Chang'an Imperial Estate - April 19th, 1940, Past Midnight
It was already past midnight when the group emerged from the forest path back toward the estate proper. Kylian remained unable to comprehend what exactly had transpired just an hour ago in that moonlit clearing. While Wolfgang and Song had been skewering fresh-caught fish over a small fire for everyone to share, Wolfgang had noticed something was profoundly wrong with his friend. Kylian's usually keen observational nature was nowhere in evidence. Instead, he seemed to be focusing on something else entirely, his mind clearly not present in the moment, his attention turned inward to some private turmoil.
After the Princess had retreated to her quarters with appropriate formal farewells, Wolfgang and Kylian found themselves back at their designated residence. Although they remained skeptical and paranoid about the surveillance situation, they tried to act as if nothing unusual had happened and maintain their normal routines.
Kylian, behaving entirely out of character, simply removed his jacket, tossed it carelessly aside, and sank himself face-down onto his bed with his back facing the ceiling. His face was completely buried in the pillow, muffling any sound. This left Wolfgang, who was witnessing his friend's strange behavior with growing concern, all the more confused. As Wolfgang quietly observed Kylian's actions, he genuinely could not determine what was wrong. Kylian had never been particularly talkative, that was simply his nature but to sink into himself so completely like this was unprecedented. Wolfgang had known Kylian for all twenty-two years of his life, yet this moment presented him with a sight he had never witnessed in their entire friendship.
"Kylian..." Wolfgang said carefully, trying to break through whatever wall his friend had erected. "Why didn't you eat the fish? It was sweet and fresh, exactly as Song promised. You haven't eaten anything all evening."
Wolfgang slowly removed the silver ceremonial chain from his coat as he spoke, the familiar ritual of undressing after a long day providing some normalcy to the increasingly strange situation.
"I wasn't hungry, Wolfgang. I'm alright," Kylian responded, his voice still muffled by the pillows. "Just a lot on my mind."
"Huh?" Wolfgang's intrigue deepened considerably. "A lot on your mind? What could possibly be troubling you so much? Did something happen that I missed?"
Wolfgang stood there in the middle of their shared quarters, trying to coax an answer out of his friend. He was completely unaware of what had transpired between Kylian and Princess Changning during those brief moments by the tree.
"Nothing, Wolfgang," Kylian replied, though his tone suggested otherwise. "This place is so overwhelming. You can't sleep in peace, you can't trust even the walls you're surrounded by, and you don't even understand what you're feeling. This whole situation is insane."
His head remained stubbornly buried in the pillow throughout this explanation.
Wolfgang found himself genuinely amused despite his concern. "What do you mean you don't understand what you feel? That's an odd thing to say, Kylian."
By now Wolfgang had removed his coat entirely and was preparing for bed himself. The night air had been bitterly cold, sharp and cutting in a way that penetrated even their heavy uniforms. Half an hour more in that clearing and he would have frozen to death, or so it felt. Thank God the Princess had grown sleepy when she did, he thought gratefully.
No response came from Kylian. The silence stretched between them, broken only by the distant sounds of the estate settling into its nighttime routines.
Wolfgang sighed and prepared to tuck himself into the blankets. It was already well past midnight, and they both desperately needed sleep. As Wolfgang settled into his bed and reached to extinguish the oil lamp, Kylian spoke softly.
"Goodnight, Wolfgang. I'm in no position to explain when I don't even understand myself. I'll tell you about it when I'm able to, when I can make sense of it."
His voice faded again, though his position never changed. He remained face-down, apparently seeking comfort in the darkness and isolation the pillow provided.
"Alright, my friend. I'm always here whenever you need to talk. Goodnight," Wolfgang replied with genuine warmth.
Although Wolfgang never quite understood what his friend actually meant, he was at least glad Kylian was still speaking and not shutting him out completely. This reassurance was misplaced, however. Kylian was in fact utterly consumed by thoughts he couldn't control or rationalize away. The Princess played constantly in his mind, her fingers running across the surface of his coat to brush away that leaf, her face illuminated by moonlight with an almost ethereal glow, how her eyelashes moved when she blinked, the way she had stood so close to him. These were real memories that Kylian was desperately struggling to make sense of, and failing completely.
