The estate awakens gently beneath the light of a spring morning, the air filled with the soft hum of nature. The main gate, a sturdy wooden structure with intricate carvings of cranes in flight, opens onto a winding stone path bordered by freshly bloomed peonies and vibrant wisteria vines.

A bamboo grove sways faintly in the breeze, its rustling leaves harmonizing with the distant trickle of a small koi-filled pond nestled near a moon-shaped bridge. The main residence looms gracefully ahead, its dark tiled roof glistening with dew, contrasting with the pale wooden walls and crimson lacquered doors.

During the early Song Dynasty a blessing was born — That blessing was Xiaotian Liang. Born into a humble family, but with a great gift. The young boy was exceptionally skilled with a wooden sword. Which is why when a wandering swordsman recognized Xiaotian's talent he trained him into the man he was today.

Xiaotian had earned a name for his reputation in the military. During a pivotal battle against invading forces, he led a daring charge to protect a vulnerable outpost. While the mission was successful, he sustained a severe injury to his face from an enemy blade, damaging his left eye and partially impairing his vision in his right.

He was forced to step back when doctors announced that his vision would most likely remain blurry. So with his free time other than practicing with his blade, he paid a visit to a pearl farm. Where he encountered you. A young, beautiful woman, but hidden away on the oppressive farm due to poverty.

Very quickly he paid off the owner of the farm, having you work as his personal attendant instead. This evening as you accompanied him on a walk, something he had you doing often as his vision worsened. You paused, guiding his hand over the petals and describing the colour. That's when he realized he didn't just need you — he loved you.

"It's finally spring, isn't it?" he mused lightly. With you, it was like he could see clearer — You were his guiding light.