The Princess in the Garden
by Allianah L. Bantinan

In the tranquil gardens of the palace, Jiang Mei strolled gracefully, adorned in her exquisite Hanfu attire. Her love for exploration led her to the palace garden, where she carelessly scattered flowers, oblivious to the tales of the enchanting Yang Ximei Garden shared by the palace servants.

Enticed by the allure of Yang Ximei, Jiang Mei, ignoring warnings about not disturbing the garden's pristine beauty, sought permission to explore. Ignoring cautions, she gleefully plucked and tossed flowers, unaware that a watchful garden gnome observed her every move.

The displeased garden gnome, unable to tolerate Jiang Mei's antics, cast a spell, turning her into a frog. In desperation, she pleaded with the Garden Lady for help, but the gnome's potent magic rendered her powerless.

Jiang Mei, resigned to her fate, embraced her new amphibious form and dedicated herself to assisting the garden fairy in maintaining Yang Ximei's enchanting allure. Amid the blossoming flowers, she rested by the lake, reflecting on her past transgressions.

One day, Jiang Mei spotted her friend, Xi Weyi, diligently caring for the flower garden. As the garden gnome approached, Jiang Mei shared her sincere desire – to celebrate the Blossom Festival with her family, even in her current state.

Touched by Jiang Mei's genuine remorse, the garden gnome, swayed by her words, pondered his own wish. Xi Weyi, unaware of the garden gnome's presence, approached the lake, discovering Jiang Mei in her frog form. Overwhelmed with emotion, she hugged the frog, shedding tears of joy.

In a surprising twist, the garden gnome, moved by Jiang Mei's sincerity, decided to grant her wish. Jiang Mei, once again in her human form, rejoiced at the unexpected turn of events.

The enchanting tale concluded with Jiang Mei's heartfelt reunion with her family during the Blossom Festival, surrounded by the flourishing beauty of Yang Ximei Garden.

The End