EXT. PALACE GROUNDS - NIGHT

The Galungan Festival is in full swing, filling the air with music and joyous celebrations. Sari stands amidst the crowd, her gaze shifting between the vibrant pavilion and the people around her. She appears restless, as if searching for someone.

From a distance, the King, Queen, and Crown Prince enjoy the festivities, their laughter echoing through the night. Sari's biological mother, Concubine Lastika, sits quietly beside Queen Ratna, her boredom palpable.

Sari's thoughts wander, recognizing that even her remarkable dance skills would go unnoticed in the King's preoccupation with his favorite son. Frustration lingers in her gaze.

Meanwhile, in a far corner of the pavilion, Jaka leans casually against a pillar, his eyes scanning the surroundings. He catches Sari's gaze, and a spark of recognition ignites between them. Sari gasps at the unexpected connection.

Suddenly, Jaka's demeanor changes, and he swiftly departs the gazebo. Sensing an opportunity, Sari rises from her spot and begins to pursue him. She moves with determination, weaving through the labyrinthine corridors of the palace complex. After several twists and turns, Jaka disappears from her sight.

Sari quickens her pace, determined to reach the last place she saw Jaka. Before she can take another step, a hand pulls her into a dimly lit hallway, muffling her cries for help. Fear courses through her veins as she stumbles with an unfamiliar man behind her.

MYSTERIOUS MAN

Relax, I mean you no harm. I simply want to know who you are and why you were watching and following me. Nod if you understand.

Sari, hesitant but sensing no immediate danger, nods in response. Her eyes search the man's face, searching for any signs of ill intent.

MYSTERIOUS MAN

Let's find a quieter and more comfortable place. I'll answer all your questions there. Please, don't do anything rash.

Once again, Sari nods, and the gag over her mouth loosens. She gazes at Jaka, captivated by his composed and enigmatic presence.

ff, navigating the hidden corners of the palace, their footsteps blending with the distant sounds of music and celebration. As they venture into the depths of the palace, the secrets they carry begin to unravel, setting the stage for a fateful encounter that will shape their intertwined destinies.

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EXT. PALACE GARDEN - DAY

A hidden oasis within the palace grounds, the garden teems with vibrant flowers and lush foliage. Sari and Jaka stand facing each other, surrounded by nature's tranquility. Though alert, both exude a sense of calm, their eyes meeting in a dance of curiosity and intrigue. Sari's fingers grip her fan tightly, a subtle display of her apprehension.

Jaka, determined to ease the tension, speaks first.

JAKA

Please, ask away. I am here to answer your questions.

His demeanor remains carefree, devoid of any unease.

Sari seizes the opportunity, cutting straight to the heart of the matter.

SARI

Who are you, I Nyoman Jaka? Your intervention during the assassination attempt on the King seems too coincidental.

JAKA

I understand your skepticism. But before I respond, tell me your name, Princess.

Sari gasps, momentarily forgetting her composure.

SARI

My name is Sari. How did you know I am a Princess?

Jaka maintains his serene expression.

JAKA

First, your attire. The colorful and intricate batik cloth you wear sets you apart. Only nobles and affluent merchants don such garments, unlike the plain songket. Second, your manner of speech, posture, and choice of words exude refinement—a clear sign of high-caste nobility. Third...

A pause hangs in the air, amplifying Sari's anticipation.

SARI

What's the third?

Jaka continues, unperturbed.

JAKA

It was the way you observed the King's family. Your envious frown upon witnessing the King and the Prince deep in conversation. Moreover, your eyes and facial features bear a striking resemblance to the King's concubine. Hence, you must be her daughter.

Sari remains silent, awestruck by Jaka's keen perception. While her identity is known within the palace, Jaka's astute observations from afar prove him to be no ordinary market rogue.

Jaka, sensing Sari's reaction, presses on.

JAKA

I deduced correctly, I presume. Now, to address your initial query, I happened to be in the right place at the right time—the market during the Galungan Festival procession. If I had ulterior motives, I would not have risked anyone else's life, would I?

Sari takes a moment to digest Jaka's words. His reasoning aligns with her own reflections. The tension that had gripped her heart begins to dissipate, and a sense of relief washes over her. Jaka's countenance softens, exuding a gentle warmth akin to stroking a cat in a cozy corner.

SARI

Your words are reasonable, Jaka. I, too, have intervened in similar situations owing to my connection with the royal family. Yet, as I did not directly save the King's life before his eyes, I faded into obscurity. Instead, you received the recognition. My envy clouded my judgment, and for that, I apologize.

Jaka's smile beams with understanding.

JAKA

It's alright, Sari... I mean, Princess. If you wish, we can meet again when I'm off duty. It would be pleasant to have a friend in this bustling palace district, someone who shares the same busyness as I do.

Sari nods eagerly, grateful for the possibility of a secret friendship. It's a reprieve from the isolation of her gilded cage, known as Astana Nusa.

Their newfound bond holds the promise of shared secrets and hidden adventures in a world where trust and friendship prove invaluable. As the sun bathes the garden in warm hues, Sari and Jaka's journey together begins, as a refuge from the complexities of palace life.

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