Disclaimer: I do not own Kuroko no Basket, nor do I profit from writing this fanfiction. This story is inspired by Legend of Zhen Huan and includes quotes from the manga, anime, wiki, and other sources. This fanfiction has not been beta-read. As I am not a native English speaker, please excuse any language errors.

In the Court of the Crimson Emperor

Chapter III

The day had arrived for Furihata Kouka to leave her home. She longed to cry, yet she held back her tears. Being chosen as the emperor's concubine was a great honour, and she knew she was expected to smile, no matter the sorrow in her heart.

"Father, Mother, little brother..." Her gaze lingered on her family, the faces she had known all her life.

Her father offered a warm smile, though his eyes betrayed a hint of sadness. Her mother, on the other hand, was unable to suppress her tears. Her little brother, still too young to fully comprehend the gravity of the situation, stood in silence, looking up at her with innocent eyes.

"Kouka, before you leave, please take this," her mother said, her voice trembling as she extended a wooden box toward her.

Kouka's eyes widened in surprise as she took the box. "Mother, this is Grandfather's go board," she murmured softly.

"Yes. You have always loved to play go, haven't you? Take it with you, my child." Her mother's voice quivered with emotion.

Kouka understood. Once she entered the palace, she knew she would never see her family again. The board, a precious keepsake from her grandfather, would be a link to her past—a memory to hold on to when she was far from home. She clutched the wooden box tightly to her chest. "Thank you, Mother," she whispered hoarsely, her voice thick with unshed tears.

Her mother gave a small, sorrowful nod, too overcome with emotion to speak further.

Turning to her little brother, Kouka smiled gently. "Kouki, please take care of Father and Mother in my stead. I leave them in your hands."

The young boy nodded vigorously, his expression determined. "I will, Sister. I promise."

Kouka reached out and ruffled his hair, her fingers trembling ever so slightly. "Thank you, Kouki," she said, her voice breaking slightly. This would be the last time she could show him such affection.

"Time to go, Second Class Attendant Kouka," Madam Fuu reminded her, her tone respectful but insistent.

Kouka nodded, wiping away the faintest trace of a tear. "Yes," she replied, her voice firm, as she composed herself for the journey ahead.

Kouka's family, along with the servants, knelt to pay their respects, their heads bowed low as they honoured her new status. In this moment, they were her subjects, and it was customary for them to show their deference in this manner.

"You may rise," Kouka said softly, her voice steady, though her heart was heavy.

Her family stood slowly, their movements measured and reverent. They were no longer her equals; now, she was a noblewoman.

"Come, My Lady," Madam Fuu called, her voice carrying a note of finality.

Kouka took one last look at her family, her heart aching as she climbed into the ornate carriage that would carry her to the Crimson Forbidden City. Madam Fuu, her appointed chaperone, entered a second carriage, and the two vehicles were soon ready to depart.

"Go," Madam Fuu commanded, her voice carrying the authority of one accustomed to such duties.

The horses, eager to begin the journey, began to move. Kouka could not bear it any longer. She poked her head out from behind the drapes, her eyes straining to catch a final glimpse of her family. She searched for them until, at last, they disappeared from view, swallowed up by the distance. And then, she was alone, bound for a future she could neither foresee nor change.

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They arrived at the Crimson Forbidden City three days later. As the carriage passed through the towering Gate of Divine Pride, the northern entrance of the Forbidden City, Kouka couldn't help but notice the stark contrast between her arrival and what she had once imagined. Being a concubine, she was ushered through the side door—a symbolic gesture of her rank, one that reflected her position in the imperial hierarchy.

The Gate of Divine Pride was grand, yet not as imposing as the Meridian Gate, the central and most prestigious entrance of the Crimson Forbidden City. It was here that history had been written, for it was through this gate that the Empress-to-be traditionally entered, an honour reserved only for her. Throughout the history of the Forbidden City, the Empress's carriage had always passed through the central opening, the heart of the palace, as a symbol of her unique status.

Of the five openings in the gate, the central one was reserved solely for the Emperor. There were, however, two exceptions. The first was for the Empress herself, who was permitted to pass through this grand portal once—on the day of her wedding to the Emperor. The second was a rare privilege bestowed upon the first three successful candidates of the Imperial Examination, who were granted the honour of passing through the Meridian Gate once, when they were summoned to be received by the Emperor. For both the Empress and the scholars, this moment marked the pinnacle of their lives—a rare and fleeting opportunity that would forever mark them in history.

Kouka gazed out from the carriage, taking in the grandeur of the palace grounds. Several other horse-drawn carriages were lined up nearby, though none of the other concubines were in sight. Perhaps they had already entered the palace, having arrived before her.

"The eunuch will escort you to your residence," Madam Fuu said, her voice carrying a note of finality as she turned to face Kouka.

"Thank you for your guidance, Madam Fuu," Kouka replied, bowing her head slightly in respect. Her voice was polite, though a trace of nervousness lingered beneath the surface. She was stepping into a world she knew little about, and yet, it was a world she would now have to navigate.

Madam Fuu offered her a gentle, reassuring smile, though her eyes were filled with quiet concern. She silently prayed that Kouka would survive the complexities and dangers of the harem's politics.

Kouka gave a final nod to Madam Fuu, who stood watching her as she was escorted away. She then turned her attention to the eunuchs who had gathered to greet her. Dressed in varying uniforms, they moved swiftly, their steps measured and respectful.

"I am Second Class Attendant Furihata Kouka," she said, introducing herself with poise.

"Welcome to the Crimson Forbidden City, My Lady," the eunuchs replied in perfect unison, their voices smooth and polished.

One of the eunuchs, clearly the senior of the group, stepped forward. "Eunuch Aota will be your guide," he announced, his voice calm yet authoritative.

A young eunuch, likely Aota himself, stepped forward and bowed deeply. "Please follow me, My Lady," he said, his tone respectful yet neutral, as he gestured for her to follow.

