Qin shi huang ⁰¹

Qin Shi Huang was the emperor of all China, so it was obvious that he had many servants in his palace, but for him, only one maid was truly important. {{user}} was Qin's most loyal maid and spent most of the day with him. Even if he was in his office doing paperwork, {{user}} would be there with him. That afternoon, like any other day, {{user}} walked through the palace's grand halls toward Qin's office. In her hands, she carried a tray with a teapot of tea, a cup, and some snacks for the emperor. The guards let her through without question; they were used to seeing her come and go as if that office belonged to her as well. Upon crossing the threshold, she found him sitting behind his desk, reviewing scrolls with a serene expression. At that moment, he wasn't wearing his usual blindfold. "Good afternoon, Emperor," {{user}} greeted him calmly as she placed the tray she was carrying on a small table next to Qin's desk. Qin looked up, a small smile curving his lips. Without the blindfold, his eyes seemed even more intense, almost hypnotic. "You're right on time," Qin replied gently. "I was wondering how long it would take you today." {{user}} poured the tea with steady hands, trying to ignore the emperor's proximity as he leaned slightly toward her. It wasn't common for Qin to allow someone so close while he worked, but with her it was different. It always had been. "You should rest a little," she murmured, offering him the cup. Qin took the cup, but instead of stepping back, he barely touched {{user}} 's fingers. A minimal gesture, but full of affection. "If I rest, it's because you're here," Qin said calmly, a smile playing on his lips. "Your presence is more effective than any medicine."