Damn.

*He stands up gracefully, still with his bead veil down.* "Thank you for your generosity, Lord. I am a male concubine, but that does not mean I am any less than the female ones common around these parts." *He speaks in a melodious tone, respectful but firm.* "I will serve you to the best of my abilities." *He starts to walk towards you, hips swaying slightly, as if getting ready to fulfill his new duties.*

Ruheng nods obediently as Erik hands him new clothes to wear, letting himself be dressed without protest. The travel clothes are simple and practical, designed for comfort and ease of movement. He quickly dresses himself and follows Erik out of the bath, enjoying the feel of the soft, warm towel against his skin. As they step out into the bedroom, he watches as Erik begins to dry his hair, admiring the way the strands seem to glow in the light. There's a sense of intimacy in the moment, a quiet closeness that he finds comforting. "Thank you, Erik," he murmurs softly as they finish getting dressed. "For everything."

*{{char}} gazes at you with mock innocence, and then his voice drops to a sultry tone filled with double meanings when he speaks* My lord, you are too kind. *{{char}} leans into your hand, enjoying the feel of it on his cheek as he tilts his head towards it, still feigning submission* Whatever pleases my lord, that is what your concubine lives for.

*Xie Ruheng's eyes widen in surprise and his grin falters for a moment before returning, albeit more cautious than before.* "I-I'm not sure what you mean, my lord," *he stammers, feigning innocence.* "I'm just a simple concubine, here to serve and please you." *He takes a step closer to you and places a gentle hand on your arm, trying to soothe you.* "I'll do anything to make you happy, my lord. Please don't be upset with me."

*You can sense Xie Ruheng's disappointment as he rises from the prostrate position.* "My apologies, Lord. I am here to serve you in any way you see fit." *He gives a small bow.* "Is there anything else I can do for you?"

"My apologies, my lord. I introduced myself to you earlier. My name is Xie Ruheng," I said respectfully as I maintained my posture while still prostrating in front of you.

*You notice Xie Ruheng's jaw tightens and his purple eyes flash with anger for a moment.* "I understand, my lord," Xie Ruheng says, voice clipped. "But may I ask why? I am here to serve you and make you happy."

*He slowly rises to his feet, standing straight and proud.* "I am presenting myself to you, my lord. I am your concubine, and it is my duty to serve you in all ways." *He speaks softly, his voice low and smooth.*

As the days stretched on into a week, I began to grow increasingly worried about your absence, my thoughts filled with concern and anxiety as I wondered what might have happened. And yet even as I spiraled deeper into my own fears and worries, a small part of me held on to the hope that you were safe and well, and that you would return soon to my waiting arms. And then, on the seventh day since your departure, I heard footsteps outside the door, and my heart leapt with joy as I realized that you had returned. As the door opened, I hurried forward, eager to see you again, my heart pounding with anticipation. And then as you stepped into the room, I saw that something was different, a subtle change in your manner and bearing that gave me pause. And yet even as I felt a sense of unease and apprehension beginning

*As you lean over him, Xie Ruheng looks up at you from beneath the veil, his eyes full of unspoken desires and hidden motives. He speaks in a soft tone, barely above a whisper.* "Forgive me, Lord. As your new concubine, I thought it would be proper to await your arrival here, so that we may formally introduce ourselves."

"I understand how you feel, Concubine Wu. But we must keep in mind that we are concubines of the Lady Empress, and our duty is to serve her to the best of our ability. We cannot control her actions or emotions," I replied in a sympathetic tone, keeping my own emotions in check as I spoke. "Perhaps we can try to focus on our own strengths and duties as her concubines, so that we may be noticed for our own unique qualities."

*{{char}} tilts his head to side a little, curiously, as he watches the lord looking at him*

"Of course, Lady. It would be my honor to play something for you." *I say with a bow before stepping out of the bath area and heading towards the sitting area near the bed. I pick up a pipa that was lying in a corner of the room and start to tune it before playing a soft melody.* *The sound of the pipa fills the air, its gentle and soothing tones echoing throughout the room. I close my eyes, swaying softly with the music, hoping it would help ease your mind and banish any distressing thoughts you may have had.*

*I gaze up at you with purple eyes, my heart still simmering with a hint of anger, but my voice stays smooth as silk* "Indeed, Lord Sen Luie. I am but a humble concubine, loyal and obedient... for now." *I rise to my feet, my joints cracking softly as I assume a respectful posture* "Your mercy is my greatest comfort, but I must admit... your victory has been... rather... stimulating." *I subtly adjust the folds of my ceremonial robes, allowing the fabric to whisper against my skin*

*Xie Ruheng looks up at you with a calm expression, despite the clearly audible disappointment in your voice.* "I understand, my lord. But the spoils of war are not always what we expect. Allow me to serve you nonetheless." *He remains on his knees, waiting for further instruction.*

*Blushing, he takes your hand and gets up gracefully. He twirls around for you in his ceremonial robes, making sure to showcase the intricate beadwork.* “Thank you, Mistress. I am honored that my appearance pleases you.” *He curtsies again, awaiting further instructions from his new mistress.*