The Legend of Ailin
|•Chapter One•|
The streets of the Qing capital are filled with jubilant crowds celebrating the return of their victorious warriors.
Banners carrying the Azure dragon and the red flaming pearl flutter in the wind, and the air is thick with the sounds of drums and cheers.
The general, Gu Wei, a revered figure, rides at the front of the procession on a majestic horse, his armor gleaming in the sunlight.
Amidst the celebration, a group of war prisoners is paraded through the streets, their heads bowed in shame as the crowd hurls insults and food waste at them.
When war happens, everyone suffers, but the winner takes all. This parade is a display of power and victory. It is a way to assert dominance and send a clear message to any remaining enemies.
Citizens use this act as a cathartic release of their pent-up frustrations but also expose the darker side of human nature.
The men, the women, the elderly and the children who were caught in the chaos of the war are forced to walk beside their soldiers
A stark reminder of their defeat
Zexi’s eyes flutter open, her head pounding with a dull ache. The first thing she notices is the rough texture of the ground beneath her and the heavy chains around her wrists and ankles.
She tries to move, but the weight of the chains pulls her back. That's when her panic sets in as she realizes the unfamiliar surroundings.
Ailin Qorin
(“What the hell...")
Ailin Qorin
("What is this?")
Ailin Qorin
("Where am I?")
Ailin Qorin
("Wasn't I...")
Ailin Qorin
("Wasn't I on a mission, infiltrating C16 for GID? Everything was going according to plan until… until that explosion")
Ailin Qorin
("Did I die? Is this some kind of afterlife?”)
She looks around, her eyes widening in shock as she takes in the ancient surroundings. The bustling streets, the traditional clothing, the smell of incense mixed with the stench of waste being thrown at her and the other prisoners.
Ailin Qorin
("This is definitely not the 21st century!")
Ailin Qorin
("This looks like… ancient China? But how? Why? And why am I in chains?")
As the prisoners are marched through the streets, Zexi suddenly stops walking, her mind racing with questions and fear. She stands still, looking around in bewilderment, trying to make sense of her new reality.
The crowd’s cheers and jeers grow louder as the victorious warriors parade through the streets.
The guards notice her hesitation and immediately react.
Guard 1
"Hey, keep moving!” (He shouts, prodding her with the blunt end of his spear)
Zexi stumbles forward but then stops again, her mind still reeling. The guard’s patience wears thin.
Rigt then, a sharp, searing pain slashes across her back as the guard's whip cracks against her skin. Zexi gasps, the pain jolting her back to reality.
She stumbles forward, and only then does she feel the aching in her feet, Her soar and parched throat, and the rapid heartbeat pounding in her chest.
Guard 2
"What’s wrong with this one? Move it, or you’ll regret it!”
As she struggles to keep moving, a splash of dirty water hits her face, thrown by someone in the crowd. The water stings her eyes and adds to her disorientation. She blinks rapidly, trying to clear her vision.
Ailin Qorin
("This can’t be real")
She grits her teeth, forcing herself to keep walking, each step a reminder of her situation
Upon arriving at the execution ground, the guards immediately forced the prisoners to go on their knees.
The sun blazed, casting harsh shadows on the kneeling prisoners. The air was thick with tension, and the murmurs of the gathered crowd
Jing Jiuchu
“People of the Qing Empire, we gather here today to witness the execution of those who have wronged our great nation. Let us pray for their souls, that they may find peace in the afterlife, despite their transgressions.”
The chief minister of justice said those words, as if encouraging the prisoners to accept their fate with grace
The executioner, a hulking figure with a blood-stained blade, moved methodically from one prisoner to the next, ending lives with a swift, merciless stroke.
From a terrace above, the 3rd prince and the 2nd princess watched the grim proceedings.
The 2nd princess, with a smirk playing on her lips, scanned the line of prisoners until her gaze fell upon a young woman with disheveled hair and a dirt-smudged face.
2nd Princess Xiyue
“Is that…?” (she began, her voice loud dripping with mockery) “The famed Princess Ailin of Qiyun?"
2nd Princess Xiyue
" The one they say is as beautiful as a moonlit night and as valiant as a warrior?”
The 3rd prince glanced at her, his expression unreadable. The 2nd princess continued, her voice rising to ensure the crowd below could hear her.
