LGHTNOVELBOOK Chapter 5: The Princess's Palace
Jīn Bàotiān follows the princess through the bustling streets, his mind racing with possibilities. He knows he must play the long game, manipulating each heroine, each princess, until they are all under his control. And he will start with this woman, this kind-hearted fool who believes she can save a broken man.
As they walk, Jīn Bàotiān takes in his surroundings. The city is vast and sprawling, with towering spires and ornate buildings stretching towards the sky. People hurry about their business, their faces etched with concern and worry. It is clear that the spiritual energy awakening has brought chaos and uncertainty to the world.
The princess leads Jīn Bàotiān to a grand palace at the heart of the city. The walls are tall and imposing, adorned with intricate carvings and glowing runes. Guards stand sentinel at the entrance, their eyes scanning the crowd for any signs of danger.
As they approach the gates, one of the guards steps forward, his hand resting on the hilt of his sword. "Halt! State your business."
The princess steps forward, her head held high. "I am Princess Elara, daughter of King Aldric. This man is my guest and under my protection. Stand aside."
The guard's eyes widen in recognition, and he quickly bows his head. "Apologies, my lady. Please, enter."
The princess leads Jīn Bàotiān through the gates and into the palace courtyard. Servants hurry to greet them, their faces etched with concern as they take in Jīn Bàotiān's battered appearance.
"Prepare a room for our guest," the princess commands, her voice brooking no argument. "And send for the healer. This man needs immediate attention."
As the servants scurry to follow her orders, the princess turns to Jīn Bàotiān, her green eyes softening with compassion. "Come, let's get you cleaned up and tended to."
She leads him through the palace halls, her hand lightly resting on his arm. Jīn Bàotiān feels a thrill of power at her touch, knowing that he holds the upper hand in this encounter.
As they walk, Jīn Bàotiān takes note of the palace's opulent decor. The walls are adorned with priceless tapestries and works of art, each one telling a story of the kingdom's rich history. Servants hurry to and fro, their faces etched with purpose.
The princess leads Jīn Bàotiān to a lavish bedroom, complete with a four-poster bed, plush carpets, and a grand fireplace. She helps him sit on the edge of the bed, her hands gentle as she examines his wounds.
"My poor dear," she murmurs, her fingers tracing the scars on his chest. "Who could have done this to you?"
Jīn Bàotiān smiles inwardly, relishing the role of the wounded hero. "It's a long story, my lady. Suffice to say, there are those who would seek to control me, to use my powers for their own gain."
The princess's brow furrows with concern. "You must be careful, then. There are many who would covet your abilities, who would stop at nothing to possess them."
Jīn Bàotiān nods, his eyes locking with hers. "Indeed, my lady. But with your help, perhaps I can find a way to protect myself, to stay one step ahead of those who would seek to harm me."
The princess's expression softens, and she takes his hand in hers. "Of course, I will do everything in my power to aid you. You are safe here, in my palace."
Just then, there is a knock at the door. The healer enters, his eyes widening at the sight of Jīn Bàotiān's injuries. He sets to work, cleaning and dressing the wounds with practiced efficiency.
As the healer tends to Jīn Bàotiān, the princess sits beside him, her hand never leaving his. She asks him about his past, his family, his dreams and aspirations. Jīn Bàotiān spins a tale of woe, painting himself as a misunderstood outsider, a victim of circumstance.
The princess listens intently, her heart swelling with sympathy for his plight. Jīn Bàotiān can see the shift in her demeanor, the way her eyes shine with empathy and desire to help.
As the healer finishes his work, the princess stands, her hand still clasped with Jīn Bàotiān's. "Rest now, my dear. Gather your strength. When you are ready, we will discuss how I can aid you in your quest for safety and justice."
She leans down, pressing a gentle kiss to Jīn Bàotiān's forehead. The scent of her perfume fills his nostrils, and he feels a stir of desire deep within him.
As the princess leaves the room, Jīn Bàotiān lies back on the bed, a wicked smile playing at his lips. The game is far from over, but he has already gained the upper hand. The princess is falling for his charms, and soon, she will be just another pawn in his grand scheme.