A Glimpse of Normalcy

The days that followed were a blur of happiness and contentment. Hange and I spent every spare moment together, exploring the palace gardens, playing games, and just enjoying each other's company. For the first time in my life, I felt like I was experiencing a sense of normalcy, like I was just another couple, not the Dragon Empress. Hange was patient with me, understanding my limitations and needs. He helped me navigate the complexities of palace life, and I found myself feeling more confident with each passing day. My age regression episodes became fewer and farther between, and when they did occur, Hange was there to comfort me, to hold me and whisper soothing words in my ear. One day, as we were strolling through the gardens, we came across a small, serene pond. Hange sat down on a nearby bench, and I snuggled into his side, feeling the warmth of the sun on my skin. The sound of birds chirping and water lapping against the shore was like music to my ears, and I felt my anxiety melt away. As we sat there, Hange began to tell me stories about his childhood, about growing up in the imperial guard and training to protect the emperor. His voice was like a warm blanket, wrapping me in comfort and security. I listened, entranced, feeling like I was seeing a new side of him. As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the gardens, Hange turned to me and smiled. "I have a surprise for you," he said, his eyes sparkling with mischief. I raised an eyebrow, curious. "What is it?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper. Hange stood up, pulling me into his arms. "Come and see," he said, his voice low and husky. He carried me to a small, hidden glade deep in the gardens. In the center of the clearing was a beautiful, tranquil lake, surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant flowers. A small wooden boat bobbed gently on the water, and Hange's eyes locked onto mine, filled with excitement. "Let's take a ride," he said, his voice full of enthusiasm. I nodded, feeling a sense of wonder wash over me. Hange carefully placed me in the boat, and then climbed in beside me, his strong arms wrapping around me as he began to row. The water glided smoothly beneath the boat, and I felt like I was floating on air. The sound of the water lapping against the shore was like a lullaby, and I felt my eyelids growing heavy. As we reached the middle of the lake, Hange stopped rowing, and we drifted, surrounded by the peaceful silence of the gardens. I looked up at him, and he smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "I'm so happy," I said, my voice barely above a whisper. Hange's face softened, and he pulled me into his arms. "Me too, my Empress," he said, his voice full of emotion. "Me too."