บท 178: Invitations and Intrigue

The morning sun bathed the Blue Wind Profound Palace in its golden glow when a servant knocked at Raja's door, delivering two identical letters. Both bore the imperial seal, exuding importance. Breaking the first seal, Raja found an invitation from the Crown Prince to a grand birthday banquet in his honor, praising his recent victory. The second letter mirrored the first but came from the Third Prince, inviting him to a beast battle convention. Both events were scheduled for the same day, ten days from now.

Raja furrowed his brows as he examined the letters, sensing the brewing storm behind this gesture.

Later, Raja met with Qin Wuyou, who listened to him carefully before offering his thoughts.

"These invitations aren't mere pleasantries," Qin Wuyou explained gravely. "Your Earth Profound cultivation has elevated your reputation. Both princes see you as a rising star, and securing your loyalty could strengthen their positions within the Imperial Court."

"But I'm neither that strong nor influential compared to them," Raja replied, perplexed.

"It's not about what you are now but what you could become," Qin Wuyou countered. "Your potential is evident. Declining both invitations might insult them, while accepting one will alienate the other. It's a precarious position."

The discussion ended with a final, ominous warning. "Also, remember: any alliance with the princes may jeopardize your relationship with Princess Cang Yue."

The palace buzzed as news of the invitations spread. Students speculated wildly, debating Raja's rise to prominence and what his choice might signify for the political landscape. Each whisper felt like a looming shadow over Raja's decision.

That evening, Raja found solace on the roof of the Sightseeing Pavilion. The moon's silver glow illuminated his contemplative face.

Six months had passed since he left Floating Cloud City, his initial goals focused on getting his profound veins and ensuring his family's Safety. But everything had shifted after meeting Jasmine, and now Lan Xueruo had further complicated his journey.

His thoughts turned to Lan Xueruo. Her kindness, grace, and beauty had captivated him. He was certain he liked her, but he also understood the consequences of being involved with someone of her status.

Lan Xueruo joined him on the roof, sensing his turmoil. "Are you worried about which invitation to accept?"

Raja hesitated, then pressed her for advice. "What do you think I should do? I can't ignore the dangers of aligning with either prince."

Lan Xueruo's expression grew serious. "You're right to be cautious. I fear for your safety if you become entangled in their conflict."

Her concern touched Raja, but it also reminded him of something painful: her kindness towards him had always seemed driven by duty, not love. He voiced his hurt, his tone edged with disappointment.

Lan Xueruo's eyes widened, her voice trembling. "I'm sorry... I didn't mean to hurt you. The truth is... I've fallen in love with you."

Raja's heart clenched at her words. He apologized for his earlier harshness, reassuring her. "I understand now. And I promise, I'll protect you. Whatever happens, we'll face it together." then kissed her.

Their conversation ended in a quiet embrace, Lan Xueruo eventually falling asleep in his arms as they shared a heartfelt moment of connection. Before she drifted off, Raja joked, "Tomorrow, I'll heal your father's illness."

The next morning, Raja accompanied Lan Xueruo to the Blue Wind Imperial Palace, stepping into its grandeur for the first time. The towering spires and ornate halls left him momentarily awestruck.

Despite her plain attire, Lan Xueruo's identity as a princess was unmistakable. Courtiers and servants bowed respectfully as she passed, their reverence evident.

Raja chose not to disguise himself, knowing full well his presence with Lan Xueruo would soon reach the ears of the Crown Prince and Third Prince.

Lan Xueruo guided Raja through the palace, showing him its significant areas before they arrived at the grand palace housing the emperor's chambers.

Near the chambers, they encountered Master Gu Qiuhong, an elderly doctor renowned for his medical expertise and ability to help profound practitioners. Lan Xueruo greeted him with deep respect.

Master Gu's humility contrasted with his occasional temper, and Raja observed him keenly. Something about the man felt off, stirring Raja's instincts.

Inside the chamber, Raja saw the emperor, Cang Wanhe, frail and visibly aged beyond his years. Lan Xueruo explained her father had been ill for three years, his condition worsening to the point where he could no longer govern.

Raja reassured Lan Xueruo. "Don't worry. I trained under the Medical Saint himself. If it's curable, I'll fix it." (He got Yun Che memories)

Cang Wanhe managed a weak smile upon seeing his daughter, comforting her despite his condition. When introduced to Raja, the emperor's gaze sharpened with curiosity.

Lan Xueruo playfully teased Raja, lightening the mood and shifting her father's perception of the young man.

"So, you're the prodigy of the Blue Wind Profound Palace," Cang Wanhe said. "I've heard much about you."

Lan Xueruo revealed Raja's medical skills, prompting the emperor to allow him to examine his condition despite Master Gu's earlier declaration that it was beyond healing.

Raja carefully checked the emperor's pulse and organs using Almighty View before voicing his findings. "This isn't an illness or poison. There's a parasite inside you."

Skepticism filled the room, but Raja pressed on, explaining, "It's called the Soul Devouring Life Binding Parasite. It feeds on your vitality, causing extreme aging and weakness."

To prove his point, Raja made an incision near the emperor's chest, using a wisp of Phoenix Flame energy. A golden parasite wriggled out, confirming his diagnosis.

Raja explained the parasite's symbiotic relationship. "If the host dies, so does the parasite, and vice versa. It's been inside you for over three years. You likely have two years left unless we act."

Cang Wanhe's anger flared. "Who would do this to me?"

"The answer lies in recalling who made the incision near your heart three years ago," Raja replied.

All eyes turned to Master Gu Qiuhong. Lan Xueruo initially defended him, shocked at the implication. "Master Gu has always been a trusted ally. This can't be true."

But the evidence was damning, and the room fell into a tense silence as suspicion clouded the air.