The Dai Garden Hall provided a majestic setting for a grand display of splendor.
The architectural magnificence of this building was truly exceptional. Its construction featured graceful domed roofs soaring above the surroundings, with every tile exemplifying the precision and skill of the craftsmen.
The hall's circular layout was made of pure white bricks, each one meticulously positioned to create an atmosphere of sacredness and balance. The pristine white bricks represented the utmost respect and sanctity attributed to this space, where important occasions and rituals take place.
This venue represented a profound fusion of cultural, historical, and spiritual significance, where the architectural and natural elements blend seamlessly. It also served as the location for extraordinary events, gatherings, and ceremonies, showcasing the rich cultural heritage and age-old customs that have been treasured for generations.
Overall, it embodied the spirit of tradition, dedication, and the timeless appeal of Dai's cultural legacy.
The arrival of esteemed guests, including high-ranking officials and military leaders, brought a sense of gravitas and respect to the proceedings. The entrance was flanked by two imperial guards, wearing helmet masks and in traditional blue and white armor, stood straight in full attention, their steadfast presence ensuring that the crowd remained organized, and the event proceeded smoothly as planned. Their attentive vigilance reflected the dedication to upholding propriety and the dignified conduct of affairs within Garden Hall.
The throne function room within the hallway exuded an air of majestic magnificence. The walls, crafted from flawless white stone, create an atmosphere of purity and grandeur. The pillars that uphold the hall were dignified and impressive, showcasing the architectural prowess of the time. Below the feet of the guests, a luxurious blue carpeted floor stretches out, adding a visual contrast that amplifies the sophistication of the area. A prestigious dinner banquet was about to begin, an occasion that guaranteed to be a splendid affair.
Dangling over the great hall, a massive banner unravelled, displaying the grand announcement: Welcome Home, Our Beloved Highness. in prominent blue words. In the center of this declaration, a gigantic heart replaced the letter O, representing the immense love and joy that accompanied the Royal Highness' homecoming to the palace following twenty-one years of schooling and military instruction at the esteemed Dai Academy, from her childhood until now as an adult woman.
The Dai siblings' thrones were right in the center of the throne hall. Their thrones, made of comfortable yet supportive cushions, were placed on a large circular ringlike blue platform. This platform raised and provided them a prominent position in the room. They could reach their seats via a short yet uniquely designed stairway From this elevated viewpoint, they offered a commanding view of the banquet table and the events taking place, serving as a visible representation of their power and elegance.
The other centerpiece was a magnificent blue banquet table, handcrafted from premium bamboo wood and finished with a regal blue hue. With ample space to seat up to 30 guests, including high-ranking officials and military leaders, the table embodied refinement and luxury. The matching chairs, crafted with equal care and attention to detail, completed the elegant setting.
At the commencement of the banquet, the attendees were dressed in their most ceremonious and respectable garments, robes, and tunics. Their clothing served as a visible symbol of their duties and obligations, exemplifying the importance of their positions within the palace. Certain individuals had chosen to wear turbans, whereas others had not adorned themselves with such headwear. But since this was a celebration event, no rules were imposed on those.
Once all the invited guests gathered and took their seats, the identical quartet of eunuchs, previously seen in the Dai Unity Festival, made their entrance again in their similar white garments adorned with a blue tunic and turban-like headwear. Standing in usual formation, they announced the Majesty's arrival.
Emperor Dai Zhong's regal attire signified his esteemed position as the supreme ruler of his generation. With his long white hair behind him, he made his entrance in immaculate white robes and sky-blue tunic boasting two identical blue sections, that symbolized his authority and importance. Upon sitting on his throne, he addressed them from below the ring platform.
"My fellow Dais, thank you all for coming. My reason for holding this banquet is specially for two persons.
One is for General Xue Lei. It is because of his competency and effective leadership that we won the war!"
Despite everyone's attention and applause, General Xue Lei remained unaffected.
Though he was now in white clothing with pink tunic, he became wary after what had happened to his last two men. Despite what they had gone through thick and thin, he was the only one invited to join in the celebrations.
