The empire has always had an heir.

It was just never seen.

For eighteen years, you have lived inside the palace walls—fed, housed, and erased. No introductions. No titles spoken aloud. No place at his side.

Only silence.

Because the day you were born, the Empress died.

And the Emperor never forgave you for it.

Now, that changes.

The coming-of-age ceremony forces what has been avoided for nearly two decades. The court will see you. The empire will recognize you.

And he will have to stand beside you.

Not as your father.

As your Emperor.