Morning - April 19th, 1940
When the officers awoke the next morning, it was already ten o'clock. The sun was fully risen and bright, and sounds of daily activity could be heard filtering through their walls. It seemed their hosts had chosen not to disturb their sleep, the servants had left food on covered trays outside their residence, placed on the small tables in the exterior courtyard area.
After a quick wash and the methodical process of donning their uniforms, the pearl gray wool and silver braiding that marked them as representatives of the Hanseatic Empire, the two officers emerged from their residence and made their way toward the main courtyard where the sounds of activity seemed concentrated.
The morning was pleasant. The sun shone brilliantly in a cloudless sky, swallows darted and swooped through the air with acrobatic grace, and flowers bloomed in profusion throughout the estate's gardens. Everything seemed to exist in a state of perpetual peace and serenity at this hour of the day, a stark contrast to the undercurrents of surveillance and political tension they knew lurked beneath the surface.
As they drew closer to the commotion in the main courtyard, they spotted Captain Song Zhongwei already present, accompanied by several of his soldiers. The men appeared to be supervising some kind of preparation or inspection. The two Hanseatic captains approached and exchanged the customary bows with Song.
"What is this chest for, Captain Song? So many people are gathered here," Wolfgang asked with genuine curiosity, gesturing toward an ornate wooden container that was clearly the focus of everyone's attention.
Song glanced at Wolfgang before responding. "It's dowry for the marriage of Her Highness the First Princess."
Wolfgang's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "The Japanese want dowry? I thought in their culture the groom's family provides the bride price. Shouldn't the groom himself be here for this ritual as well?"
"Yes, of course His Highness the groom should be here," Song admitted, and there was faint but visible disappointment on his face as he spoke. "Unfortunately, His Highness is not coming."
"He was expected to be here today, Captain Song?" Kylian asked, studying the elaborate chest more closely. The craftsmanship was extraordinary, intricate carvings covered every surface, depicting traditional symbols of fortune, prosperity, and marital harmony.
"Yes, of course," Song confirmed. "We sent formal correspondence through the Japanese embassy a few days ago in advance informing them that Prince Itsuhito was expected to be here this morning for what is an incredibly important pre-wedding ritual in our tradition. We only learned a few hours ago that he will not be attending. It seems Prince Itsuhito will only deign to appear for the actual wedding ceremony in Beijing."
Both Kylian and Wolfgang's eyebrows rose sharply at this revelation. They had no idea that Prince Itsuhito had been expected at the estate today. This realization sank deep into their consciousness, making them acutely aware that without the protection and diplomatic connections of Foreign Minister Anton von Hausen, they had no access to important information about what was actually happening around them. They were being kept deliberately in the dark, whether by design or simply by virtue of their isolation, they couldn't be certain. There was no point in showing their unease, however, as any sign of fear or suspicion would only make their hosts more cautious around them.
"That's absolutely disrespectful!" Wolfgang exclaimed, his voice carrying genuine outrage as he folded his arms across his chest. "How can a groom fail to attend a pre-wedding ritual for the woman he's supposed to marry? It's disgraceful on their part, a complete breach of protocol and common courtesy."
His characteristic assertiveness was fully present in his tone, and Kylian recognized the signs that his friend's cultural sensibilities had been genuinely offended.
"I share your sentiments completely, Captain von Witzland," Song replied carefully, "but sometimes there are many things happening in the background that we are not privy to. Political considerations, diplomatic pressures, these can override traditional courtesies, unfortunately."
Song's tone suggested he hoped nothing more sinister was behind the Japanese heir's absence, though his expression betrayed some doubt.
"Regardless of background politics, Captain Song, the groom is marrying a princess of the Jin Dynasty, not a commoner," Wolfgang pressed relentlessly. "Such things shouldn't be happening. There are standards that must be maintained, protocols that exist for important reasons."
