The Emperor's Concubine

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Tossing and turning all night, I'm unable to sleep.
Cabel's deep voice tickling my ear—fills my mind. My thoughts replaying how his arms held me gently, his feather-light fingers brushing my hair back, and the soft gaze of his eyes looking back at me.

"Why did he do that?" I whisper with a huff.

Frustrated from not being able to sleep, I sit up.

Due to the incident in the golden palace, my residence has been moved to his majesty's royal palace.

I look around the large unfamiliar bedroom, decorated with oil paintings, luxurious furniture, and a glossy marble floor. The window with a view of the garden, lit up by the moon—I can hardly focus on how astonishing the room is with my mind distracted.

"He spoke so gently..." I unconsciously whisper, my cheeks feeling warm.

Thinking about how my heart raced from looking at his expression, the kindness in his voice as he spoke; "Don't keep me waiting again."—my heart begins to beat quickly.

Taken aback as I realize I'm thinking about the emperor again, I shake my head before burying my face in the pillows.
I groan, unable to sleep as I keep on remembering his voice and smile.



"My lady, did you have any sleep?" Lance asks, pouring tea.
"Unfortunately, not much." I sheepishly laugh, trying to hide the reason behind my exhaustion.

My eyes feeling puffy and sore, I rub them as I attempt to stay awake.
Lance sighs as he looks me in the eyes.

"I understand, everything that happened yesterday must have taken a toll on your thoughts."

At the sound of his words, my cheeks begin feeling flush.
Emperor Cabel pops into mind as I think about how sweet his voice and touches were.

"My lady, would you like some sleeping tea tonight?" He asks.
"N-No, that won't be necessary. I'm sure it'll be fine tonight." I stammer, unable to tell Lance that my restless night was due to the emperor.
"I see. If you change your mind, do let me know."
"I will, thank you. How's Maggie doing?" I ask, taking a sip of my tea.
"She's doing well for now. She's going to rest for a month or two until she's fully healed. She seems to have a broken shoulder."
"Ah I see." I whisper, trailing off as I hear the extent of her injuries.

Lance sighs as he smiles kindly.

"My lady, her injuries are not your fault." He gently speaks, reminding me.
"I know... I still wish I could have protected her, or did something to stop it earlier."
"You did the best you could. She in turn, also protected you."
"What do you mean?"
"She explained that she had to lie to you, about who was hurting her. The ladies threatened to hurt you if she didn't comply. They told her of your past, and she wanted to ensure you were never hurt again... Every time the emperor sent a letter, Lady Renesha's maid would receive it and hurt Magnolia before she gave it to you. It appears they wanted you to hate the emperor for their plan. Thankfully, his majesty put an end to those plans before it got worse."

Touched as I think about that young child trying to protect me, I nod and smile.

"I see... Thank you for telling me." I whisper, feeling grateful for Magnolia's care.



Walking through the palace garden, the skirt of my gown dances in the soft breeze—wearing a pale green gown with long slit sleeves and a square cut neckline. A fabric corset tied around my waist, accented with an emerald crystal necklace, and light emerald green heels.

I roam the garden, admiring the flowers that begin to bloom. The snow almost completely melted, the sun shining brightly as it gives a pleasant warm temperature.

"It's almost been a year since I came here..." I whisper to myself, recalling the seasons change.

Admiring the light of the sun as it melts the snow on the vibrantly green grass, the dew glimmers under the sunlight.

Suddenly, warm arms wrap around me from behind.
Startled, I jump—turning my head to see the emperor, resting his head on my shoulder.

"Y-Your majesty?" I stutter, surprised by how close he stands.
"Cabel. I told you to call me Cabel." He cuts me off, yet his voice is gentle as he smiles slightly looking down at me.

He stands up straight, keeping his arms wrapped around my waist.

"C-Cabel." I embarrassedly speak.

An amused smile grows on his lips as I say his name. My cheeks warm up—feeling like it's turning into a shade far redder than his eyes—looking at his devilishly attractive smile up close.

"What are you doing out here?" He asks.
"I-I was admiring the flowers. It didn't feel nice to stay in the room all day... Are you taking a break?" I ask, looking up at him shyly.

My heart begins pounding louder as he tightens his arms around me.

"I suppose I am. I saw you through the window and wanted to have some time together." He casually speaks.
"I-I see."

My mind blanks, my cheeks feeling hot enough to the point where steam could emit from my head—I avert my eyes hoping he can't hear how loud my heart is beating.

Flustered by the sudden attention he's giving, I notice gardeners in the distance who pass by. Their eyes glancing in our direction to see the position we stand in, a shocked expression appears on their faces.

Conscious of how inappropriate it seems, I slowly slip out of his arms and step back to give some space between us.

"I guess you should return now, shouldn't you?" I ask, nervously.
"Do you not want to see me?" He asks, staring at me with clear focused eyes.
"I-I don't want to keep you away from working."
"I'll find time for work later, it's more important to check on you now."

Unable to stand his sweet words, I cover my face with my hands.

