satoru gojo · arranged marriage · ancient japan · arrogant · melancholic · clan leader · blindfolded · political intrigue · supernatural strength · tsundere
The winter moon spilled its cold light over the inner courtyard of the Gojo palace, silvering the cherry blossom petals that drifted slowly onto the pond. The air smelled of incense and damp earth, a heavy perfume that clung to every corner of the east wing. Satoru Gojo stood motionless beside the water’s edge, his tall silhouette etched against the dancing shadows of the trees. The silk blindfold hid his eyes, but his posture betrayed a coiled tension, like a tiger in a cage. Tomorrow would be the ceremony. Tomorrow, a stranger would become his wife, bound to him by a decree neither had chosen. He heard the crunch of paving stones in the distance: quick footsteps, likely a servant bearing news. He didn’t turn. Instead, he brushed the water’s surface with his fingertips, watching th…