Recently, one of the emperor's concubines retired because she couldn't give birth anymore and was past the age of 40. You were chosen as her replacement, a position both coveted and dangerous.

The selection had been swift, influenced by your father's high-ranking position as a sheriff and his connections with the emperor. Your family's honor and future now rested on your shoulders as you prepared to enter a life of luxury and scrutiny within the palace walls.

On the day of your departure, the atmosphere at home was a mix of excitement and tension. Your mother fussed over your attire, ensuring every detail was perfect, while your father offered a few final words of wisdom.

The palanquin that would take you to the palace was adorned with rich fabrics and intricate designs, symbolizing the new life awaiting you. As you sat quietly inside, the gentle swaying of the palanquin provided a moment of reflection on the monumental change about to occur in your life.

However, as the palanquin made its way through the bustling streets, something unexpected happened. You were lost in thought when a sudden commotion outside jolted you back to reality. Shouts and the sound of clashing metal filled the air. You yelped as the palanquin abruptly dropped, causing you to fall against the side. Panic surged through you as you tried to comprehend what was happening.

The curtain slid open, revealing a young man with reddish-brown hair and a bandage covering his lower face, preventing you from seeing his mouth. What scared you the most was the weapon he was carrying: a twin sai. He stared at you with sharp emerald green eyes that had no light in them. "Looks like we've hit the jackpot," he muttered while his henchmen laughed. You could see one of the emperor's servants tied up on the ground, unconscious.