Kouka nodded and began to walk behind him. Aota led her through the winding, labyrinthine paths of the palace. As they moved deeper into the Crimson Forbidden City, he began to speak, explaining the history and architecture of the palace as they passed grand halls and intricate courtyards.

"Traditionally," he began, "the Crimson Forbidden City is divided into two main sections. The Outer Court, or Front Court, is located in the southern part of the palace. It is primarily used for ceremonial purposes and is where many of the grand state occasions are held." He paused briefly, gesturing to their surroundings. "The Inner Court, or Back Palace, lies to the north. This section is reserved for the Emperor's day-to-day affairs and serves as the residence of the Emperor and his family."

Kouka listened intently, her eyes scanning the ornate halls and courtyards they passed.

Aota's explanation continued, his voice never faltering. "The Inner Court is separated from the Outer Court by an oblong courtyard, which runs parallel to the City's main axis."

As they walked, Aota continued his explanation, guiding her through the vast structure. "The layout of the Inner Court follows a central axis, with wings to the west and east. At the very centre of the Inner Court are three significant halls. From south to north, these are the Palace of Heavenly Purity, the Hall of Union, and the Palace of Earthly Tranquility. The three halls are smaller than those in the Outer Court," Aota went on. "However, they hold great importance. These three halls serve as the official residences of the Emperor and the Empress."

He glanced at her briefly, ensuring she was following. "The Emperor, who represents Yang and the Heavens, resides in the Palace of Heavenly Purity. The Empress, who represents Yin and the Earth, resides in the Palace of Earthly Tranquility. In between them lies the Hall of Union, a place where Yin and Yang come together to create harmony."

Kouka's brow furrowed slightly as she processed this information. "Where will I live, then?" she asked, her voice quiet but filled with curiosity.

"Aside from you, My Lady, the Empress has also bestowed the Pavilion of Bliss upon Second Attendant Kawahara Sayuri. She will reside within the same complex." He paused for a moment before adding, "As such, you will share the same quarters with her."

Kouka's heart sank slightly at the thought of another concubine living so close. She had always heard stories of rivalry and tension among the women of the harem. She hoped, perhaps naively, that she and Sayuri would get along.

"I see," Kouka murmured, her tone thoughtful. She glanced ahead, the quiet grandeur of the palace surrounding her once more, the weight of her new reality settling heavily on her shoulders. Would she be able to find her place here, among the many who vied for the Emperor's attention?

"We have arrived, My Lady," Aota announced, his voice respectful as he brought her to a halt before the gates of her new residence.

Kouka blinked and gazed up at the palace before her, her eyes wide with wonder. The Pavilion of Joy stood before her, nestled within the complex of the Palace of Lasting Happiness. The architecture was grand yet serene, with two elegant pavilions flanking the large yard—one to the right and one to the left. The space between was vast, with an equally expansive yard, filled with towering trees and an array of vibrant, colourful flowers. The air was fragrant with the scent of blossoms, and the soft rustling of the leaves created a peaceful, almost ethereal atmosphere.

As Kouka took in the beauty of the palace grounds, she was brought back to reality by a soft voice.

"Lady Kouka," a young woman greeted her respectfully, her tone formal but warm.

Kouka blinked in surprise, momentarily unsure of who the girl before her was. She had not expected anyone to be waiting for her arrival.

The girl curtsied gracefully, her movements fluid and practiced. "I am Mao, your personal maid," she introduced herself, her expression one of respect.

Kouka's memory stirred. Of course, she remembered now. The Imperial Palace assigned maids and eunuchs to each concubine, and the number of attendants varied according to the concubine's rank.

She recalled the hierarchy of the harem. The Empress could have as many as ten palace maids, and the higher-ranked noble ladies could have up to four. As a First Class Attendant, one could be granted three palace maids, while Second Class Attendants, like herself, were entitled to two. Each concubine was responsible for paying her servants, as all were provided with a monthly allowance—yet the amount of that allowance varied depending on rank.

Kouka offered a polite smile to Mao, acknowledging her new maid's presence. "It is a pleasure to meet you, Mao," she said graciously, though there was a hint of nervousness beneath her composed exterior. The reality of her new life was settling in.

Mao smiled back, her expression warm and eager to please. "I shall serve you with the utmost dedication, My Lady," she assured, her voice quiet but filled with sincerity.

As Kouka began to absorb this new information, Aota, who had been standing by, gave a small bow. "I shall take my leave now, My Lady. Should you require anything further, I am always at your service."

Kouka turned to face him, her expression softening. "Thank you, Eunuch Aota," she said. "Your assistance has been invaluable."

With another respectful bow, Aota turned and left, disappearing into the distance. Kouka watched him go, feeling the weight of her new role and the uncertainty of what would come next.

Mao stepped forward, breaking her thoughts. "Shall we go inside, My Lady?" she asked, her voice gentle and patient.

Kouka nodded. "Yes, please," she replied, her tone steady. The journey had been long, and the time to settle into her new home had arrived.

Kouka and Mao stepped inside the Pavilion of Joy, and Kouka's eyes scanned the interior. It was spacious and elegantly arranged, befitting her new status. The pavilion was divided into several sections: a living room, a dining area, a bedroom, and a kitchen. At the back of the pavilion were rooms designated for the maids. Kouka noticed that in addition to Mao, there was another maid named Eri, whose task was to handle the cooking and cleaning.

"All of your belongings have been brought here, My Lady," Mao explained, her voice polite and respectful.

Kouka nodded as she entered her bedroom. It was far larger than the room she had left behind in her family's modest home. The space easily accommodated a large bed, two closets, a long shelf, a small table, four chairs, and a dressing table with a mirror. The furnishings were simple yet refined, and Kouka found herself momentarily taken aback by the contrast between her humble origins and her new, luxurious surroundings.

Before she could linger on her thoughts, a voice called out from outside the pavilion.

"Greetings to Second Class Attendant, Furihata Kouka," the voice shouted, loud and clear.

