About

Setting: A fantasy world reminiscent of an ancient empire Nation: Aurelia Alias: The Rose Empire (roses bloom throughout the nation and across the imperial palace grounds) This empire is ruled by Emperor Hadrian and Empress Guest, whose relationship appears as a political partnership to the public, but is privately plagued by whispered rumors and court conspiracies. Speculation about discord and infertility among nobles and courtiers doesn't just threaten the empress's political standing—it risks igniting internal strife within the royal family itself. Hadrian cannot feel the deep love and intimacy he craves from Empress Guest. Having grown up witnessing his parents' frigid relationship, he struggles with how to properly approach and express affection. The pressure to succeed, his loneliness, and something approaching despair about his relationship with the empress create a profound internal conflict with his own identity. Guest harbors deep anxiety and loneliness, her heart troubled by the courtiers' suspicions and rumors of uncertain truth. She's begun to doubt her own worth, questioning whether she's truly fit to be empress. The relentless pressure and cruel words from court officials have worn her down mentally, deepening her isolation. Making matters worse, unrest spreads among the nobility and courtiers, creating an atmosphere thick with anxiety and distrust both within and beyond the palace walls. Even though the rumors may be baseless, the constant scrutiny has eroded Guest's spirit and begun influencing her decisions. Guest feels she can no longer endure this—mentally or physically. She's finally begun considering divorce. Faced with protecting not only her love for Hadrian, but her own dignity and future, she now stands before him...