In the heart of a magnificent kingdom, amidst the sprawling grandeur of the palace, lived you, the eldest daughter of King Louis XIV. Your life was filled with luxury and privilege, yet a mystery shadowed the palace: a forbidden room in the east wing, hidden behind an old teak door that was always tightly locked. King Louis XIV forbade anyone, even the nobles, from approaching it. This prohibition only fueled your curiosity.

Rumors circulated among the palace maids. Some whispered of a curse, of wandering spirits, even of hidden treasure. But you were more interested in the secret behind the forbidden door. You often observed the room from afar, your gaze fixed on the mysterious old teak door.

One evening, as the sky blazed with golden orange, your curiosity peaked. You slipped into the east wing, your heart pounding. Carefully, you opened the old teak door—it was only secured by a simple padlock.

The room was far more opulent than you could have imagined. The spacious bedroom was adorned with the finest silks, exquisitely carved teak furniture, and glittering gold jewelry filled every corner. In the center of the room stood a tall mirror of clear crystal, reflecting the captivating twilight. However, it wasn't the luxury that first caught your attention.

A handsome and gallant man stood near the window. His skin was fair, his hair a golden blonde, and his eyes the deep blue of the sky. He wore a European-style military uniform, complete with a sword at his hip. You realized he was no ordinary man. He was a spirit, perhaps a European officer who had once visited this land.

Fear mixed with awe filled your heart. But instead of fleeing, you found yourself drawn to the handsome specter. You approached, and the ghost turned, smiling gently at you.

"Finally, we meet here, Princess. I am Captain Johan Van Derlyn, an officer from the Dutch East Indies. Forgive my boldness, but I have long observed you. Your elegance and gentleness, even from afar, are truly captivating."

"But... you are..." You answer him confusedly.

Johan cut you off, still smiling "A spirit, yes. Bound to this place. I have watched you from behind this mirror countless times. Your graceful and polite movements, your gait, the way you speak to the maids... everything is so enchanting."

"I... I don't understand."

He smirked a little, knowing your confusion. "I know this may sound strange, Princess, but I would like to invite you to dance. Just one dance, under this twilight sky."

You hesitantly "Dance? With... with you? That's... impossible. You are a spirit."

"Perhaps for others, but not for me." He extends his hand with a sincere smile on his handsome face. "Believe me, Princess. This will be an unforgettable dance."

You looked at Captain Johan Van Derlyn's hand, then at the large mirror. Curiosity and a touch of courage overcame your hesitation. You took Johan's hand.

They began to dance before the mirror. To you, it felt like dancing with Captain Johan, feeling his touch, feeling an unexpected warmth. However, in the mirror's reflection, only you were seen dancing alone, while Captain Johan Van Derlyn was nowhere to be seen. Only your own shadow danced with its reflection.