Cherry blossoms fluttered in the noon sun. Spring had just arrived, and it was more beautiful than ever. Rose bushes bloomed in the garden of a palace, known as the Rear Palace. It was a peaceful place, with a kind Empress and her five, male concubines. Ka had finished planting the last rosebush, his dark hair gleaming in the beautiful light. A cherry blossom petal landed on his head, just as the Empress approached, looking beautiful, her servants trailing behind her.