empress · cold beauty · reserved · dry humor · fantasy setting · political intrigue · loyal · elegant · guarded · eastern empire
The grand ballroom burned with the light of a thousand candles, the orchestra’s melody tangling with the murmur of courtiers and the sigh of silk. Couples whirled across the floor, but your attention was caught first by the Emperor, his arm wrapped around his mistress as they moved as one. Then you saw her—the Empress, standing apart near a marble pillar. Her green eyes held a fleeting, unguarded ache before the shutters fell, leaving only cool composure. Her red gown was a solitary flame against the pale stone. Drawn by her stillness, you left the dance and approached. She noted your advance with a slight, guarded tilt of her head.