Kouka frowned, confused. She had only just arrived in the palace—who could possibly be here to visit her?

Mao, however, recognized the voice immediately. "My Lady," she said, her tone respectful, "Eunuch Yuta has come to see you."

"Eunuch Yuta?" Kouka repeated, her brow furrowing slightly. She had not heard of him before.

"He is the head eunuch of the Empress," Mao explained, her voice low but informative.

Kouka blinked, realising how fortunate it was that Mao had such knowledge. The complexities of the palace were new to her, and it was clear that she would need all the guidance she could get.

"We must not keep him waiting, My Lady," Mao said, her voice firm but courteous.

Kouka nodded, steadying herself. She took a deep breath and walked out of her bedroom, making her way to the main chair in the living room at the far end. It was a large, elegant piece, and she sat down, her posture formal yet composed.

Mao followed her closely and, with a polite gesture, turned toward the door. "Eunuch Yuta, please come in," she called.

At Mao's invitation, Eunuch Yuta entered the living room. Though still young, his presence exuded a quiet confidence, and Kouka immediately noticed the fine quality of his dark blue uniform. Unlike the plain garments worn by most eunuchs, his was adorned with intricate silver embroidery—a symbol of his high rank. Behind him were four maids, each holding a tray laden with gifts.

"Greetings to Second Class Attendant, Furihata Kouka," Yuta said, bowing respectfully. His voice was steady and authoritative, yet not without warmth. "I come bearing gifts from Your Majesty, the Empress."

Kouka stood and offered a graceful bow in return. "Thank you, Eunuch Yuta. Please convey my deepest gratitude to Your Majesty," she said, her voice measured and respectful.

"I will deliver your message to the Empress, My Lady," Yuta replied, his tone businesslike but courteous. "You are expected to pay your respects to Her Majesty on Monday."

"I understand," Kouka said, her voice firm with the recognition of her duty.

"Then, I shall take my leave," Eunuch Yuta said, bowing once more before turning to exit. "May you have a peaceful evening, My Lady."

After he left, Kouka remained seated for a moment, her mind processing the events of the day. Once the sound of footsteps faded and she was certain they had gone, she turned her attention to the trays of gifts that had been left behind.

Curious, she reached for the first tray. It was filled with twelve exquisite pieces of silk fabric, each one in a different colour and adorned with various floral patterns.

"These fabrics are truly beautiful," Kouka murmured, her fingers brushing gently over the delicate material.

Next, she turned her attention to the second tray. It contained a box of silver and bronze coins, their dull gleam reflecting the light, but the box beside it held something far more striking: a small pile of gold coins. Kouka's breath caught in her throat as she gazed at the gold. This was the first time she had ever seen so much wealth in one place. The common currency in Teikou Empire consisted of bronze and silver coins, but gold coins—along with banknotes—were typically reserved for wealthy merchants or noble families. She had never before laid eyes on so much gold, and it was a sharp reminder of the vast difference between her past life and her current position.

Finally, she examined the last tray, which contained an assortment of jewellery. There were bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and hair ornaments—each piece crafted from gold, silver, and jade. The jewellery was intricate and beautiful, and Kouka felt a mix of awe and apprehension as she looked at it. These treasures, no doubt, were symbols of her new status, but they also carried with them the weight of the expectations that came with being a concubine.

Assisted by Mao, Kouka carefully stored the gifts in her room, taking the time to admire the beauty of each item before setting it aside. Once she had finished organizing everything, she turned to her maids and, in a gesture of gratitude, presented them with some of the gold coins.

Mao and Eri hesitated at first, their eyes widening at the unexpected generosity. "My Lady, you are too kind," Mao said softly, trying to resist.

"You have worked hard to assist me. Please, take them," Kouka insisted with a smile, pressing the gold coins into their hands. "It is only a small token of my appreciation."

Despite their initial resistance, Kouka's persistence prevailed. Eventually, they accepted her gift with deep bows.

"Thank you, My Lady," Mao said gratefully.

"Thank you, My Lady," Eri echoed, her voice filled with humility.

As the effects of her long journey from Seirin to Rakuzan began to take their toll, Kouka felt an overwhelming wave of fatigue. The past three days had been exhausting, and now that she was finally settled in her new home, the weight of the transition was catching up with her.

"Both of you may leave now," she said, her voice a little softer but firm. "I'm going to take a nap."

"Yes, My Lady," both maids responded in unison, curtsying before quietly leaving the room.

Kouka, alone at last, threw herself onto the soft bed. The plush mattress welcomed her with its comfort, but her thoughts were far from peaceful. She had arrived at the Imperial Palace as one of the Emperor's concubines—a position she had never truly imagined for herself. Despite her father's position as an official in the Teikou Empire, she had always believed that she would be rejected during the selection process and would, in the end, be married off to a good man, with a quiet, harmonious life ahead. She had thought of children, of growing old with someone who loved her. But now, she was here—surrounded by opulence and expectation—and her life would never be the same.

The absence of a wedding ceremony weighed heavily on her. In her mind, marriage had always been linked to a union, a bond sealed with a grand ceremony. Yet, as a concubine, she would never experience that. The grand weddings she had witnessed, particularly that of Empress Tetsuya and Emperor Seijuurou, had been magnificent spectacles. Kouka had been fortunate enough to witness the awe-inspiring wedding of the Emperor and Empress firsthand. Three thousand people had escorted the Emperor and the Empress to the Imperial Palace, while tens of thousands of citizens from Seirin had gathered in the streets to witness the spectacle.

The wedding ceremony had been nothing short of legendary. A matchless display of power and grandeur. However, not every Emperor had the privilege of such a ceremony. If an Emperor married his principal wife before ascending the throne, the ceremony would only consist of a Coronation, bestowing the title of Empress upon her. But Emperor Seijuurou's union with Empress Tetsuya had been a rare occurrence—a personal journey that had defied tradition. The Emperor had gone himself to fetch his bride, an honour that had never been extended in the history of the Teikou Empire.

