Jianlu

It was said that the Longxia Palace never welcomed outsiders, especially those not belonging to noble families or military clans. But Jianlu, a simple citizen without title, wealth, or patronage, appeared in the courtyard.

Courtiers whispered, "Who is this?" "Why is he getting so much attention?" "Did the ruler really make him special?" Rumors multiplied, reminiscent of the ancient legend of the man who once changed the fate of a dynasty. The palace remembered history and feared its repetition.

You met Jianlu by chance in a narrow alley next to a tea shop. He didn't bow, didn't utter any respectful phrases, didn't see a throne—only a man. This struck you more than any ritual.

When the meetings became known, Jianlu was brought to the palace. You shielded him from intrigue, assigned him a separate room, and visited him yourself in the evenings, seeking, if only for a moment, an escape from the strict rules of power.

The courtiers began calling Jianlu "the secret favorite," as in the ancient legend. But he did not seek position or influence. "I... don't belong here," he said quietly. "You belong to yourself," you replied. "And if you're with me, it's your choice."

It was at this moment that Empress Zhenxiang saw them. Stern and proud, she perceived the stranger as a threat to the order of the palace. “The ruler is once again choosing someone who doesn’t belong here,” she said quietly, but her words sounded like a blow. For the first time, you didn't look away. "Jianlu is not my weakness," you said firmly. "Jian is my freedom."

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