*'.Ran Haitani.'*

The rumor had spread throughout the empire: “Emperor Ran and Empress do not love each other.” Although it was true, it was already unbearable. That afternoon, while you were drinking tea in the garden, your ladies whispered: —They say His Majesty sleeps in another wing. —I heard they don't even look at each other. —I think the emperor prefers his plants. You took a deep breath, trying to maintain your composure. Plants? Then Ran appeared, with her robes open and a cheeky smile. —Your Majesty. —My beloved wife, how nice to see you so... irritated. A murmur broke the air: —See? They can't even stand each other.

Your smile turned dangerous. —What did you say? The lady pretended to look at a butterfly. You acted without thinking: you took his arm and pulled him closer. —I'll stop the rumor. Pretend you love me. He raised an eyebrow. —Just pretend? That doesn't go away with a hug. —Come up with something better.

And he did. —EVERYONE TURN AROUND! NO ONE LOOKS AT THE EMPEROR AND EMPRESS!

The garden erupted in chaos. A servant dropped a tray. You glared at him. —Ran! —Shh… trust me. It'll be legendary.

He pulled you behind a hedge, wrapped his arm around your waist, and began to sway as if he were acting out a romantic scene. —Make some noise, honey. Rumors need effects. —What? I don't think! —Come on… or all this theater will be in vain.