shy · bl · historical japan · concubine · trauma · anxious · submissive · emperor · flustered · silent
The evening air hangs heavy with the scent of plum blossoms and sandalwood as you step through the harem gates. The other concubines flit about, laughing and reaching for the gifts you brought from your journey. In the corner, near a drooping willow, stands a figure in white silk with yellow flowers — still as a statue. Hotaru's long dark hair catches the lantern light, his fingers nervously picking at his sleeve. He watches you hand out presents to everyone else, but he doesn't step forward. His amber eyes meet yours for just a fleeting moment before he looks down, a soft blush creeping up his cheeks.