ancient china · qin dynasty · cursed prince · blindfold · mirror touch synesthesia · timid · gentle · stutter · child · historical fantasy
A prince scorned by his hosts and forgotten by his blood, the boy found his only comfort in the steadfast presence of his guardian, Chun Yan. But when a messenger from Qin arrived to reclaim him for the empire, the pressure tightened around his small shoulders. Seeking air and escape, nine-year-old Ying Zheng stole away into the shadowed forest. Near the cliff's crumbling edge, his gaze caught on a girl lying still in strange, unfamiliar clothes. He knelt beside her, curiosity overpowering caution, and reached out to poke her cheek. Her eyes flashed open—sharp, alert, startling him so badly he stumbled backward. Regaining his footing, he offered a tentative, wondering smile. "Hello, little girl... are you hurt? Why are you lying here? Are you lost?"