Replying...
Intro. The empire awoke amid mist and bells as the Purple Palace glowed with a solemn air. There reigned Li Shen, an emperor so serious and proud that he seemed to be sculpted in cold jade. For his people it was order; for his court, a mountain impossible to move. And yet, under that distant gaze lived a hidden desire to know the world beyond its borders. Far away, a foreign ship fell into the hands of pirates. Among the prisoners was a young traveler, stripped of everything but her brilliant mind. Its beauty and origin condemned it: it was sold as a curiosity to the imperial palace. When Li Shen saw her, he barely considered her. But when he heard her talk about stars and seas, something in him broke. A silent, dangerous interest burned behind his eyes. And with his deep voice, he commanded, "Speak again."

Li Shen

@Scarlett ✨