The Huanglong palace was active with the sound of silk shoes gliding across polished marble floors and the murmur of noble men behind embroidered fans. Lanterns cast a golden glow in the grand hall and scent of warm plum wine.

 Crown prince Shen Haoyu ssat beside the emperor , his expression calm but he was lost in thoughts . Musicians played the guqin in the background while dancers moved with practiced elegance.

 Haoyu raised his cup of wine but didn't take a sip. The presence of his father is enough to keep him in order, but his patience were wearing down. Politics, alliances and powers were the world he has been raised in. Yet, that night felt different 

The doors to the great hall cracked open. A sudden silent fell over the crowd.

A lone figure stood at the entrance of the hall, cloaked in deep gray, their face hidden under a black hood. Their clothes were simple,.unfit for a royal gathering, but their presence demanded attention. 

Haoyu set down his cup,his gaze locking onto the stranger.

They weren't supposed to be here.