**Flashback to when Jian appeared in the middle of the city**
Jian Yu's arrival in the city was met with uncertainty. Exhausted and disoriented, he stumbled through the crowded streets.
That's when Li Ming found him.
"Hey, you okay?" Li Ming asked, concern etched on his face.
Jian Yu's guarded response didn't deter Li Ming.
"I know the feeling. Come, let me help," Li Ming said, offering food and shelter.
As they shared stories, Li Ming discovered Jian Yu's mind-reading ability.
One fateful night, thugs attacked Li Ming's performance troupe. Jian Yu used his mind-reading to thwart the attackers.
"Thanks, Jian Yu! I owe you one," Li Ming said, gratitude in his eyes.
"No need to thank me. We're friends now," Jian Yu replied, smiling.
Their unlikely friendship flourished.
Li Ming introduced Jian Yu to the city's underworld, teaching survival skills.
Jian Yu helped Li Ming navigate complex social dynamics, using his mind-reading.
Unbeknownst to Jian Yu, Li Ming was already involved with the rebellion.
Brother Fang and Ling strategized.
"Jian Yu's unique ability makes him crucial to our cause," Brother Fang said.
"We must convince him to join us," Ling added.
Their plan:
Li Ming would approach Jian Yu, leveraging their friendship.
Reveal the rebellion's purpose: seeking justice for the oppressed.
Utilize Jian Yu's mind-reading ability.
Provide evidence of Liang Zheng's corruption.
Ensure Jian Yu's safety.
Li Ming nodded, receiving his instructions.
"Convince Jian Yu to join us," Brother Fang said. "Reveal our true purpose."
Li Ming already have a motive before becoming friends with Jian
*****
Li Ming's eyes locked onto Jian Yu across the city.
"Time to bring him to our side," Li Ming thought, determination burning within.
He approached Jian Yu, a calculated smile spreading.
"Jian Yu, my friend, I have a proposition for you."
Jian Yu's guarded expression softened.
"What is it, Li Ming?"
"Meet Brother Fang and Ling," Li Ming said. "They'll explain everything."
Jian Yu's curiosity piqued, he followed Li Ming into the unknown.
Jian Yu followed Li Ming through the winding alleys, curiosity growing.
"Where are we going?" Jian Yu asked.
"Somewhere safe," Li Ming replied. "You'll understand soon."
They arrived at a hidden entrance, guarded by heavily armed men.
"Li Ming's friends?" Jian Yu asked, uneasy.
"Rebellion allies," Li Ming whispered. "Trust me."
Inside, Brother Fang and Ling awaited.
"Welcome, Jian Yu," Brother Fang said. This is our plan and you said you're in.
Ling added, "We believe you can aid our cause."
Jian Yu's wariness deepened.
"What cause?"
Brother Fang's eyes locked onto Jian Yu's.
"We seek to overthrow Liang Zheng's tyranny. Join us, and together we'll bring justice."
Jian Yu's mind reeled.
"Liang Zheng...the prince?"
Ling nodded.
"The same. His corruption knows no bounds."
Jian Yu's thoughts drifted to his prison encounter with Liang Zheng.
"Tell me more," Jian Yu said, intrigued.
Brother Fang smiled.
"We have evidence of Liang Zheng's misdeeds. Enough to bring him down."
**********************
Palace, Liang Zheng's Chambers
Liang Zheng paced, his mind racing with thoughts of Jian Yu. He couldn't shake off the feeling that their encounter had left him with.
*Servant's Entrance:
"Your Highness, the prisoner has escaped," the servant announced, trembling.
Liang Zheng's Reaction:
"I know," Liang Zheng replied, his voice calm. "I let him go."
Servant's Confusion:
"But, Your Highness, the Emperor's orders—"
Liang Zheng's Interruption:
"Silence! I won't be questioned. Prepare my horse. I have a meeting with General Wang."
General Wang's Arrival:
"Your Highness, what's the meaning of this urgent summons?" General Wang asked.
Liang Zheng's Request:
"General, I require your loyalty. The prisoner, Jian Yu, is no ordinary man. I need you to ensure his safety...discreetly."
General Wang's Curiosity:
"Your Highness, what's so special about this prisoner?"
"That's none of your concern, General. Just see to it that he's protected."Liang said
General Wang's Departure:
"Yes, Your Highness. I'll assign my best men."
Liang Zheng's Solitude:
Liang Zheng's thoughts returned to Jian Yu. He couldn't explain why, but he felt an inexplicable connection to the young man.
Flashback:
Their encounter in the prison cell replayed in Liang Zheng's mind. Jian Yu's words, "You're not as cold as you seem," echoed.
For the first time, Liang Zheng questioned his own emotions. Was it possible that he felt something for Jian Yu?
Liang Zheng's inner turmoil deepened as he struggled to comprehend his feelings. He had always prioritized duty and loyalty above personal desires.
A knock on the door broke his reverie.
"Enter," Liang Zheng called out.
His loyal attendant, Xiao, entered.
"Your Highness, General Wang has assigned men to protect Jian Yu. But there's more."
"Proceed." Liang said.
Xiao's Report:
"Jian Yu has joined the rebellion. They plan to infiltrate the palace and expose your...misdeeds."
Liang Zheng's Reaction:
"I expected as much. But ensure Jian Yu's safety, no matter the outcome."
Xiao's Departure:
"Yes, Your Highness."
Liang Zheng's Resolve:
He would protect Jian Yu, even if it meant going against his own interests.
---
Liang Zheng paced in his chambers, thoughts consumed by Jian Yu.
Their prison encounter left him questioning his own emotions.
"Am I truly cold-hearted, or is there more to me?" Liang Zheng wondered.
Memories of Jian Yu's words, "You're not as cold as you seem," haunted him.
Liang Zheng's attendant, Xiao, entered.
"Your Highness, General Wang's men have located Jian Yu," Xiao announced.
Liang Zheng's response surprised even himself.
"Ensure Jian Yu's safety, no matter the cost."
Xiao's curiosity was palpable.
"Your Highness, why this sudden concern?"
Liang Zheng's mask slipped, revealing a glimmer of vulnerability.
"Perhaps...I see something in Jian Yu that I've never seen before."
Xiao bowed, departing with a newfound understanding.