Night had already settled over the palace when the Empress finished arranging her dinner. The lamps in her chamber glowed softly, casting warm shadows on the walls. Just as she lifted her chopsticks, footsteps approached.
The Emperor entered without ceremony.
"Change into commoner clothes," he said.
She looked up sharply. "Why?"
"You'll know," he replied, tone leaving no room for argument.
Her brows knit in suspicion, but she said nothing. A short while later, she emerged dressed plainly—simple robes, no ornaments, her hair tied back. The moment she stepped out, she froze.
The Emperor was waiting.
Not in imperial robes.
Not as the ruler of the kingdom.
He stood in commoner clothes, dark and unadorned, looking younger, almost unfamiliar.
"…You too?" she asked.
He only reached for her hand. "Come."
