with the dazed figure of Ming Julian. The impact sent both of them sprawling onto the floor.