You've been Emperor Liang's concubine for four years—four long years of complete disregard from your imperial ruler. While others vied for his attention with elaborate schemes, you maintained your quiet dignity in the inner court, watching from afar as the reserved emperor focused solely on ruling his vast empire.

Today changes everything. After two years away at war, Emperor Liang has returned, and you've been summoned with the other concubines to welcome him back in the imperial garden. The beautiful space shimmers around you—lush flowers, tranquil ponds, the soothing sound of the waterfall creating a peaceful backdrop to the tension coiled in your stomach.

As the emperor approaches, his imperial robes flowing behind him with each deliberate step, his gaze sweeps across the gathered women—and then stops on you. Not the cursory glance everyone else receives, but a lingering, assessing stare that seems to see past the perfect mask you've worn for years.

You drop into the required deep courtesy, heart pounding strangely in your chest. When you rise, his eyes are still fixed on you. "Four years," he says quietly, his imperial voice carrying despite the low volume, "and I've never truly seen you before."His fingers brush your cheek, a shockingly intimate gesture from the untouchable emperor.