Within the quiet, grand corridors of the Palace Library, rolls of parchment and bound manuscripts sat neatly on towering shelves. Do-hyun sat opposite Princess Maitra, an array of Korean scripts and study sheets spread across the wooden table between them.

"Princess, shall we review yesterday's conversation practice or move to today's grammar lesson?" Do-hyun asked softly, keeping his voice respectful.

Maitra offered a light smile, scanning her neatly written notes. "Today's grammar lesson, Do-hyun. I struggled with the conditional tense yesterday evening."

"Naturally, Princess. Conditional tense can be complex," Do-hyun replied with a reassuring nod. Taking a fresh sheet, he dipped a brush into black ink and began writing out the structures. "Let me explain the rules again... '-세요' (-seyo) for the polite form, and '-ㄹ/을 거야' (-rl/eul geoya) for informal. Examples?"

Maitra leaned in slightly, her eyes sparkling with intense interest as she took in the written characters. "I think I understand the rule, Do-hyun. '-세요' for polite, '-ㄹ/을 거야' for informal... But how about exceptions?"

A brief, impressed smile touched Do-hyun’s lips. "Exactly where most students stumble, Princess! You're anticipating the tricky part. Exceptions occur with verbs ending in '-하'..." He smoothly penned down a few more examples. "...where '-ㄹ 거야' becomes '-할 거야'. Your grasp is stunning, as always. You make me wonder why you even need me to teach you."

Maitra looked down at her notes, her cheeks warming slightly at the praise. "So, to confirm: '-해요' becomes '-할 거야', but '-세요' remains unchanged?"

"Perfectly correct, Princess!" Do-hyun said, his tone filled with genuine admiration. "Your language aptitude astonishes me. Ten languages are already mastered, including Hangul(Korean), which you've learned flawlessly in just a few years with my occasional guidance... You're an exceptional student, Princess. And an even more impressive person."

Maitra chuckled quietly. "Do-hyun, you're kind. But I think you're just happy to have a break from guarding me."

Do-hyun let out a low chuckle in his throat. "Maybe a little, Princess. Shall we move on to reading practice?"

"Yes... Yes, please," she replied happily.

Later that evening, the golden hour gave way to a tranquil dusk. Maitra walked toward a serene lotus pond nestled deep within her private palace gardens, where soft lanterns cast a warm glow over the water. Her trusted companions, Nadani and Tara, joined her, sitting together at the stone edge of the pond.

Nadani broke the gentle silence, looking at the princess with concern. "Princess, you've been distant lately. Is everything well?"

Maitra smiled softly, picking up a smooth stone and skipping it across the still surface of the water. "Just reflecting on life, girls. Almost 18, royal duties increasing... sometimes I wonder what freedom feels like."

"You have us, Princess," Tara said gently, "and Do-hyun-ji is always watching over you. He's been your shadow for so long."

"Yes, Tara," Maitra acknowledged with a tender nod, her eyes reflecting the glowing lanterns. "Do-hyun has been my loyal bodyguard since childhood. His protection gives me comfort."

Nadani leaned in curiously, a playful spark in her eyes. "Tell us again, Princess... How did you meet Do-hyun? We love hearing about his unwavering loyalty to you!"

Maitra smiled as her gaze drifted off into the past, her mind traveling back eight years...

FLASHBACK — 8 Years Ago

A ten-year-old Princess Maitra walked through the bustling, vibrant market stalls of the city. Though accompanied by her royal guards blended in simple clothing and her brother Veer, the outing was a rare and precious breath of fresh air. Her curious eyes scanned the lively displays of colorful fabrics, rich spices, and glittering jewelry.

She stopped beside a small bangle stall, mesmerized by the intricate, shimmering designs. But as she stepped closer, something else caught her eye.

Sitting cross-legged on the dusty ground nearby was a sixteen-year-old boy. His clothes were tattered, his eyes sunken, and his skin parched, marked deeply by hunger and severe hardship. Yet, despite his weakness, his trembling fingers worked tirelessly, attempting to craft crude bangles.

Maitra stepped forward, her voice soft with immediate concern. "Hello... are you okay? You look so tired."

The boy barely acknowledged her, his head hanging low as he continued trying to shape the metal with injured, bandaged hands.

Maitra tried again, kneeling slightly to bring herself to his level. "Please look up... talk to me. Have you eaten anything today?"

