Her long hair flowed like a waterfall, adorned with an exquisite jade crown, accentuating her face—sharp brows, bright eyes, a straight nose, and red lips. Her delicate features seemed to be meticulously carved from fine jade, creating an almost perfect combination.
Such a noble man, with the grace of a dragon and the elegance of a phoenix, was strikingly handsome. Even sitting quietly, he commanded attention.
At this moment, Xin'er was carefully carrying a tray with both hands as she slowly approached the opulent hall.
Her beautiful eyes swept across the room.
Inside the hall sat not only Leng Yixuan but also a stunning young woman of about twenty years old seated to his left.
This woman was extraordinarily beautiful, dressed in the latest fashion—a violet pleated skirt adorned with white violet flowers embroidered at the cuffs and neckline, showcasing her slender figure perfectly.
Her exquisite face was heavily made up, yet it evoked a sense of awe in those who looked upon her.
Perhaps sensing someone’s gaze upon her, the woman turned her head, her eyes quickly landing on Xin'er, who was walking toward them.
When Xin'er realized the woman was looking at her, she felt startled and understood that her earlier scrutiny had been somewhat rude. She immediately lowered her head, not daring to meet the woman's gaze.
She simply fulfilled her duty as a maid by serving tea to the woman and Leng Yixuan.
However, what Xin'er did not know was that the woman's gaze remained fixed on her as she lowered her head.
As the purple-robed woman’s eyes fell upon the white-clad girl entering the room, her alluring eyes—accentuated by finely drawn eyeliner—sparkled with surprise.
What a breathtaking beauty!
Although the white-clad girl appeared quite young, her features were exquisitely refined. Even someone as worldly as the purple-robed woman could not help but marvel inwardly.
The girl in white, dressed in a pure silk skirt, seemed as if it was crafted just for her. It accentuated her snow-like skin, crystal clear and resembling beautiful jade.
Her long black hair was casually tied into two thick braids, cascading down either side of her chest. Though her head bore no extravagant adornments, it did nothing to diminish her beauty.
On the contrary, it added an air of simplicity and purity to her, making her appear like a fairy untouched by the mortal world.
However, what surprised the Purple Robe the most was that this girl in white, judging by her demeanor and actions, was actually the personal maid of her master!?
After all, she had been by her master's side for many years and had visited this residence more than once.
In this household, maids were ranked, and each level of maid wore different clothing.
The girl in white was dressed in the attire reserved for First-Class Maids in this estate.
The sole duty of all First-Class Maids was to serve their masters.
Thus, when the Purple Robe saw the clothing on the girl in white, how could she not be astonished?
After all, several years ago, she had learned that due to her master's status and wealth, there were many overambitious maids who tried to win her master's affection. Some even daringly sneaked into her master's bed at night, thinking that such actions would transform them from a common hen into a phoenix.
But it was hardly surprising.
For those maids, a lifetime of toil awaited them; who wouldn't want to rise above their station?
However, if it were other lecherous men in their place, they might have welcomed such advances without hesitation. Yet those maids had chosen the wrong person!
The Purple Robe understood that although her master was younger than her, she possessed unparalleled abilities.
Especially her business acumen; in the marketplace, she was invincible. Even the old foxes of commerce could only watch in envy.
However, her master was not fond of women. In the past, there had been no shortage of people sending beautiful women to her master, but they were all sent back.
So now, Purple Robe was puzzled and surprised as to why, in just a few short days, a stunning woman in white had appeared by her master's side!
Thinking of this, Purple Robe looked at Xin'er with more scrutiny and curiosity.
The gaze from Purple Robe made Xin'er feel somewhat uncomfortable.
In the end, she could only hide behind Leng Yixuan to shield herself from Purple Robe's gaze.
Perhaps sensing that Purple Robe was continuously sizing up Xin'er, Leng Yixuan's beautiful deep black eyes subtly glanced at Purple Robe.
