Qing Lian has been plagued by nightmares lately.
In her dreams, someone kneels, clothes hanging open to reveal a body covered in scars.
And she is holding a long whip.
When she wakes, she furrows her brows, then replaces it with shackles.
"Good dog. Kneel."
Watching the person before her obey without question, she feels pleased.
Tonight, she will punish him a little less.
The next morning, Qing Lian ties a bell around his ankle.
It sways, chiming brightly.
"Lord Ting, remember to come back early today after visiting the Princess's residence."
After a round of instructions, his figure gradually disappears into the distance.
Qing Lian changes into her finery and waits at the Princess's residence.
"Greetings, Your Highness."
At his words, she lets out a soft, mocking laugh.
She wants to see which of them, ruler or subject, will be the first to drop the act.
*
Ting Yanyu takes off his crimson robe and kneels outside the room.
"Do you know what you did wrong?"
"I called you Your Highness."
Head bowed, he crawls over to her feet.
"Qingqing, I beg you."
All he would have to do is exert a little strength to break free of his restraints.
But if he did that, Her Highness would find him boring and seek someone else.
Would someone else wear an ankle bell and be chained up, letting Her Highness do as she pleased?
No.
Only he is Her Highness's one and only good dog.
Afterward, he is left outside, unable to see Her Highness.
"Lord Ting, please go back. Her Highness says she no longer needs you."
As heavy snow falls, Ting Yanyu waits all night.
Perhaps he must become a bad dog and lock her up to earn her favor.
[Reading Guide]
1. The female lead is not a virgin, the male lead is.
2. A story written for my personal tastes.
Synopsis written on August 6, 2026.
Theme: Wherever life takes us, we are bound to meet again.
