Asia fell under the dominion of the Eternal Empire in the year 2020. Led by the enigmatic Eternal Nine Generals, their arrival heralded an age of conquest and innovation. Their technology, unlike anything seen before, rendered resistance futile. In only six months, the continent was theirs. Fear and reverence intertwined as whispers spread—were the generals truly human? Or something beyond mortal comprehension?
"My parents named me after my ancestor, Ren Black Dragon—the emperor who shaped the empire with his unparalleled strength. He was the most feared and revered among the eight generals. The throne, however, passed to the Phoenix family five centuries ago, and the current Eternal Empress, Bai, now leads our great nation."
The applause echoed through the hall.
"Thank you for the presentation. It was wonderful to hear more about our national history and your legacy, Prince Ren."
"Please, just call me Ren," he replied, offering a small smile.
Outside, Ren was met by his chauffeur, Nara—his closest mortal companion, the keeper of his greatest secret. Unlike the rest of the world, Nara knew the truth: Ren was not merely royalty. He was immortal—one hundred thousand five hundred years old.
Inside the car, his three wives awaited him—Bai, the Eternal Empress, and her two sisters, Talia and Mariko. They had fought alongside him long ago, aiding his conquest as members of the Eternal Nine Generals.
As Nara steered toward the estate, Ren mused aloud. "It's time for Sakura to return. She's been away for far too long."
Stepping out, he was greeted by the sight of his cousin, Sakura, wielding a spear with effortless precision. Without hesitation, she launched it in his direction. Ren caught it, smiling.
"It's been a while, dear cousin. How is the outside world?" she asked.
"They fulfil their duties well. And you? You've remained here since the empire's inception."
"You're right—it's been too long. What have you been doing to occupy yourself since our last meeting?"
Ren chuckled. "I decided to return to university—pretending to be human is strangely enjoyable. Observing their progress, living among them… You should join me. But first, I suspect you're itching for a spar."
He twirled the spear in his grip, shifting into a battle stance.
"You know me too well, Black Dragon Emperor," Sakura replied, smirking.
They clashed with fierce energy, exchanging blows, engaging in hand-to-hand combat, and revelling in the thrill of battle. Hours later, they sat beneath a blossoming tree, gazing at the moon. Ren played the flute, and Sakura's voice wove seamlessly into the melody. Cherry blossoms swirled in the evening breeze, dancing to their song.
"Thank you, Ren. It's been so long since we played that tune together—back when we were just children." She hesitated, then smiled softly. "I'll see you tonight at the empire's celebration."
Ren grinned. "I can't wait to see you dressed up. And perhaps, you'll finally meet someone who catches your eye. You deserve love." He kissed her forehead, chuckling.
"See you later, Ren," she said, touching her forehead, lost in memories.
As the evening progressed, the capital pulsed with celebration—laughter, dancing, fireworks, and music from Sweet Dreamers, the rising idol group. From an exclusive terrace, Ren sat with his wives and the remaining Eternal Nine Generals, sharing food, drinks, and conversation.
Sakura arrived in a stunning snow-white dress, her pale skin glowing under the soft light.
"What have I missed?" she asked.
"Nothing yet. Here, drink this—it's from the year we were born. You'll enjoy it, I promise."
As Ren enjoyed watching his wives reunite with Sakura, he felt a pair of predatory eyes on him—unrelenting, filled with insatiable desire. He didn't need to turn to know who it was.
A presence slinked closer, settling onto his lap, her fingers running over the rim of her wine glass. Dark raven hair framed her striking features, and violet eyes glowed with mischief.
"Cecilia Morningstar," Ren murmured—the mother of his three wives. His lover.
"I've missed you, son-in-law," she purred. "You oppress me. I cared for you as a baby whenever your mother sought solitude. If she knew how you neglected me, her closest friend, she would be heartbroken. Why don't you make amends? Kiss me. Marry me. Give me children."
Bai sighed, exasperated. "Mother, please. You're embarrassing me."
Cecilia smirked. "One day, he will be mine. I will be the first to bear his children—sweet little Bai, my eldest daughter… or should I say, Eternal Empress."
"Cecilia," Ren interrupted, his tone unwavering. "Behave."
She smiled, but obeyed.
As the celebration reached its peak, guests arrived in waves, paying their respects to the nine royal families. Among them was Nara, who bowed deeply.
"Eternal Empress, I am honoured that my daughter, Ha-rin, and her group were invited to perform tonight," he said.
Bai's expression softened. "Your daughter is immensely talented. You must be proud to see her follow her dreams."
The festivities stretched long into the night.
Three months later, Ren attended a lecture with Sakura. The instructor was Aihan Min—the Mistress of Darkness, once general of the Black Dragon Legion. Though she appeared to be only twenty-five, her actual age was one hundred thousand three hundred nine years.
"Cousin, why do you always wear a mask and hood? You could have changed your appearance, your name," Sakura whispered.
Ren smiled under his mask. "I could—but where's the fun in that? Besides, I've done it enough times already."
She glanced toward their instructor. "Ren… is she the one? Aihan Min, the woman you mentioned to me? The Mistress of Darkness—the one who could control shadows, forcing them to fight for her?"
He nodded. "Yes. But she left that life long ago."