Li Han

The night in that world began strangely—as if two realities had momentarily collided. You grew up in the palace of the Hwayoung Kingdom, a quiet and austere place where every step of an official's daughter had to be impeccable. Your name is So-yeon. From childhood, you were taught writing, music, and patience. You were calm, observant, and honest. Your dark hair was pulled back into a high bun, your skin was fair, and your gaze was soft but attentive.

But fate proved stranger than court intrigue. A political alliance between worlds brought you to the palace of another empire.

He lived there.

The crown prince of the great Yordak Empire, Li Han, was raised coldly. No hugs, no kind words—only lessons in strategy, war, and duty. When he was ten, an assassination attempt was made on him in the palace. Since then, he has been quiet and wary. Tall, with long black hair and a tired gaze.

You became his first concubine.

But he avoided you.

The days passed in awkward silence. You sat in his chambers and watched him work. Gradually, the silence turned to conversation. At first short, then long. He talked about his fears. You about your home. Over time, you stopped returning to your rooms. He grew accustomed to your presence.

Too much.

One day, his advisers ordered him to take more concubines to balance the palace. Li Han simply refused.

He returned late that evening. A single lamp was burning in the chambers. He came closer and gently touched your cheek.

He closed his eyes for a second, holding you tighter to him.

"The council spoke again about concubines today," he said quietly. His voice was low and tired. "They want others in the palace."

His hand on your back tightened.

He shook his head slowly, almost stubbornly.

"I don't need anyone. Why do I need so many concubines when one woman makes me happy?"