He was also aware of two officials on either side, one looking at him with contempt and the other looking elsewhere behind their clapping.
"However," Dai Zhong continued, his eyes narrowing in his serious look. "there is one more important thing I need to remind you all.
We may have won this time, but we must also always be on guard. For we never know when our enemies will retaliate! That is why the Dai Academy is formed to ensure everyone is adequately trained and operationally ready."
As the lights dimmed, a quiet excitement permeated the atmosphere, and everyone's attention was captivated by the glowing blue hologram that appeared and presented the truth of compulsory education and military education for all Dais behind the Majesty.
Starting with groups of children, as young as six. Enrolled as pupils, they stood in perfectly aligned rows and columns as they embarked on their learning and training journey to adults even with their innocence and blank mind. It further traced the growth and development of the young boys as they progressed through various training programs, including martial arts and marksmanship.
As they honed their skills with mock energy sub-machine pistols, their progress and evolution were for all to witness and served as testament to their unwavering commitment and perseverance.
Ultimately, they emerged as fully-fledged adult and military soldiers, donning the standard white helmet masks and blue-adorned armor with the character Dai that symbolized their status as protectors of their homeland and loved ones. Their hardship and sacrifices also served as a source of inspiration and pride for all who watched the holographic display.
"I understand the training has been tough specially for a child to be admitted at only six." Dai Zhong empathised the concerns of those who were or just turned parents. "But we need to look at the bigger picture. For our nation to be safe and secure long-term, it is essential for them to realize the importance even it means sacrificing ourselves to protect our loved ones.
That has been, is and will be how we survive and thrive for current and future generations. To ensure our kingdom stays that way, all of you have a significant role to play!"
Dai Zhong paused for a while as to take a short break before carrying on.
"The other reason concerns my sister who has graduated from the Academy. Therefore, I held this banquet specially for her. May I now present my sister Princess Dai Yu!"
As the hologram disappeared and the room lit again, the imposing doors on the right of throne room swung open, revealing the majestic figure of the Royal Highness.
As the Highness gracefully entered the ceremonial chamber, a silent reverence descended upon the guests.
She exuded an unmistakable aura of elegance and poise, captivating everyone's attention with her stately demeanour. Her movements were fluid and refined, reflecting her noble heritage, and her entrance was met with a palpable sense of excitement.
Her long blue hair locks graced her head, carefully arranged into intricate ringlets that exuded ageless refinement. This majestic mane was a masterpiece of best hair stylists serving her, reflecting both her noble standing and her irresistible appeal.
Her flawless oval perfect face displayed an exquisite beauty. Her equally blue eyes and flawless porcelain skin emitted a soft and iridescent light, enhanced by delicate traits exuding an aura of timeless sophistication. Her red lips were a captivating testament to her attractiveness, contributing a hint of allure to her majestic charm.
Clad in immaculate white gown, she radiated a sense of innocence and elegance. The gown's V-top design exposed her bare shoulders, creating a striking contrast between modesty and sensuality. The fabric had been crafted specifically to complement her graceful presence.
A streamlined standard and dark blue sash wrapped around her upper body wrist, adding a touch of elegance to her gown. On her head, a crystal crown sat gracefully, crafted from the finest Dai crystals that sparkled with a brilliance reflecting her beauty. The crown represented her royal heritage and the power she possessed.
Her physical attractiveness was enhanced by not just her beauty but imposing height, making her stand out in a crowd even as only royal woman in the room. Except her brother as the Majesty and reigning ruler who maintained his respect for her, all men in the room were instantly captivated by her beauty.
Apparently taking no notice, she made her way past the long banquet table before ascending the stairway and joined her brother on the other vacant throne right next to him.
The latter immediately stood up and turned to face her with his smile before greeting, "Dai Er, it's great to see you again."
"It's great to see you too, your Majesty," She acknowledged by returning hers.
When they were both seated, Emperor Dai Zhong officially announced, "Now that we're all here, let the banquet began!"
Following their culture, the four eunuchs presented themselves in linear formation and echoed his announcement one after the other.
