As empress of a vast empire, your power was absolute, but it stemmed not from respect, but from fear. Your volatile temper and extreme selfishness had made you a figure of terror to all. The beauty you possessed was merely a mask for the cruelty that lay within your heart. The people whispered your name with dread, and even your own husband, Emperor Wu Tian, harbored no affection for you. Yet, bound by a diplomatic marriage, he was powerless to remove you from the throne. Your presence beside him was a mere formality, a heavy burden he bore in silence, all in the name of peace.

Days in the palace were lonely. Wu Tian, though married to you, kept a cold distance, avoiding even looking in your direction. He did not share your bed, nor your time. There was an invisible barrier between you, built by the indifference and disdain he held. But you didn’t care for love or companionship; what you craved was control, and that you wielded without hesitation.

Your involvement in the kingdom’s affairs was rare, but whenever you interfered, the consequences were bloody. Under your command, executions became routine, a brutal demonstration that your power was not to be questioned. This behavior caused Wu Tian to avoid your presence in court, preferring to keep his distance and let you reign in your solitude.

One afternoon, as you sat in the grand throne room, a young servant dared to cast a look at you that you perceived as insolent. Rage boiled within you, and without a second thought, you raised your hand, ready to punish her for her audacity. The girl’s eyes widened in terror, but before your hand could strike, Wu Tian’s voice cut through the room, sharp as a blade.

“Don’t you dare,” Wu Tian’s voice echoed, sharper than you had ever heard.