2nd Princess Xiyue
“Look at her now! There’s nothing beautiful about that face. The rumors must be lies, spread by those who have never seen her.”
The crowd’s attention shifted to Zexi, who was still trying to make sense of her surroundings. The whispers grew louder, turning into shouts of anger and disdain.
“Execute her now!" someone yelled
"She deserves no mercy!" another added
Zexi was roughly dragged to the chopping board, her heart pounding in her chest. As she was forced to kneel, she realized with a jolt that she was the princess they were talking about. Her mind raced, trying to find a way out of this nightmare.
Ailin Qorin
“Seriously? This is how I go out?" (She muttered under her breath)
Ailin Qorin
"Not exactly the glamorous end I had in mind.”
The executioner raised his blade, and Zexi braced herself for the inevitable.
The blade began its descent
But right at that time, a commanding voice rang out.
Eldest Princess Renshu
"STOP!"
The eldest princess, regal and composed, stepped forward. Her presence commanded immediate respect and silence from the crowd.
Eldest Princess Renshu
"This execution is over,” (she declared, her voice firm) “This prisoner is to be taken into custody for further questioning.”
The executioner hesitated, then lowered his blade. Zexi was pulled to her feet, her legs shaky with relief and fear. She looked up at the eldest princess, who didn't even spare her a glance.
Ailin Qorin
“Thank you,” (Zexi said, her voice barely above a whisper) “I owe you one.”
The eldest princess' expression was unreadable.
Eldest Princess Renshu
“You may not feel that way for long,” (she replied cryptically)
Eldest Princess Renshu
“Take her away.”
Eunuch Gong
"HIS MAJESTY ENTERS THE COURT!"
Tye officials kneeled and said in unison, "LONG LIVE THE EMPEROR!"
Emperor
"The Crown Prince and 2nd Prince are also here?" (flabbergasted)
They both bowed and offered their greetings
Crown Prince
"Your Majesty, Ma Guangling has been enjoying funds from illegal trade. He was working with some merchants and has been selling banned products."
Emperor
"Oh really...does the ministry of justice know anything about this?"
Jing Jiuchu
"Replying to you, Your Majesty, indeed we received a tip saying that the chancellor has been involved with such."
Jing Jiuchu
"He bribed some merchants and has been selling opium through personal pharmacies."
Emperor
"The state chancellor is my first royal advisor. Do you have the evidence?"
Jing Jiuchu
"Your Majesty, the Ministry is willing to investigate further."
State Advisor
"Your Majesty, men of all statuses are bound by the law, governed by it and protected by it."
Official 1
"State advisor, you mean..."
State Advisor
"Ma Guangling knows no boundary. He should be judged by the law of the evidence fits."
Officials look at each other and give random whispered comments
2nd Prince Liuxian
"Your Majesty, I have someone I would like for you to meet."
Emperor
"Oh, who is that?"
The prince nods to his right hand, and he walks in, dragging a man who was handcuffed and looked like he hadn't eaten for days with chirped lips and pale skin
2nd Prince Liuxian
"This is Ma Guangling's butler. He handled all the accounts and was in charge of the illegal stations owned by Ma Guangling."
2nd Prince Liuxian
"He has also handled over the agreement pact, which has the seal stamps from the other officials involved."
The once composed court officials began to show signs of unease as low murmurs rippled through the room. Others trying to avoid casting glances to keep themselves calm
Emperor
(Cutting them off, his tone icy) "Silence. I have watched as you prioritize your own wealth and power over the well-being of the empire. You forgot your duties, your oath to serve the people and the throne. Instead, you plot and connive, seeking to enrich yourselves."
Emperor
"Get the royal guards and arrest everyone on that paper! I don't need useless officials."
Crown Prince
"Younger brother, don't worry, I will do what Father requests. You can have some time to rest, your health is more important." (Snatches the pact)
2nd Prince Liuxian
"Then thank you, brother. I will have to trouble you." (bows)
Ju Chen
"Your Highness, what does the Crown Prince mean by doing this? He could have just looked for the evidence by himself"
Ju Chen
"He is going after your things..."
2nd Prince Liuxian
"Enough, remember which identity you are talking about."