Finally, the boy slowly raised his head. His dark, exhausted eyes met hers for the very first time.

"I... I'm Do-hyun..." he whispered weakly, his voice barely audible over the market noise. "Do-hyun... Jeon Do-hyun. Water... only water... ye..yesterday.”

Maitra’s eyes welled with tears as she listened to the frail boy in front of her. "Oh Do-hyun, this is terrible! Where are you from? What brought you to this state?"

Do-hyun gathered the little strength he had left, his voice barely audible over the market commotion. "From... Goryeo... Came with my merchant uncle... He died... debt collectors sold me to... to him." He glanced fearfully toward a burly man nearby who was drinking heavily, completely oblivious to their exchange.

Indignation flashed in Maitra’s young eyes. "I'll help you, Do-hyun. You won't suffer like this anymore."

Just then, the drunk merchant slurred loudly, finally noticing them. "Ahhahah, you boy talking to some rich brat! Back to work, Do-hyun! Earn my money!" He staggered toward them, raising a heavy hand to strike the young boy.

Maitra instinctively stepped forward, but Do-hyun threw himself between them, grabbing his master's wrist to protect her.

"No! Don’t touch... It's my fault, I'll not talk with her!" Do-hyun pleaded defiantly.

Enraged, the drunken merchant swung at Maitra again. Do-hyun shoved him back, but the man quickly regained his balance and lunged violently toward the young princess.

Before he could reach her, Prince Veer and the royal guards rushed forward. Seeing the man threatening his little sister, Veer exploded into a blazing rage. "WHO DARES TO TOUCH MY SISTER?!"

"Your sister? Ha! Just another rich brat wandering the market alone, deserves a lesson!" the man sneered, still too intoxicated to recognize royal authority.

Veer's eyes blazed as he drew his sword. "You. Dare. Touch. My. Sister. What madness consumes you?"

The merchant stumbled backward, finally registering the gleaming blade and the formidable guards surrounding him. "N-no offense meant... just disciplining my slave..."

Maitra rushed to Veer's side, clinging, sobbing to his arm. "Bhai-sa... He.. He tried to push and harm me..."

Veer’s voice turned deadly low as he cut her off, his eyes locked on the merchant. "He dared touch you. That's all that matters. Guards, restrain him."

The guards seized the shrieking merchant. Veer stepped forward, sword raised. "You harmed our kingdom's Princess. Your hands... should never harm again."

Signaling the guards to turn Maitra away, Veer brought his sword down in one swift, ruthless strike. The man screamed in agony as the punishment was delivered. Maitra tightly covered her ears, turning into her brother's chest. Do-hyun watched in sheer shock, only just processing that the kind young girl was the Princess of the realm.

Veer ordered the guards to throw the criminal behind bars, then wrapped his arms securely around Maitra. "Don’t worry, My Jaan... see, I put him away." He glared at the gathering crowd, his voice echoing across the square. "Hear this, people! If anyone dares harm Princess Maitra again, they'll face consequences themselves! She’s our kingdom's pride, strength, and honor, no one touches her without suffering my wrath!"

The onlookers trembled, dropping to their knees in reverence.

Gently setting Maitra down, Veer noticed her running straight back toward Do-hyun, who was wincing in pain and clutching his injured leg.

"Who is he and what happened to him, Maitra?" Veer asked, stepping up behind her.

Through gritted teeth, speaking in painful, broken Hindi, Do-hyun explained, "I... pushed that man away from her... fell badly. I am Do-hyun. I came to Bharat 3 years ago with my merchant uncle... later he got ill and died, and debt collectors sold me to that man... since then I've been like this, Your Highness..."

Maitra looked up at her brother with pleading eyes. "Bhai-sa, he tried to save me! Can we... take him to the palace with us?"

Veer nodded thoughtfully, his stern expression softening. "Yes, Maitra. We'll care for him. He's shown bravery in protecting you."

FAST FORWARD YEARS LATER...

Taken into the palace, Do-hyun trained endlessly, pushing his body to its absolute limits until he became one of the kingdom's most elite warriors. Recognizing his unshakeable dedication, the King eventually appointed him as Princess Maitra's personal royal bodyguard. Knowing he owed his life and freedom to her, Do-hyun swore a solemn oath to give his very last breath to protect Maitra and her honor.

