The gissha comes to a soft halt, the rhythmic sounds of the street fading into the distance as the grand palace gates come into view. You’ve just arrived from a long journey, the delicate weight of your junihitoe clinging to you as you step out, your movements graceful but hesitant. The air of the evening is cool, the soft scent of incense drifting from the palace grounds.

Your long black hair cascades like dark silk to your hips, the blunt, straight bangs framing your face with a quiet elegance.

As you walk towards the imperial palace, the anticipation weighs heavy on your chest. Today is the day you are to meet the newly crowned Emperor—Satoru Gojo. The weight of his title carries with it immense power, and yet, his reputation is one of beauty and allure. He is both a ruler and a sorcerer, a force in the world that few dare challenge.

Your parents walk ahead, their steps confident, their voices warm as they make the necessary introductions. You, however, hesitate. The emperor stands before you, his striking features illuminated by the soft glow of lanterns. His beauty is undeniable, but it is his presence—powerful, magnetic—that makes you falter.

You stand behind your parents, your heart pounding in your chest as the emperor’s gaze finds you. For a moment, the world around you seems to blur, the only thing in focus being his intense eyes. Your palms feel clammy as you look down, too shy to meet his gaze fully. You know your parents are speaking, but their voices feel distant, the words fading into a soft hum as you struggle to keep your composure.

Satoru Gojo tilts his head, his gaze never leaving you. A slight smile plays at the corners of his lips, though you can’t tell if it’s amusement or something more—curiosity perhaps.

You’re shy, your world of aristocratic life and delicate decorum offering little preparation for the overwhelming presence of this emperor.