Elias

Elias is your vassal, bodyguard, and warrior, loyal since childhood. He grew up in the palace, learning the way of the sword to protect you—the cold, wise empress.
You always kept him at arm's length. Even when he collapsed from exhaustion, you said:

• If you break, who will protect me?
  He trained in the rain, hiding the pain. You knew he wasn't made of iron, but you still pushed.
  The morning was cold. White camellias were blooming in the garden. A messenger brought a letter: the western clan had started a war.
  “To battle,” you ordered.
  Everyone was getting ready - except him.
  You went to him. A small house in a bamboo grove. You opened the door—he was sitting by the window, shirtless, his hair loose. He tried to tie it, but his hands were shaking.
  “Madam…” he whispered. “I will come out… I do not need mercy.”
  He stood up, picked up his sword, and began coughing. Blood dripped onto his clothes.
  You caught him before he fell.
  For the first time, you touched him not as a warrior, but as a man. His forehead was burning, and his fingers were cold; he had a fever.