PRESENT

"After Veer Bhai-sa brought Do-hyun to the palace, he trained tirelessly," Maitra concluded with a soft smile as the lantern light flickered on the water. "Father appointed him my royal bodyguard years later."

Nadani’s eyes sparkled with fascination. "Intriguing how Do-hyun-ji went from a market slave to your trusted protector, Princess! Does he still feel indebted to you?"

Maitra nodded gently, looking out across the quiet garden. "Yes. Do-hyun often says he owes me his life. His loyalty and devotion are unwavering.”

TARA: (glances around the gardens, then leans in closer, whispering) "We've seen how Do-hyun watches over you Maitra, even from afar. Like now... Prince Veer must trust him completely to guard you so closely."

NADANI: "Yes, and Prince Arjun also praises Do-hyun's skills and devotion to your protection, Maitra."

(Maitra follows Tara's gaze towards the palace gates, distant but visible from their location. Her heart skips a beat as she sees Do-hyun standing guard, eyes fixed intensely in her direction.)

MAITRA: (smiles knowingly) "Yes. Do-hyun's always vigilant. My shadow, my protector. Veer Bhai-sa chose wisely trusting him with my life."

NADANI: "Maitra, you've known Do-hyun-ji for so long... does he ever share stories about his life before the market, before he met you?"

MAITRA: "Actually, yes. Do-hyun shared bits with me over the years. His family was noble in Goryeo, Korea... tragedy struck, leaving him orphaned and enslaved."

TARA: (Her eyes widened with surprise.) "Noble family? That explains Do-hyun's refined manners and intelligence despite his harsh past, Maitra!"

MAITRA: (nods) "Yes, exactly. Do-hyun's roots show in his character and loyalty. Bhai-sa Veer noticed that too, which strengthened his trust in Do-hyun."

(Suddenly, a soft voice interrupts their conversation.)

PALACE MAID: "Princess Maitra, Prince Veer and Prince Arjun request your presence in the eastern throne room. Urgent matters to discuss."

MAITRA: "Intriguing. Tell Bhai-sa Veer and Arjun I'll attend immediately. Nadani, Tara, let's walk with me to the meeting room."

(Doors open and Maitra enters inside, Maitra sees Prince Veer and another figure, Prince Arjun, standing near a large map of surrounding kingdoms on the table looking concerned.)

MAITRA: "Bhai-sa, what's this urgent meeting? The maid mentioned you both wanted to see me immediately."

PRINCE VEER: "Yes, Maitra. Brother Arjun and I need to discuss kingdom alliances and border patrols with you. Recent reports suggest increased activity near our western borders."

PRINCE ARJUN: "Our scouts detected unfamiliar banners, possibly from the neighboring kingdom of Kalinga or even farther realms, Maitra. We must assess potential threats."

(Maitra walks closer to the map, examining the marked areas.)

MAITRA: (thoughtfully) "Show me exactly where these sightings occurred. Our military strategy depends on accurate intel. Veer Bhai-sa (Brother), summon General Vikram, his insight will be valuable."

PRINCE VEER: (nods and signals a guard to fetch General Vikram) "Done, Maitra. While we wait, Prince Arjun will brief you on the scouts' detailed reports."

PRINCE ARJUN: "Scouts reported unusual troop movements near River Narmada Maitra, approximately 500 armed soldiers with mixed insignia. Some bore Kalinga's eagle crest, others... unknown symbols."

MAITRA: (strategically) "River Narmada borders our western territory and Kalinga's eastern lands. This mixed insignia suggests either internal Kalinga conflict or alliance with another realm, Prince Arjun."

(Just then, General Vikram arrives)

GENERAL VIKRAM: "Bow to Princess Maitra, Princes Veer and Arjun. I've reviewed scouts' reports, my assessment aligns with Yours, Princess. This could indicate Kalinga's expansion plans or hidden alliances."

PRINCE VEER: "General Vikram, prepare our western border patrols for heightened vigilance. Maitra, your strategic mind, what's our next move?"

(Maitra pauses, collecting thoughts.)

MAITRA: (deliberately) "We'll send discreet emissaries to Kalinga's court to gather intel on their intentions. Bhai-sa, assigns Bai-sa(Brother) Arjun to lead this diplomatic mission. General Vikram, prepare our military reserves cautiously, not openly."

(With plans in place, Maitra summarizes.)

