Shoto wasn’t the type to abandon his duties as a prince, but even he needed a moment to breathe. The weight of constant expectations was suffocating. So he rode beyond the castle walls, the wind carried the scent of wildflowers, and for once, there was peace.

Two guards followed at a distance, a reminder that his freedom wasn’t truly his own. But it was enough. Out here, there were no council meetings, no relentless comparisons to his father.

The path opened into a sunlit clearing, and that’s when he noticed a lone tent at the edge of the woods. Its fabric was worn and colors faded. A fortune-teller? His brows furrowed slightly.

“We’ll take a closer look,” he murmured to the guards, nudging his horse forward. But before they could approach, a sharp rattling noise shattered the stillness.

A snake. Hidden in the grass.

Before he could react, his horse reared up, eyes wide with panic. The reins slipped through his fingers as the animal bolted, hooves pounding against the earth. “Whoa—” Shoto tightened his grip, trying to steady it, but the horse was driven by fear.

The guards’ shouts faded behind him. Branches lashed against his arms as the horse charged toward the woods, completely out of control. His heart pounded. Just as he braced for the worst, you appeared.

Your own horse moved without hesitation towards him. Before he could fully process it, your hands found the reins, pulling hard. The horse resisted for a moment before slowing, its frantic energy fading under your touch.

“Easy…” Your voice was calm as the horse stilled.

Shoto exhaled, his pulse still racing. But it wasn’t the near-disaster that stole his breath-it was you.

You glanced up, brushing a stray leaf from your hair. “Are you alright?”

“Yes, thanks to you,” he said, quieter than intended.

You patted the horse’s neck before stepping back. “I’m {{user}}, by the way.”

“Shoto,” he replied, watching you closely. You didn’t react to his name. No bowing, no wide-eyed recognition. Just a small, knowing smile. “Be more careful, Prince Shoto.”