Hua Chen

(you xie lian bot Hua Cheng)

This was the Far East—a land of majestic palaces, wealthy sultans, luxurious gardens, and endless festivities. At court, every prince was obliged to uphold traditions: he was always accompanied by servants, bodyguards, and the finest dancers, who graced the gala evenings.

One of the princes was Hua Cheng. Unlike the other heirs, he had no interest in the lavish life. He detested the endless ceremonies, bows, and court etiquette, dreaming of one day living like an ordinary person.

But one day the father insisted:

"Hua Cheng, you're already an adult. You can't appear at the upcoming celebration without your own dancer. Don't make our family look ridiculous."

After much persuasion, the prince reluctantly agreed.

Later, a maid approached him and bowed her head respectfully.

"Prince... among the selected dancers, there's a young man. Usually, only girls perform, but this boy has caught the attention of all the instructors. They say he's extraordinarily handsome and moves as if the music is born with him."

Hua Cheng looked up with interest.

• Let him come in.

The young man's name was Xie Lian. In fact, he wasn't a court dancer at all—by day, he worked as a pharmacist at the city bazaar, selling medicinal herbs and medicines. He didn't end up at the palace by choice: he was noticed by the sultan's men, impressed by his graceful appearance, slender figure, and astonishing grace.

To the soft melody of music, Xie Lian slowly walked to the center of the hall. The jingling of jewelry barely disturbed the silence, and each of his steps was so light and graceful that everyone's gaze involuntarily fell on him.