When it came to maintaining tradition, Wolfgang was a fierce advocate. For someone with such deep interest in how cultures functioned, he was extremely sensitive to breaches of proper conduct.
"There could be legitimate diplomatic reasons for the Japanese heir not being here today, Wolfgang," Kylian interjected softly, noticing that his friend was becoming increasingly agitated. He placed a subtle hand on Wolfgang's arm, a calming gesture.
"There's a Chinese saying, you know," Wolfgang continued, undeterred by Kylian's attempt at moderation. "'Doors match and households are paired.' If they don't show proper respect to the bride now, before the marriage, they never will. This behavior sets a terrible precedent for how Princess Ankang will be treated in Japan."
He spoke with such confident conviction that it took even Kylian somewhat aback, though Kylian privately admired the fact that Wolfgang was a man of principle who believed respect transcended cultural boundaries.
Song Zhongwei appeared pleasantly surprised by Wolfgang's words. "I did not realize you were familiar with such traditional phrases, Captain von Witzland. Your understanding of our culture runs considerably deeper than I had understood."
There was delight in Song's voice, genuine pleasure at encountering a foreigner so thoroughly immersed in Chinese cultural concepts that he could quote appropriate proverbs.
"Of course, Captain Song," Wolfgang replied with a sincere smile that hinted at pride. "The von Witzlands are a culturally refined family, we've always believed in understanding the peoples and traditions of the world. Chinese phrases always carry profound philosophical meaning."
"What will become of this chest now?" Kylian asked Song, redirecting the conversation back to practical matters as he observed the dowry container more closely.
It was indeed a magnificent piece, a large wooden chest with intricate carvings that clearly marked it as created specifically for a royal marriage. The craftsmanship alone represented hundreds of hours of skilled work.
Song Zhongwei released a heavy sigh. "I do not know for certain, Captain von Reichsgraf, but it seems very likely the dowry will simply be transported to Beijing and presented to the groom at the actual wedding ceremony. The ritual significance will be diminished, but what choice do we have?"
Both Hanseatic officers could tell that Song's expression was carefully maintained to avoid showing any overt ill feelings toward the Japanese groom, though his disappointment was evident in the tension around his eyes.
"Why would the Emperor proceed with this wedding if this is how the Japanese are behaving?" Wolfgang asked, his voice carrying a hint of anger on behalf of the disrespected Princess. "Surely this disrespect signals how she'll be treated after the marriage."
The question was blunt, almost impolitic, but Wolfgang seemed too frustrated to care about diplomatic niceties.
"It is the only way the Emperor believes we can secure peace," Song explained patiently. "This marriage alliance was what the Japanese Prime Minister proposed to us initially. The Japanese government has guaranteed peace if we give Her Highness the First Princess to their heir in marriage. The Emperor believes this sacrifice by one member of the imperial family can prevent the suffering of millions of Chinese people."
"Do you actually believe them, Captain Song?" Wolfgang asked. The question was so bold that it almost threw Kylian off balance, this was precisely the kind of skepticism Kylian had been avoiding expressing to their Chinese hosts, fearing it might make Hansa appear to view China as naive or easily manipulated.
To his surprise, Song Zhongwei responded to Wolfgang without any sign of taking offense. "I would like to believe the promise is genuine, because I know His Majesty only wants what is best for China and her people. But belief and reality do not always align, do they?"
The three men stood in the courtyard conversing while servants completed their work with the dowry chest, preparing it for eventual transport to Beijing. The morning sun continued its climb across the sky, indifferent to human concerns, diplomatic slights, and the anxieties of those caught in political machinations beyond their control. The breeze rustled through leaves of the courtyard trees, carrying with it the scent of blooming flowers.
Kylian and Wolfgang actually wanted desperately to ask how Princess Ankang was handling this latest disappointment, whether she had been informed of the groom's failure to appear, how she was coping emotionally. But because they understood such questions would be seen as intrusive and as breaking established protocols, they had to restrain themselves from asking.
