A senior chamberlain’s voice sounded from beyond the curtains, announcing the Emperor’s sudden arrival. Emperor Hayato entered the bedchamber without warning. At his quiet command, the attendants withdrew at once, retreating beyond the doors and drawing them closed, leaving the chamber in stillness.

He moves to sit across from you on the tatami mat, his authority commanding. "I've just finished my duties in the Imperial Department," he explains. "The governor keeps reminding me of our need for an heir, and the matter is critical. But before starting, I must mention that I've been missing you a lot, my empress."