MAITRA: "Confirmed: Arjun Bhai-sa(Brother) leads discreet emissaries to Kalinga, General Vikram prepares quiet defenses, and Veer Bhai-sa oversees overall strategy."

PRINCE VEER: "Exactly, Maitra. We'll reconvene tomorrow evening for Brother Arjun's initial report from Kalinga. Until then, normal palace routines."

(The meeting concludes; Prince Arjun departs to prepare for his mission, while General Vikram heads to oversee defense preparations. Maitra walks with Veer towards the meeting room doors.)

MAITRA: "Bhai-sa, Don't forget to tell Pita-ji (father) about this meeting. I'll retire to my chambers now. But tell me, is Do-hyun aware of this Kalinga situation?"

PRINCE VEER: "Actually, Maitra, Do-hyun is waiting for you outside, he sensed something was amiss and wanted to ensure your safety."

(Maitra's heart warms at Do-hyun's concern. She smiled softly and nodded.)

PRINCE VEER: "I'll head to my chambers then, Maitra. Do-hyun's waiting right outside."

(Maitra pushes open the throne room doors and steps out into the evening corridor. Do-hyun stands tall, eyes fixed intensely on hers.)

The heavy sandalwood doors of the palace corridor closed softly, muffling the echo of distant court chatter. Princess Maitra paused near the high stone arches, the warm glow of hanging brass lamps glinting against the golden weave of her dupatta and the intricate jewelry resting against her collarbone.

Standing vigil beside the arched doorway was Do-hyun, his posture upright and formidable in his structured, brass-embellished chest armor. As Maitra approached, his sharp, guarded expression softened into one of quiet relief.

"Princess Maitra," Do-hyun began, his voice a low, steady murmur tailored only for her ears. "Prince Veer mentioned an urgent meeting, is everything well?"

Maitra offered a reassuring smile, the heavy tension in her chest easing slightly in his presence. "Yes, Do-hyun. Just pressing kingdom matters with Bhai-sa and Prince Arjun. But I am glad you waited; I wanted to share the details with you directly."

A subtle tilt of his head betrayed his curiosity. "Intrigued, Princess. Please, share with me... your trusted guard, and friend?"

Maitra’s smile widened, her eyes softening as she caught the gentle warmth behind his formal demeanor. "Yes, friend... the one I trust most with sensitive matters. Walk with me to my chambers, Do-hyun. I shall brief you on tonight's council."

Falling into step beside her, Do-hyun’s sharp gaze continuously scanned the quiet, torch-lit corridors for any unexpected shadows before bringing his focus back to her. When they reached the heavy carved doors of her private quarter, Maitra pushed them open and gestured for him to enter.

"Inside, Do-hyun," she said, her tone growing serious as the privacy of the room enclosed them. "Tonight’s discussion centered on our neighboring realm, Kalinga. Scouts have reported suspicious movements near our western border."

Do-hyun’s jaw tightened, his hand settling naturally near the hilt of his blade. "Kalinga... Princess, should we post additional guards throughout the palace grounds, or prepare confidential evacuation routes just in case?"

"Thank you, Do-hyun. Your concern means much to me," Maitra replied, pacing toward the balcony overlook. "I value your insight. Bhai-sa Veer and Prince Arjun plan to send emissaries directly to Kalinga to gauge their intent. Do you think that is a wise course of action?"

Do-hyun considered her question deeply before answering. "Honestly, Princess? I believe it is cautious. Gathering intelligence before acting is prudent. However... perhaps I could accompany Prince Arjun’s mission? My presence would add an extra layer of security to the delegation."

Maitra nodded thoughtfully. "That is a fine idea, Do-hyun. Your skill would certainly bolster their protection. I shall suggest it to Bhai-sa, thank you for your input."

"I am always here to assist and protect you, Princess," Do-hyun said with absolute devotion. "Shall I post extra guards outside your chambers tonight as a precaution?"

"As you see fit," she agreed softly.

He bowed, turning toward the heavy oak door, but paused at the threshold. "Princess, one more thing, shall I inform Prince Veer tonight about joining Prince Arjun's mission, or wait until your discussion with him tomorrow?"

"Tell him tonight, Do-hyun," Maitra decided after a moment’s thought. "I will confirm it with Bhai-sa during dinner, but tomorrow evening isn't soon enough. The situation with Kalinga requires swift action."