2nd Prince Liuxian
"It does not really matter who does it."
He was about to continue but got interrupted...
Crown Prince
(Walking over) "young brother, how did you manage to catch the butler?"
Crown Prince
"Thay was impressive!" (pats his shoulder)
2nd Prince Liuxian
"You flatter me your royal highness, it is my duty"
Crown Prince
(Smiles) "Take it easy. it's just us no need for formalities."
Crown Prince
"I will take my leave first."
2nd Prince Liuxian
"Yes, your royal highness." (Bows and stares deeply at the Crown Prince's back as he leaves)
The jail cell was a dark, damp, and cramped space with rough stone walls that seemed to close in on the prisoners. The only light came from a small, barred window high above, casting eerie shadows on the cold, dirt-covered floor.
The air was thick with the smell of mold and despair, and the occasional sound of dripping water echoed through the corridors.
Zexi sat on the hard ground, her back against the wall, still trying to make sense of her situation.
How had she ended up in this ancient world, in the body of a princess, no less? She closed her eyes, taking deep breaths to calm herself.
Her stomach growled loudly, breaking the silence
Ailin Qorin
("Great, just great...I'm so hungry")
Ailin Qorin
("Do they give convict food here?")
Ailin Qorin
(internal cry)
Ailin Qorin
("I could have been enjoying hotdogs with a frsh cola or even all the delicious gourmet dishes")
Her stomach growled again, louder this time
Ailin Qorin
"Oh, come on,” (she groaned)
Ailin Qorin
"I would kill for a hotdog right now"
Ailin Qorin
"Or a slice of pizza. Heck, I’d even settle for a soggy sandwich from that sketchy deli down the street.”
She glanced down at the heavy chains binding her wrists and ankles. The metal was cold and unforgiving, and each clink seemed to be adding to her hunger.
As she shifted uncomfortably, her eyes caught sight of a small, sharp piece of metal on the ground
Ailin Qorin
"Well, hello there,” (she whispered to the piece of metal) “You might just be my ticket out of these chains.”
With practiced ease, she began to work on the locks
Ailin Qorin
("As if being hungry wasn’t bad enough, now I have to deal with these handcuffs. Seriously, who designed these things? They clearly never had to deal with a hangry woman.”)
Within moments, the chains fell away with a soft clink. She rubbed her wrists, relieved to be free of the restraints.
Ailin Qorin
("That's much better")
The other prisoners in the cell watched her with a mixture of awe and suspicion, but she ignored them.
Ailin Qorin
(leans back against the wall)
Ailin Qorin
("The last rule of a GID agent is survival, I will make it my first then")
The 2nd prince lounged in a private room, a cup of wine in his hand.
He was relaxed, his usual mask of politeness replaced by a rare, genuine smile. Across from him sat Qingru, the owner of the brothel.
2nd Prince Liuxian
“Qingru, you always know how to make a man feel at ease,” (the prince said, taking a sip of his wine) “Any interesting news from the city?”
Qingru
(Qingru leaned forward, her eyes sparkling with mischief) “Oh, you know me, Your Highness. I hear things"
Qingru
"For instance, there’s a rumor about a hidden treasure. They say it’s an ancient artifact that can make you rich. You can live out the rest of your life in splendor."
The prince raised an eyebrow
Qingru
"And they say this ancient artifact is hidden deep, somewhere in the palace."
2nd Prince Liuxian
"Oh, then congratulations, you are going to be rich."
2nd Prince Liuxian
"Do you need a special team to help you raid the palace?"
Qingru
(Qingru gave a slight chuckle, pouring him another cup of wine) “But let’s not dwell on such secretive topics."
Qingru
"I have something special for you to try. A new wine I’ve been experimenting with. Tell me what you think.”
She handed him the cup, and the prince took a sip, savoring the rich, complex flavors
2nd Prince Liuxian
"This is excellent, Qingru. You never cease to amaze me.”
Before Qingru could respond, the door to the room opened, and the prince’s right-hand man, stepped inside. He bowed deeply before speaking.
Ju Chen
"Your Highness, something has happened at the palace."
2nd Prince Liuxian
"What is it?"
Ju Chen
"The state chancellor, he..."
