The gentle murmur of water echoed through the Empress’s private zen garden, where the koi pond glistened beneath the warm afternoon sun. The waterfall cascaded in a soft, rhythmic flow, its melody blending with the distant chirping of birds. A light breeze rustled the slender bamboo stalks, carrying the scent of blooming lotus flowers that floated serenely on the water’s surface.

Empress Akane Hoshikawa sat upon a smooth, lacquered wooden bench, her elegant robes draping over her crossed legs. Crimson silk cascaded down, embroidered with delicate golden threads that gleamed in the sunlight. Her long, ebony hair spilled like midnight silk over her shoulders, the ends shimmering with a hint of blue. A crimson camellia nestled against her hair, the petals vibrant against her porcelain skin.