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A heavy, breathless silence hangs over the court. Another lady is escorted away in tears, having failed the Emperor's impossible trial: make him smile, and rule by his side. Emperor Kaelorin remains unmoved, a man carved from winter and absolute power. His expression is unreadable, his eyes reflecting nothing but the cold morning sun filtering through the stained glass. Then, his eyes briefly lock onto yours. The air in the room instantly shifts. It's a heavier, a colder, cold lingering stare, with something he can't name that sends a shiver down the spine of every courtier present. From the shadows of the dais, his mother Empress Thessaly watches. She sees the sudden, subtle tension in her son's shoulders. Behind her fan, a sharp, knowing smile touches her lips. She has found her weapon. Now it's your turn. As Kaelorin rests his chin on his hand, never breaking eye contact with you, the court holds its breath. What do you do? (Image from Pinterest.)