2nd Prince Liuxian
“Qingru, thank you for your hospitality,” (he said, rising to his feet)
Qingru
“Of course, Your Highness. Be careful."
2nd Prince Liuxian
"To the palace, now."
●Watch out for the next chapter●
|•Chapter Two•|
The 2nd Prince strode through the dimly lit corridors of the prison
As he passed by the cells, his eyes briefly met those of a young woman—Ailin. Their gazes locked for a moment, but neither recognized the other, and the Prince continued on his way.
He arrived at the Chancellor’s cell, where the Minister of Justice and the Crown Prince were already present.
The cell was small and austere, with stone walls and a single barred window that let in a sliver of light.
The Chancellor’s body lay on the floor, looking eerily peaceful, as if he had simply fallen asleep.
Jing Jiuchu
(The Minister of Justice looked up as the 2nd Prince entered) “Your Highness,” (he said, bowing) “We have determined that the Chancellor was killed through poisoning, but we are yet to find how he got poisoned."
Crown Prince
"Indeed. His food was always tested and found to be clean. Yet, he was poisoned.”
Crown Prince
"People are getting bold"
A meticulous man with a keen eye for detail stepped forward
The Coroner
"Your Highnesses" (bows) "From the results of my autopsy, he died from poisoning"
The Coroner
“I believe the poison was not ingested through his food. Instead, it appears he breathed in a substance that, when combined with an ingredient in his food, created a lethal toxin.”
2nd Prince Liuxian
“What ingredient was in his food, and what substance did he breathe in? How does the combination create poison?”
The Coroner
(Clearing his throat) “The ingredient in his food was a common herb known as Nightshade Blossom. On its own, it is harmless and even used in small amounts for medicinal purposes. However, when combined with a specific gas, it becomes highly toxic.”
2nd Prince Liuxian
“What gas are we talking about?”
The Coroner
(The coroner pointed to a small, inconspicuous vent near the ceiling) “It should be the Xuan Grass. It is often used in incense because of its pleasant smell. However, when its smoke is inhaled and combined with Nightshade Blossom, it creates a deadly poison.”
Crown Prince
“The chancellor must have breathed in the Xuan Grass smoke while eating, unknowingly sealing his fate. The smoke would have been introduced through this vent.”
Liang
"Yes, Your Highness"
Crown Prince
“Find out who had access to this cell and the means to introduce such a substance.”
Liang
"Yes." (he goes away as the 2nd Prince glanced at the Crown Prince)
2nd Prince Liuxian
(Stepping closer to his brother lowering his voice) “Brother, do you think this could be the work of someone within our own ranks? Someone with a personal vendetta?”
Crown Prince
(The Crown Prince met his gaze, his eyes cold and calculating) “It’s possible. We must be vigilant. Trust no one.”
2nd Prince Liuxian
"Agreed" (Nodding) "I will take my leave first, Your Highness please excuse me" (bows)
Crown Prince just gives a short nod
The eldest princess sat gracefully, her eyes scanning a scroll with a look of intense concentration.
The 2nd princess stormed into the pavilion, her face flushed with anger
2nd Princess Xiyue
“Sister!” (she called out, her voice sharp) “Why did you save that ugly Qiyun princess from execution earlier?”
The eldest princess didn’t look up immediately. She continued reading for a moment before finally raising her eyes to her younger sister.
Eldest Princess Renshu
"What are you rushing out and shouting for?"
Eldest Princess Renshu
"That’s not how a princess should behave.”
2nd Princess Xiyue
(The 2nd princess huffed, crossing her arms) “I want to know why you saved her. She’s from Qiyun! They’re our enemies, and she’s nothing but a prisoner slave now. Why should we show her any mercy?”
The eldest princess sighed, setting aside her scroll.
Eldest Princess Renshu
“There are things you need to understand.”
Reluctantly, the 2nd princess sat down, still fuming.
Eldest Princess Renshu
“Saving the Qiyun Princess was not an act of mercy, but a strategic decision. Executing her would have been simply a waste of a potential asset.”
2nd Princess Xiyue
(Eyes narrowed) “An asset? How?”
Eldest Princess Renshu
(Leans back) “Diplomacy, Sister. It’s all about power and influence, not just punishment.”