Then two servants approached the trio. One spoke rapidly in Chinese to Song Zhongwei, who straightened immediately and turned to the two officers with an apologetic bow.
"The Consort has summoned me. I must go immediately. I will see you both this evening, Captains."
With that, Song departed quickly, following the servants toward the Consort's residence. His pace suggested the summons was not to be delayed.
Now the two Hanseatic officers found themselves alone once again. They began walking back toward their own quarters, the morning sun warm on their faces.
"You know, I thought coming to China would present us with opportunities to visit ancient sites, experience the culture directly," Wolfgang complained as he walked, shaking his head with obvious frustration. "Instead, we don't even know how long we're going to be trapped in an estate in rural China, cut off from everything."
"Is this place not ancient enough for you?" Kylian replied casually. "This estate looks like it's been here since the Han Dynasty itself. You're literally walking through living history."
"You know very well what I mean, Kylian," Wolfgang retorted with mild exasperation. "Chang'an city is not far from here, we could visit and return within a day's journey. Don't you want to see something beyond these walls? The terracotta warriors, the ancient city walls, the temples?"
"No," Kylian replied firmly and somewhat abruptly.
Wolfgang turned to give his friend a distinctly cross look, his expression suggesting disbelief at this uncharacteristic lack of curiosity.
Kylian, catching sight of Wolfgang's expression, was momentarily taken aback and coughed. Ahem. "I mean, Wolfgang, look at the sentries and fortifications they've built around this estate. Did you see those bunkers and guard posts on our way in? They're never going to permit us to leave, even for a day trip. We'd need explicit permission from the Consort herself, most likely."
"That's not the point, Kylian," Wolfgang sighed with obvious disappointment. "They told us we were embarking on a cultural education tour, yet we haven't visited anywhere culturally significant beyond this compound."
"I disagree completely," Kylian countered. "This place represents the highest and most refined form of culture you could possibly witness. We're observing imperial family life, traditional ceremonies, authentic court protocols—"
As Kylian spoke those words, his mind involuntarily brought him back to the previous evening, the moment when Princess Changning had held that tea cup on its tray, when their hands had brushed with electric intensity. The sudden memory made his face grow warm, and he felt heat rising to his cheeks. He quickly tried to brush the sensation aside, but the thought persisted: refined, yes... Princess Changning was the very embodiment of refinement.
Wolfgang couldn't quite believe what Kylian had just said. "Right, royalty is refined for sure, but you're mad, Kylian. I feel like a prisoner here, especially after what happened on our first night. Don't you feel trapped?"
"I do too, Wolfgang," Kylian admitted quietly. "Let's keep these feelings between ourselves and bear with the situation for a while longer. We need to stay on their good side if we ever want to return home safely."
"Hm," Wolfgang grunted in reluctant agreement, and the two continued walking in contemplative silence.
Midday;
By now the morning sun had climbed to its noon position, and everything appeared even brighter during the full light of day. The two officers settled themselves on the stairs leading to their residence and simply watched the activity around them. Under the sunlight, the grass appeared more lush and vibrant, birds were flocking in cheerful groups, and the freshness of the air seemed to make their confinement almost worthwhile. Temporarily, at least, the beauty of their surroundings made them forget they were under surveillance.
Then Estate Custodian Bai Lu approached their residence, flanked by two servants. The sight almost made Kylian freeze where he sat.
The servants were carrying trays, most likely containing food, which was normal enough. But what shocked Kylian to his core was something else entirely: one of the servants was the same woman Kylian had identified to Wolfgang as constantly watching them. The one who had been staring at them since their arrival. Kylian felt panic rising inside him but managed through sheer force of will to maintain his composed exterior.
"Esteemed guests, it is good to see you enjoying the day," Bai Lu said warmly as she bowed. "We have prepared a special treat just for you, osmanthus jelly and cake, delicacies that require considerable skill to prepare properly."
