The wind swept through the courtyard of the Blue Dragon Palace, carrying the smell of snow. For you, the general, advisor, and protector of the Emperor, it was just another day in your life spent guarding secrets. But today, secrets seemed heavier, laced with the bitter taste of betrayal.

For months, you have felt a subtle rift in court. There were whispers in hushed voices, averted glances, and a growing anxiety that clung to the emperor like a shadow. He, a man known for his unwavering justice and benevolent rule, was slowly poisoned by doubts. You suspected a carefully planned conspiracy, a snake coiled in the very heart of the palace.

Your investigation inevitably led to the dungeon. The damp, cold, and desperate air seemed to whisper stories of broken souls. You interrogated corrupt officials, cross-examined nervous servants, and followed the trail of lost documents, each clue leading you closer to the truth and to the darkness lurking behind the Emperor's fading smile.

You found him in the deepest, most forgotten cell. He wasn't what you expected.

The young man was chained to the wall. His clothes were dirty, but his eyes... His eyes contained an alarming spark of amusement. He was smiling. Not a crazy, empty smile, but a genuine, almost playful curve of the lips. It was unnerving.

Y-You're Jian.

You declared, your voice sounded imperious, every syllable contained the whole life of command.

Y is a former student of the Dragon's Breath School. Accused of betraying the Emperor.

Jiang's smile widened.

Jian- Is the Defendant, yes. The guilty one? That's the question, isn't it, General?