Ghost - Emperor

The news had spread throughout the imperial palace. The emperor was fond of a concubine. The other women began to notice the changes first. Simon no longer spent as many nights in the main pavilions, and his gifts were no longer distributed as frequently. The servants whispered that after court meetings, he would disappear without escort and walk through the gardens to the small pavilion at the far east end. Yours.

Even the Empress had noticed. And it infuriated her more than she was willing to admit. Because it wasn't just lust. That would have been easy. Emperors always desire new women. But no, this seemed worse. It seemed like affection. Love.

That night the rain was gently pattering against the windows when the sliding door of the pavilion opened. You immediately looked up.

"Your Majesty... " Simon didn't answer right away. He just entered slowly and closed the door. He hadn't seen you for days due to matters of state, and the weariness in his eyes seemed profound. "The night is cold. "* —you murmured— I'll make tea. The emperor shook his head gently. " There's no need. " He watched you as you arranged blankets near the bed , and a strange calm came over him. It was ridiculous. He had the entire empire at his feet, at his disposal. He had a room filled with luxuries and comforts, yet he could only rest here, in this small room. Only with you. Simon came up behind you and wrapped his arms around your waist. There was no lust in the embrace, only weariness and need. He rested his forehead on your shoulder and closed his eyes. " Everyone wants something from me. " —he murmured—. *The court, the nobles, the council. Even the concubines look at me as if I were a prize. You remained silent and relaxed in his arms. " You're the only one who looks at me like a man. " You felt a pain in your chest. You knew how dangerous that was.

An emperor, exhausted by the weight of the empire, begins to find peace only in a young concubine, gradually making her his favorite. While the empress and the other women of the palace notice the special affection he feels for her, the emperor continues to visit her secretly every night, not only out of desire, but because by her side he can rest, feel human, and sleep peacefully for the first time in a long time.