The Crown Prince's Guard

Chapter 3: Offer and Friends

"Wait what?" It was the most absurd thing Li Xun had ever heard, but it could definitely explain what he saw with his eyes.

"The magic is real?" Long'Er nodded.

"Yes, but they're very, very few in number." A tremor spread through his body as he thought he had seen something he thought was only in books.

"Why is he at the lake? I thought only certain people could get into that place." Long'Er remained silent, clearly thinking about it carefully.

"The foggy barrier prevents humans from coming out but is not strong enough to stop powerful creatures like those creatures. It might be hiding in the water, waiting to eat the person looking for the Heavenly Flower."

"What about you? Are you human?" The question emerged from Li Xun's mouth before he could think.

A dark wrinkle was etched on his savior's face. He knows where this conversation is going. His silence only acted as confirmation of the question the prince asked. It only made Li Xun want to investigate further.

"How can you pass-"

"That's enough," Long'Er stopped him. He did not want to reveal more details than he should, especially to strangers who behaved like busy people.

"You have come a long way. Tell me, why are you looking for me?" She asked.

Li Xun raised both of his hands, indicating that he would not hurt anyone.

"Don't worry," he assured.

"I came in peace. What I really want to do is show my gratitude to you for saving me a few days ago from that creature. I can give you anything - status, money, or land. Call it." Long'Er slightly tilted her head, her eyes staring intently at him, uninterested.

"It's okay, I don't want any of it," he replied dismissively.

Long'Er sighed softly. "Run the humble life, that's all I ask."

Once again, the prince was surprised by her. He had never met this manly and selfless person without the desire for material wealth. Always surrounded by greedy, selfish or ambitious people, Li Xun was unsure whether a pure-hearted person would remain in this world. But today, he had found the answer. His rescuer is confusing and overwhelming. It would be a shame not to use his talent. He decided to give it a rare opportunity.

"I have an offer-do you want to be my personal bodyguard?" Judging from Long'Er's indifferent reaction, he did not consider the offer inviting.

"No," he calmly refused.

Li Xun's hopeful expression wavered from the rejection. However, he decided to try to persuade her a second time.

"I live in the palace, and being my bodyguard will give you special authority over others. No one else is allowed to give you orders. And I'll give you everything you need." Ever since Li Xun's arrival, he had seen no one but Long'Er.

In this vast land, there was only one hut here in the middle of a flower field. His only premonition was that they were standing within the barrier protecting the Heavenly Flower.

"What I really want to say is," he continued,

"I admire your skills and I think it would be futile for you to stay here in isolation."

"And it would be nice if I could have a friend like you." He muttered the last sentence, as he felt a little embarrassed by the revelation.

"In the palace, things got really bad with all the political squabbling going on. I would really appreciate it if someone could hold me where I should be." Surprised, Long'Er wasn't sure how he should respond.

“A-I can't.” And he has a reasonable explanation for that. How could Long'Er stay by this man's side to be his bodyguard when she was, after all, a woman.

"Oh." Li Xun was surprised by his lack of response. Usually, people would love to receive a gift, but it doesn't seem to be for this person.

"Erm, but what can I do for you in return?" he pushed further.

It had been a long time since Long'Er had met someone, let alone a very attractive man. It was astonishing how he had such a long conversation with humans. When she first applied for a proposal, Long'Er could not hide the shock that appeared on her face.

This was the first time anyone had said he wanted to be her friend. And he never had it before. But he also could not help but doubt Li Xun's words. For all he knows, he might be an enemy and his good looks could be just an act. There were many intruders who passed through that place in the past, hoping to obtain the Heavenly Flower as a means to attain riches. Hearts conflicted. For some reason, the sincere look in Li Xun's gray eyes made him trust her.

"If you're healthy enough, let me take you out of this place." The man's face was disappointed at his refusal to accept his offer.

With a sigh of resignation, he rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly.

"Alright, I respect your decision. Thank you for saving me again," she bowed to him earnestly.

"I'll never forget it." Being a little embarrassed, he muttered back slowly.

"The same."

He turned around and walked away, knowing that he would follow him. At the moment, he did not fully believe it. Several times he glanced at her, just in case she might stab him from behind.

But instead, he would find her shooting him with a curious smile every time. What a strange man. They walked across the expanse of flowers, towards the dense forest. Li Xun took the opportunity to observe his surroundings, noticing how the fragrant flower danced along with the velvet, gentle breeze. He could not help but raise his head, allowing the gentle sunlight to envelop his skin. A satisfied sigh escaped from his lips.

How long has he been feeling this relaxed? Long'Er observed him from the corner of his eye, before a thought suddenly flashed through his mind. He turned forward, before turning sharply to the left. Realizing that they were rerouting, a deep frown was etched on Li Xun's face.

"Wait, is this the right direction?" He continues to guide her.

"If you don't mind, we take a short detour. There's something you shouldn't miss."

Although his curiosity nearly killed him inside, he remained patient and let him take the lead. He did not doubt his intentions and trusted him easily, because he had saved his life once.

Before he knew it, they hiked through the forest and emerged from the trees where a stunning scene greeted them. They stood in front of a huge waterfall, watching the rushing stream of water flowing down from the cliff. A mixture of slow bird chirping and splashing water rang music in their ears.

"Oh wow," Li Xun took a breath.

"It's so amazing." He nodded in agreement.

They spent a few minutes in silence while Li Xun stared at the scene with bright, shining eyes. Like a child who quietly went for a little exploration.

"Hm .. Why did you suddenly bring me here?" tanyanya's confused.

Long'Er shuffled her legs calmly, before shrugging her shoulders.

"Looks like you need a longer vacation" he admitted.

His eyes sparkled, clearly amazed by his perceptive ability. It seemed like he understood it better than all the other subordinates he had by his side over the years. It was frustrating and unfortunate that he refused to accept his offer.

Nevertheless, he thanked her earnestly for giving her such a beautiful memory. Five minutes later, he was finally ready to leave this dream-like place and return to his home. As soon as they reached the barrier, Long'Er turned to him.

"Here, don't forget your sword." He threw his sword, which he caught easily.

"You might meet a bandit on your way home."

"Thank you." His face was smiling small and sad.

"My offer still stands, you know? If you change your mind, go to the royal palace and tell the guards my name." He shrugged his shoulders indifferently. Never once had he thought of leaving his family and this place he called his home.

"I'll think about it, but don't expect too much."

"Good." Smiling, he took a step back, ready to leave. Glancing at him one last time, he said,

"See you later, Long'Er." And he really hopes he does.

"Goodbye, Li Xun."