Prologue

 Unusual Boy in Imperial Capital

As twilight descended upon Chang'an, the imperial capital of the Tang Dynasty, the usually bustling streets began to quiet down, signaling the city's transition to sleep. However, a courtyard in the north-western corner of the city was alive with laughter and noise.

"Brother, don't run so fast, I can't follow you!" a shriek echoed in the courtyard.

"Come on, catch me! You must lose the game this time," A'tai called back, laughing.

A seven-year-old boy dashed out from the moon gate in the yard, followed by a little girl in a pink robe with long black hair.

A'tai, the full name Li Tai, with his bright eyes and tousled hair, moved with the agility of a cat, darting around the courtyard's ancient tree. His simple yet neat robe fluttered as he ran, showing the telltale signs of a young boy who preferred adventure over stillness. Despite his playful demeanor, there was a look of determination in his eyes, a reflection of his inner kindness and fairness.

Trailing behind him, Liu Qing's delicate features were framed by her long black hair, which flowed like silk with every step she took. Her pink robe, though faded, accentuated her graceful movements as she chased A'tai. The joy in her laughter was infectious, a stark contrast to her usually solemn expression, revealing the brief moments of happiness she found in A'tai's company.

The courtyard, with its cobblestone paths and vibrant flowerbeds, served as their playground. The ancient tree at its center cast long shadows in the twilight, its branches swaying gently in the evening breeze. The children's laughter and playful banter echoed through the courtyard, a melody of innocence and camaraderie.

"Got you!" Liu Qing finally exclaimed, catching up to A'tai and tugging at his sleeve. They both collapsed onto the grass, breathless and giggling, their faces flushed with excitement.

A'tai turned to Liu Qing, his eyes shining with genuine warmth. "You're getting faster, Liu Qing. Maybe next time, I won't be able to escape!"

Liu Qing beamed at the praise, her cheeks tinged with a rosy hue. "Thank you, A'tai. You always let me win," she said softly, her eyes reflecting admiration and gratitude.

A'tai shook his head, his expression serious. "No, Liu Qing. You won because you're strong and determined. Never forget that."

Just as the two children settled into a comfortable silence, the faint sound of hurried footsteps reached their ears. A figure approached, breathless and urgent, casting a shadow over the tranquil scene.

Before he could respond, an older servant, Liu Qing's uncle, stormed into the courtyard, his face contorted with anger. "Liu Qing!" he bellowed, his voice echoing off the courtyard walls. "How many times have I told you? You are not to play with the general's son!"

Liu Qing's smile vanished, replaced by a look of fear. She lowered her head, her small frame trembling.

A'tai stepped forward, positioning himself protectively in front of Liu Qing. "Uncle Wang, it was my idea to play. Don't punish her," he pleaded, his voice steady despite his young age.

The servant glared at A'tai, his anger unabated. "General Li's son or not, you have no right to defy the rules of this household. Liu Qing must learn her place."

A'tai's hands clenched into fists. "Her place? She is my friend, and she deserves to be treated with respect, just like anyone else."

Uncle Wang's face darkened further. "You speak of respect, young master, but you forget the order of things. She is a servant's daughter. You are a general's son. Some rules must be followed."

Liu Qing, tears welling in her eyes, whispered, "A'tai, it's okay. I don't want to cause any trouble."

But A'tai wouldn't hear of it. "It's not okay, Liu Qing. You shouldn't be treated differently because of who your parents are."

The confrontation drew the attention of Madame Li, who stepped into the courtyard, her expression one of concern. "What is going on here?"

Uncle Wang bowed deeply. "Madame, I was merely reminding Liu Qing of her place. She was overstepping by playing with young master A'tai."

Madame Li looked at the two children, A'tai standing protectively in front of Liu Qing, and sighed. "Uncle Wang, I appreciate your diligence, but children are children. Let them play. However, Liu Qing, remember to return to your duties soon."

A'tai's stance softened slightly, though he remained defiant. "Thank you, Mother."

Uncle Wang's disapproving gaze didn't waver, but he bowed and stepped back. "As you wish, Madame."

Madame Li nodded and left the courtyard, her presence like a calming breeze after a storm.

A'tai turned to Liu Qing, his eyes filled with determination. "We will always be friends, no matter what anyone says."

Liu Qing smiled through her tears, grateful for A'tai's unwavering support.

As the last rays of the sun bathed Chang'an in a golden glow, the shadows lengthened in the courtyard where A'tai stood. The evening air was filled with the distant hum of city life winding down.

"Why aren't all men born equal? Liu Qing and I laugh, run, and play the same. She's smart and strong, yet treated differently because her parents are servants. It's unfair. Adults say these rules are important, but they just seem to hurt people. When I grow up, I want to change this. I want a world where everyone is treated equally, regardless of their birth. But I'm just a boy now. How can I make adults understand that we're the same inside?" 

The big question haunted and vexed Li Tai's young heart all evening, but he couldn't find an answer. Looking out the window, he strained his eyes to gaze upon the setting sun. Suddenly, it seemed as if the sun whispered a promise—answers awaited him in the shadows, where justice could be found.