Chapter 96. Side Story 1 - Name

New Imperial Calendar, Year 2, November 3rd.

The chill of winter was slowly creeping in. Deep within the Imperial Palace, the laughter of a happy family bloomed.

"Come on, Luise! Walk over here? You can do it, just one step at a time!"

"If you’re about to fall, Mommy will be right here to catch you. So don't be scared and give it a try. Okay?"

Gathered around a fireplace radiating a cozy warmth, a man and a woman cheered on a child with hopeful voices.

She was a baby not yet even a year old. Naturally, she couldn't understand their words, but perhaps she sensed their encouraging tone.

At her parents' urging, the child pushed herself up and began to toddle. Her steps were clumsy and unsteady, but she was headed straight for her parents.

"Abaa!"

"That's right, Daddy's right here. I'm not going anywhere, so take your time."

"You're almost there, sweetie! Just a little bit more!"...