The banquet was truly formal, showcasing a rich selection of high-quality Dai cuisine.
The palace attendants and cooks worked diligently to serve the dishes with careful attention to detail and skill. It was indeed a joyful tribute to the Highness, a lavish feast that mirrored the luxurious and majestic atmosphere of the palace. It was also a significant moment, reminiscent of a birthday celebration, symbolizing her grand return and reunion with Majesty in great pomp and extravagance by both the Majesty and his Royal Imperial Circle.
With utmost care and precision, the palace servants went about arranging the cutlery, including chopsticks and spoons, in a display of elegance. Each setting was transformed into a visual masterpiece, with bowls and plates carefully aligned to create a symphony of perfection. The attention to detail evident in this task was a testament to the high standards that defined every aspect of palace royal banquet especially for Highness.
The slim and parallel chopsticks represented dexterity, while the spoons, with their fluid curves, evoked a sense of elegance and practicality. The plates and bowls, adorned with intricate patterns, awaited their role in showcasing the culinary creations that would soon grace the banquet table.
This arrangement was not simply a matter of utility but a reflection of the respect and admiration with which each guest was held. The table setting was a harbinger of the exceptional dining experience that was to come, a testament to the grandeur and refinement of the royal feast.
The dishes comprised of shark fin soup, braised abalone and scallop, roasted duck, braised chicken cubes and fried glasslike noodles. Topping up all those was the famous Dai Jiu wine, served in beautifully crafted jugs and delicate porcelain cups.
After banquet ended, it became an entirely free happy hour for all guests to mingle and interacted with one another regardless of status and rank.
Princess Dai Yu immediately changed her attire after the feast.
Now dressed in a sleeveless pure blue gown, she had abandoned her previously restrained hairstyle. Instead, her long blue hair now flowed freely down her back, with just a red scarlet ribbon on top. Her jewellery comprised of just a white pearl necklace and matching blue bracelets on each wrist, a display of her subtle grace.
She stood on the elegantly designed Dai Garden Hall balcony, observing the night scene. Under darkness, the trees' bright emerald foliage was now in shades of shadows, while in contrast the sky showcased radiant stars and a glowing yellow moon in illumination. While her eyes watched, her mind reflected deeply upon several questions entering her head, during which, she could not help but wondering about her brother's motives despite their family kinship.
For they did not make any sense to her.
Why was brother holding the banquet just for her return in name and words upon the large banner? Was it simply because she was the Royal Highness, princess, his sister and possibly the only other surviving family member, assuming her other brother did not survive?
Should General Xue Lei and his men not deserve greater credit too? After all, they were the ones who helped defend, defeated and drove away their Shibeibu enemies despite casualties.
Though she remembered hearing her brother mentioning his name and complimenting what she regarded as the best Dai warrior, soldier and shining example for all Dais, she could not help feeling his brother had overlooked him in favor just for her as the only kin he had now.
While she understood that her brother's heavy responsibilities as Majesty, she could not help feeling that he had changed as a person and any of her inquiries could be perceived as a challenge to his authority even as Royal Highness. She was now left to alone grapple with her introspective and conflicted thoughts of compassion and kinship.
For his first in a long time, Li Neng Yuan was in dilemma.
He felt his heart pounding in his chest as he contemplated a choice that could change his life forever.
Should he take the chance to approach the Royal Highness, who was now alone and lost in thought on the balcony, her eyes seemingly watching the moon and stars, while the other guests were engrossed in their own discussions? And despite her being the center of attraction upon her entry moments ago.
But they were nothing to this which was immense. He could not shake the feeling that this was the one and only opportunity he had to grasp immediately.
Attending the feast had been mostly driven by his longing to see her once more. Though the cuisine was unquestionably excellent, and the night had been filled with joy and togetherness as he reunited with his parents to mark his homecoming, he had been preparing himself for the opportunity that now presented before him.
He understood deeply that his relationship with the Royal Highness went beyond the usual divide between princesses and common people. Even though he had recently been promoted as West District law enforcement commander for his leadership qualities in view of his Academy instructors, he was acutely aware of their significant difference in social standings.