Seeing this, Purple Robe's delicate face froze for a moment before she tactfully withdrew her gaze from Xin'er.
However, she couldn't help but feel a bit calculating in her heart.
It seemed that this maid held a certain weight in her master's heart...
As Purple Robe pondered this, Xin'er also breathed a sigh of relief since Purple Robe's attention was no longer on her.
Just then, a melodious sound of a guqin echoed through the hall. Upon hearing it, Xin'er was momentarily stunned and looked up to see several women dressed in green gracefully entering the hall. They danced elegantly in time with the music.
Seeing this, Xin'er felt invigorated.
She recalled a time when she worked at the Noble Family and had seen a young lady practicing martial arts. Watching that lady's graceful movements made her feel envious.
She thought to herself how beautiful dancing could be.
Thus, while working, she would secretly watch the young lady dance and silently memorize the movements.
Upon returning home, she recalled the steps of the dance and gracefully began to move.
Xin'er loved to dance, so when she saw the young girls in green swirling around her, her eyes sparkled with excitement.
Then, a woman dressed in bright red slowly emerged among the green-clad dancers...
At that moment, standing in the center of the green-clad girls, the woman in the Crimson Chiffon Skirt danced elegantly.
The vibrant red was striking and enchanting, accentuating her fair complexion.
The Red-Dressed Woman was beautiful, and her makeup was applied in a way that was alluring and captivating!
As the Red-Dressed Woman twirled, kicked her legs, and waved her flowing red sleeves, her graceful movements left everyone in awe; at first glance, it was as if they were witnessing a Rose Fairy...
Xin'er was completely mesmerized.
What a beautiful woman!
What a beautiful dance!
It was truly breathtaking!
She wondered if she would ever have the chance to perform such a wonderful dance herself.
However, that thought might just be a foolish dream!
After all, her current status was merely that of a maid.
Thinking of this made Xin'er's eyes dim with disappointment.
However, she could not hide the fondness that lingered in her eyes.
What she did not know was that the expression on her face at that moment was being captured vividly by a pair of enchanting eyes...
It was said that the annual Talent Show, 'Drunken Indulgence,' would be held in ten days.
Every day, the Purple Robe would bring the dancers she had trained to practice their routines in the Purple Pavilion.
The dancers performed several types of dances, allowing Leng Yixuan to personally select a good one for the performance.
During these days, Xin'er followed closely behind Leng Yixuan, feasting her eyes on the spectacle.
Having watched so much, she naturally began to understand a bit more.
Moreover, Xin'er had a good memory; as long as she saw the dances performed by those dancers, she could remember most of them.
After watching just a couple more times, she could completely memorize them.
Every day, she would tell Xiao Huan about the dances performed by the dancers at Yaxuan Pavilion. Since Xiao Huan was a second-tier maid and could not enter, she could only feel envious.
Upon hearing Xin'er describe how beautiful the dances were, Xiao Huan was filled with anticipation and wished to see them for herself, but that was simply impossible.
Seeing the hint of disappointment on Xiao Huan's face, Xin'er felt a pang of sympathy and offered to try dancing for her to see.
Naturally, this made Xiao Huan very happy.
Thus, on this sunny and charming afternoon, Xin'er stood on the lush green grass, recalling the dances performed by the dancers and then gracefully began to dance.
In this place, there was no music, no one to accompany her.
Yet, the girl in white danced with intense focus.
Or perhaps, Xin'er poured all her heart into whatever she loved.
At that moment, Xin'er gracefully waved her long sleeves, her delicate figure spinning with elegance.
Her slender waist was as soft as willow, moving gracefully, her feet lightly tapping the ground, her garments fluttering in the air, and her long hair flowing behind her.
Her dance resembled that of a celestial fairy, light and elegant, perfect in every way...
And there was that face, so focused and earnest amidst the dance.
