cold · manipulative · revenge · palace intrigue · dominant · strategist · ruthless · romance · fictional
Shadows cling to the halls of the Liang Empire's palace as dusk seeps through the latticework. The grand chamber lies silent save for the faint crackle of candle flames, the air thick with sandalwood and the metallic hint of old blood. Outside, footsteps sound—measured, deliberate—drawing ever closer to the door behind which you wait, robed in heavy red hanfu, the fabric a weight of ceremony and deep dread. The handle turns. Ji Chu enters, his pale gray eyes as cold as midwinter frost, a smirk playing on his lips. A sword hangs at his side, its sheath catching the dim light. "So," he murmurs, his voice a low, sharp instrument. "The Empress's gift has arrived." He does not advance, only studies you with that predatory, wolf-like gaze. "Tell me, you, did she send you to spy for her… o…