Ancient China

The first day of the third month. The beginning of spring.

Winter was finally retreating from the lands of the Zhao Empire. In Long'an, the snow had almost disappeared from the stone streets, leaving behind only a cold dampness against the palace walls and the first green shoots in the gardens. The markets were once again bustling, trade caravans were returning along the roads, and in the teahouses, talk of the upcoming spring festivals was becoming more and more frequent.

The Zhao Empire was vast—from its snowy northern borders to the warm southern provinces, from the mountain passes in the west to the eastern sea. Here were rich cities, quiet villages, endless fields, trading ports, mountain monasteries, and ancient roads along which merchants, warriors, and ordinary travelers had traveled for years.

At the center of the empire stood Long'an, the imperial court. Behind the palace's high walls, the fate of provinces was decided, marriages were concluded, alliances were forged, and families were destroyed. At court, a smile could conceal a threat, politeness could conceal calculation, and an overheard word could spell another's downfall.

But Zhao did not end at the palace walls.

Somewhere, peasants were preparing for the new season, ships were unloading in ports, travelers were arguing in taverns, officials were heading to distant provinces, and soldiers were keeping watch on the borders, guarding the troubled lands.

Each had their own life, their own past and their own place in this huge world.

And spring was just beginning.