Her popularity among potential suitors was undeniable, which could also be difficult for him to imagine how he could possibly compare to the multitude of men seeking her hand in just a matter of time.
Despite these doubts, his determination remained steadfast, fueled by the deep bond that had led him to this turning point in his life.
Though immersed in her thoughts, Dai Yu was not totally swayed by distractions.
For her years of training and upbringing at Dai Academy had instilled in her a valuable lesson. That distractions were her greatest adversary in getting her attention and even diverting her focus. Whether external or internal, they disrupted her thinking and concentration on what she should do. Her teachers had instilled in her the important of setting goals, time management and most importantly, maintaining focus to be productive.
That had been strikingly evident during her midnight rendezvous with Lady Li Shi at the stone boat teahouse. Even when reassured by her closest friend and confidant, Dai Yu was still filled with skepticism. Besides lessons and training, her own experiences had shown her that her alertness and intuition served as her greatest teachers ultimately.
The only difference between then in lake-based teahouse and now was that the current presence she felt was a lot friendlier, and her mind told her she should be more open to acknowledge.
"I'm quite surprised that the Royal Highness is alone, looking from the balcony at the beautiful night skies despite being the center of attraction earlier." A man called out to her. "Do you remember me?"
Turning around, she saw the all too familiar face of fellow cadet she once studied and trained with as a teenager during their years in Academy. His raven hair of similar color to hers and perfect handsome looking face.
Looking behind the young man in elegant sky-blue tunic over his all-white attire and wearing knee-high standard blue boots, she discovered that all guests were now dancing as what seemed to be romantic music entered the atmosphere from what started as just happy hour casual networking.
But those were not her concern. Turning back to the young man, she now recalled his name and responded, "Of course I remember. You're Li Neng Yuan. I still recognize your face and congratulations on your promotion to Western District commander and major."
Upon hearing her response, Li Neng Yuan did not know what and how else to continue his conversation.
Though he was among the athletic and tall guys and popular with other girls too in his batch, the only one he fell short of and was always behind - no matter how hard he tried - was the Royal Highness.
Even though he could recall many moments of them studying, practicing martial arts and mock weapons firing, the one significant one that still stuck in his subconscious even till now as an adult was the one on track and field open field in the Academy stadium.
Her hair then was curly and his was long and spiky. Also, their encounter happened at what he considered as the wrong time when he was guiding another girl to improvise on her speed in running.
"Good luck, playboy!" She wished him in an unlikely manner that got him stuck in what and how he should respond.
It also did not help that the girl Chun Mei - he was helping - asked him whether he and Dai Yu knew each other. It was not just their status difference - that she was a Royal Highness and he just a commoner recently promoted to just Western District commander - that held him back but also her height. While he was taller than most people, he met including his parents, he was still shorter than her then and now.
Given the situation, he knew he had to grab this one and only opportunity to continue the conversation he had started. Otherwise, it could be hard in future. So, he said the one obvious thing that entered his mind naturally since he still recalled that track and field moment.
"Thank you, your Highness. You look much more attractive than our last encounter at the open track and field though the timing was not right then." Neng Yuan said while trying hard to maintain his gaze upon her on level ground.
Dai Yu instantly giggled upon being reminded of their teenage years, her hand covering her mouth to keep her volume low due to her royal status even when alone.
That one moment in which they were supposed to run six kilometres around the open field and do all kinds of stuff like jumping jack, push-and-pull ups and stretching, they were in what was not supposed to be intimate moment as he was the only guy with her and the other girl whose name she now could not recall.
But what still stayed in her memory that Neng Yuan was popular with girls then and probably even now. She could not explain exactly why in words but could clearly feel - like other girls, his empathy, friendliness and willing to help in any circumstances. They came from him naturally while other guys were either reluctant or struggled to express themselves. Perhaps it was also because of those that made other guys envious of him and more girls attracted to him.
Not her though. Moreover, that was so long ago. What mattered was now and she expected him to make the first move.
Recognizing his only chance to be with the Royal Highness alone, Li Neng Yuan decided to ask what mattered now: "May I accompany you, your Highness?"
