Promises

Chapter 2: The Condition

In the bustling main town,

A prestigious opportunity presented itself-a selection process for a personal imperial guard for the esteemed Princess, Lady Ying Tian Mu. With over a thousand competitors vying for this coveted role, I realized this was my chance to get close to the love of my dreams.

Fueled by determination, I knew I had to stand out among the competitors. Whether through showcasing my skills, charisma, or unique qualities, I resolved to do whatever it took to be selected as the personal imperial guard and finally get closer to Lady Ying Tian Mu.

As the day of the selection drew near, I immersed myself in rigorous training, honing my skills and preparing to distinguish myself among the multitude of competitors. The air was charged with anticipation, and my heart beat with a mix of nerves and excitement.

On the day of the selection, the main town was abuzz with participants showcasing their abilities. I approached the challenge with unwavering determination, aiming to catch the attention of those responsible for choosing the personal imperial guard for Lady Ying Tian Mu.

In the midst of the intense competition, I demonstrated my prowess, hoping to leave a lasting impression. The stakes were high, and the path to becoming the chosen guard seemed fraught with challenges. Yet, driven by love and the desire to be close to Lady Ying Tian Mu, I pressed on, giving my all to stand out in this crucial moment.

In the final moments of the selection process, just when doubt threatened to overshadow my determination, a wave of disbelief washed over me. Amidst the echoing names of fellow competitors, I heard my own name resound through the crowd.

A mix of emotions surged within me-relief, joy, and an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. The realization that I had secured a place among the finalists filled me with renewed hope and determination to prove myself worthy of being Lady Ying Tian Mu's personal imperial guard. The journey had been arduous, but this unexpected twist ignited a spark of optimism, propelling me forward into the final stage of the selection process.

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Returning to my family for a final visit before officially becoming an imperial guard, I entered my room to find a surprising and heartfelt embrace. My dear friend, overcome with emotion, held me tightly and expressed his feelings with tears in his eyes.

"How could you do this to me?" he asked, his voice filled with a mixture of sorrow and concern. In that poignant moment, I realized the impact my decision had on those close to me. With empathy, I tried to convey the significance of the opportunity and the pursuit of a love that had consumed my heart. Despite the bittersweet farewell, the path ahead beckoned, and duty called as I prepared to take on the role that would bring me closer to Lady Ying Tian Mu.

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In the grand main hall, after a formal entrance through the golden gate, I found myself face to face with the esteemed King Shin Fu. As his majesty acknowledged my presence, a sense of both honor and trepidation filled the air.

"However," he began, introducing a note of gravity, "there is a condition you must follow." An uneasy tension settled within me as I pondered the unknown terms that would accompany my role.

Summoning my courage, I respectfully inquired, "Your Majesty, may I know the condition you're referring to?" The weight of uncertainty hung in the air, and I awaited his response.

His pronouncement left me startled - a blindfold that I must wear for the entirety of my service to Lady Ying Tian Mu. The king emphasized that removing the blindfold would result in a life sentence in prison.

"What!" I exclaimed in a panic. His majesty, wearing a sly grin, calmly asked, "Are you willing to take the risk, or do you still have the chance to turn back?" His words hung in the air, challenging me to make a profound decision.

With a moment of contemplation, I responded, "Yes." The thought of turning back after the journey I had undertaken seemed inconceivable. My determination to unravel the mysteries surrounding Lady Ying Tian Mu was unyielding.

"I'm willing to take the risk," I declared, reaffirming my commitment. "I came here with the intent of serving her highness, to protect her. If it means seeing her with my limited sight, I'm prepared to wear this blindfold for eternity." A sense of pride and determination accompanied my words as I met King Shin Fu's gaze with a confident grin. The die was cast, and I embraced the challenge that lay ahead.

"Hahaha," the king burst into laughter. "You are a clever young man. I like your determination," he said, his amusement evident. "But you still have a lot to learn." The twinkle in his eye hinted at the challenges and lessons that awaited me in the service of Lady Ying Tian Mu.