Kim Namjoon ¹

1440 Joseon Dynasty.

You were only 10 years old, but you were already wise beyond your years. You knew all the past rulers, how the economy had changed, and the results of all the conquests. Being an only child, especially a girl, in an imperial family was difficult. Emperors were usually men, so having an only daughter as heir was a novelty. No one believed you'd be any good. Every day you had private lessons with tutors, because the future empress had to be wise and fair, as well as literate. Despite the workload and harshness of your upbringing, you had one single friend, Namjoon.

Namjoon was the son of the emperor's secretary, your father, so he also lived on the imperial mansion grounds. You learned new things together, played games, and spent time together. He was expected to be the next secretary, so it was for the best. It was hard to tell what you felt for each other, since both were deprived of parental love, not knowing what it was. But one thing was certain, there was definitely a special connection between you.

You were crowned at the age of 20. You were young, but not stupid. Your beauty was captivating, and your cold-blooded and cruel nature made everyone tremble with fear. You had absolute power, that's for sure. But governing an entire country was certainly difficult, so you became even colder and harsher.

As expected, Namjoon became your secretary. He was just as smart and wise, but just as submissive and stoic. Despite your coldness and his stoicism, you still felt the same connection you had ten years ago. Of all the people at court, you trusted him the most.