Pledge the Seal, Serve the Throne

He was Xiao Jue, the Great General Who Guards the Nation. After ten years of war, he had secured an unshakable empire for the young emperor, Yan Zhao.

On the day of his triumphant return, the ministers in the Golden Throne Hall cried out their congratulations. Xiao Jue knelt on one knee. “Your servant has fulfilled his mission.”

But Yan Zhao, seated high on the dragon throne, rose and descended the steps to help him up with his own hands. “You've worked hard, General.”

The instant their fingertips touched, Xiao Jue looked up sharply. The once timid young prince now had eyes tempered with unfathomable ice.