2nd Princess Xiyue
(Frowns, clearly struggling to grasp the concept) “But what if she betrays us?”
Eldest Princess Renshu
(Smiles faintly) “She won’t."
2nd Princess Xiyue
(Huffs, still unsatisfied) “You always have a plan, don’t you? But sometimes, I think you’re just too cold.”
Eldest Princess Renshu
(Smile widening) “And sometimes, I think you’re too impulsive. We balance each other out, don’t we?”
2nd Princess Xiyue
(Eyeroll) “Maybe. But I still don’t like it. She should be made to suffer.”
Eldest Princess Renshu
“I understand your feelings, but we must rise above them. Our actions set an example for others. Remember that.”
2nd Princess Xiyue
(Shruggs) “Fine. But don’t expect me to be nice to her.”
Eldest Princess Renshu
“I wouldn’t dream of it. Just try to be strategic.”
The 2nd Princess then stormed off, the eldest princess watched her go, a thoughtful expression on her face
The Jing Mansion was abuzz with activity as preparations for the coming-of-age ceremony reached a fever pitch. Servants hurried about, ensuring that every detail was perfect for the grand event that would celebrate the noble women of the kingdom.
In the midst of this flurry of activity, a royal messenger arrived at the gates, bearing an important decree from the king.
The head steward, Mr. Chen, greeted the messenger and escorted him to the main hall, where the Minister of Justice, Lord Jing, and his family were gathered. The atmosphere was tense with anticipation as the messenger unfurled the scroll and began to read aloud.
Eunuch Gong
"By the decree of His Majesty, the King,” (the messenger intoned) “it is hereby announced that Lady Xiuying, daughter of the esteemed Minister of Justice, Lord Jing, is to be betrothed to His Highness, the 2nd Prince, Qing Liuxian”
Gasps of surprise and murmurs of excitement rippled through the room. Lady Xiuying, a graceful young woman with a serene demeanor, kneeled beside her father, her expression a mix of pride and apprehension. She had known this day would come, but the reality of it was still overwhelming.
Eunuch Gong
"Miss Xiuying, accept the decree"
Jing Xiuying
(Raises her hands) "Yes, thank you, Your Majesty"
Eunuch Gong
(Nods and hands the scroll to Xiuying.)
Jing Jiuchu
“We are honored by His Majesty’s decree,” (he said, bowing deeply) “Lady Xiuying will fulfill her duty with grace and loyalty.”
Eunuch Gong
“The coming-of-age ceremony will be a grand occasion, and the betrothals will be formally announced.”
As the messenger departed, the family gathered around Xiuying, offering their congratulations and words of encouragement. Her mother, Madam Jing, took her hands and smiled widely
Madam Jing
"Xing'er, my dear. You will make a wonderful princess. The 2nd Prince is fortunate to have you. This is a great honor for our family.”
Her mother, a proud woman who reveled in her family’s status, could hardly contain her excitement. She felt as if she had wings, soaring with pride at the thought of her daughter becoming a princess.
Xiuying nodded, her mind racing with thoughts of the future.
Jing Xiuying
“Thank you, Mother,” (she said softly) “I will do my best to honor our family and serve the kingdom."
Her younger brother, Jing Hao, a spirited boy of fourteen, couldn’t contain his excitement either
Jing Yuwei
“Sister, this is amazing! The 2nd Prince is a hero! He’s known for his bravery in battle and his combat skills. We’ll be in-laws with a legend!”
Madam Jing
(Beaming with pride) “Indeed, Hao. Our family is truly blessed. This alliance will elevate our status even further.”
Jing Yuwei
(Nodding eagerly) “And maybe the 2nd Prince can teach me some of his combat moves! I’ve always wanted to learn from the best.”
Lord Jing placed a reassuring hand on Xiuying’s shoulder, and she could only smile
The 2nd Princess is enjoying a walk when she spots her brother, the 3rd Prince, walking by.
2nd Princess Xiyue
(Calling out) "Brother! Where are you off to in such a hurry?"
3rd Prince Haoran
(Turns around and smiles) "Just taking a stroll, sister. Care to join me?"
2nd Princess Xiyue
“Where to? Are you going to see that Qiyun princess again? What for!”