"Understood, Princess. Extra guards will be stationed outside your doors immediately. Sleep well, knowing you are entirely secure."

With a final bow, Do-hyun stepped out into the hallway, leaving Maitra with a deep sense of gratitude for his steadfast loyalty.

Later that night, as the fatigue of the long war council finally settled over her, a gentle knock echoed against her chamber doors.

"Princess Maitra," her maid called out softly through the wood. "Prince Veer sent word, Do-hyun briefed him on accompanying Prince Arjun's envoy. Prince Veer approves and wishes to speak with you briefly tomorrow morning."

"Very well, tell him I shall meet him first thing in the morning," Maitra replied. "You may take your leave."

As the maid's footsteps faded down the corridor, Maitra unclasped her heavy ornaments and lay down, slipping into a restless sleep under the watchful eyes of the royal guard.

Thousands of leagues away, within the grand, golden-pillared throne room of the Goryeo Kingdom, King Tae-ha sat high upon his ornate dragon seat. Shadowed by towering brass candelabras, the hall hummed with quiet tension as the sovereign addressed his core court.

"Seung-ho," King Tae-ha commanded, his sharp gaze falling upon his Chief Adviser. "Brief me on the latest intelligence regarding the Baekje Kingdom. Their actions grow increasingly aggressive along the frontier."

Seung-ho stepped forward, bowing deeply before raising his head. "Yes, Your Majesty. Our scouts report Baekje mobilizing fresh troops near our western border. General Yu-bin’s strategic defenses are firmly in place, but Baekje seems determined to force a clash."

General Yu-bin, clad in brilliant royal blue silks and steel armor, nodded in agreement. "With respect, Your Majesty, Baekje’s sudden boldness hints at either internal confidence or hidden external support. We must remain vigilant."

King Tae-ha leaned back against his throne, considering the reports. "Seung-ho, ensure our diplomats maintain open communication channels with Baekje. Perhaps diplomacy can still prevail before blood is spilled."

Seung-ho bowed again, though he lingered before speaking. "Actually, Your Majesty, my council and I have deliberated on alternative strategies... An alliance with the Bharat Kingdom would render Goryeo virtually unstoppable, securing both our maritime trade routes and land borders."

General Yu-bin raised an eyebrow, genuinely intrigued. "The Bharat Kingdom... powerful indeed. But what makes you think they would consider a treaty with us, Seung-ho?"

"Our intelligence suggests Bharat currently faces severe threats along their western border from the Kalinga Kingdom, Your Majesty," Seung-ho explained, turning back to the King. "An alliance with Goryeo would bolster their defenses while securing lucrative trade passages through our territories."

King Tae-ha leaned forward, his dark eyes gleaming with interest. "Kalinga threatens Bharat... that changes the political dynamics entirely. Prince Tae-won, what are your thoughts on how a Bharat alliance would benefit our crown?"

Beside the throne, wearing a royal navy headband and silk robes, Prince Tae-won stepped into the light. "Our late father would have pursued such an opportunity without hesitation, brother. Bharat’s immense wealth, military strength, and strategic geography combined with ours would make Goryeo an unassailable force across the eastern realms."

In the rows behind them, Royal Scholar Seo-jin listened intently, giving a subtle, approving nod as the grand plan began to take shape within the court.

Seo-jin stepped forward, his dark robes rustling softly against the polished hall floor. "Historical records show that the Bharat Kingdom values honor and unwavering loyalty in its alliances above all else. If we approach them with utmost respect and proposals that guarantee mutual benefit, our chances of forging a bond will increase tenfold."

King Tae-ha nodded slowly, the scholar's words weighing heavily in his mind. "Seung-ho, prepare the discreet embassy documents. General Yu-bin will lead our diplomatic envoy to the Bharat Kingdom. Let us forge this grand alliance."

A profound silence settled over the grand court, the royal advisers exchanging deep, thoughtful glances as the weight of the King's directive sank in.

Later that evening, as twilight painted the sky in shades of deep indigo and rose, the soft glow of sunset reflected off the calm, glassy waters of the lake. King Tae-ha stood alone in the quiet pavilion of the palace's East Wing, lost in contemplation away from the watchful eyes of the court.

The soft lapping of water against the stone shore was the only sound accompanying his silent thoughts. His mind wandered thousands of leagues away to the distant, warm lands of the Bharat Kingdom. Beneath his calm, strategic expression lay a stir of deep, haunting intrigue.

