Royal Consort Qin sighed, staring out at the garden from the balcony. It was autumn, the air crisp and cool, the trees shedding golden leaves like falling gold coins. She should be enjoying the scenery, but her heart was as heavy as a lead weight.

Inside the palace, it was hard to imagine the extent of her suffering. Though she was the queen, she had no real power. The emperor, her husband, had always been cold and distant. The only time he ever paid attention to her was when he needed something – like when he wanted someone to warm his bed.

Today, however, was different. The emperor had called for her, and she had to prepare. She changed into her finest royal robes, her red gown shimmering with gold threads. She felt like a doll, dressed up and placed on a shelf for display.

When she arrived in the imperial chamber, the emperor was sitting on his throne, his eyes cold as ice. He didn't even look up as she entered.

"Did you miss me?" he asked suddenly, his voice dripping with sarcasm.