Chapter 8: Frantic Search
Xie Lian woke with an unshakeable sense of urgency, his dreams haunted by Hua Cheng's fragile smile. He bypassed his morning martial arts practice and meditation, hastily dressing instead. The pre-dawn chill enveloped him as he stepped outside.
The cold air cleared his mind, but thoughts of Hua Cheng consumed him. How was the young boy faring in the cold? Did he have adequate shelter? Was he safe?
Xie Lian's determination intensified. He sprinted through the palace grounds, his footsteps echoing in the stillness. The city's silence was a stark contrast to his racing heart.
As he ran, his hand instinctively touched his ear, only to realize his coral earring was gone. A pang of nostalgia struck him.
"San Lang... I need to find you," Xie Lian whispered, urgency etched on his face.
He traversed Xian Le's streets, inquiring about the bandaged boy. Merchants, vendors, and passersby bowed as he approached.
"Have you seen a bandaged young boy around?" Xie Lian asked a young vendor, bowing his head respectfully.
The vendor's eyes widened. "Oh, Crowned Prince of Xian Le! What an honor to meet you." She bowed deeply. "I apologize, my prince, I haven't seen anyone like that."
Xie Lian nodded graciously. "Thank you for your time."
His search continued, spanning the city's length and breadth. Each negative response fueled his anxiety.
As the sun climbed higher, Xie Lian's heart raced with doubt and longing. What if he couldn't find Hua Cheng? What if something terrible had happened?
He pushed aside the thoughts, refocusing on his mission.
The city's inhabitants began to stir, recognizing their Crowned Prince's frantic quest. Whispers spread, sparking curiosity.
Feng Xin and Mu Qing caught up with him, concern etched on their faces.
"Crowned Prince, perhaps we should—"
Xie Lian cut them off. "I won't rest until I find him."
As night began to fall, Xie Lian's exhaustion grew. Still, he pressed on.
"I won't rest until I find you, San Lang," he vowed.
The stars began to twinkle above, witness to Xie Lian's unwavering resolve.
YOU ARE READING
Die with me in paradise
Romance"The wait is over, but the truth is shattering. Hua Cheng, once the invincible Ghost King, returns mortal. Xie Lian's reunion with his lover is now tainted with uncertainty. What darkness has claimed Hua Cheng's immortality, and can their love overc...
