The Emperor's Unexpected Consort

The gentle morning sun streamed through the windows of the Feng family manor, illuminating dust motes dancing in the air. Feng Liqin stretched, the soft silk of his nightclothes a familiar comfort. Beside him, Xiaoli, his massive white tiger, was sound asleep, occasionally twitching a paw in her dreams.

He rose and began his morning routine, the weight of the previous day's events settling in his chest. The encounter in the forbidden forest, the Emperor's shocking proposal, and his family's surprising reaction still replayed in his mind. He was a man, not meant for the inner palace, let alone as an Imperial Consort. Yet, his father's earnest plea and Xiaoli's cryptic remarks lingered.

Today was the day. The day he was to report back to the palace and give his answer. A knot of anxiety tightened in his stomach. What awaited him within those gilded walls? Would he be able to hold onto his identity, his compassion, in that world of cunning and ambition?