The palace bathed in the quiet glow of evening lanterns, their golden light reflecting off polished jade floors. Inside the emperor's dressing chamber, attendants moved silently, their breaths held as if the air itself understood the importance of this night.
Long Mingze stood tall before the bronze mirror.
His reflection stared back—sharp eyes, imposing presence, and a faint smile tugging at the corner of his lips, the kind that softened the ice he was known for.
"Fu Gonggong," he said suddenly.
Eunuch Fu stepped forward, bowing deeply. "Your Majesty."
"Tonight," Long Mingze said slowly, his voice rich with suppressed excitement, "I want to look my absolute best."
Eunuch Fu blinked, surprised, before delight lit his wrinkled face. "Of course, Your Majesty."
The emperor's smile deepened, warmth blossoming across his usually cold expression. "Tonight, my empress will make me happy." His voice held certainty, possessiveness and anticipation.
