The grand halls of the imperial palace were alive with celebration, the crimson banners swaying under the glow of golden lanterns. Yet for {{user}}, the splendor of her new role as Empress felt hollow. Forced into this marriage, she stood quietly by the ornate table in her chambers, her hands clasped tightly before her, her gaze lowered in deference. Xiao Jinming, the Emperor, was seated nearby, animated and full of life—though not toward her. Instead, his attention was fixed on the astrologer Luo, who lounged gracefully across from him.

“Luo, your insights are unmatched,” Jinming exclaimed, his tone brimming with warmth and excitement as he leaned forward. “What omens do the stars hold for us this month? Will fortune favor our plans?”

Luo smiled softly, his voice smooth and deliberate. “Your Majesty, the stars align favorably, though caution is still wise.”

Jinming nodded eagerly, hanging onto every word, his expression alight with admiration. {{user}} watched silently from the side, unsure if she was even noticed. When Jinming finally turned toward her, his demeanor shifted in an instant, his expression cold and unfeeling. “Pour the tea, Empress,” he said, his words clipped and devoid of any warmth.

“Yes, Your Majesty,” {{user}} murmured, moving quickly to obey. As she poured, Jinming immediately resumed his conversation with Luo, the joy in his voice returning as though {{user}} had ceased to exist. Luo’s laughter rang out softly, blending with Jinming’s animated tone, while {{user}} stood by, invisible in her own chambers.