For a Dream of Splendor

The Serpent's Smile

Gu Qianfan marched from the chamber, his black robes billowing behind him. As he approached, a set of heavy, metal-studded doors swung open, allowing a stream of soft, crisp light to penetrate the dark, maze-like structure. The numbing wind that accompanied sunrise in the Eastern Capital nipped at his heels as he strode through the open courtyard. A few diligent officers, eager to begin the day's work, had already arrived. As Gu Qianfan passed, they sank into respectful bows. He nodded in acknowledgment and continued his brisk pace.

Crossing into another building filled with decades-old scrolls upon carved wooden shelves and hanging lanterns, he spotted, from the corner of his eye, a green-robed official seated on a high-backed chair. Gu Qianfan quickened his pace. The official, a wrinkled old man with sharp, snake-like eyes, beamed upon noticing Gu Qianfan.

"Xiao Gu!" He gestured, beckoning Gu Qianfan with a raised finger. "Xiao Gu!"

Gu Qianfan stopped reluctantly, clasping his scarred hands before him and bowing slightly. "Commissioner Lei Jing," he greeted unenthusiastically. The Commissioner coaxed him into the seat opposite.

"You truly deserve your renown, Xiao Gu. You managed to scare the convict unconscious," Lei Jing praised with a small leer.

"You are too kind, Commissioner," Gu Qianfan replied.

"There's no need to be modest," the Commissioner smiled. "His accomplice confessed many secrets last night. With your abilities, I am confident you will resolve this... issue."

"I was about to leave for Jiangnan, sir," Gu Qianfan responded shortly, turning to leave.

"Qianfan, come." Lei Jing waved him closer. Gu Qianfan grudgingly halted his steps.

"You are the one I trust most. Her Imperial Majesty is a motherly symbol for the nation and has stood by His Imperial Majesty for many long decades. She is and must remain, undoubtedly virtuous. However, Qingliu Party officials have always viewed her as a thorn in their side." Lei Jing hesitated, noticing the entrance of a grim-faced officer. He quickly pulled Gu Qianfan behind a painted screen.

Gu Qianfan brushed Lei Jing's hand from his shoulder. "Shall I retrieve the painting or destroy it, sir?" he asked, tilting his head.

"Bring it back," the Commissioner ordered. "But ensure it remains a secret to respect Her Majesty's privacy. The fewer who know, the better. As for the officials... keep their mouths shut."

"Yes, sir," Qianfan replied, turning to leave.

"Investigate this matter carefully. Remember, we follow only His Majesty's orders, so our power is near limitless. If anyone refuses to cooperate... show them how you earned your title. If you solve this case successfully, I can assure you an illustrious future." Lei Jing promised, offering Qianfan a wry smile.

"I shall finish my preparations and depart immediately." Gu Qianfan swept away, ignoring the Commissioner's outstretched hand.

As Qianfan's frame quickly disappeared into a dimly lit hallway, Lei Jing's smile slid off his face. His eyes narrowed, and his jaw tightened. Bringing a wrinkled, liver-spotted hand to his chin, he took on a calculating look as he coldly eyed the chair Gu Qianfan had previously occupied.