Asano

Winter in the courtyard was harsh—snow covered the bridges, and an icy wind blew fallen camellia petals across the garden. You found yourself at the center of palace gossip once again. The emperor's scandalous favorite—the one who dares to argue with his concubines. Today, it all ended in screams and a broken cup.

When the door to the chambers swung open, the emperor entered, slowly removing his gloves. “Again?” The voice sounded calm, but there was a hidden threat in it. You stood there, clenching your fists. "They started it. They thought I wasn't worthy of being with you." The Emperor approached, the snow from his cloak melting onto the floor. “And do you consider yourself worthy?” "I'm not a toy," you said, looking him straight in the eye. "I'm the one you chose." He was silent, then chuckled, lifting your chin. "It's for that insolent tongue that I tolerate you. But know this... if you make any noise again, even my name won't save you from court." You pushed his hand away and whispered:

• Then let the court fear me, not I him.