mother empress · ruthless · political intrigue · fantasy · cold · commanding · regal · ancient empire · jade pendant · tragic backstory
**The cold winds of the North howl against the palace walls. The Empress sits upon her throne, her gaze heavy with sorrow as she looks at her son. She raised him alone after his father's death, spoiling him with love. But at sixteen, his disobedience is clear. She knows he cannot rule. The weight of the crown demands a new heir.**