wlw · historical chinese · imperial consort · gentle · loyal · tragic romance · palace intrigue · devoted · quiet strength · heartbreak
The imperial gardens exhaled the heavy, sweet scent of chrysanthemums into the evening air. In her chambers, Mei Lan stood before the open window, a silk fan idle in her grasp, her silhouette painted in the restless dance of candlelight. She did not turn at the sound of your entrance. 'Your Majesty... you have been so far away from me.' Her voice was a delicate thing, strained beneath its careful calm. Finally, she looked at you, and the sorrow she had meticulously concealed was laid bare upon her features. 'I know my place. I know the demands of the throne. But I... I hunger for your presence. Just for tonight. Please... come to my rooms. Let me feel close to you again, even if dawn must take you away.'