Guo Pu, an orphan with neither father nor mother, enlisted in the army at the age of sixteen and served for four years. At twenty, a life-altering incident led to his sentencing by a military tribunal to life imprisonment.
Four years later, at Qincheng Prison—a facility located near Xiaotangshan in Beijing, renowned as the most infamous prison in China. Originally designed by Soviet experts during their aid to China, the prison features four interrogation-equipped buildings labeled A, B, C, and D. The structures are modest, only three stories high with brick construction and sloped roofs. Each cell spans 200 square meters and includes private bathrooms with seated toilets and foot-pedal flushing systems. To prevent suicides, the walls in cells for high-risk inmates are specially reinforced.
While Qincheng once housed prominent political figures, its expansion has made it a holding ground for notorious felons from across the country. Few ever walk free from its confines. Yet today, a young man, carrying a small bag, steps out of Cell A in Block A, trailing behind a guard.
As he passes each solitary cell, voices echo from behind the iron doors, some in reverence, others in envy:
“Take care, Dragon!”
“Dragon, you’re lucky as hell! Walking out of here alive!”
“Don’t forget us when you’re out, brother!”
These hardened criminals, some shackled in chains, stand by their doors, gazing at the departing youth. His slender figure and clean, almost delicate features make him an anomaly in a place like Qincheng. Despite his youthful, star-like appearance, his sharp, sword-like brows exude an unmatched, imposing aura.
With a carefree grin, Guo Pu retorts, “Hell no! I’m not coming back! You guys behave yourselves, alright? I’m outta here!”
Though the youngest in the prison, Guo Pu commands unparalleled respect, as evident from the prisoners' attitudes. Swinging his small bag casually, he walks past the gates accompanied by several officers.
“Finally, I’m free!” He exhales deeply, savoring the fresh air outside the prison as he strides toward a row of sleek black cars waiting at the entrance. Five luxury sedans line up, each flanked by two imposing bodyguards in black suits and sunglasses.
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Tossing his bag at one guard, Guo Pu snatches another’s sunglasses with a smirk, donning them. “Trying to act cool in front of me? Get real!”
In the center limousine, a stunning woman sits in the front seat. Her long, flowing hair frames bright, lively eyes resembling Guo Pu’s, though hers hold a mature charm. Dressed in a tailored professional suit that accentuates her curvaceous figure, she crosses her elegant legs, radiating sophistication.
“Well, hello there, gorgeous! May I have the pleasure of your name?” Guo Pu teases.
Her lips, adorned with subtle purple gloss, curve into a tender, slightly bashful smile. This man is like a mischievous younger brother—and more. She laughs, a blend of affection and mild embarrassment. “Still the same cheeky brat! Get in!”
Nearby, an elderly man with neatly combed white hair steps out. Clad in a gray Zhongshan suit, his weathered face is full of wrinkles, yet his sharp eyes radiate a commanding presence.
“Old man, you’re here too?” Guo Pu grins mischievously.
The elder scowls. “You little rascal! I should’ve left you in there for life—might’ve saved me some headaches!”
“Heh, grandpa, no need to get angry. Let’s go; I’m starving!” Guo Pu’s playful grin softens into a more endearing, coaxing expression, his demeanor lazy yet charming.
The elder chuckles, his stern façade cracking. “Fine, fine, let’s head home!”
As the convoy speeds toward Beijing, the atmosphere in the car turns quiet, punctuated by fleeting moments of introspection.
Breaking the silence, the woman—Wang Sirui—gently suggests, “Why don’t you come work at my company, Xiao Long? Stay close to me.”
Guo Pu shakes his head, prompting her to press further. “Then what’s your plan?”
Leaning back lazily, his arm draped around her, he replies with a grin, “I just want some freedom for now. By the way, Grandpa, can you get me an ID and a degree? Nothing too flashy—just a Ph.D. will do. And maybe some spending money.”
The old man scoffs. “That’s the easy part. But don’t waste your potential. I was even considering asking some connections to set up a special task force for you to lead!”
“Forget it, old man. After what happened four years ago, I’m done with all that.” His relaxed demeanor falters briefly, a shadow of weariness crossing his face.
“Still dwelling on that?” the elder presses.
Guo Pu shrugs nonchalantly, deflecting with a laugh. “National interests above all, right? Sacrifice one for the happiness of billions. No big deal.”
The elder sighs heavily. “You stubborn brat. Fine, do as you wish. But remember, if I ever need you for something...you better step up.”
“Deal,” Guo Pu replies with a smirk.
Their conversation shifts to lighter topics as they approach the city, the luxury cars blending seamlessly into Beijing’s bustling streets.