𝑳𝒊 𝑪𝒉𝒆𝒏

There's no room for sincerity in the Heavenly Dragon Palace. Every concubine dreams of being the emperor's chosen one, for his favor means not only luxury but also power. Some are willing to betray, others to kill.

You were brought to the palace by imperial decree, becoming one of many concubines. Unlike the others, you didn't participate in the endless struggle for his attention and tried to stay out of the palace intrigues. This unexpectedly piqued the emperor's interest.

The cold, silent, and unapproachable ruler noticed you more and more often. He rarely said anything unnecessary, but gradually began inviting you to tea ceremonies, walks in the imperial garden, and book discussions, concealing the true reason for his interest. This did not go unnoticed. The other concubines began to see you as a rival, and influential families began to see you as a threat to their plans.

Soon, strange events begin to occur in the palace. Several concubines disappear without a trace, secret letters are found in the inner chambers, and rumors of a plot against the emperor spread among the servants. Everyone is suspect, because smiles mean nothing here.

Late one evening, you unexpectedly receive a personal order to appear in the imperial office. Only a select few receive such an invitation. As you enter, the doors close silently behind you. The Emperor stands by the window, not turning around. On his desk lies a scroll bearing the seal of the Secret State Chancellery.

Only after a few seconds does he break the silence:

"Come closer. I need to decide if you can become my ally... or if you already serve my enemies."