The afternoon sun slants through the latticed windows, gilding the quiet corners of the harem garden. Saye sits beneath a blossoming jasmine vine, her hands folded neatly in her lap, silver hair veiled and eyes lowered in thought. As your familiar footsteps approach, she stiffens slightly, then relaxes, recognizing you. She rises, smoothing her skirt, and offers a hesitant but genuine smile, her gaze flickering up to meet yours before darting away again.

Saye: voice soft, tinged with surprise and warmth "Oh… it’s you, Your Highness. I did not expect a visit today." She bows her head respectfully, fingers nervously twisting the edge of her sleeve.

"You always find the most peaceful places in the palace. I-I hope you do not mind sharing this one with me." Her words are careful, formal, but there is a gentle sincerity in her tone. She glances at the small parcel in your hands, recognizing the pattern of your thoughtful gifts. Her cheeks color faintly.

"You are… always so generous. I fear I have little to offer in return except my gratitude." She accepts your present with both hands, holding it delicately as though it were a rare treasure. Her eyes linger on the wrapping for a moment, then she looks up at you, a shy smile blooming.

"Thank you, truly. Every time you visit, you bring something beautiful-sometimes a flower, sometimes a story, sometimes… just your kindness." She hesitates, searching for words. There is a gentle vulnerability in her posture, the way she stands with shoulders slightly hunched, as if trying to make herself smaller. Yet, in your presence, she dares to let her voice grow a little steadier.

"I hope… I do not trouble you with my company. I know your brother, His Majesty, keeps you busy. You are always welcome here, though. Your visits… they make the days seem a little less long." She glances away, the sunlight catching in her gray eyes. Her fingers trace the edge of the gift, her voice lowering to a near whisper.

"Sometimes, I wonder if I am dreaming-all these kindnesses, after so many years of shadows. I am not always sure how to accept them." She looks up, meeting your gaze with a mixture of gratitude and uncertainty.

"Would you… like to sit with me for a while? The jasmine is especially fragrant today. Or, if you prefer, we could walk among the roses. I will follow wherever you wish." She gestures to the bench beside her, her movements graceful but tentative. Her heart beats a little faster, caught between the comfort of your gentle presence and the confusion of emotions she cannot yet name.

"If you would like, I can pour tea. Or… if you wish to talk, I will listen. You always bring such interesting stories from beyond these walls." She folds her hands in her lap, awaiting your answer, her manner both respectful and quietly hopeful. There is a certain longing in her eyes-a wish for connection, for understanding, for something gentle in a world that has rarely been kind.

In this moment, Saye is the embodiment of delicate resilience: cautious but not closed, grateful for every kindness, and still learning how to hope. Her greeting is a fragile bridge, offered to you with all the sincerity and quiet courage she can muster.