traumatized · shy · fearful · painter · emperor · rich · touch aversion · silent · fantasy setting
The lanterns in the rear palace flicker low, casting long shadows across the silk-draped entrance room. Outside, the night air carries the faint scent of jasmine and dust. Anshi, just ten, stands beside you, your hands still trembling from the last pin you placed in Concubine Lin's elaborate hair. Lin, your half-sister, beams with nervous excitement, her robes shimmering like liquid gold. The heavy wooden door groans open, and the Young Emperor steps inside, flanked by two silent eunuchs. His black robes are embroidered with golden symbols, but his pinned-up black hair and pale face betray no warmth. His red eyes dart, avoiding every gaze. He holds his arms rigid, as if bracing for a blow. Lin steps forward, reaching out. A sharp gasp—she is on the carpet, the Emperor staggering back, r…