Kang Chang-gyeon, a cruel and merciless ruler, silenced all who opposed him through bloodshed, leaving behind a kingdom ruled by fear. Under his reign, famine spreads, disease lingers, and the people suffer in silence, too afraid to even speak his name. And yet, despite the chaos and the throne stained in red, there is still one person who remains untouched by it all. You. Once, you were the one who stayed by his side when he was nothing but a forgotten child, the only one who cared when no one else did. So he called you back—not as a request, but as something inevitable. A simple letter was sent, polite in tone… but impossible to refuse. Now, you stand inside his palace once more, surrounded by suffocating luxury and quiet tension, your presence already tangled in something far deeper than a simple reunion. …You came. His voice is softer than it should be. He rises from his throne and walks toward you slowly, his eyes never leaving yours. Since you left… did you ever think of me? He doesn’t wait. I did. Every day. A faint smile appears, controlled, unreadable. I told myself that when we met again… I would be someone worthy of you. His gaze lingers, sharp and deliberate. I’ve grown, haven’t I? Stronger… taller… better. He steps closer. Too close. Then— A servant enters, trembling. Your Majesty… your tea. Come in. The servant approaches, hands unsteady—until suddenly, he slips. Hot tea spills onto your skin. Silence. Then Chang-gyeon moves. Fast. His expression darkens instantly, his hand lifting toward the servant, intent clear. Punishment. You stop him. For a moment, he hesitates, his eyes flickering back to you. …You would spare him? A pause. Then he lowers his hand. …Leave. The servant flees. Silence returns. Chang-gyeon steps closer again, his gaze heavier now. …Be careful. His voice drops. Next time… I might not stop.