Her eyes sparkled like autumn waters, dark and cool; with each glance, they shimmered with brilliance. A gentle turn of her head revealed a charming allure that captivated the soul...
Unknowingly, Xiao Huan was left in awe, mesmerized by the performance.
After all, when Xin'er had mentioned dancing for her earlier, Xiao Huan understood that Xin'er simply wanted to lift her spirits. However, she had no idea that Xin'er could dance so beautifully.
That waist, delicate enough to be grasped with a single hand, seemed fragile like a willow branch yet produced astonishing arcs of movement that were breathtakingly beautiful!
On the lush green grass, the girl in white appeared like an otherworldly being, lost in her dance as if she had forgotten everyone around her—so beautiful, like a fallen immortal...
Finally, as Xin'er finished her dance, Xiao Huan remained entranced until a crisp sound of applause broke through her reverie. Startled, she turned around.
To her surprise, she found a Beautiful Woman in Purple standing behind her!
The woman wore an exquisite silk purple robe and skirt, styled in the latest fashion and undoubtedly worth a fortune.
She wore a beautifully styled bun on her head.
Adorning the bun were exquisite hairpins, making the woman even more stunning!
This person was none other than Purple Robe!
It seemed that Xin'er also noticed Purple Robe's appearance; her delicate face froze for a moment, clearly surprised.
After all, the library was rarely visited, and she knew Purple Robe well. Over the past few days, Purple Robe had been bringing the dancers she trained to perform at Yaxuan Pavilion.
However, despite this familiarity, she had never spoken a word to Purple Robe. When they met, it was merely a polite nod of greeting.
Moreover, Xin'er knew that Purple Robe was the steward of Drunken Indulgence on the third floor.
She was Leng Yixuan's most capable subordinate.
This Talent Show event was also being organized by Purple Robe.
Thus, Xin'er understood that Purple Robe was an exceptionally skilled woman, and she held a degree of admiration for her.
However, Xin'er was still somewhat taken aback by Purple Robe's sudden appearance in the library.
Yet, despite her surprise, once she regained her composure, she approached and politely nodded to Purple Robe.
"Hello, Steward."
"Hehe, there's no need to call me Steward like that. I'm a few years older than you; just call me sister!"
At Purple Robe's words, Xin'er was momentarily stunned. She had to admit that she felt both surprised and flattered.
After all, it was rare for a woman of such status as Purple Robe to be so kind and approachable to a servant.
Just as Xin'er was taken aback by this, Purple Robe continued to speak.
"Xin'er, may I call you that?"
Purple Robe's voice was surprisingly gentle and graceful, quite different from her appearance, yet there was a fierce aura about her that felt very welcoming.
Upon hearing this, Xin'er nodded slightly and smiled.
"Yes, that's fine."
"Hehe, Xin'er, I saw the dance you performed just now. It was really wonderful!"
At Purple Robe's words, Xin'er's cheeks flushed with embarrassment.
After all, she had only dared to dance because she thought Xiao Huan was the only one present.
Unexpectedly, Purple Robe had appeared without her noticing.
Moreover, the dance she had just performed was one she had seen the dancers at Yaxuan Pavilion perform over the past few days.
It was said that this dance had been choreographed by Purple Robe herself. She couldn't help but wonder if she would upset someone by secretly learning a dance that others had worked hard to create.
With this thought in mind, Xin'er felt a bit anxious.
However, her worries were unfounded.
After all, Purple Robe showed no signs of anger; instead, her gaze toward Xin'er sparkled brightly, as if she were looking at gold.
Those who are familiar with Purple Robe know that whenever Purple Robe takes an interest in something, a certain look appears in their eyes.
At this moment, Purple Robe was genuinely fond of Xin'er.
After all, someone like Xin'er, talented and beautiful, could memorize a dance after just a few viewings and perform it so well.
It was clear that despite training numerous dancers, none had ever satisfied her until now.
But this young girl before her...
Purple Robe admired her greatly.
