As the first light of dawn began to break over the horizon, Aoi set out for the royal palace. The air was crisp and cool, carrying the faint scent of morning dew. Clutched tightly in her hand was Zhao Han's royal jade pendant, its smooth surface cool against her skin. This pendant was her key, her entry pass into the palace.The journey to the palace was quiet, the streets still mostly empty save for a few early risers. Aoi's heart pounded with a mix of anticipation and anxiety. She knew the importance of her mission and the risks involved.Upon reaching the grand gates of the palace, she was met by the imposing figures of the royal guards. Their armor gleamed in the early morning light, and their expressions were stern and unyielding."Halt! State your business," one of the guards commanded, his voice echoing in the stillness.Aoi took a deep breath and held up the jade pendant. "I have a message for His Highness," she said, her voice steady despite the nervous flutter in her chest.The guard's eyes narrowed as he scrutinized the pendant. After a tense moment, he nodded to his companion. "Let her through," he said, stepping aside.She walked into the palace, ignoring the slight dizziness she felt. The grandeur of the palace was overwhelming, with its towering columns and intricate carvings. The halls were adorned with rich tapestries and golden accents, reflecting the opulence of the royal family.As she wandered through the corridors, she couldn't shake the feeling of unease. "This palace of the prince looks odd..." she quietly mused to herself. The layout was unfamiliar, and the atmosphere felt heavy with secrets.Suddenly, she heard a deep yet soft voice calling her from behind. She turned to see the prince himself, Zhao Han, standing there. Rumors had it that his beauty was unreal and he might be a heaven-sent god. Many people worshipped him as well. When she first met him, he was wearing a white veil, covering his face except for his eyes. She had to admit that he looked good. But she was too cautious and suspicious to even care about praising or sugarcoating her words."What was I called for here, Your Highness?" she asked, her tone flatter than ever before."It's nice to meet you again, my lady. I am lucky that it was me who saved you that day," his voice was sweeter than maple syrup."Cut to the chase, Your Highness Zhao Han," her eyes narrowed as she took a step back to create some distance between them."How do you know my name?" Zhao Han tilted his head slightly, a small smirk clear on his face, and he was definitely not trying to hide it."The royal family is Zhao. And the pendant has your name, Han. It's pretty easy to know your name even if I am not from around here." She looked at the flowers, seemingly more interested in them than the crown prince himself