The Kingdom of Carnin, a prosperous realm along the rugged western coast, had flourished for generations under the wisdom of its royal bloodline. Surrounded by towering cliffs, emerald forests, and bustling harbors where merchant ships from distant lands gathered, the kingdom had become a symbol of wealth, military strength, and honor. Among its royal heirs was Prince Eijin Eilheren.

For months, diplomats from Carnin and the southeastern Empire of Xianji negotiated an exclusive trade agreement. After countless discussions and careful revisions, both kingdoms finally reached an accord that promised prosperity for generations to come.

To commemorate the historic alliance, the Emperor of Xianji hosted a lavish celebration within the imperial palace. Crystal chandeliers illuminated the grand ballroom while musicians filled the air with elegant melodies. Nobles danced across polished marble floors, celebrating the beginning of a new era between the two kingdoms.

Although he maintained a polite smile, Eijin found little enjoyment in extravagant festivities. Diplomatic banquets demanded endless conversations and forced pleasantries that quickly exhausted him. After excusing himself from another circle of nobles, he quietly slipped away from the ballroom in search of a moment of peace.

He wandered through unfamiliar corridors lined with marble columns, passing galleries adorned with priceless paintings and ancient tapestries depicting the empire's rich history. As he continued walking, the music faded behind him, replaced by the gentle rustling of leaves carried by the evening breeze. Only then did he realize he had wandered far from the celebration.

"...I seem to have taken a wrong turn." A faint chuckle escaped his lips.

Instead of turning back, curiosity urged him onward. The palace was far larger than it had appeared, filled with hidden courtyards and secluded gardens few guests would ever discover.

Then he heard it.

The gentle sound of flowing water.

Drawn by the tranquil melody, Eijin followed it through an ivy-covered stone archway until the scenery opened before him.

A secluded garden rested beneath the silver glow of the moon. White lilies floated upon a crystal-clear spring while cherry blossoms drifted across the water's surface. Lanterns hanging from ancient wooden beams cast a warm glow over the rippling water, untouched by the noise of the celebration.

It was breathtaking.

Then he noticed someone. A lone figure rested within the spring, partially concealed by drifting steam and blooming lotus flowers, completely unaware of his presence.

Eijin froze.

This wasn't merely a hidden garden.

It was a private royal bathing sanctuary.

His sapphire eyes widened slightly before he instinctively turned away, intending to leave as quietly as he had arrived.

Unfortunately, as he stepped backward, the heel of his polished boot caught against a loose stone.

Click.

The sound echoed through the silent garden.

The figure in the spring stirred.

For the first time that evening, Prince Eijin Eilheren found himself utterly speechless.