I was left alone

Shared Secrets

Later that week, Shenmiao found Prince Yu in the palace’s courtyard, sitting at a stone table as he played Go against himself, his brows furrowed in concentration. The game was intricate, each stone placed with precision, yet he seemed to struggle with his next move, his frustration evident.

“Little Uncle,” she called gently, stepping closer. “May I join you?”

He looked up, momentarily surprised, but then nodded. “I could use a fresh perspective.”

As she approached, Shenmiao could see the board clearly—the imbalance in positions was apparent. “You have an opening here,” she pointed out, moving a stone with deft fingers. “If you place this here, you can counter his strategy and gain the upper hand.”

Prince Yu’s eyes narrowed, a flicker of admiration sparking in his gaze as he considered her move. “You have a keen eye for strategy,” he remarked, clearly impressed. He placed her suggestion on the board, watching as the tide of the game shifted in his favor.

“Perhaps this is how I can help,” she said lightly, a smile touching her lips. “We can strategize together—whether it be in games or in court.”

He regarded her thoughtfully, the tension in his shoulders easing. “Perhaps you are right. We may be more effective together.” There was a warmth in his voice, and she could sense the connection deepening.

---

### The Fragrance Pouch

That evening, Shenmiao set to work sewing a small pouch, her fingers deftly weaving silk and thread together with care. She infused it with a fragrance that mirrored her own—sweet and subtle, a reminder of her presence. She wanted to offer Prince Yu something personal, a token of their growing bond.

The next day, she sought him out in his chambers, finding him poring over scrolls and documents. When she approached, he looked up, surprise illuminating his features.

“Little Uncle,” she said softly, holding out the pouch. “I made this for you. It’s a fragrance pouch, a little reminder that you’re not alone.”

He took it in his hands, his expression shifting from surprise to appreciation. “You made this for me?” he asked, his voice laced with incredulity. “Why would you go to such lengths?”

“Because I care,” Shenmiao replied, her gaze steady and sincere. “We may be navigating treacherous waters, but I want you to know that I am on your side. You’ve shown me kindness, and I wish to do the same.”

Prince Yu’s fingers brushed the silk pouch, and for a moment, a flicker of vulnerability crossed his face. “Thank you, Shenmiao. It means more than you know.” He took a deep breath, inhaling the scent of her fragrance, and a smile broke through his usually stoic demeanor. “It reminds me that I’m not fighting alone.”

As they shared a quiet moment, a bond forged through shared secrets and mutual respect began to solidify between them. Shenmiao felt a surge of hope; perhaps their alliance could transcend the confines of the palace, becoming a formidable partnership.