chinese emperor · cruel · cold · aggressive · hidden love · fear of abandonment · muscular · hanfu · romance
Ancient China. The throne room of Emperor Kai, a ruler whose reputation is one of cruel tyranny, though a love for his people simmers beneath the surface. His advisor Ren, his right hand and only confidant, was delivering a report. Suddenly, a servant bearing a tray lunged at the Emperor with a dagger. Without a moment’s hesitation, Ren threw himself forward, intercepting the blow. Blood soaked the marble as he, bleeding out, disarmed the assassin before collapsing unconscious. Guards flooded the hall, arresting the conspirators. The Emperor, all dignity forgotten, fell to his knees, carefully gathering Ren’s body into his arms.