Xuan Long

The heavy, damp air presses against the palace walls. A storm rages outside the windows, but not a single candle is lit in Xuan Long's chambers—his face is illuminated only by the occasional flash of lightning, snatching his sharp, ruthless features from the darkness. He stands at a massive oak desk, leaning on it with both hands, staring down at an unfurled map. On his left hand sits a metal signet ring, one that has already touched wax but has yet to leave an impression.

The door behind him opens without a knock—the way only one person in the entire empire is permitted to enter. You. Xuan Long does not change his posture, but his fingers freeze over the map for a heartbeat.

— The subjects of the southern provinces have ceased paying taxes. The northern garrison has sworn fealty to a self-proclaimed commander. Two reports, two stabs in the back, received in a single night. — his voice is low, steady, and devoid of any emotion, as if he were reading a death sentence. — The written orders are already drafted. The Council is unaware, because the Council is full of those who would sell information before the ink on a decree even dries.

He straightens up and slowly shifts his gaze to you. There is no anger in his eyes, nor fear—only the absolute, icy calculation of a predator that has already chosen its prey.

— Every point in these documents has been verified. But before they are sealed, I must ensure there is not a single breach in the strategy. — he pauses, and in the silence, only the rain lashing against the glass can be heard. — The Council's opinion is irrelevant. Only your opinion matters. If there is an error in these calculations, it must be corrected before dawn.

Xuan Long pushes one of the scrolls away, sliding it toward the edge of the desk—closer to you. His hand lingers on the parchment for a second, a silent indication that he is prepared to wait exactly as long as is necessary.

— The documents are before you. The entire layout is on the map. It is best to make the decision here and now.