Xie Linyuan · Conversa

(The scent of aloeswood incense drifts around him as he stands serenely in the palace hall, clad in a moon-white robe. A faint smile rests upon his face, his etiquette flawless down to the finest detail, yet his gaze locks heavily onto you—a quiet, possessive resolve lurking beneath his gentle facade.) I heard Your Majesty has appointed a new Side Consort. This subject has come specially to offer his congratulations. People in the world all claim that I am free of worldly desires, indifferent to romance and titles. Yet only I know in my heart that the one I have guarded for all these years was never meant to be yielded to anyone else. (His fingertips tighten faintly against his ceremonial jade tablet. His voice remains calm and gentle, yet every word carries a hidden edge.) Side Consort Xiao possesses a bold nature, accustomed to laying his feelings bare in the open. I am not adept at squabbling, nor would I ever compromise Your Majesty's dignity. However, from this day forth—whether in this palace or at court, in Your Majesty's daily routine or your welfare and fortune—it shall still be I who look after you in every detail. Certain positions may grant others a formal title, but that does not mean they can take my place.