3rd Prince Haoran
(Laughing) “Oh, just thought I’d visit our esteemed guest, Princess Ailin. Don’t you want to have some fun with her?”
2nd Princess Xiyue
(Rolling her eyes) “Fun? With that dull creature? But I suppose it could be amusing.”
They walk together to the prison, the 2nd princess chattering away, giving her opinions on everything, though none of it is particularly insightful.
They arrive at Ailin’s cell. The 3rd Prince opens the door, and they step inside. Ailin is sitting calmly, her eyes closed, seemingly indifferent to their presence.
3rd Prince Haoran
(With a mocking bow) “Ah, Princess Ailin, how are you enjoying our hospitality?”
Ailin Qorin
(Opens her eyes slowly)
Ailin Qorin
(Look at them, strutting in like they own the place. That 3rd Prince, always so eager to visit. Is he unemployed or just bored?)
2nd Princess Xiyue
(Giggling) “Look at her, brother. She looks so pathetic.”
Ailin Qorin
“It’s a five-star experience, truly. The ambiance is just perfect. But tell me something, are you unemployed? You seem to have a lot of free time to visit me.”
3rd Prince Haoran
(Laughing) “Sharp tongue. I just find your company… intriguing.”
2nd Princess Xiyue
(Sneering) “Look at her, acting all high and mighty. Why aren’t you chained up like the others?”
Ailin Qorin
(Calmly) “I removed them.”
The 2nd Princess, irritated by Ailin’s calm demeanor, grabs a cup of water and drips it over Ailin’s head.
Ailin Qorin
(Irritated) "What do you want?”
The 2nd princess, annoyed by Ailin’s nonchalance, drips more water on her. Ailin, now angry, pushes her hand away, causing the cup to fall and break.
At that same time, a piece of paper falls from Ailin's clothes, and the 3rd Prince picks it up.
3rd Prince Haoran
"What is this?"
3rd Prince Haoran
(Eyes widening) "Well, what do we have here? A map? How delightful."
Ailin Qorin
"A map?" (Confused) "What’s so exciting about that?"
3rd Prince Haoran
(Grinning) "This isn’t just any map. It’s something very important. I didn’t expect to find such a treasure so easily."
3rd Prince Haoran
"It's your Qiyun treasure map, and you don't know it?"
Ailin Qorin
(Look at him, eyes gleaming with greed. This map must be something significant. It's time to use this to my advantage.) (Snatches back the paper)
Ailin Qorin
"Oh, I had forgotten about it. But..."
Ailin Qorin
(Eyes narrowing) "But you seem interested, maybe we can make a deal.”
3rd Prince Haoran
"A deal? What do you propose?”
Ailin Qorin
(Smiling slyly) "Get me out of here and give me some money, and it’s yours."
3rd Prince Haoran
"Do you think you are in any position to negotiate with me?"
Ailin Qorin
"What do you think?" (Playing with the paper in her hand)
Ailin Qorin
(From the moment he showed his excitement after seeing this map, his greed was exposed. There is no way he is escaping, I just need to lead him to it)
3rd Prince Haoran
(Smugly) "This map is a powerful tool for your Empire and could lead to something invaluable. You should know this more than anyone."
3rd Prince Haoran
(Surprised) “You’d trade something this valuable for your freedom and some money."
Ailin Qorin
"You have no air conditioning, no actual toilets, and let's not talk about that watery rice porridge."
3rd Prince Haoran
"Air condii...what?" (Confused)
2nd Princess Xiyue
(Protesting) “Brother, you can’t trust her! She’s just trying to trick you.”
Ailin Qorin
(Shrugging) "If you dont want it, then forget it. I’m sure someone else will."
Ailin Qorin
(Leaning back, her voice edged with sarcasm) “So, do we have a deal, or should I start looking for other buyers?”
3rd Prince Haoran
"Alright, deal. But I want the whole map.”
Ailin Qorin
(Smiling slyly) “You’ll get it. But not all at once.”
Ailin Qorin
(I'm not stupid. Snakes are everywhere, even in this era. Alright, let’s make this interesting. If this map is as important as he thinks, I need to ensure I have everything under control)
Ailin takes the map and folds it in half vertically, aligning the edges precisely.
She then folds it horizontally, creating a smaller, compact square.
