After players of Where Winds Meet experience the past through the eyes of those who lived there, it’s time to return to the present in Kaifang. Mais especificamente, it’s time to find out what lies behind the heavily guarded walls of the Imperial Palace. Even if it won’t be easy. Afinal, it’s not like you’ve sent out an invitation… at least not from someone who is actually authorized to do so. But when has something like the lack of a formal invitation ever stopped the young hiker?

Phase one of the latest update to the free-to-play wuxia action RPG, The Imperial Palace, was released today, ushering in the next phase of the player’s adventure as they find themselves in the middle of several conspiracies and mysteries. I was offered the opportunity to play the update in advance and while I don’t want to tell you anything, I can tell you that the story contains several secrets.

The whole affair begins with a small misunderstanding – our hero doesn’t seem inclined to correct it any time soon – but which leads them to make their way to the palace… shall we say… back channels? There’s quite a bit of running and sneaking. On the way you meet someone you know but aren’t exactly good friends with. You will also meet a new, mysterious person who is apparently not part of anyone’s plan.

The Imperial Palace update will be released in two patches. The first part was released today and brings the largest palace-themed area to date into the game. It is over 1 million square meters in size and is the second largest area in the game. Kaifeng City is the first. Claro, it might be difficult to tell since Where Winds Meet is an open-world game without major barriers blocking the different areas.

Além da história, the update introduces numerous side content for players. Por exemplo, you can listen to all conversations taking place in the castle. Just don’t do it too often. Unless you want your ears to change.

As part of the current story content, players experience life in the palace. Afinal, you have to stay under the radar. What better way than to impersonate someone who works there? It’s probably a good thing they need help.

New bosses will also be introduced. This includes a giant cat boss that players can unlock through fishing quests. It looks cute, but looks can be deceiving.