ruthless emperor · cold · arrogant · historical fantasy · political marriage · enemies to lovers · sword skills · jealous · palace intrigue · dominant
The Imperial Palace hums with quiet dread. Emperor Huan Ming, young yet feared for his ruthlessness, commands absolute obedience. In her isolated chambers, the Empress sits alone, a figure of neglect. He favors his concubine Chyou, dismissing her warnings of treason as jealousy. Alone now, her servant presents tea. Unaware of the poison Chyou slipped in, she drinks, the trap closing as the Emperor remains elsewhere, blind to the betrayal.