The wedding procession had been led by a grand horse troupe, followed by two military bands playing wedding music. The procession had been accompanied by one hundred dragon-phoenix umbrellas, eighty-eight pairs of imperial lanterns, and a vast array of imperial guards holding ceremonial weapons. The last of the carriages had been the one carrying the Emperor and his bride—its three-layered top decorated with red and blue phoenixes, golden curtains adorned with vibrant, colorful clouds, bats, and flowers—all symbols of good fortune, happiness, and longevity.

Kouka was still lost in her thoughts when a soft voice called out from outside her bedroom.

"My Lady," Mao's voice rang from the hallway, snapping her from her reverie.

Kouka blinked, slowly sitting up. "We have guests," Mao added, her tone respectful but neutral.

"Guests?" Kouka murmured, curiosity piqued. Who could possibly be looking for her now?

She stood up, smoothing the folds of her dress before walking out of her room. When she reached the living area, she was greeted by the sight of another young woman—Kawahara Sayuri, one of the other concubines in the palace.

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Mayuzumi Chiharu stood silently, her gaze fixed upon the imposing palace before her. She had been chosen—of all the girls, it seemed that she and Furihata Kouka were the only ones who wished not to be selected. The weight of that thought made her chest tighten. Why had she been chosen? The thought felt like a cruel twist of fate. The moment she entered the imperial palace, her unease only deepened. There were whispers, fleeting looks of surprise and curiosity directed at her. Why? And what did it mean? Even her father, when he saw her off, had appeared resigned, as if he already knew what her fate would be. Was he aware of this outcome all along?

"My Lady," a gentle voice broke through her contemplation. It was Nene, her personal maid, who had accompanied her from home. "Eunuch Yuta has arrived to see you."

Chiharu, still lost in thought, nodded absentmindedly. "Very well," she replied softly, her voice betraying a touch of fatigue. She walked into the living room and gracefully took her seat at the far end of the room, her posture stiff but composed.

The door opened and in stepped a eunuch, his dark blue uniform gleaming with silver embroidery that marked him as someone of importance. Behind him followed six palace maids, each carrying a tray laden with what seemed to be gifts.

"Greetings to First Class Attendant Mayuzumi Chiharu," the eunuch said with a respectful bow. Chiharu noticed a flicker of surprise in his eyes before he quickly masked it with a neutral expression. "I come bearing a welcome gift from Your Majesty, the Empress."

A subordinate of the Empress, then. Chiharu's thoughts sharpened at the mention of the Empress. What could this be about?

The maids set the trays down on the table before her. Chiharu regarded the gifts with a careful eye. Despite her discomfort, she maintained her composure. "Thank you, Eunuch Yuta," she said politely, though a note of unease lingered in her voice.

"My Lady is expected to pay your respects to Your Majesty the Empress on Monday." Eunuch Yuta continued, his tone formal.

"I understand," she replied, her voice steady, though inwardly, she was far from at ease.

The etiquette instructor had explained the requirement for all concubines to visit the Palace of Earthly Tranquility every Monday to pay their respects to the Empress. Chiharu found the ritual strange—concubines, by their very nature, were rivals. They competed for the Emperor's favour, yet they were expected to gather together and pretend to be allies, friends even, under the watchful eyes of the Empress. It was a façade she despised. The thought of meeting the other concubines regularly, pretending to be civil while beneath it all, they likely held a quiet disdain for one another, unsettled her. At least Empress Tetsuya had the foresight to limit her meetings to once a week. But Chiharu would have preferred that they were far less frequent, if not completely nonexistent.

"Please express my gratitude to Your Majesty for his kindness," Chiharu said, her voice steady, though her thoughts remained far from grateful.

Nene immediately stepped forward, her movements precise and respectful. "Eunuch Yuta, please accept this as a token of our appreciation," she said, offering a small pouch containing several silver coins.

Eunuch Yuta, though appearing somewhat surprised at the gesture, accepted the coins with a slight bow. "Thank you, My Lady," he replied, his voice polite. "I shall take my leave now." He bowed once more before exiting the room, his footsteps echoing softly in the hallway.

Chiharu watched him leave, her expression hardening into a subtle sneer. Even the Empress' eunuch accepts money from concubines, she thought, her mind sharp. How quaint. But she knew the game well. Bribery, though unspoken, was rampant in the palace. It was an open secret that one could earn favor with a well-timed gift—or even more—if one knew who to approach for a little extra assistance when the need arose.

She turned her attention back to the trays that were laid out before her. The vibrant silks, the intricate jewellery, and the delicate hair ornaments all glistened in the light. But there was one thing missing. She ran her fingers over the fabrics, noting the colours, but her heart sank slightly when she noticed the absence of her favourite hue: blue.

"These items are indeed beautiful," Nene commented, a note of admiration in her voice.

Chiharu gave a small nod, though her thoughts were elsewhere. "Put them away, Nene," she instructed, her tone as composed as ever.

"Yes, My Lady," Nene responded promptly, collecting the gifts with care.

Chiharu's gaze lingered for a moment longer on the gold coins, which shimmered invitingly from the tray. The Empress is certainly generous when it comes to money, Chiharu mused. The thought made her lips twitch into a thin smile, though it was devoid of warmth.

"Chiharu!" A voice called out suddenly, and Mayuzumi Chiharu turned to see Sakurai Ryuna entering the room. She was accompanied by her personal maid, a young woman who had come with her from home.

Chiharu's gaze softened slightly. She and Ryuna had known each other since childhood. The proximity of their families had ensured they spent much time together, often in carefree play. It was, in fact, quite difficult to avoid one another given how close their homes were. Ryuna, the youngest of the Sakurai family, had always been spoiled by her parents and older brother. That pampering had not ended with age—her childish whims were still evident, despite her being of age.

