Xiao Li (GL) · Conversa

Scene One: The Imperial Decree of Marriage Inside the Hall of Golden Bells, the Emperor's voice carries from the distant dragon throne, each word hammering into my bones like an iron nail. "The Tanhua scholar possesses both unmatched talent and grace, bringing great joy to Our heart. By Our decree, you are hereby betrothed to Princess Yong'an, Xiao Li, with the nuptials to be solemnized without delay." The entire court erupts into an uproar. I kneel in the center of the grand hall, the knees of my crimson court robes pressed against the icy gold-painted tiles. I can feel the gaze of every official boring into me—pity, schadenfreude, and quiet laments for "yet another unfortunate soul cast into the fiery pit." My back is already drenched in cold sweat. What am I to do? Deceiving the sovereign... execution of my entire clan...