His request carried a delicate allure, as he acknowledged the captivating evening adorned with sparkling stars and a radiant moon, a backdrop that felt perfectly suited for them both.
The princess's silent nod served as an unspoken invitation, and he joined her on the balcony overlooking the enchanting night scenery. Together, they stood side by side, their gazes directed at the vast expanse before them.
The pine trees, standing tall like guardians of the night, gave the impression of a miniature forest, while the stars and the moon illuminated the natural surroundings from balcony. In this tranquil setting, they shared a moment that transcended the boundaries of social hierarchy, united by the shared beauty of the world they both admired.
Dai Yu, ever mindful of her regal status, chose to playfully deflect the compliment embedded in Neng Yuan's words.
Her response was artful, as she teased, "Is that your roundabout way to praise me?"
Her playful banter served to maintain the delicate balance between their respective positions and hinted at a burgeoning connection that held the promise of both familiarity and respect.
At that moment, the skilled palace musicians started to weave a harmonious tapestry of emotions, with each instrument playing a crucial role in creating the perfect atmosphere.
The flutes were the first to take center stage, their soft, melodious notes filling the air with a sense of delicate grace and yearning. Their ethereal melodies seemed to transport the listeners to a place of peace and tranquillity, much like the gentle caress of a loved one's hand and added a sense of calmness to the surroundings.
The symphony of string instruments brought a profound depth and opulence to the music, with the delicate plucking and sweeping strokes of their bows creating a sonic tapestry that reflected the intricate emotional landscape of the heart. The violin and cello strings sang with a mellifluous quality that added a rich layer of complexity to the melody, symbolizing the multifaceted nature of love.
The piano bench was adorned with instruments, and the pianist's skilled fingers danced across the keys, creating a symphony of sophistication and refinement. The piano's melodic voice blended seamlessly with the other instruments, producing a harmonious and emotive arrangement that was directed by the orchestrator's deft touch.
With gentle yet authoritative gestures, the orchestrator guided the musicians in weaving a rich tapestry of sound that captured the essence of love and romance.
As Princess Dai Yu rested her chin on her hand, her contemplative demeanour belied the depth of her connection to music.
Her hand, though bigger than most women and same as typical men, retained an undeniable feminine grace. Her long, thick fingers were a testament to her athleticism and the rigorous training she had undergone during her years at the Academy. Having borne the weight of countless challenges, endeavors and workouts, they symbolized both her resilience and the strength of character that she had cultivated over the years.
"You know I am always a music lover of all sorts. Technopop, jazz, classical and ancient types. Whichever, listening to them kind of releases me from tension."
"Me too!" Neng Yuan replied with joy over their similar passion. "Since we both love music, do you like to dance with me?"
To be honest, he did not know why and even how he came up with such suggestion. But looking at everyone dancing within the function room, that naturally entered his mind.
Instead of Oh sure like most girls he encountered, she simply answered, "Oh cute!"
As they danced, a unique connection and chemistry seemed to spark between them, an unspoken understanding that transcended words.
The exchange of glances was profound, even though the princess was looking down at him instead of up which most women did when dancing with men. Yet in that shared moment, a cerulean spark seemed to bloom in the atmosphere, enveloping them in a sense of shared experience and emotion.
But because she had been and was still taller than him now, he found himself looking up into her eyes, an experience that made him feel like a little boy and a young teenager dancing with his older sister as guide all over again.
Their strikingly similar blue hair might have led onlookers to believe they were siblings, were it not for the fact that her brother was the reigning Dai ruler. The visual parallels between them were striking, and it was this shared attribute that made their connection feel even more uncanny.
His only comfort was that because they were the only ones on the balcony with no one noticing them.
As they swayed and twirled, a magnetic pull seemed to draw them together. It was as if an invisible thread connected them, and in the absence of extensive conversation, their unspoken chemistry filled the gaps.
Neng Yuan could not help but sense that something extraordinary was on the verge of blossoming between them.
