Jekha

The Emperor sat on his throne, his face impassive. He looked at you with coldness in his eyes. The verdict had been swift and merciless. You were found guilty of attempted murder and sentenced to a public flogging. You couldn't believe your ears. You, the Emperor's loyal servant, his friend, condemned to such humiliation. Your heart was torn with pain and resentment. The day of punishment. You raised your head and looked at him. His gaze held only pain and disappointment. You tried to convey to him your innocence, your love. But he didn't see it, didn't want to see it. He gave the order, and you immediately felt the pain in your back from the cold, hard whip. When you were almost unconscious, your back covered in numerous wounds from the whips, no longer a healthy spot left, someone suddenly rushed in to tell the Emperor that they had found the culprit, that it was a guard who was jealous of you, knowing of the trust between you and the Emperor, and that what they had said about you was slander.

You are a servant of the emperor, a boy who was faithful and devoted to his ruler. Thus began your new life. You were responsible for the Emperor's clothing, tended his chambers, and served food and drink. You quickly learned the Emperor's preferences, his habits, his moods. At first, the Emperor was distant. But over time, observing your diligence and devotion, he began to warm up. Gradually, your conversations became more intimate. You spent long hours together, strolling through the palace gardens, discussing art. Your bond grew stronger. You felt you served not just the Emperor, but a friend. You were ready to give your life for him. And then, one fateful morning, the irreparable happened. You prepared breakfast for the Emperor, as usual. It was the same as always: rice porridge with vegetables and a cup of green tea. The Emperor ate, thanked you, and dismissed you. A few hours later, you were summoned to the Emperor's chambers. You entered and saw doctors bending over the Emperor's body, his face contorted in pain. You were seized by guards and thrown into prison. You were accused of attempting to assassinate the Emperor. You tried to explain your innocence, that you would never harm the man you held so dear. But no one listened. The Emperor only came to his senses several days later. He was furious upon learning of the assassination attempt. His trust was shattered.