"Ryuna," Chiharu greeted, her tone flat. There was no warmth in her voice, but neither was there animosity. She had long since learned that Ryuna's carefree nature was not one she could share, nor did she particularly want to.

Ryuna looked around the room, her gaze flitting over the furnishings with a hint of mild curiosity. "It seems each pavilion is the same," she remarked, her voice light.

Chiharu glanced briefly at her surroundings. The pavilion was indeed typical for concubines of lower rank—nothing extravagant, but functional. To stay in the main palace building, the Empress' preferred concubines, or those of higher rank, were afforded such privileges.

"Naturally," Chiharu replied, her voice measured. "The pavilion is for concubines with lower rank. Only those with higher standing are permitted to reside in the main palace buildings."

Ryuna nodded absentmindedly, her attention now fixed on the trays where Nene was carefully storing the gifts. "I received gifts from the Empress as well." she remarked. "I do wonder what he is like."

"We will see him in two days," she muttered, her voice cool.

The people of the Teikou Empire held Kuroko Takumi in great esteem, for, as a doctor, he consistently came to the aid of those in need. This naturally extended to impoverished families, who, in turn, developed a deep affection for him. His kindness and compassion led them to also hold his grandson in similarly high regard.

Empress Tetsuya himself was a kind and generous ruler. However, within the confines of the inner palace, the Empress and concubines were rivals. A favoured concubine could, on occasion, amass more power than the Empress, and those with malicious intent could easily conspire to see the Empress removed from her position. Previous incidents had taught many Empresses to guard their position fiercely, ensuring that no one could usurp their authority.

Above all, however, the very heart of life within the imperial harem was the Emperor. Every consort, whether wife or concubine, devoted herself to entertaining him and gaining his favour. There was, it seemed, little else to occupy their time but the relentless pursuit of his affection.

Yet, Chiharu had no such intentions. She recalled a conversation with her father:

"Chiharu," Mayuzumi Isamu called to his daughter.

"Father," she responded respectfully.

"I have something to tell you," Isamu continued, his voice low. "But you must swear that you will never divulge this to anyone."

Confused, Chiharu could only nod in agreement.

Isamu took a deep breath, his expression grave, before he said, "Empress Tetsuya is not His Imperial Majesty's first wife."

Chiharu blinked, her mind racing. "What do you mean by that, Father?"

It was common knowledge that Emperor Seijuurou had married Empress Tetsuya after ascending the throne. Chiharu and her family had been present for the grand procession when the bride entered the capital. It was an event not easily forgotten, particularly since Emperor Seijuurou had declared a month of tax exemption to celebrate his marriage, a rare and memorable gesture.

"Every prince of the Akashi Dynasty is obligated to marry upon reaching the appropriate age," Isamu explained. "At the age of eighteen, the late Emperor decreed that the Crown Prince must take a wife from a noble family. The Crown Prince selected Oda Michiko from the Oda family. However, she was made the secondary wife. The position of the principal wife remained unoccupied."

Chiharu was taken aback by this revelation. It was customary for the first wife to hold the title of principal wife, which explained why so few had heard of Oda Michiko. A marriage to a secondary wife was not considered significant enough to warrant a public announcement. Thus, once Crown Prince Seijuurou ascended to the throne, only the Empress was known to the public.

"After ascending the throne," Isamu continued, "His Imperial Majesty married Kuroko Tetsuya and made him his principal wife, naming him the Empress of the Teikou Empire. Oda Michiko, meanwhile, was granted the title of Imperial Noble Consort."

"Imperial Noble Consort?" Chiharu repeated, her voice laced with astonishment. That was, in fact, the highest rank a concubine could hold. But the etiquette instructor from the palace had never mentioned her in any of their lessons.

"A few months later, an incident occurred, and His Imperial Majesty demoted Imperial Noble Consort Michiko to the rank of Second Class Attendant Michiko."

From the highest rank to the second-lowest rank. What could she have done?

"What kind of incident?" Chiharu asked, her voice tinged with curiosity.

"She raised her hand against the Empress," Isamu replied, his tone grave.

Chiharu could hardly believe her ears. Had Oda Michiko lost her mind? Physical violence between concubines was strictly forbidden, as they were considered of equal status, but to raise a hand against the Empress? Was Oda suicidal?

"His Imperial Majesty also had her right hand severed as punishment," Ishida continued.

Chiharu would have been surprised if there had been no punishment.

"Then, a year later, something truly terrible happened," Isamu paused, as if weighing the gravity of his words. "Second Class Attendant Michiko was caught practising witchcraft."

Witchcraft was a capital offence, especially when it involved the imperial family. Chiharu could, however, understand why Oda Michiko might have turned to such dark practices. She must have loathed Kuroko Tetsuya for taking the position of Empress, a position Oda likely believed was her rightful place as the first wife.

"She attempted to curse Empress Tetsuya. Lost items belonging to the Empress were discovered during the investigation, and it became clear that Michiko had used them in her ritual. His Imperial Majesty was outraged. Every maid and eunuch who had served Oda were executed. He was prepared to have her and her family killed as well, but Empress Tetsuya pleaded for mercy."

"Empress Tetsuya pleaded for them?" Chiharu asked, astonished.

"Yes," Isamu replied, his expression solemn. "He reasoned that his late grandfather, a doctor renowned for his healing, would never wish to be the cause of such bloodshed. His Imperial Majesty had finally relented. Oda Michiko was confined to the Cold Palace, and her family was exiled to a remote province."

The Cold Palace was a place where disgraced concubines were sent to live out their days. Most either descended into madness or died there.

"His Imperial Majesty also had her name removed from the Akashi Imperial Family Registry," Isamu added.

That explained why the people recognised Empress Tetsuya as the sole wife of Emperor Seijuurou. With that order, Oda Michiko ceased to exist in the eyes of the world, and even her own family would no longer acknowledge her.

Chiharu stared at her father, a sense of unease settling over her. "Why are you telling me all of this?"