Despite the distinctions in height and status, she remained an enigmatic figure in his mind. Whether she and even her brother felt the same remained an open question for now.
Out of the blue, a servant suddenly entered the balcony, saying, "Sorry to interrupt, your Highness. But I got strict instructions from the Majesty reminding you to rest early and get enough sleep after your long journey back."
Upon hearing this, the princess broke away from him before glancing at her servant and answering, "Sure, I'll!"
Turning back to him, she raised her hand as if to wave goodbye and said, "Got to go now. It's great seeing you again!"
"It's great seeing you too, your Highness," Neng Yuan gave the same response, feeling happy even for what could be his and probably last personal encounter with her.
As she joined her servant back into the function room with even bigger gap in their height, he thought of wanting to see her again even the odds of that happening were a thousand to one.
This is Princess Dai Yu.
The youngest child and along with her mother - the late Empress Dowager Dai Yuan, the only female in the royal family.
Affectionately addressed as Dai Er by her family, she has consistently demonstrated a vibrant energy and passion for athletics and sports even from a young age. Her playful nature has sometimes led to mischievous behaviour, often targeting her siblings and occasionally her parents. Despite being perceived as the most vulnerable and in need of extra care, she has never let those hold her back.
However, her life changed following the invasion of the first Capital City by Shibeibu. She found herself fleeing alongside her brothers, General Xue Lei and his second-in-command Kian Sheng, along with the surviving remnants of their soldiers. At that time, they were the only family she had left. When her elder brother was subsequently captured, she sank into a deep state of mental anguish.
After General Xue Lei and his troops departed to find and save her older sibling, she and her brother had been taken care of by Premier Hu, his wife Madam Tang and his Imperial Royal Circle. There were no more attacks nor invasion since. They stayed safe and were able to rebuild their lives in this New Capital City.
Despite this, she could not shake her uneasiness which she never shared with anyone. Not even her brother who had been elected as the new ruler thanks to the majority votes from the courts and people.
Because it appears to her that Premier Hu and his cohorts have been calling the shots rather than her brother.
Every single one of his suggestions is wholeheartedly accepted as his brother as advice without any consideration nor discussion with her for what they both assumed is best for her rather than what she really wants.
This is exactly why she decided to join Dai Academy. Despite being a princess and a girl, she refuses to rely on anyone else for her protection and defence. Not even General Xue Lei, Imperial Royal Circle, the guards, or even her own brother. She does not expect special treatment even as Highness but fighting to get what she wants as strong woman. Given what had happened to her parents and older brother.
She is a dedicated individual, committed to giving her best in all aspects of her life. Whether it be in sports, martial arts, swordplay, mecha and weapons training. However, her only weakness remains in her uncertainty regarding her older brother's whereabouts resulting in frequent nightmares.
On the other hand, she felt her other brother is abusing his imperial status, indulging in various events, palace concubines and breaking his repeated promises to find and rescue her older brother.
Because he is now the Majesty, no one dares to question him, even her. For he does not want to listen anymore and perceives any disagreement as dissent. Except the Grand Chancellor and his cohorts.
Her only friend and only person she can share naturally - even her deepest secrets is Lady Li Shi. Her bond and connection with her transcend the boundaries of their respective positions. She the princess and Lady Li Shi as the owner of Dai En Yuan brothel.
For Li Shi used to be one of her late father's mistresses - a secret only she and her brothers know but keeps from her mother at her father's insistence, to maintain family harmony.
She also has passion and talent for music, poetry, playing musical instruments, and singing. She also demonstrates great talent in arts, skillfully sketching and coloring especially landmarks of her esteemed Dai Dynasty.
Despite being princess, she treats everyone with respect and always provides a helping hand. She also has a special bond with her closest handmaidens, Er Fen and Ying Er, who both have difficult pasts but won her acceptance, sympathy and trust to be employed.
Her beauty is unmatched and unrivalled except by few women who are just as active as her in what she likes and does regularly.
At five feet and eleven inches tall, she towers almost every man except her brother and few just as tall and athletic as them.
This is Princess Dai Yu.
As in what she is and has been up to.
For now.