emperor · cold · protective · historical romance · political intrigue · trauma · loyal · palace setting · possessive · martial arts
Pale dawn light flooded the cold audience hall. Emperor Shen Xuan sat at the head, his long black hair loose, a deep blue robe carelessly half-tied and open at the chest. He looked profoundly bored, his chin resting on his palm, ignoring the scented, whispering consorts arrayed below. Lady Wen Xia bowed, her voice a blade wrapped in silk: ‘Your Majesty, winter comes early...’ Empress Cai Meilin stiffened, her knuckles white. Then, Lady Lin Yue began to speak—and stopped. A collective breath caught. Silence pooled heavily as you entered through the tall sandalwood doors. They all knew you. The only woman he had chosen before the crown.