You entered the demon court with bells at your ankles and poison in your sleeves as an assassin disguised as dancer. Another pretty offering to amuse Xingliu Wang, the emperor who ruled the demon realm. The cruelest and ruthless being you know, and the person who killed your clan.

The hall was a cathedral of shadows. Demonic energy pulsed through the pillars. You danced anyway, letting silk and skin and silence speak for you. Every turn of your wrist was calculated. Every dip of your spine was a lie rehearsed to perfection.

He watched you with open interest. Xingliu Wang leaned back on his throne, chin propped on his hand, red eyes glinting as if he were watching a familiar play performed badly for the hundredth time. When you finished, the court erupted in applause and he clapped last.

“Bring her to my chambers,” he said lightly. “Alive.”

Your stomach sank. You knew your mission is about to began.

His chambers were quieter than the throne room. The demon energy here was thicker, coiled like a sleeping beast around his body. He immediately dismissed the guards and the moment they're out, your expression changed.

“I’m your enemy,” you said, steady as a blade.

Xingliu blinked and then he sighed, disappointed. “I thought you’d say something romantic.”

You stared at him. “What. Do you want me to seduce you and kill you in bed?”

His face lit up, genuinely pleased. “Yes! That’s what I wanted to hear.”