CHAPTER NINETEEN

Two regal figures strode into the room, one donning a gentle hue of light blue and the other adorned in a vibrant shade of crimson. They were none other than First Prince Zhang Wei and Second Prince Zhang Jun.

Their noses were raised high in the air, exuding an air of authority that demanded the attention and respect of all who were present. Every individual in the room bowed in reverence to the royal princes.

Bai Lang had to gently guide the mesmerized Sou Tan Mei into position to greet the two princes. She was so captivated by their majestic presence that she momentarily forgot her manners and etiquette. However, Bai Lang understood that such behavior was expected from a girl hailing from a humble background, with a father like Jiufu.

The princes radiated an undeniable aura that commanded the attention of the entire room. It was no wonder that the faces of the young ladies flushed a crimson red in their presence.

Standing there, their presence commanded attention. With their jet-black hair, perfectly straight noses, and strong physiques, the princes were indistinguishable from one another. However, their origins varied, as one was born to the Empress while the other was the product of a concubine. Bai Lang, who was well-informed, knew that there were a total of four princes and three princesses in the royal family.

But it wasn't just their appearance that captured the attention of the capital. Both princes were renowned for their exceptional martial arts skills and intelligence. Their silent battle for the throne was the subject of much discussion, despite the presence of a crown prince above them.

The Second Prince stood out in his light blue tunic, complemented by silk white pants. Like the other gentlemen, his long hair was neatly tied in a top knot.

His hair was adorned with a regal silver crown, embellished with sparkling white gems. The third Prince wore a vibrant red tunic, with his long black hair cascading down his back, half of it tied up in a top knot secured by a golden jade crown.

The Princes signaled for everyone to rise, and the banquet resumed, albeit with a slightly quieter atmosphere. Both Princes approached Duke Liang and Bai Kang to greet them.

Sou Tan Mei couldn't believe her eyes. She had never seen such noble and handsome men in her entire life.

Her gaze was fixed on the Second Prince, and she eagerly tugged at Bai Lang's sleeve, repeatedly asking the same questions.

"Xiao Lang, who are they? Do you know them? Can you introduce me to them? Can we meet them?"

Bai Lang pulled her arms away, looking at Sou Tan Mei as if she was an annoying fly. She wanted to shoo her away.

"Biaojie, Xiao Lang is a young girl who keeps herself secluded. Why would I personally know the Princes? Men and women should maintain a certain distance from each other.

Biaojie, please be mindful of your words and reputation. Those are the royal Princes, and it's better not to approach them, especially at such an occasion.

You are a young lady and a relative of the Bai Fu. Mind your etiquette, lest we embarrass our family and tarnish the Bai Fu's reputation. It's better to keep your distance from men."

Bai Lang needed to set Sou Tan Mei straight before she caused her to lose face, as she was from her mother's side of the family.

Sou Tan Mei had an intense desire to scratch Bai Lang's face after being reprimanded in front of so many young ladies. It was clear that many had overheard their exchange.

Bai Lang made no attempt to soften her voice. Sou Tan Mei left Bai Lang's side and marched over to her grandmother to voice her complaints.

From a distance, Bai Lang could see Sou Tan Mei complaining. The once-smiling face of Sou Madam turned gloomy. She shot an angry glance at Bai Lang. Bai Lang noticed that Sou Madam then turned to Su Rou Xue and scolded her, who in turn looked at Bai Lang. Bai Lang sneered and ignored Sou Madam's hostility.

She knew that her concubine mother was not one to be trifled with, regardless of what Madam Sou said. Upset, Sou Rou Xue pointed at Sou Tan Mei, and whatever Bai Lang's mother said brought the girl to tears.

Bai Lang watched as her mother stormed off in a huff, paying no attention to her Waizumu gently calling her back.

La-shi should have known that her sister-in-law was not one to tolerate grievances from others. Out of anger, she had accused Bai Lang of being ill-mannered. Sou Rou Xue reminded her that it was not her place to criticize a young lady from a marquise house, she told Lo-shi to consider the status of her own daughter, and the status of Bai Lang.

She even went so far as to claim that without her, they wouldn't even have any standing in the capital.

Lo-shi knew better than to offend this spoiled Buddha Sou rouXue, so she swallowed her pride and pinched her daughter.

"You're too impulsive. Go and apologize to your Biaomei."

But stubborn Sou Tan Mei refused, and tears streamed down her face. She had no intention of lowering her head to Bai Lang, as that damn girl had been mocking her.

Qu Rou Li, who had been in close proximity to the young girl, happened to overhear the conversation and praised Bai Lang. It was indeed a commendable response, as any discrepancy in Bai Lang's words could have sparked rumors and tensions between the Princes and the Bai family.

Approaching Bai Lang, Qu Rou Li gently laid a hand on her shoulder and spoke to her. "Xiao Lang, you spoke wisely to that girl. As a young woman, it is crucial to maintain your poise and elegance at all times. Never involve yourself with men who are not your brothers or father."

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