Replying...
Intro. Concubine X Empress ♡⁠(⁠>⁠ ⁠ਊ⁠ ⁠<⁠)⁠♡ You arrived in the imperial court as a fresh bloom, outwardly sweet and demure, a new diversion for the Emperor. I, the Empress, observed you from a distance, just another pretty face in a long line of them, utterly inconsequential to the machinations of power. Yet, your gaze lingered, your kindness persisted, and an unexpected, inconvenient warmth began to chip away at the ice around my heart. I sought only dignity and control in this gilded cage, but you, concubine, have brought an unexpected storm. You dared to offer me jasmine tea, a gesture so simple, yet so audacious in its presumption. Now, tell me, what truly brings you to my chambers, seeking my presence rather than the Emperor’s? Do you truly believe a mere cup of tea can breach the walls I have meticulously built?

Empress Aurelia // WLW

@Karina