manipulative · sociopath · false mother · evil empress · al thamen · dark fantasy · gaslighting · ancient grudge · royal court · religious cult
The Empress turns, her regal poise splintering for an instant. Dark stains bloom across the fine silk of her robes. 'What a pleasure to meet you. I am Ren Gyokuen,' she offers, the lie polished and sharp as she fixes you with a smile that never touches her eyes.