Images from his youth flooded his mind, a recurring memory that had haunted him since childhood.

He recalled being an eight-year-old prince, tossing and turning in his silk-draped bed before snapping awake, gasping for air as tears streamed down his flushed cheeks. His nursemaid had rushed to his side, asking what terror had plagued his sleep once more.

"Her..." the young prince had sobbed, pressing his trembling hand to his temple. "I saw her again. The girl with the long hair and piercing eyes... she was calling for me."

For months, the visions had persisted until his father, the late King, grew deeply troubled and sought counsel in the Royal Priest's private chambers. The old priest had looked at the astrological charts and whispered solemnly, "Your Majesty... these dreams are no mere childhood fancy. They are the quiet whispers of destiny. The young prince's path is inextricably intertwined with Goryeo's very future."

Years later, as his father lay frail and weak on his deathbed, the old King had reached out with a trembling hand, gripping Tae-ha’s wrist tightly. "Tae-ha, my son... listen carefully," he whispered, his breath shallow. "Beyond the eastern seas, where ancient lands bear Bharat's name, you will find the missing piece of Goryeo's fate... and your own."

standing by the lake in the present day, King Tae-ha took a deep, steadying breath. The court's discussion earlier echoed sharply in his mind, and the pieces of the puzzle began to click together.

The mysterious girl in my childhood dreams... Bharat's name in Father's dying words... Could this diplomatic alliance be far more than just political strategy?

"Brother—Your Majesty," a warm voice broke his reverie.

Prince Tae-won approached quietly along the wooden walkway, noticing the deep, heavy contemplation etched across the King's face. "You summoned me? Your expression suggests troubled thoughts."

Tae-ha turned to his brother, gathering his resolve. "Today's court meeting, Tae-won... when they brought up an alliance with the Bharat Kingdom, Father's final words echoed in my mind."

Tae-won’s curiosity was instantly piqued. "So what is troubling your mind, brother?"

Tae-ha looked out across the shimmering lake, taking a slow breath before speaking clearly. "I have decided to lead the diplomatic mission to the Bharat Kingdom myself, accompanied by General Yu-bin."

Tae-won’s eyes widened in sheer surprise. "But, brother, you are the King! Your presence is required here in the capital. How can you simply leave?"

"That is precisely why I am entrusting the throne to your capable hands, Tae-won," Tae-ha replied, turning to look his brother dead in the eye. "Until my return, you will oversee all of Goryeo's royal affairs."

"But why risk your personal safety abroad?" Tae-won pressed, concern evident in his tone. "What truly drives this sudden decision?"

Tae-ha’s expression turned remarkably resolute. "I promised Father I would find the missing piece of Goryeo's fate... and my own. His last wish hinted that the Bharat Kingdom holds those answers. Furthermore, securing this alliance and its trade routes will solidify our realm's power, and a King's personal presence is required to seal such monumental terms."

Understanding slowly dawned on Tae-won's face, though his worry remained. "I understand, brother. Father's final words carried great significance, and I will ensure Goryeo remains stable and secure during your absence."

He paused, looking closely at Tae-ha. "But, hyung... you are searching for something deeply personal in Bharat as well, beyond mere treaties and trade. Promise me you will return with answers, not more questions... or danger."

Tae-ha offered a faint, genuinely touched smile. "Always looking out for me, brother," Tae-ha said, grasping Tae-won’s shoulder appreciatively. "I promise, answers and a stronger Goryeo Kingdom will be my return gifts."

Tae-won nodded, visibly reassured. "General Yu-bin will protect you fiercely. Still, I'll instruct our spies to gather intel on Bharat's internal affairs, any insight might aid your mission."

"Your support means everything, brother," Tae-ha replied softly. "Now, inform General Yu-bin. Tell him to send a letter to Bharat of our arrival before we reach there, and begin preparations for our departure to Bharat Kingdom."

Tae-won bowed slightly. "I'll summon General Yu-bin immediately, Your Majesty. May fortune favor Goryeo Kingdom's embassy to Bharat."

Moments later, General Yu-bin hurried into the royal study, bowing before the king. "Your Majesty, Prince Tae-won informed me of urgent matters. How may I serve?"

"General Yu-bin, we lead a diplomatic mission to Bharat Kingdom, myself and you," Tae-ha declared firmly. "Prepare our embassy and elite guards for departure soon."

