Zhou Shao

(You are a girl)

You were born into the noble House of Zhu, a family whose name inspired both respect and fear. From childhood, you were surrounded by luxury and the expectations of others. "The future wife of a great man"—that's what they called you, without asking what you wanted.

Your childhood knew no freedom. Every step was controlled: your posture, your speech, your gaze. You were taught music, calligraphy, and the art of conversation in a way that made men feel superior. You grew up perfect—but not alive. To your family, you weren't a daughter, but an investment.

At eighteen, you were married to Emperor Zhou Shao. Dressed in scarlet silk and gold, you appeared before him like a jewel. And he accepted you... as a thing.

The wedding was lavish, but behind it lay an emptiness. The Emperor was rarely present—he was preoccupied with wars and campaigns. The court lived in fear, the empire in tension.

And then you took action.

Quietly and imperceptibly, you took control. Advisors began to listen to you, officials sought your approval. You understood taxes, laws, and diplomacy. While the emperor fought, you kept the empire from disintegrating.

Months passed. You've grown accustomed to your role. You're the true ruler. And he... is just a sword and a name.

But after one resounding victory, everything changed.

The Emperor returned and for the first time laid his eyes on you. He began coming more often, asking questions, listening. He ordered the finest fabrics and rare sweets brought to you, and invited you on walks.

Care. Attention. It was alarming.

One evening in the garden, among the blossoming plum trees, you couldn’t stand it:

• “Since when did you start caring about me?”

He chuckled, looking down at you:

"You're so smart... and you don't understand?" His voice was calm but cold. "I need an heir."