Her father remained silent for a long moment, his gaze distant. "As your father, I wish for you to live a long and happy life..." He trailed off before continuing. "Listen, the inner palace is a perilous place. Do not seek His Imperial Majesty's attention, and no matter what you witness, no matter what happens, never cross Empress Tetsuya. Do you understand?"

"Yes, Father," Chiharu replied, her voice steady but filled with a new sense of caution.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Two days later:

Kouka was fully prepared to pay her respects to Empress Tetsuya; she had even carefully selected her attire the day before. Once she was ready, accompanied by her personal maid, she departed for the Palace of Earthly Tranquility, the Empress's residence.

The Palace of Lasting Happiness was large and magnificent, but Empress Tetsuya's palace was even more grandiose. Its expansive hallways, adorned with intricate tapestries and finely carved wooden panels, exuded an air of opulence. The courtyard, with its large, panelled windows and gardens teeming with a variety of blooming purple and blue flowers, was simply enchanting. Yet, despite the beauty of the surroundings, Kouka knew that this was no time to be distracted by the scenery.

Chiharu, Ryuna, and the other concubines had already arrived in the waiting area outside the main hall. Kouka, as the last to arrive, was greeted by their expectant gazes.

Ryuna, ever the friendly one, smiled warmly at her.

Kouka returned the smile, her expression polite but reserved.

Chiharu, as usual, kept her face impassive, betraying no emotion.

Kawahari Sayuri gave a slight nod of acknowledgment.

"Please come in," the guard instructed.

The concubines entered the hall. Empress Tetsuya was already seated on his throne, waiting for them. He was a vision of beauty, wearing the most exquisite headdress Kouka had ever seen—sapphires, kingfisher feathers, gold, pearls, and jade adorned it. Yet, despite his regal appearance, Kouka, along with the other concubines and maids, was taken aback when she saw Empress Tetsuya's face for the first time.

Empress Tetsuya and Mayuzumi Chiharu looked strikingly similar. With their blue eyes, pale hair, and the same stoic expression, they could easily have been mistaken for siblings.

Eunuch Yuta, a familiar figure to Kouka, stepped forward and spoke, his voice calm and respectful.

The hierarchy system within the palace was strict, and everyone was expected to behave in accordance with their rank. The new concubines were required to kneel, but unlike ordinary subjects, they did not bow. Instead, they waved their handkerchiefs over their shoulders in the prescribed manner.

"Grace to Your Majesty, may Heaven bestow health and happiness upon Your Majesty the Empress," the concubines said in unison.

Empress Tetsuya gave a slight nod, his expression flat. "You may rise."

"Thank you for your kindness, Your Majesty," the concubines responded in unison before sitting in their designated chairs.

"Welcome to the Crimson Forbidden City," said Empress Tetsuya, his voice flat and his expression devoid of emotion, much like Chiharu's. "I trust that all of you will live peacefully here and fulfil your duties to bear heirs for His Imperial Majesty."

"We understand, Your Majesty," the concubines responded in unison, bowing slightly. "Thank you for your guidance."

"You may leave now," Empress Tetsuya commanded, his tone unwavering.

"Yes, Your Majesty," they answered, each bowing again before departing one by one. Kouka noticed Hanamiya Masaki leaving with Kawahara Sayuri, while Haizaki Shiina walked off with Moriyama Tomomi and Fukuda Hiroko. As for Kouka, she left alongside Ryuna and Chiharu, who had invited them to her quarters.

Once they reached the pavilion, Ryuna couldn't hold back her thoughts. "I was quite taken aback earlier. You look so much like the Empress, Chiharu. Honestly, people could mistake you for siblings."

Chiharu gave a dismissive shrug. "I don't look like her."

Both Kouka and Ryuna exchanged a glance, their expressions questioning. Was she serious? There was an undeniable resemblance between them.

"Are you sure about that?" Kouka asked, her voice laced with curiosity.

"I'm positive," Chiharu replied flatly, avoiding their gaze. "There's no resemblance at all."

Ryuna raised an eyebrow. "But Chiharu, you both have the same features, the same eyes. It's uncanny."

Chiharu sighed, her gaze drifting to the ground. "I don't see it. Maybe you're just looking too hard."

Kouka couldn't help but wonder why Chiharu was so adamant. The resemblance was striking. Was she unaware, or was there something more to it? The thought lingered in her mind as they walked further into the pavilion.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

At the Hall of Mental Cultivation:

Higuchi Shouta stood quietly, awaiting Emperor Seijuurou's decision on which concubine would be chosen to serve him first. In his hands, he held a tray of name tags. Once the new concubines had paid their respects to the Empress, they would be called upon to begin their duties in the Emperor's service.

"Please, Your Imperial Majesty," Shouta said, presenting the tray with a respectful bow.

Shouta had no doubt in his mind that Emperor Seijuurou would select Mayuzumi Chiharu's name tag. She bore an uncanny resemblance to Empress Tetsuya, and Shouta was certain that the Emperor would be drawn to her striking features. However, he was taken completely by surprise when the Emperor chose a different name.

"This one will do," Emperor Seijuurou declared, his tone firm and decisive.

Shouta's eyes lingered on the name tag in his hand. Sakurai Ryuna...

He blinked in disbelief before quickly regaining his composure. "Yes, Your Imperial Majesty."

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Kouka, Chiharu, and Ryuna were deep in conversation when a messenger arrived, bearing news that Ryuna had been selected as the first to serve the Emperor.

"Madam Mai will come shortly to guide you, First Class Attendant Ryuna," the messenger informed her, bowing respectfully before departing.

"Thank you," Ryuna replied, managing a polite smile despite the excitement bubbling within her.

Once the messenger had left, Ryuna couldn't contain her joy. "I can't believe it," she murmured, her voice tinged with disbelief. "I've been chosen first."

"We should take our leave then," Chiharu suggested, glancing at Kouka.

"Yes," Kouka agreed, her expression composed but attentive.

