~ 𝑪𝑶𝑴𝑰𝑵𝑮 𝑺𝑶𝑶𝑵 - In the heart of an ancient Chinese dynasty, a young emperor reigns with wisdom beyond his years but carries a heart heavy with unresolved grief. Years ago, he lost his beloved under mysterious circumstances, a loss that has...
The palace's atmosphere was tense, a palpable undercurrent of anxiety flowing through its opulent hallways. The recent attempts on the Emperor's father, coupled with the impending trial, had shaken everyone, casting a shadow over what should have been a straightforward path to justice for Mei and her unborn child. The betrayal by Xianzong's mother had left deep scars, and although she had come to realize the gravity of her actions, her regret was a small consolation against the backdrop of her grave offenses.
As I walked through the corridors, the weight of the documents in my hand felt heavier than usual. These papers held information crucial to fortifying the palace's defenses, a task Xianzong had taken upon himself with an almost fervent dedication. His resolve to protect his father and ensure the safety of all during the upcoming trial was commendable, but the strain it placed on him was evident.
I reached the office door where Xianzong and his father were deep in discussion. Pausing for a moment, I took a deep breath, smoothing out my royal garment. The fabric felt familiar and comforting against my skin, a stark reminder of the harrowing night when it was almost ruined by pig's blood in an act of senseless hostility. The memory of how meticulously Xianzong had worked to restore it warmed my heart—it was more than just a garment to him; it was a symbol of resilience, a defiance of those who wished harm upon us.
With a gentle knock, I announced my presence, waiting for a brief moment before hearing Xianzong's voice inviting me in. As I stepped into the room, the weight of leadership was visibly bearing down on both men. They looked up, their expressions shifting from concentration to mild relief upon seeing me.
"I have the latest updates from the council," I announced, extending the documents towards them. "More measures are being recommended to enhance security during the trial."
Xianzong nodded, his gaze scanning the papers quickly as his father watched, his face lined with the fatigue of recent events. "Thank you, Lian," Xianzong said, his voice carrying a mixture of gratitude and weariness. "Your diligence is invaluable to us, especially now."
His father added, "Indeed, we are grateful. These are trying times, but with steadfast support, we will see them through."
The room filled with a somber air as they discussed the contents of the documents. I stood by, ready to assist further if needed, but also simply to provide a presence of solidarity. Xianzong occasionally glanced my way, his eyes conveying a silent thanks that went beyond words.
