My Costar is lost
The memories dissolve again, and the next time Yao Shen sees himself he's leading a triumphant parade through lively streets.
It's clear that whatever conflict he had been sent to handle was dealt with summarily, and he returned to the Imperial capital crowned in glory.
Although the dragon scales on his armour shine under the autumn sun, and the coat of his black horse gleams as if it has been brushed for hours, there's a heaviness to the Crown Prince's eyes that wasn't there before -- as if a darkness has shuttered their inner light.
The procession comes to a stop in front of the Imperial Palace's steps, where the Emperor waits his son with outstretched arms.
Yao Shen can't help noticing the Second Prince's conspicuous absence.