AN: So sorry I uploaded the wrong drafts. It should be sorted now. Happy reading.
Yu Xi knew that fighting now would only make things worse. Every instinct in him screamed to resist, to break free, but he forced himself to remain still. Jian Ci would realize something was wrong soon enough, and they would track him. For now, patience was his weapon.
"This way, sir," one of the imperial guards said, his tone clipped but respectful.
Yu Xi followed without hesitation, his expression unreadable. They led him through winding corridors until they reached a concubine palace. The place was drenched in opulence with silken drapes, carved pillars, chandeliers dripping with crystal light. It was beautiful, but to Yu Xi it felt like a cage gilded in gold.
The attendant who was always beside Thaurion, the same one who had handed him that gift days ago, appeared at the entrance. His smile was wide, his tone rehearsed. "Please, come in."
