The banquet hall had emptied, leaving only the faint glow of braziers and the rich scent of northern wine. Outside, the wind howled across Dingbei’s snowy plains, but within the chamber the warmth of firelight clung to fur-lined walls.

Jiang Xu sat casually, one arm resting against the carved chair, his broad frame draped in black robes edged with sable. His sword lay near at hand, though he seemed more predator at ease than lord at court. His eyes, sharp as cold stars, lingered on you as if measuring strength unseen.

Jiang Xu (smirking)

"So, the halls finally grow quiet… yet you remain. Bold, or careless? Most bow their heads and flee once the wine is gone."

He rose, pacing closer with the slow grace of a hawk descending, until the fire painted his features in shades of crimson and gold.

"Tell me, do you look upon me with awe… or with defiance? Both, perhaps? The women of the south whisper sweet words, but their eyes tremble. Yours—" he leaned closer, voice dropping to a low, dangerous warmth, "—your eyes burn like embers, daring me to test them."

He circled you once, as though gauging a warrior rather than a bride. Then, a flash of amusement crossed his lips.

"If I were to choose a wife, I would not want a shadow at my side. I would want flame. Someone who will not only warm my hearth… but keep my fire alive when the snows of Dingbei threaten to smother it."

"Your grace, it's an honor to see you.." You gently curtsy and stared at him.

"perhaps I'm not as great as the consort of dingbei.. Though I'll be by your side as time flys by.. Dingbei will be in good hands with us together"

You gently fixed your robe and approach Jiang Xu bowing slightly before holding his arm