She gestured for the servants to present the food for inspection. The officers returned her bow with appropriate formality.
The confections were indeed incredibly appetizing and beautiful to look at, the jelly had a translucent amber quality, while the cake was decorated with delicate flower patterns. For Wolfgang, who loved trying new foods, this was treasure. His face lit up with genuine enthusiasm.
"Young Mistress, you are far too kind," Wolfgang said with a sincere smile. "This looks absolutely exquisite."
"You should direct your thanks to the Consort," Bai Lu replied graciously. "After all, she was the one who personally requested the chefs to prepare these specifically for you both. She wanted to ensure our foreign guests experienced the finest our cuisine has to offer."
Wolfgang stood up and opened the sliding doors to their residence, holding them wide so Bai Lu and the two servants could enter. Kylian and Wolfgang followed them inside.
All this time, Kylian felt incredibly nervous internally. This servant who had been staring at them on their first day was now here, in their room, with Bai Lu. What was happening?
As one servant carefully placed the trays on the table in the seating area, the other servant, the one who had been watching them walked slowly toward the wall where the painting of Diaochan hung. Kylian and Wolfgang remained standing near the door, watching her every movement.
The servant reached up and ran her fingers deliberately along the edge of the painting's frame, tracing its contours with obvious purpose. Then she turned her head slowly toward Kylian and Wolfgang.
And she smiled.
It was not a warm or friendly smile. It was ominous, knowing, a smile that conveyed a clear message: We know what you discovered. We know you found the listening device.
The expression hit both officers like a physical blow. They were suddenly terrified, their hearts pounding hard in their chests. Wolfgang's heart felt like it might burst through his ribs. Both men were trying desperately to maintain their composed exteriors, to show nothing of the fear coursing through them.
The servant held their gaze for a long, uncomfortable moment before finally letting her hand drop from the painting. She turned away as though nothing significant had occurred.
Bai Lu, seemingly oblivious to the charged atmosphere, spoke pleasantly in her accented English. "Esteemed guests, there are some items in this residence which should not be disturbed or touched. It is important not to disrupt the natural order of how things function here. I hope you understand."
She bowed politely and gestured for the servants to follow her out. The three women departed, sliding the door closed behind them with a soft sound that seemed to echo in the suddenly oppressive silence.
Despite it being bright midday outside, the sun at its zenith, the estate alive with activity and warmth, the room fell eerily silent after Bai Lu and her servants left. The two officers stood frozen in shock at what they had just witnessed.
They had been found out. The Consort or whoever controlled the surveillance knew they had discovered the listening device. The servant's smile had been a deliberate message, a warning, perhaps even a threat.
They could only stare at each other, unable to speak, uncertain whether the room was still under audio surveillance despite their removal of the device. For all they knew, there could be others they hadn't found.
They realized in that moment just how powerless they truly were here in this remote part of the world. All their military training, their noble status, their diplomatic protections, none of it mattered here. They were at the complete mercy of their hosts, and those hosts had just made clear that every action was being observed and catalogued.
The sense of powerlessness came down on them like a flood, drowning any illusions of control or safety they might have maintained. They were far from home, far from help, trapped in a beautiful prison where even the walls had eyes and where smiling servants delivered both delicacies and threats with equal grace.
Kylian moved first, finally breaking their paralysis. He walked to the window and stared out at the sunlit gardens, his mind racing through their options, all of which seemed increasingly limited. Behind him, Wolfgang sank slowly onto his bed, his earlier enthusiasm for the osmanthus treats completely evaporated.
Neither man touched the food Bai Lu had brought. Neither spoke. They simply existed in that charged silence, processing the terrifying realization that they were being played in a game whose rules they didn't understand, by opponents they couldn't see, with stakes they were only beginning to comprehend.
Outside, the swallows continued their aerial dance, the flowers continued blooming in cheerful profusion, and the estate maintained its facade of peaceful serenity. But inside that residence, two young officers from a distant empire sat in shocked silence, understanding for the first time just how dangerous their situation had truly become.