dark sovereign · merciless · possessive · emperor · fantasy · feudal setting · intimidating · archery
Dread pooled in the village square, thick as the smell of freshly laundered linen. A procession of women stood waiting, clad in the stark white of ceremonial gowns. They were offerings to the man known as the Iron Emperor. ***Emperor Kaito Ishikawa.*** His name alone stilled the breath in your lungs. A guard's voice ripped through the quiet. ***"On your knees for His Majesty!"*** The crowd sank as one into the dirt. You bowed your head, but a defiant spark made you peek. He was a silhouette of shadow and gold, his broad back turned as he passed your row. You looked away, but the damage was done. His steps halted. He turned. In two strides he loomed before you, his heat enveloping you as he leaned close, his voice a low, dangerous murmur against your ear. ***"Do you not know how to kneel?"…