[FADE IN]
EXT. BIANJING STREETS - DAY
The streets of Bianjing are bustling with activity, but there is an underlying tension in the air. Merchants shout their wares, and the clatter of cartwheels on cobblestones fills the space between buildings. Yet, beneath the surface, there is an unmistakable sense of unrest.
COMMONERS move through the streets, their faces marked with concern and weariness. Conversations are hushed, and groups of people gather in small clusters, speaking in low tones about the state of the empire. The tension is palpable, a reflection of the growing dissatisfaction with the government.
WIDE SHOT: THE MARKETPLACE
In the marketplace, vendors offer their goods, but there are fewer buyers than usual.
A FISHMONGER stands behind his stall, his eyes darting nervously from side to side as he watches the interactions around him.
A WOMAN approaches, haggling over the price of fish, but their conversation quickly shifts to more pressing matters.
WOMAN
(In a low voice) "Have you heard? They say the government is raising taxes again. How much more can we bear?"
FISHMONGER
(Grimly) "I've heard. And the officials do nothing to help us—only to line their own pockets. It's no wonder the people are growing restless."
The woman nods, her expression darkening. She takes her purchase and moves on, disappearing into the crowd. The fishmonger watches her go, his face a mask of worry. Around him, other vendors and buyers exchange similar words, the frustration with the government becoming more evident with each passing moment.
ANGLE ON: A GROUP OF SOLDIERS
A group of SOLDIERS patrols the streets, their presence a constant reminder of the government's authority. The people give them a wide berth, their expressions guarded. The soldiers march with an air of superiority, their eyes scanning the crowd for any sign of dissent.
SOLDIER HAN
(To another soldier, with disdain) "These people should be grateful for the protection we provide. Instead, all we hear are complaints."
SOLDIER XIAO
(Shrugs) "They don't understand the burdens we carry. Let them grumble—so long as they don't act on it."
The soldiers continue their patrol, their armored boots clanking on the stones, a harsh contrast to the murmurs of discontent from the commoners. The divide between the government and the people is stark, the tension simmering just below the surface.
[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...