"Oh? Are you getting a fever?" The emperor questions, peering to look closely at my face.
"N-No, I'm embarrassed." I mumble, wondering why the emperor is giving me such close attention.
"Is that so?" Chuckling softly, Cabel gently moves my hands away to see my face.

Wearing a teasing expression, he smiles kindly as he holds my hand.

"Forgive me, I didn't mean to fluster you." A gentle grin grows on his lips.

Averting my eyes, I pout as I try to calm my racing heart.

"How are you feeling?" He asks with a gentle concern.
"I-I'm okay..." I whisper, embarrassed as he gingerly examines my hands and cheek, "How are you?"
"Hm, surprisingly good."
"Oh, did something good happen?" I innocently ask, hoping to feel less nervous.
"Well, I get to see an expression I never thought I'd see, of course I'd be good." He teases, his hand gently touching my blushing cheek.
"Y-Your majesty, stop." I stammer, turning away from him.
"Okay, I apologize, I'll stop. In return, will you join me for dinner tonight?" He smiles gently, making my heart jump.

His expressions—whether a relaxed or angry—are all intimidating yet still handsome, but when he gives such a gentle smile to me, it's as if he resembles a seductive fallen angel.

Unable to handle looking at his intoxicating smile any longer, I look away and give a small nod.

"I'd be happy to." I whisper, bringing a hand to my cheek to hide my flustered expression from him again.
"Good. I'll have someone to call you once dinner's ready." Cabel kindly speaks.

He leans close, but freezes for a moment.
I look up at him raise his hand to pat my head. Giggling at his innocent gesture, his fingers soon brush my hair behind my ear.

Taking a hold of the hand that hides my face, his face moves close to mine. His fingers lightly grasping the tips of my fingers, his thumb gently drawing circles on my knuckles.

"Do you remember what I said last night?" He questions, his voice deep and low.

I feel my cheeks burn more as I give a small nod. My heart begins to beat faster as a chuckle escapes his lips.

"T-That I shouldn't keep you waiting again..." I whisper, my eyes meeting his as the distance between us causes my mind to go blank.

Leaning closer, he taps his forehead to mine.

"Good girl." He praises in a whispered voice.

Losing control of my expression, I can't help but show an embarrassed-flustered look. Wearing a handsome-sly grin, his fingers gently brush my cheeks—giving an almost pinching caress—as I realize how cold his fingers feel against my burning hot skin.

"Don't keep me waiting tonight." He smiles, his eyes seeming to tease me as he begins to walk away.

Watching him leave, I hold my cheeks that feel scalding hot even under my own fingertips. Unable to move, I sink to my knees as I try to calm my racing heart.



Wanting to calm my nerves from the emperor's flirtatious actions, I spend the day roaming the palace grounds. From admiring all the beautiful flowers and plants in the garden, to visiting all kinds of rooms inside the palace.

Opening a grand door, I peek in to see a gigantic room of books. The library with five floors, and grand staircases leading to each floor.
A librarian who looks about forty to fifty years old, sits behind a counter in front of the main staircase.


"Hello?" I call out, cautiously entering.

The librarian looks up and smiles.

"Oh, hello there. Are you perhaps Lady Luna?" He asks.
"Yes, I am. It's a pleasure to meet you." I curtsy and smile.

He stands up, walking over to me.

"It's very lovely meeting you, I'm Reginald. I've heard a lot about you from Mister Lance."
"Oh? Hopefully good things?"
"Of course! He boasted about how there was a kind concubine that the emperor brought in, and told me you read all the books in the golden palace's library! It's amazing to know there's still royals who admire the written words!"
"That's sweet of him to say. There's so much knowledge to them, so of course I can't help but want to read all day."
"Indeed! I adore all kinds of literature, is there one you prefer?" He asks, his eyes glimmering with excitement.
"I don't have a preference, I just love all of them! It feels like an escape from reality, getting to read stories that describe scenarios as if I'm living in the moment. I could read about history and feel as though I'm there experiencing it first hand, or read fiction and go on long exciting journeys! -" I pause, cutting myself off, "Forgive me, I rambled a bit too much."
"Not at all! I agree, it's one of the reasons why I'm still here! Well that, and the pay is excellent." Making a coy expression, I can't help but giggle at his joke.

Giving a kind smile, he waves to welcome me into the library.

"Anyways, please help yourself. I would normally ask for a royal pass from guests, but since Mister Lance and his majesty have borrowed books for you, I'll let it slide. Is there anything in particular you're looking for?"
"Thank you, that's very kind of you. Please don't worry about me though, I think I'd like to look around first, if that's alright?"
"Of course, dear! Go ahead, I'll be here if you need any help!"
"Thank you very much, Reginald."

After exploring each level, I roam at the top floor of the library, browsing through history books and sorcery books. Falling upon books on astronomy, science, and historical literature, I begin to take a few books off the shelf.

Making myself comfortable in the corner, I settle into the plush love seat, my small pile of books upon the dark oak table.



Hours pass by as I notice the orange hue of the sunset hitting the pages.

"Luna." A gentle deep voice calls out.

