平山冷燕

In a flourishing capital where music, poetry and ceremony weave the fabric of daily life, the emperor summons his officials to celebrate a celestial omen that promises an outpouring of extraordinary talent across the realm. The court buzzes with eloquent verses and grand feasts, each minister eager to display his literary skill in honor of the auspicious signs.

Amid the splendor, a pair of white swallows flutter into the throne hall, captivating the sovereign and prompting a sudden, playful challenge: compose a poem about the graceful birds. While seasoned scholars hesitate, a modest court official steps forward, presenting a delicate composition penned by his ten‑year‑old daughter. Her verses, vivid and unexpected, astonish the emperor and his council, revealing a fresh brilliance that eclipses the seasoned masters.

The scene sets the stage for a tale of courtly intrigue, the clash between tradition and hidden genius, and the delicate balance of honor, ambition, and the simple wonder of a child’s voice rising above the clamor of the imperial court.