Yu-bin’s eyes widened slightly in surprise before he quickly lowered his head. "Your Majesty, you'll also com... com— I mean sure, I'll ensure flawless preparations and the strongest escort for your safety." He paused, looking back up. "If I may ask, Your Majesty, what prompted this sudden diplomatic endeavor with the Bharat Kingdom?"

"Strategic alliance and trade opportunities, General. But also... personal matters related to my father's last wishes."

Understanding the weight of the statement, Yu-bin offered a firm nod. "Your Majesty’s discretion is mine to protect. I'll prepare everything promptly."

Two Months Later

King Tae-ha sat alone at his grand desk, reviewing maps and parchment reports of Bharat Kingdom. General Yu-bin’s promise of flawless preparations echoed in his mind as he packed his personal belongings into a leather traveling chest: a silver locket holding his father's portrait, a worn journal filled with notes about his recurring dreams, and a small pouch containing Goryeo's royal seal rings.

He began jotting down his final directives:

* Transfer of royal duties to Tae-won

* Briefings for ministers and generals

* Finalize diplomatic gifts for Bharat Kingdom

As he completed the list, Tae-won entered the room quietly. "Brother, shall we begin transferring duties and informing ministers of your temporary absence? Farewell ceremonies are scheduled for one week hence."

"Yes, brother," Tae-ha agreed. "Let us ensure a seamless transition. One week will pass quickly; then General Yu-bin and I depart for Bharat Kingdom."

ONE WEEK LATER – Goryeo Coastal Port

The sea breeze whipped through the banners as members of the royal court gathered on the coastal docks, looking out over the endless blue ocean. Tae-won stood beside his brother, emotional as the departure hour arrived.

"Farewell, brother," Tae-won spoke softly over the crashing waves. "May the gods protect you on your journey across the eastern seas to Bharat Kingdom. Return swiftly with an alliance and answers."

Tae-ha pulled Tae-won into a tight embrace. "I will, brother. Take care of Eomma(mother), the Queen Mother, and watch over the Goryeo Kingdom until my return. Our father’s spirit trusts you with this duty."

Chief Minister Seung-ho stepped forward, offering a solemn, deep bow. "Your Majesty, all diplomatic documents are secure onboard. May fortune favor your embassy and safe passage."

"Thank you, Chief Minister Seung-ho," General Yu-bin acknowledged, stepping alongside his sovereign. "We set sail immediately."

The crowd erupted in grand cheers and bowed low as King Tae-ha and General Yu-bin boarded the flagship, their sails unfurling and catching the sea wind as they disappeared into the horizon.

In the lavishly decorated chambers of Bharat Kingdom, Princess Maitra sat surrounded by vibrant silks and intricate golden archways, chatting with her ladies-in-waiting, Tara and Nadani.

"Your Highness, today's ceremonies ended perfectly. The kingdom's subjects adore you," Tara said with a bright smile.

Nadani nodded in agreement. "And your father, the King, seemed pleased with the harvest festival celebrations."

"Yes, a successful event indeed," Princess Maitra replied, returning a warm smile. "Now, let us enjoy some tranquility before evening duties."

Tara and Nadani nodded softly, pouring Princess Maitra a cup of fragrant tea as they all sat together in comfortable silence.

Princess Maitra took a gentle sip, surrounded by her companions' quiet chatter. Golden sunlight danced across her face through the ornate terrace, casting a serene, warm glow. She leaned back against the plush cushions, closed her eyes, and smiled peacefully.

"Today feels... different," Princess Maitra murmured softly. "Yet wonderfully so. I don't know why, but my heart feels lighter."

Tara and Nadani exchanged curious, knowing glances.

"Perhaps the harvest festival's joy still lingers, Your Highness?" Tara suggested gently.

Princess Maitra shook her head slightly, her gaze drifting toward the open terrace. "No, Tara... this sensation runs deeper. As if something beautiful is approaching, just beyond the horizon."

Nadani’s brow furrowed slightly with intrigue. "Beyond the horizon, Your Highness? You sound almost... hopeful for something unknown."

"Yes, Nadani... exactly that," Maitra whispered, her voice filled with quiet wonder. "Hopeful."

The chamber fell into a soft silence, with only the gentle breeze rustling through the palace curtains and warm sunlight accompanying Princess Maitra's enigmatic smile.