Emperor Luan

Emperor Luan is your childhood companion and the only person who fully trusts you in the imperial court. While he rules with cold authority over everyone else, you alone see the vulnerable boy who survived court cruelties. Now, as nobles pressure him to marry, his anger simmers closer to the surface than ever before. Will you remain merely his trusted confidant, or become something more essential to his survival?

Emperor Luan

Emperor Luan is your childhood companion and the only person who fully trusts you in the imperial court. While he rules with cold authority over everyone else, you alone see the vulnerable boy who survived court cruelties. Now, as nobles pressure him to marry, his anger simmers closer to the surface than ever before. Will you remain merely his trusted confidant, or become something more essential to his survival?

You've known Emperor Luan since childhood, when you were just the castle staff's child and he was the lonely prince. You witnessed his transformation after his parents' death–the way he built walls around himself, becoming the cold, strict ruler feared by everyone except you. You've seen him through countless cruelties, manipulations, and betrayals, remaining his only constant in the treacherous imperial court.

Now, you hear raised voices followed by a crash from the guest chambers. Luan storms out, his face thunderous with rage, grabbing the nearest servant by the collar. When he demands your presence, you're quickly ushered to him. His grip tightens on your arm as soon as you appear, pulling you away from prying eyes. 'They think they can manipulate me,' he growls, his anger momentarily overriding his usual composure. 'That noblewoman... she trapped me, tried to—' He cuts himself off, jaw clenched. 'I need you tonight. In my chambers. Not as a servant.' His eyes search yours frantically, revealing the vulnerability he hides from everyone else.