The Villains Must Win-Chapter 41: Han Feng

"Bring her in!"

At Han Feng’s command, the doors of the court hall opened, and a woman entered.

She was nothing short of breathtaking—her beauty so otherworldly that it seemed to halt the very air in the room. Her features were delicate yet commanding, the softness of her face paired with an undeniable strength in her eyes. Her long, ebony hair flowed like a dark river, cascading down her back in a silken wave. Her skin was as pale as porcelain, her lips painted in the lightest shade of red, as if kissed by the dawn itself.

Every movement she made was graceful, as though she were gliding rather than walking. The court officials collectively held their breath, awestruck by her presence. It was said that a woman like this could launch a thousand ships, and now, in the Emperor’s court, she stood before them—a living embodiment of beauty and grace.

Rui Hua’s gaze was calm, yet intense, as she met Han Feng’s eyes. There was a brief flicker of recognition, though her expression remained composed, like still waters that concealed an undercurrent.

She had always been a woman of poise, accustomed to the many eyes that followed her in the country of Liang, but now, under Han Feng’s piercing gaze, she suddenly felt a strange unease, a discomfort she had never known. It was not fear, but something unsettlingly unfamiliar—a tension in the air that she could not quite explain.

Yet, as her eyes locked with his, she felt something stir within her—a strange attraction. This was the first time in her life that a man had looked at her not with admiration or desire, but with such cold, dispassionate eyes.

His gaze did not waver as it swept over her, his expression neutral, as if she were merely another figure to be observed. And for some reason, this distance, this complete lack of interest, piqued her curiosity.

She had been in the presence of many powerful men, but Han Feng was different. His reputation as the ruthless Emperor of Han preceded him, yet there was something about him that intrigued her deeply. The intensity of his demeanor, the way he commanded respect without uttering a word, stirred a new feeling within her—a fascination that, for the first time, made her wonder if there was more to this man than the rumors painted.

As the room stared, transfixed by her beauty, Xue Li too found herself captivated by Rui Hua’s allure. The woman was undeniably beautiful—her features delicate yet regal, her presence commanding the attention of all those around her.

It was no wonder she’s the female lead. But as Xue Li glanced over at Han Feng, she noted that his expression remained unmoved, as if Rui Hua’s beauty held no sway over him.

A small part of Xue Li found comfort in that, yet another part of her was troubled. Was it possible that she couldn’t do anything with the ending of this story now that Rui Hua was here?

Han Feng broke the silence with a bored tone, "You will remain in the safety of the palace while we arrange for your return to Liang," he declared, his words simple and firm.

His intention was clear: Rui Hua would be protected from the court officials and nobles who might seek to use her for leverage, yet there was no hint of warmth or compassion in his statement. It was purely a political move—a way to maintain control over the situation.

Rui Hua bowed her head in acknowledgment. "This Princess thanks the emperor for his kindness." Her voice, though soft, held an undertone of steel, a reflection of the strength that lay beneath her graceful exterior.

At that moment, Duke Li Jin, ever the opportunist, interjected with a suggestion. "Your Majesty, if I may speak?"

Han Feng nodded curtly. "What is it?"

The Duke stepped forward, his voice dripping with sincerity. "A storm is fast approaching, and winter is still harsh. May I suggest that Princess Rui Hua remain in the palace until the weather clears? It would be a tragedy if something were to happen to her during such dangerous travel."

Xue Li’s eyes narrowed as she listened. She knew the Duke’s true intentions. He was stalling, biding time to find a way to convince Han Feng to claim the fertile lands of Liang.

Yet, there was some truth in his words. The weather was indeed growing colder, and the coming storm would make any journey treacherous.

Han Feng remained silent for a moment, contemplating the proposal. Xue Li could feel the weight of his decision hanging in the air, and she understood the careful balance at play.

Han Feng was a ruler, but he was also a man who valued his position above all else, and he would not let any threat to his empire go unchecked, even if it came in the guise of a woman in need.

Finally, Han Feng spoke. "Very well," he said, his voice cold and final. "As soon as the weather clears, this woman will be returned to her kingdom. Xin Yu, see to her lodging in the palace. Ensure she remains here safely and does not wander around where she doesn’t belong."

Xin Yu bowed respectfully in acknowledgment. "Yes, Your Majesty."

With a final glance at Rui Hua, Han Feng stood from his seat, signaling the end of the matter. The nobles and ministers, though still uneasy, fell silent, their eyes a mixture of discontent and begrudging respect.

Han Feng had made his decision, and there was no room for debate anymore. But they could still change his mind from the remaining days to come.

Rui Hua, still bowing, couldn’t help but feel a pang of irritation. When Han Feng referred to her as "this woman," his tone was dismissive, as though even the mention of her name would soil his reputation.

She understood that she was from an enemy kingdom, but as a princess and the Duke’s daughter, she was accustomed to respect, to being seen as someone of importance. Yet, in the Emperor’s eyes, she was nothing but a burden that he couldn’t wait to discard.