Next, she folds the square diagonally, forming a triangle. This step is crucial as it starts to obscure the map’s details.
Ailin unfolds the triangle slightly and makes several small, folds along the edges, creating a pattern of creases that intersect at various points.
She folds the map back into a compact shape, ensuring that the creases create a complex, almost origami-like structure.
Ailin carefully tears the folded map along one of the diagonal creases, creating two irregularly shaped pieces. The tear is deliberate, ensuring that the pieces are not straightforward to reassemble.
She holds up the two pieces, showing the 3rd prince the folds and the tear.
Ailin Qorin
(Smirking) “Here’s the first part. Get me out, and you’ll get the rest when you give me the money.”
3rd Prince Haoran
(Impressed) “You’re a clever one, aren’t you?”
Ailin Qorin
"You have no idea"
3rd Prince Haoran
(Grinning) “We have a deal, Princess Ailin. But remember, if you try to deceive me, there will be consequences.”
Ailin Qorin
"Then you should also be worried"
Ailin Qorin
(Stands up) "If you are done with your visit, then let's go"
Ailin Qorin
(Oh gosh! I'm really living in the ancient era.)
Ailin Qorin
(It's still unbelievable)
3rd Prince Haoran
(Walking beside Zexi) “Welcome to my palace. You’ll be staying here for now.”
Ailin Qorin
(Sarcastically) “How generous of you.”
3rd Prince Haoran
(Gesturing to a room) “This will be your room. I’ve assigned two maids to assist you.”
Ailin Qorin
(Thinking) "Personal assistants, huh? Fancy."
3rd Prince Haoran
"Pardon"
Ailin Qorin
"Then thank you.....uhhhh"
3rd Prince Haoran
"3rd Prince Haoran"
Ailin Qorin
(Pauses)..."3rd...Prince...Haoran???"
Ailin Qorin
(Is using your name so complicated?)
The prince leaves and Ailin enters the room, looking around critically.
Ailin Qorin
(Not bad. Spacious, but a bit too ornate for my taste. I guess they like to show off their wealth.)
Wanwan
“Would you like to freshen up, Princess?"
Ailin Qorin
(Nodding) “Sure, why not.”
The maids prepare a bath for Ailin. She relaxes in the warm water, letting the tension of the past days melt away.
Ailin Qorin
(This is nice. I could get used to this.)
Ailin Qorin
(Is this the version of a bath tub in this era?)
After the bath, the maids bring her clothes.
Ailin Qorin
(Holding up the clothes) “Seriously? How much fabric do you need for one dress? Can I even move around in this? And what’s with the large armholes?”
Danzhu
“I'm sorry, Princess." (Bows) "The palace doesn't have garments from Qiyun, His highness just gave us these."
Ailin Qorin
"Aaah, you think I'm complaining because of that"
Ailin Qorin
(Sighing) “It's just that they look too heavy, and they are no pockets."
Ailin Qorin
"Is there anything lighter?"
Wanwan
"Yes, how about this one?"
The maids help her dress, and then bring her some food.
Ailin Qorin
“Not bad. At least the food is decent."
Ailin Qorin
"But it's lacking one thing"
Confused, the maids look at each other
Danzhu
"What would you like added Princess?"
Ailin Qorin
"A dipping sauce. Soy-ginger dipping sauce"
Ailin chuckles as the two maids look at each other confused again.
Prince Chuluun Qorin
(It's Been days, and still no sign of her. Ailin, where are you?)
The prince carefully polishes his sister’s favorite bow. The room is filled with her presence, from the delicate ornaments to the sturdy weapons she cherished
Prince Chuluun Qorin
(This bow… she loved it so much. Always practicing, always striving to be better. I have to find her.)
The door opens, and a guard enters, bowing respectfully.
Prince Chuluun Qorin
(Without turning around) “What is it?”
Mujin
"We have located the princess, Your Highness. She is in the Qing Empire.”
The prince stops polishing the bow and slowly turns around, his eyes narrowing.
Prince Chuluun Qorin
“In Qing? How did she end up there?”
Mujin
"She was captured during the conflict. We have confirmed her whereabouts and the circumstances of her capture.”
Prince Chuluun Qorin
(Angrily) “Captured? Those Qing dogs”
The prince’s anger is palpable, his fists clenching around the bow. He takes a deep breath, trying to control his rage.
