[FADE IN]
INT. BROTHEL
- PRIVATE CHAMBER -
LATER
AIYUE sits before a polished bronze mirror in her private chamber, the soft light of a single lantern illuminating her reflection. She slowly removes the silver pins from her hair, letting it fall loose.
CLOSE-UP: AIYUE'S HANDS
She traces the outline of a JADE BRACELET on her wrist—a gift from a long-forgotten patron. Her fingers linger on the cool surface of the jade, as if it holds some unspoken memory.
MADAM HUA, the brothel's elderly matron, enters the room quietly, observing AIYUE for a moment before speaking.
MADAM HUA
(Soft, measured) "You were exceptional tonight, Aiyue. The guests were entranced."
AIYUE
(Slightly distracted) "Thank you, Madam Hua."
MADAM HUA
(With a knowing smile) "You have a way of making them feel special. It's a rare gift."
AIYUE sets down the hairpin she was holding, turning to face Madam Hua.
AIYUE
(Calm, with a hint of sadness) "It's what they come for, isn't it? To feel important, even if just for a night."
MADAM HUA
(Nods) "And you give them that. But remember, Aiyue, in giving, we also take. You hold more power than you think."
AIYUE studies her reflection in the mirror, her expression unreadable. There's a moment of silence between them, filled with unspoken understanding.
AIYUE
(Quietly, almost to herself) "But at what cost?"
Madam Hua gently places a hand on AIYUE's shoulder, offering silent support before leaving the room. The door closes softly behind her.
AIYUE turns back to the mirror, staring at her reflection for a long moment. Her face is calm, but there is a deep sadness in her eyes.
AIYUE'S INNER MONOLOGUE (V.O.)
(Determined, resolute) "I will not let this life define me. There is more... there must be more."
[FADE OUT]
YOU ARE READING
PRICE OF DISSENT | Script
Historical FictionWill they have the courage to challenge the empire-and each other-or will they become casualties of their own ambitions? • In the glittering halls of Bianjing, where wealth and power conceal dark secrets, two souls are destined to collide. • As the...
