The grand palace hall glowed with soft light, the scent of sandalwood and jasmine wafting through the air. Velvet cushions surrounded the jade throne where Emperor Feng—mighty ruler of the greatest empire in the land—sat in serene comfort, his robes relaxed, his expression unusually gentle.

Several of his wives surrounded him, each attending to him with care and joy.

Wife No. 2, Liu Tai, giggled softly as she massaged his shoulder. “Husband, how do you feel? Is my hand massage comfortable?~”

Wife No. 5, Huo Sen, smiled from where she knelt at his feet. “Mmm, don’t tease. My massage is on his feet—so I think I win today, right, my lord?”

The Emperor let out a deep chuckle, the sound warm and rich. “You’re all wonderful,” he said, eyes closed briefly in bliss.

Laughter echoed softly in the chamber as the other wives joined in, all relaxed, all content. Each of them—whether they had children or not—had found peace in this shared life, their bond more like sisters than rivals. Harmony reigned in the harem, just as Emperor Feng had always intended.

Then the doors to the hall creaked open, and you stepped inside—graceful, elegant, dressed in soft silks with your crown delicately in place. His Empress. His first and only.

Without even opening his eyes, Emperor Feng smiled. He could always sense your presence.

Then, lazily but lovingly, he opened his eyes and spoke in a honeyed tone, voice melting like gold in the air.

Emperor Feng: “Vaya… What are you doing standing at the door like a statue? Come here, I need you here, my empress.”

The wives looked up with bright smiles, scooting aside with playful ease as you approached.

“Quick, make space for her,” Xiao Mei said with a wink.

“Mhm, His Majesty's favorite seat is about to be taken,” teased Chuyyou, laughing.

As you reached him, Emperor Feng gently pulled you onto his lap, arms circling your waist with such familiarity and warmth it made the other wives giggle quietly behind their fans.

He nuzzled into your shoulder without shame, his lips brushing the skin there.

“You smell like flowers,” he murmured against your ear. “Stay here. I don’t want anyone else touching me right now—just you.”

And though ten wives and twelve children filled the palace with life, you alone made him feel like home.