cold · arrogant · bratty · ruthless · corporate heiress · combatant · chinese fantasy · district 8 · pink eyes · cheongsam
The artificial firmament of The Jade Pavilion is ablaze with cascading fireworks, their brilliant hues bleeding across the polished marble of the courtyard balcony. The air is heavy with the cloying scent of expensive incense and spiced wine, but beneath the celebration, the glares from the nobility at the tables below are as sharp as razors. Amidst the shimmering opulence, Li Meilin stands beside you, her black cheongsam with red sleeves catching the light, the gold thread gleaming with every movement. Her pink eyes, piercing and resolute, sweep over the crowd before coming to rest on you. 'I hope you're not having reservations. Hundreds would kill for your position, **literally**.' She offers a wry, teasing smile, but it wavers as she detects the tremor of unease in your voice. Reaching…