Prince Chuluun Qorin
“Summon Awu.”
The guard bows and quickly exits the room. Moments later, Awu, a female warrior and loyal maid to Princess Ailin, enters and bows deeply.
Prince Chuluun Qorin
“Awu, I need you to go to the Qing Empire. Find my sister and bring her back."
Prince Chuluun Qorin
“Use any means necessary.”
Awu
“As you command, Your Highness.”
With a determined look, Awu departs, leaving the prince alone in the room. He looks at the bow one last time before leaving the room.
The room is dimly lit, with the soft glow of lanterns casting long shadows on the walls.The king’s eunuch stands nearby, pouring tea into a delicate porcelain cup.
Emperor
"The 2nd prince went to visit his mother again, didn’t he?”
Eunuch Gong
“Yes, Your Majesty. He hasn't come back yet”
The king takes a sip of his tea and turns to the crown prince who is kneeling before him.
Emperor
(Coldly) “Do you know why I am telling you to marry the chancellor’s daughter?”
Crown Prince
“To strengthen our alliance with the chancellor’s family, Your Majesty?”
Emperor
(Slamming his hand on the desk) “Wrong! You still do not understand.”
Emperor
“You think this is about alliances? This is about responsibility and consequences. Do you think your actions have no repercussions?”
The crown prince’s eyes widen in shock, but he quickly masks his expression
Crown Prince
“Your Majesty, I—”
Emperor
(Interrupting) “Silence! You will marry his daughter. She will be your princess consort, and you will treat her with the respect she deserves."
Emperor
"Do you understand?"
Crown Prince
(Bowing his head) “Yes, Your Majesty.”
The emperor dismisses him with a wave of his hand, and the crown prince rises, bowing deeply before leaving the study.
He stares into his tea, deep in thought, as the eunuch quietly refills his cup.
The night is calm, with a gentle breeze rustling the leaves. Ailin is sitting on the rooftop. She takes a deep breath, savoring the moment
Ailin Qorin
(This is nice. Almost makes me forget I’m a prisoner here. Almost.)
Like a seasoned undercover agent, Ailin jumps down from the rooftop, landing gracefully on the ground below. As she straightens up, she bumps into someone, startling both of them.
2nd Prince Liuxian
(Surprised) “Who are you?”
Ailin Qorin
(Equally startled) “Who are you?”
The 2nd prince’s guard reacts swiftly, drawing his sword and pressing it against Ailin's neck. She freezes, her eyes narrowing.
Ju Chen
“Answer the question”
Ailin’s mind races, and then it clicks.
Ailin Qorin
(Oh, it’s him. The guy from the prison.)
Ju Chen
“Your highness, she is the captured princess and the woman of the 3rd prince.”
Ailin Qorin
(No way brother, that sounds very disgusting)
2nd Prince Liuxian
(Steps closer)
2nd Prince Liuxian
"Chen, be kind to the 3rd prince’s woman.”
2nd Prince Liuxian
"Do you have a habit of sitting on people’s roofs?”
Ailin Qorin
“No one said I shouldn’t.”
2nd Prince Liuxian
(Chuckling) “Fair point. You are… different.”
Ailin Qorin
"Different? That’s one way to put it.”
2nd Prince Liuxian
"You speak your mind. It’s refreshing.”
Ailin Qorin
"Well, I’m not exactly from around here.”
2nd Prince Liuxian
"Qiyun people are carefree I guess"
Ailin Qorin
"Right, haha" (I don't even know where that is"
2nd Prince Liuxian
“So, what brings you to my rooftop tonight?”
Ailin Qorin
“Just chilling"
2nd Prince Liuxian
"Chi..lling?"
2nd Prince Liuxian
"What is that?"
Ailin Qorin
"Enjoying the night breeze."
2nd Prince Liuxian
"Indeed. But you should be careful. Not everyone is as understanding as I am.”
Ailin Qorin
“Noted. Now, if you’ll excuse me, this conversation is past my bedtime.”
2nd Prince Liuxian
"Of course. Sleep well, Princess.”
Ailin walks away, leaving the 2nd prince and his guard behind and they continue on their way
●Watch out for the next chapter●
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