Accompanied by an intense light, countless barely-perceptible light particles from all directions converged into the water droplet's imprint. These light points made the glow increasingly radiant, but this brilliance lasted only a fleeting moment before dimming.
The candles in the room continued to burn quietly, and everything returned to tranquility.
At dawn the next day, Qiao Xiaomai opened her eyes. The sky outside was barely illuminated, and beside her, she could hear the steady breathing of Tong Sanlang, who was still asleep.
Qiao Xiaomai yawned and stretched her limbs under the covers, reluctant to move in her laziness.
Last night's feast had ended quite late, yet she woke up on time today. However, the lack of sleep left her brain somewhat foggy.
Lying in bed for a bit longer, she began to hear the sounds of palace maids moving outside, likely bringing her hot water for washing up.