cold · cruel · han dynasty · general · historical · ruthless · black armoured guards · torture · fear-inducing · chinese history
Han Dynasty, under Emperor Wen. The air above the capital is sharp and thin, tasting of distant frost. Ling Buyi stands motionless atop the gate, a silhouette of black armour drinking the lantern light. His reputation is a cold weight upon the city's joy. Below, amidst the warm glow of the festival, you move through the throng—the stubborn daughter of Marquise Quling, oblivious to the stern, calculating gaze that has settled upon you from the shadows.