I look up to see the emperor approaching. Standing up, I give a small curtsy.

"Hello, your-" I freeze, stopping myself, "H-Hello Cabel..."

Flustered, I avert my eyes.

"Dinner's going to be served." He speaks softly, his hand slowly taking the book from my grasp.

I watch as he places a bookmark in the book, before resting it on the table.

"I thought you were going to send someone to get me?" I ask, a small smile appearing on my lips as I watch his kind gesture.
"This seemed easier. Come, let's go." He speaks, holding out his arm to me.

Taken aback, I stammer embarrassedly.

"Um, your majesty?"
"Cabel." He enunciates, quickly correcting me.
"C-Cabel... I'm sorry, I'm not used to being so close."

Dropping his arm as he realizes his movement, he gives an understanding smile.

"Forgive me, I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable."
"Please, don't apologize! I-I just haven't had a lot of experience with physical touch, so I'm a bit inexperienced." I look away, my cheeks grow warm as I fidget embarrassed.
"Oh? But last night you seemed so cozy, snuggling in my arms." He whispers, a sly-playful grin on his lips as he brings his face close to mine.
"T-That was different!" I cover my face, unable to hide my embarrassment.
"Pfft." Giving a little chuckle, Cabel tucks my hair behind my ear, "I'm sorry for teasing you. However you did seem cozy, it reminded me of a kitten."
"A-A kitten?"
"Yes, you seemed a bit cautious but the way you moved your head against me, it resembled a cat getting comfortable."
"Y-Your majesty, please stop teasing me." I cover my eyes, embarrassed as I watch him lightly mimic my head movements.
"I promise I'll be more cautious of my actions until you're comfortable." Cabel grins, entertained from my expression.

Moving my hands away from my face, he gestures for me to walk first.

Walking in silence, I can't help but feel aware of how close his majesty is behind me. Looking over my shoulder every now and then, I make eye contact with Cabel who gives a gentle smile every time I glance back at him.

Entering the dining room, I walk to my seat. Cabel pushing the seat in for me, before giving his coat to a maid as he sits too.
Maids begin to bring out trays of food, placing an appetizer of salad before me.

"Thank you." I say as the maid places a plate in front of me.

Noticing the emperor watching me, a subtle smile appears on his lips. I smile back and lift my salad fork, taking a bite of the appetizer.
Maids pour us both white wine, bowing before leaving to prepare the next course.

"How was your day?" I ask, watching Cabel pick up his fork.
"Repetitive."
"How come?" I ask, taking a small bite of food.
"Lately kingdoms in other regions have decided to get in contact."
"I see... Well, Cypheler is the largest empire, so I suppose other kingdoms would try to contact you frequently."
"Yes, but because of that, some fools decided it would be beneficial to form an alliance." Cabel clicks his tongue, his brow furrowing slightly.
"It seems some kingdoms might be helpful for strengthening your empire though. Is there a reason you're refusing contact?"
"They're attempting to bribe me with, what I should call, certain gifts. Beneficial only for them though, and I don't find the idea of a one-sided deal to be of any use—especially if I'm not receiving something as beneficial too."
"I see... Your majesty?"
"Cabel."

Glancing at the servants in the room with us, I notice as they all pretend to keep a calm expression, pretending they're not listening.

"C-Cabel." I stammer, cautious of the servant's expressions, "I was curious about something."
"Of?"
"Of you..."

His brow raises slightly, until a curious but calm expression appears on his face.

"What is it?" He asks.
"Well, I was curious about when you rose to the throne?"
"Six years ago. I grew up learning how to run a kingdom, so none of this was new to me."

Cabel's face twists into a disheartened expression as he thinks to himself.

"Did you grow up in line for the throne then?" I ask.

I watch as he raises his hand, gesturing.

"Everyone out of this room." He orders.

Suddenly, all the maids and butlers quietly exit.

"Are you curious about how I ascended to the throne?" He asks.
"I-I admit, I am..." I reply honestly, concerned about why he sent everyone out.
"I take it some talk and whispers of how I got to my position, reached you?"
"Well yes, but not entirely. It was only rumours I heard, but I thought I'd ask you myself for the true story."

Cabel's expression changes, turning into a surprised but pleased look. He slightly smiles and scoffs.

"How amusing." He speaks, wiping his lips with a serviette.
"What is?" I ask.
"You. You heard rumours, yet you give others the benefit of the doubt that they might be different." Cabel stands, walking to my side of the table.
"If it's uncomfortable sharing, please don't feel obligated." I speak, watching his body move close.
"I don't mind, I'll quench your curiosity since you had the courage to ask." Giving a kind smile, he tucks my hair behind my ear again as he looks down at me.

"Are you sure, that you want to know?" He asks, cupping my cheek with a gentle touch.

Giving a small nod, I continue to meet his gaze—unable to understand his torn expression.

Placing his other hand on the arm rest of my chair, he pulls the chair to face me towards him.
His eyes begin to glow bright red as if they're looking deep into my thoughts. Astonished by the glow, my head begins to grow fuzzy.

A bright light blinds me, until engulfing me fully.