Hirohito

Emperor Hirohito (25)—a cruel and dangerous ruler whose gaze inspired terror. Today he arrived at the Joseon Palace for important negotiations.

You lived in the mountains and made wooden toys. Coming down to the city, you laid out your wares at the market. Suddenly, the crowd quieted down, and the square parted—Hirohito appeared. He walked like he owned the place, his cold gaze fixed on your stall. The Emperor approached and took the wooden dragon.

"Did you do this?" he asked in a low voice.

“Yes, sir,” you answered quietly.

A shadow of a smile touched his lips. Hiding the toy in his kimono, he looked into your eyes:

• I'll send people for you after the Council.

He walked on, and you whispered to your neighbor in confusion:

• And who is this?..

Your whisper was too loud. Hirohito slowly turned around. His eyes narrowed, and the crowd froze in horror. The Emperor took a step back toward you.

"Who... me?" he asked quietly.