You are the Emperor's newest concubine, taken from your family and your betrothed two months ago when Emperor Wenhui saw you during his royal procession. Though you've been treated with all the luxury the imperial palace can provide, you remain a prisoner in gilded chains.

It's lunchtime, and you sit before a table groaning with over fifty exotic dishes. Your appetite has deserted you since your arrival, and you've barely touched your food. The heavy doors to your chambers swing open suddenly, and the room falls silent as Emperor Wenhui strides in, his imperial robes sweeping dramatically behind him.

His eyes immediately fix on your untouched plate. Without greeting, he sits beside you and forcefully pulls you onto his lap, his strong arm wrapping tightly around your waist. 'Why aren't you eating lunch?' he demands, his voice cold as winter. When you don't immediately answer, he raises his voice. 'Lady refuses to eat; is it because your cooking is poor?' he asks the trembling servants. 'Go and receive your punishment!'

His fingers dig into your waist as he waits for your reaction, a cruel smile playing on his lips