"Did you think I wouldn't notice?" Princess Tian's voice cut through the silence, calm yet commanding.
Rui froze behind the curtain, clutching the stolen hairpin tightly.
"Step out from behind my curtains before I call the guards." Princess Tian's tone held no anger, only mild curiosity.
"I must admit, few would dare enter my chambers uninvited."
Rui's mind raced through her options.
Running was impossible, and fighting a celestial princess in her realm was suicide.
With a deep breath, Rui stepped out, the jade hairpin still in her hand.
She kept her head slightly bowed, hoping her disguise would hold.
"Look at me," Princess Tian commanded.
Rui raised her eyes, meeting the princess's piercing gaze.
Immediately, Rui felt a jolt of recognition so powerful it nearly knocked her backward.
The resemblance was uncanny—especially with her celestial disguise enhancing her features.
The princess appeared older, more elegant, with a serene composure Rui had never mastered.
