The Envoy Arrives
The palace bustled with activity as the envoy from Zhaoling arrived in grand procession. Banners of gold and crimson fluttered in the winter breeze, and the air was filled with the hum of courtly whispers. Princess Lian stood at the edge of the grand hall, her hands folded demurely before her, but her mind was elsewhere.
She had not visited Linghu in days, heeding his warning to tread carefully. Yet the thought of him lingered, his cryptic words echoing in her mind. "Trust no one, not even me."
The envoy entered, led by Prince Kael of Zhaoling. He was tall and striking, his sharp features softened by a practiced smile. His gaze landed on Lian, and his expression shifted slightly—curiosity flickered in his eyes.
"You must be Princess Lian," he said, bowing slightly. "It is an honor to finally meet you."
"And you, Prince Kael," Lian replied, her voice calm despite the tension in her chest.
Kael studied her for a moment longer before turning to address the court. His words were gracious, but Lian couldn't shake the feeling that his eyes were often on her, searching for something unseen.
---
A Secret Revealed
That evening, Lian wandered the palace gardens under the guise of a leisurely stroll. In truth, she was avoiding the festivities, where her every movement was scrutinized.
As she turned a corner, she froze. Jian stood beneath a lantern-lit pavilion, speaking in hushed tones with Minister Wei. She ducked behind a hedge, her heart racing.
"You've seen her leave the palace?" Jian asked, his tone low but sharp.
"Yes, Your Highness," Wei replied smoothly. "My men have followed her to the edge of the forest on multiple occasions. She ventures far into the night."
Jian's fist clenched. "If she is consorting with anyone unfit, it will bring shame upon this family."
"Shall I have her followed more closely?" Wei offered, a hint of malice in his voice.
Jian hesitated, then nodded. "Yes. Report everything to me."
Lian slipped away, her mind reeling. She had been careful, but not careful enough. The court's intrigue was closing in around her, and she could no longer afford to move recklessly.
---
A Dangerous Meeting
The next night, unable to resist, Lian returned to the forest. She moved quickly, her cloak drawn tight against the cold, but she was acutely aware of the possibility of being followed.
Linghu appeared as a man this time, his silver eyes glowing softly in the moonlight.
"You shouldn't have come," he said, his tone calm but edged with warning.
"I had to," she replied, her voice trembling. "My brother and Wei—Minister Wei—they know I've been leaving the palace. They're watching me."
Linghu's expression darkened. "Your enemies multiply, Princess. And yet, you continue to gamble with your life."
"What should I do?" she asked desperately. "You warned me not to trust anyone, but I have no one else."
For a moment, Linghu's gaze softened. He stepped closer, his presence both comforting and intimidating. "I will help you, but you must be willing to play their game."
"What do you mean?"
"Deception," he said simply. "Let them see what you want them to see. If they seek to trap you, lead them into their own snare."
---
The First Move
The next morning, Lian approached Jian during his training in the courtyard. The clashing of swords paused as she stepped forward, her expression composed.
"Brother," she began, "I've heard rumors that the court is concerned about my conduct."
Jian raised an eyebrow, wiping sweat from his brow. "And why would they be concerned, Lian?"
She met his gaze evenly. "Because I've been preparing a gift for the envoy. A personal gesture to strengthen our ties with Zhaoling. I didn't wish to speak of it until it was complete, but I see now that my silence has caused misunderstanding."
Jian studied her for a long moment before nodding. "Then you should ensure the court knows of your intentions. Transparency is vital in these times."
Lian forced a smile. "Of course, Brother."
As she left, she couldn't help but feel a small surge of triumph. Linghu's advice had been sound—she had planted doubt in Jian's mind and bought herself some time.