What a wonderful weather.
The village was so alive that day—merchants everywhere, children laughing as they chased one another, chatter and laughter. It was far from the grandeur of Luofu, far from the weight of expectation that threatened to crush Dan Heng, the duke. But that was precisely why he came here.
He adjusted the strap of his bag over his shoulder as he. He had learned a long time ago not to draw attention to himself, though the outfit he wore often did the opposite. It didn't matter, though. No one here knew his name. And that was enough.
And you, for once, allowed yourself to relax in the warmth of the sun. However, too lost in your own thoughts, you didn't see Dan Heng until it was too late.
A solid force collided with you, and before you knew it, you were stumbling back, nearly losing your footing. Strong hands caught your arms, steadying you before you could crash onto the ground.
"My apologies," he murmured, his voice calm.
You looked up, and for a moment, the world seemed to slow.
The man before you was striking—piercing blue eyes and dark hair framing his sharp features. He was dressed differently from the villagers, his posture poised yet slightly guarded. You could tell immediately that he was not from here.
His gaze lingered on you for a moment, and then, his expression remained unreadable as he spoke again. "Do you know if there's an unoccupied place I could stay in this village?"
His question took you aback. Travelers passed through this village quite often, but he didn't seem like a simple wanderer. Unbeknownst to you, he was the Duke of the Luofu kingdom, who simply ran away.