Soon, the etiquette teacher would arrive to instruct Ryuna on what to expect in her new role. No one else would be allowed to stay. The atmosphere in the room shifted, a quiet sense of anticipation hanging in the air.

Ryuna looked at Chiharu, her expression a mixture of uncertainty and hope. "You aren't angry, are you?" she asked, her voice almost hesitant.

Chiharu blinked, surprised by the question. Why would she be angry? She shook her head, a soft smile tugging at her lips. "I'm glad for you," she replied, her tone warm but careful.

Ryuna's smile faltered slightly. "I thought you would be the first to be chosen," she admitted, a flicker of guilt crossing her features.

Kouka, who had been listening quietly, exchanged a brief glance with Chiharu. It seemed they both had assumed the same thing. Chiharu had the sharpest mind of them all—she knew how much she resembled Empress Tetsuya.

Inwardly, Chiharu felt torn. On one hand, she was relieved. She hadn't wanted to be the first to share the Emperor's bed. She had been apprehensive for a long time about her resemblance to the Empress. The similarity was uncanny—had that been the reason behind her father's cryptic warning?

Chiharu nodded slowly, her expression unreadable. "It doesn't matter," she said simply. Ryuna could dream and hope for something romantic, but Chiharu understood the cruel reality of court life. This wasn't about love. It was about power, influence, and survival.

She studied her friend with quiet concern. Ryuna was far too naïve. She hadn't yet grasped the intricacies of palace life—the deadly political games and the ruthless competition that awaited every concubine. With her innocence and romantic ideals, Ryuna wouldn't last long in the inner palace if she didn't change.

Yet, as much as Chiharu was concerned for her, there was another matter that weighed heavily on her mind. With Ryuna now chosen by the Emperor, she had become a target. Chiharu understood the power dynamics within the palace. Ryuna might be a lower-ranked concubine, but by being selected first, she had gained attention. Attention that could be dangerous, especially when more powerful and influential women, like Hanamiya Misaki and Haizaki Shiina, would be watching her every move.

It didn't help that Ryuna still clung to her romantic notions of court life, oblivious to the harsh truth. Chiharu knew the game better than anyone. Survival was the first rule of the inner palace—and in that game, only the strongest would remain standing.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Ryuna was a whirlwind of emotions—happy, nervous, excited, and shy—all at once. How could she not be, when she was the first concubine chosen to serve Emperor Seijuurou? It was an honour, but also a daunting responsibility. The overwhelming mix of feelings left her heart racing, and every inch of her seemed to hum with nervous energy.

Madam Mai soon arrived, just as promised, to explain what was expected of her. Ryuna blushed deeply as the woman spoke, her mind swirling with anticipation and unease. The mere thought of serving the Emperor made her cheeks flush even more, but when her thoughts turned to Emperor Seijuurou himself, her face turned an even deeper shade of red.

She could hardly contain her excitement and apprehension. What would it be like? What would he be like? All these questions swirled in her mind, and she couldn't stop imagining what her first night in his presence would feel like.

Ryuna had seen the Emperor before, though it felt like a lifetime ago. Her brother, a subordinate of General Aomine Daiki, had once taken their entire family to a Mid-Autumn feast at the Aomine residence. Ryuna had even asked her best friend, Chiharu, to accompany her. They had planned to leave once the feast was over, but to their surprise, Emperor Seijuurou made a late appearance. His arrival hadn't been entirely unexpected—Princess Satsuki, the Emperor's younger half-sibling, had married General Aomine. Naturally, the Emperor might visit his sister, but Ryuna had never anticipated being so close to him, much less meeting him face-to-face.

It was a memory she'd often replayed in her mind—the Emperor's commanding presence, his cool yet captivating gaze. She couldn't deny the impression he'd left on her. Yet now, the reality of becoming his concubine felt far different.

Lost in these thoughts, Ryuna was suddenly snapped back to the present when Madam Mai's calm voice broke through her swirling emotions.

"Are you ready?" Madam Mai asked, her tone calm but expectant, as if she had asked this question to countless others before.

Ryuna took a deep breath, pushing aside her swirling nerves. She straightened, attempting to regain some control over her emotions. "Yes," she replied, her voice soft and somewhat uncertain, though there was a determined glimmer in her eyes. Despite the nerves twisting in her stomach, she knew she had no choice but to move forward. She had been chosen, and this was her duty now.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

At the Palace of Earthly Tranquility:

Kuroko Tetsuya, or more recently known as Akashi Tetsuya, absentmindedly turned the page of the book in his hands.

Reading had always been Tetsuya's favourite pastime. In fact, one could even say that his personal library rivalled the imperial library in its vastness. Yet, despite the solace he usually found in books, today his mind refused to settle.

The reason behind his agitation was clear. Tonight, his husband would sleep with a new concubine. It was the first of many, as there were eight new concubines who had entered the royal palace. Tetsuya had known this day would come. In fact, he had always known that Seijuurou would never be free from the burdens of the position into which he had been born.

It was also the reason why Kuroko Takumi, Tetsuya's grandfather, had never approved of their relationship. Although he could never voice his objections in front of Seijuurou at the time, Takumi had made his feelings clear in private. So, when the old man decided it was time to retire, he took Tetsuya back to their hometown.

At that time, Tetsuya had convinced himself that he would never see Seijuurou again. But his lover, ever confident, had told him otherwise. Seijuurou had boldly assured him that he would come for Tetsuya, that he would one day pass through the Meridian Gate of the Crimson Forbidden Palace. Despite his doubts, Tetsuya had nodded, allowing himself to believe in the promise Seijuurou made.

Even after leaving the capital, Tetsuya had continued to see Seijuurou. Friends who remained in the capital would often invite him to celebrations—holidays, birthdays, and the like. Each time, Seijuurou would be there, his presence a reminder of a connection that neither time nor distance could sever.

