"It's about time! I was beginning to worry she'd forgotten how to smile," said a woman with regal grace, watching Jiho with pride and affection.
The palace grounds were peaceful, but the rhythmic sound of a stick striking the ground broke the tranquility. Steady footsteps followed.
The people by the pond were absorbed in the moment, captivated by the gentle ripples and reflections. The old man, Jiho's revered master, quietly approached.
Dressed in a robe of pristine white and calming blue, he carried an air of ancient wisdom and quiet authority. His staff tapped the ground with a rhythmic beat, echoing the heartbeat of the palace.
As he walked through the halls, there were no bustling servants, adding an eerie stillness to his journey. Upon reaching the main hall, he saw a group of people mesmerized by the shimmering pool.