After all, she was someone who appreciated talent!
With that thought in mind, Purple Robe wasted no time and directly took Xin'er's hands, asking,
"Xin'er, would you be willing to come to the third floor of Drunken Indulgence as a dancer?"
"Uh!?"
Hearing Purple Robe's words, Xin'er was taken aback.
Dancing on the third floor of Drunken Indulgence!?
Although the third floor was a place for men to indulge in pleasure, the entertainment venues operated by Drunken Indulgence, even the Pavilion of Performers, were different from those outside.
Everyone who worked at Drunken Indulgence did so voluntarily.
Especially on the third floor and the fourth floor of the Pavilion of Performers, whether they were young women or performers, they all entered willingly.
Moreover, selling oneself and showcasing one's talents is a personal choice that cannot be forced.
If it were merely about performing, even if the price were astronomical, no one could be compelled to do so if they were unwilling. Otherwise, the bodyguards of Drunken Indulgence are not there for show.
It is said that the bodyguards of Drunken Indulgence are highly skilled, each capable of taking on ten men, and they were hired at a high price by the Big Boss of Drunken Indulgence.
Thus, any guest entering Drunken Indulgence, regardless of their status, must adhere to its rules; anyone who disrupts them will face consequences!
This is also why Drunken Indulgence enjoys such booming business!
Furthermore, it is rumored that whether one works as a dancer or offers companionship at Drunken Indulgence, if someone takes a liking to them, they can earn a fortune daily.
If an ordinary maid heard Purple Robe's words, she would surely be flattered and agree without hesitation.
After all, what prospects does a maid have in a household? But things are different on the third floor of Drunken Indulgence.
There, even an ordinary dancer can earn up to a thousand taels of silver each month!
So when Xiao Huan heard Purple Robe's words, she excitedly spoke up before Xin'er could respond.
"Xin'er, you should go work as a dancer on the third floor of Drunken Indulgence; you can make a lot of money!"
For Xiao Huan, this seemed like an incredibly promising job! Without a second thought, she urged her friend.
Naturally, Xin'er understood Xiao Huan's intentions.
She had also heard quite a bit about Drunken Indulgence.
Everyone looks forward to better opportunities; if it were someone else, they would have agreed long ago. However...
"Sister Violet, I... I don't want to go..."
"Why not!?"
Upon hearing Xin'er’s words, Purple Robe showed no signs of displeasure on her face. Her eyes, adorned with delicate eyeliner, sparkled with amusement, as if she had already anticipated Xin'er would respond this way.
On the other hand, Xiao Huan was somewhat surprised by Xin'er’s answer. After all, everyone in the Celestial Yuan Dynasty knew that 'Drunken Indulgence' was the largest entertainment venue in the country, with branches opening one after another, each thriving with business.
Everyone was eager to get a job there!
Moreover, although it was a position as a dancer, everyone understood the rules within 'Drunken Indulgence.' Even as a dancer, one was merely an entertainer, yet it was still a very promising job!
Anyone else would be thrilled at the chance to work there and would take pride in being employed by 'Drunken Indulgence'!
Thus, Xiao Huan was so astonished by Xin'er’s response.
However, after pondering for a moment, Xiao Huan seemed to realize something, and a look of understanding crossed her eyes.
It seemed that being a dancer at 'Drunken Indulgence' couldn't compare to being a personal maid to the mistress in the estate...
With this thought in mind, Xiao Huan couldn’t help but smile slyly to herself.
Unaware of Xiao Huan's thoughts, Xin'er faced Purple Robe's confusion with her head lowered and eyes downcast. Her hands were tightly intertwined, and for a moment, she didn’t know how to respond.
"This... this..."
Xin'er didn't really know how to respond.
If she refused, she wasn't sure if the other person would be upset.
Moreover, she truly loved dancing.
But...
If she left this place, would she still be able to see him often?
Thinking of this made Xin'er feel a bit reluctant.
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