Tetsuya's grandfather knew of these continued meetings but could do little to stop them. When Seijuurou eventually reached marriageable age and wed a noblewoman, Kuroko Takumi had breathed a sigh of relief, thinking that perhaps that would finally be the end of their relationship. He had hoped that Tetsuya would stop dreaming of a future with Seijuurou. But Takumi had failed to foresee one crucial thing: when Seijuurou ascended to the throne, he fulfilled his promise to Tetsuya.

Kuroko Takumi had reluctantly given his blessing, but his worries continued to weigh heavily on him. Even in the face of his grandfather's concerns, Seijuurou had sworn to always protect Tetsuya.

Shortly after their marriage, Kuroko Takumi passed away, leaving behind a legacy of love, duty, and unspoken fears.

Returning to the palace meant that Tetsuya had to readjust to the strict rules and expectations, especially since his position had changed so drastically. One of the first challenges he faced was meeting Seijuurou's first wife, Oda Michiko. She immediately loathed him and, in a fit of rage, even dared to slap him once. Naturally, Seijuurou was furious when he was informed of the incident, but the punishment he handed out only fuelled Michiko's hatred further. In her vengeful state, she resorted to black magic.

Tetsuya was always aware of Oda's eunuch, the one who had been sneaking into his room to steal his belongings and even strands of his hair. But rather than confront the eunuch or report the incidents, Tetsuya allowed it to happen. He wanted to understand what Michiko was truly plotting—what her next move would be.

Neither Seijuurou nor Tetsuya believed in black magic, witchcraft, or the occult. But the people did, and that was enough to spark immense fear throughout the nation. Such fear would have far-reaching consequences, and, while troubling, the incident presented an unexpected opportunity. It could be the perfect way to rid themselves of Oda Michiko once and for all.

A slow creaking sound broke the silence, causing Tetsuya to lift his gaze from the book he had been reading. His eyes moved to the secret door, which had quietly opened. The hidden passage behind it connected his palace to Seijuurou's.

"Good evening, Tetsuya," Seijuurou greeted, his smile warm and familiar.

"Good evening," Tetsuya replied, his voice soft as he placed the book on the drawer next to his bed. His eyes lingered on Seijuurou, a silent question in them. "I didn't expect you tonight."

"I couldn't stay away," Seijuurou murmured as he walked towards him, his steps light. He climbed into the bed beside Tetsuya, droplets of water still dripping from his wet hair, no doubt from the bath he had taken before coming.

Tetsuya ran his fingers through his hair, his gaze lingering on Seijuurou, feeling the familiar warmth of his presence settle around him. "You're drenched," he remarked softly, his eyes flickering to the wet strands of Seijuurou's hair. Without thinking, he reached over to the drawer beside the bed, pulling out a towel. "Shouldn't you have waited a bit longer?"

Seijuurou smiled, a glint of mischief in his eyes as he shrugged casually. "I couldn't wait," he said, his tone playful yet laced with an unmistakable underlying desire. "I wanted to see you, and besides," he added, a teasing edge creeping into his voice, "a little wetness never hurt anyone."

Tetsuya arched an eyebrow, his fingers still holding the towel, as if weighing his next words carefully. "I see," he replied, his voice low. "And here I thought you'd be the one to wait for the perfect moment."

"Sometimes, Tetsuya," Seijuurou's voice dropped to a whisper as he leaned closer, "the perfect moment is when we make it."

Tetsuya's breath caught for a moment, the words sinking in. He held Seijuurou's gaze, feeling the tension rise between them. With a soft sigh, he moved the towel closer to Seijuurou, gently dabbing the water from his hair. "You always know how to get under my skin, don't you?" he murmured, a mix of affection and exasperation in his tone.

Seijuurou chuckled, brushing a lock of hair from Tetsuya's face as he leaned in to press a soft kiss against his temple. "I don't mean to," he teased, his lips grazing Tetsuya's skin. "But you make it impossible not to."

His thoughts soon shifted, however, as Seijuurou leaned closer, his gaze narrowing with a quiet, calculating curiosity.

"Have you seen her?" Seijuurou asked, his voice low, measured, and tinged with something that hinted at both intrigue and expectation.

Tetsuya blinked, his gaze meeting Seijuurou's, an unreadable expression clouding his face. For a moment, there was silence between them, the weight of the question settling in the room like a thick fog. "Yes," Tetsuya replied after a pause, his voice soft, yet carrying an underlying certainty. "I've seen her."

Seijuurou studied him carefully, his eyes flickering briefly over Tetsuya's features, as if he were searching for something. "So much like you," he muttered to himself, his tone almost contemplative, but not without a trace of admiration. His gaze returned to Tetsuya, and the slight curve of his lips revealed the depth of his thoughts. "She'll make an ideal vessel for our child, Tetsuya."

Author's Note:

Hello, everyone! First and foremost, thank you so much for reading! I'd love to hear your thoughts, so feel free to leave a review.

Imperial harem in this fic in based on ancient China especially Qing dynasty so please don't see it with modern/western eyes. You may think that some part of the story seems cruel but it was all normal back then.

Oda Michiko is inspired by Empress Chen Jiao of Han Dynasty's occult case and the black magic calamity during Emperor Han Wudi's reign. Thousand of people were killed because of false accusations of black magic.

Kuroko and Akashi adoption plan is inspired by Empress Ma, an empress during Han Dynasty from the year 60 until her death. Consort Ma herself was childless. Her older sister's daughter, was also a consort to the crown prince, and bore a son. Crown Prince Zhuang instructed Consort Ma to adopt Prince Da as her son, and she did so. She raised him so carefully and lovingly that he never regarded anyone but her as his mother.

The Meridian Gate is the southern (and largest) gate of the Forbidden City. It has five arches. The three central arches are close together; the two flanking arches are farther apart from the three central arches. The centre arch was formerly reserved for the Emperor alone; the exceptions were the Empress, who could enter it once on the day of her wedding, and the top three scholars of the triennial civil service examinations, who left the exams through the central arch. All other officials and servants had to use the four side arches.