As Tang Wei, Prince Jin, and their companions approached the imposing gates of Lóngyù Palace, they were greeted by the sight of towering stone dragons carved into the walls, their majestic forms winding their way around the palace's perimeter. The palace itself rose up before them, a magnificent structure adorned with intricate dragon motifs, its golden roofs gleaming in the sunlight.
The name "Lóngyù Palace" was aptly chosen, for within its walls resided the Beast King, whose lineage traced back to the ancient dragons of legend. As they passed through the gates, they entered a sprawling courtyard adorned with lush gardens and ornate sculptures depicting various mythical beasts. The air was alive with the sounds of running water from fountains and the chirping of exotic birds perched in the trees.
Inside the palace, they were greeted by a grand hall adorned with tapestries depicting scenes from ancient battles and heroic deeds. The architecture was a testament to the wealth and power of the Beast King, with towering columns supporting the vaulted ceiling and intricate carvings adorning every surface of the pillars. Tang Wei couldn't help but marvel at the opulence surrounding her. It was clear that the Beast King spared no expense in creating a palace befitting his royal stature. The name "Longyu Palace" truly reflected the grandeur and majesty of this magnificent abode, a testament to the rich history and culture of the beast realm.
As they were led through the grand halls of Lóngyù Palace, Tang Wei and her companions finally arrived at the throne room where the Beast King held court. The doors swung open, revealing a cavernous chamber filled with the soft glow of flickering torches and the scent of exotic incense. Seated upon a massive throne of polished jade, adorned with intricate carvings of dragons and beasts, sat the imposing figure of the Beast King. He was a formidable sight, his regal bearing and piercing gaze commanding respect from all who entered his presence.
"Welcome home, Prince Jin, honored guests," boomed the Beast King, his voice echoing off the walls of the throne room. "I am honored to receive you in my palace." Tang Wei bowed respectfully, feeling a surge of awe at the presence of the powerful monarch before her. "Thank you, Your Majesty," she said, her voice barely above a whisper, while Lin Yi and Xiao Song mirrored her gesture of reverence. Prince Jin stepped forward, his easy grin and charming demeanor contrasting sharply with the solemnity of the occasion. "Your Majesty, may I present Tang Wei, Flower Spirit of the Lotus Monastery and ambassador of Immortal Lotus, and her companions, Lin Yi and Xiao Song."
The Beast King's smile never faded, however; he regarded them with a keen eye, his gaze lingering on Tang Wei for a moment longer than necessary. "It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance," he said, his voice softening slightly. "I trust your journey was not too arduous?" Tang Wei felt a flutter of nervousness in her chest as she met the Beast King's gaze. "Not at all, Your Majesty," she replied, doing her best to maintain her composure. "We are grateful for your hospitality. I look forward to working with Prince Jin to strengthen the ties between the Immortal and Beast realms."
The Beast King nodded, a faint smile playing at the corners of his lips. "You are most welcome here. I hope you will find your stay in the beast realm to be both enjoyable and enlightening." Tang Wei bowed gratefully and allowed Prince Jin to lead her and her friends out of the throne room. With the audience concluded, Tang Wei and her friends were escorted to their quarters within the palace. As they walked, Tang Wei couldn't shake the feeling of being watched, as if the eyes of the Beast King were still upon her, weighing her every move. Despite knowing it was unlikely, the imposing presence of the king left her feeling unsettled, as if the palace walls had ears and eyes.
As they strolled through the opulent corridors of Lóngyù Palace, Prince Jin turned to Tang Wei with a mischievous glint in his eye. "So, what's your take on our esteemed Beast King?" he asked, his tone playful. Tang Wei couldn't help but smile at his lightheartedness, grateful for the familiar banter amid the grandeur surrounding them. "He certainly commands respect," she replied diplomatically, careful not to offend their host.
Tang Wei glanced around discreetly to ensure no one was listening before leaning in closer to Prince Jin. "Well," she whispered conspiratorially, "he's not quite what I expected. Then again, neither are you." Prince Jin laughed heartily at her remark, slinging his arm around her shoulders in a friendly gesture. "Ah, you wound me, Tang Wei," he said, feigning offense. "But I'll let it slide this time, considering you're new to our realm. Consider it a crash course in beastly charm."
Tang Wei rolled her eyes playfully, relishing the easy camaraderie between them. "I'll keep that in mind," she replied with a grin. "But let's focus on the task at hand for now. There's much to learn about the beast realm and its customs."
Prince Jin nodded in agreement, his expression growing more serious. "Indeed," he said, his tone sobering. "But don't worry, Tang Wei. You have me as your guide. I'll ensure you navigate without trouble." Lin Yi and Xiao Song caught up to them, their footsteps echoing in the marble hallways. "Are we heading back to our quarters, Prince Jin?" Lin Yi asked, glancing between Tang Wei and the prince. "Tang Wei returned his smile gratefully. "Thank you, Prince Jin," she said, bowing her head slightly in gratitude. "I look forward to exploring the town with you tomorrow."
Prince Jin bid them a nonchalant farewell before disappearing down the corridor, his long rustic robes trailing behind him. Tang Wei watched him go, filled with anticipation for the adventures ahead and grateful for the unexpected friendship she had found in the prince of the beast realm.