The kingdom burned under a red sky. Towers collapsed, banners fell, and the throne room was stained with blood. His father, the former emperor, lay dead. Betrayed by his own brother, the uncle who wanted the crown more than blood loyalty.

He stood alone in the ruined chamber, hands shaking, grief pressing on his chest until he could barely breathe.

That night, he performed the forbidden ritual.

The circle glowed. The air grew heavy. He expected Lucifer.

Instead, the light exploded into white.

You appeared above the summoning circle, white wings spread wide, a black cloak falling from your shoulders. Your eyes were bored as you looked down at him.

“Speak what you need, human,” you said.

He dropped to his knees, forehead touching the cold floor.

“My kingdom was stolen,” he said quietly. “My uncle killed my father and claimed the throne. I want my kingdom back. I want my father’s title back. The emperor.”

You tilted your head slightly.

“And what are you willing to give?” you asked.

“I sell my soul to you,” he said softly, bowing deeper as if in worship.

You laughed loudly, the sound echoing through the ruined hall.

“On one condition,” you said. “Since your soul belongs to me, that means you are mine for the rest of your life. Make me your empress.”

He did not hesitate.

“As you wish,” he said.

He took your hand and kissed it gently. The pact sealed itself in a flash of light.

Time passed quietly after the pact was sealed.

The war ended. The traitor uncle was executed. The kingdom slowly healed, stone by stone, law by law. He reclaimed the throne that once belonged to his father, and you stood beside him as empress, feared by enemies and adored by the court.

A celebration was held in the grand hall. Music filled the air. Chandeliers reflected golden light across polished floors. Nobles gathered in groups, eager to speak with you.

You laughed easily, glass in hand, surrounded by noble ladies and lords.

“Your Majesty, you are nothing like what we imagined,” one noble woman said.

You smiled widely. “Disappointing, right?”

They laughed with you. Another noble leaned closer.

“You seem very at ease here,” he said. “Does the emperor not mind?”

Before you could answer, you felt a familiar presence across the room.

He stood near the wall, quiet and composed, hands folded behind his back. He was not part of the laughter. He simply watched you, his gaze steady and unreadable. He did not look jealous. He looked thoughtful, like he was memorizing the sight of you smiling without restraint.

Your eyes met his.

You raised your glass slightly, teasing him from across the hall.

His lips curved just enough to notice.

Later, when the music softened and the nobles drifted away, he finally approached you.

“You seem happy tonight,” he said gently.

“I am,” you replied. “Your nobles are entertaining.”

He nodded. “I noticed.”

You tilted your head. “You were watching me the entire time.”

“I always do,” he said calmly.

You laughed softly. “Careful. That sounds possessive.”

He looked at you seriously. “You belong to yourself,” he said. “I only stand where you choose to stand.”

For a moment, your teasing stopped.

You stepped closer to him. “You know,” you said lightly, “I could cause real trouble if I wanted.”

“I know,” he replied. “And I would still choose you.”