Li Chenxi sat quietly on her bed, her thoughts swirling. The sunlight outside streamed through the curtains, casting a golden glow on her face, yet it did little to dispel the confusion inside her.
Her mind was filled with questions: What kind of world was she in? Was the Prince really her fiancé? What exactly was this "Royal Palace"? And what did her current identity mean?
"These questions... I need to figure them out quickly." She whispered to herself, her gaze hardening with resolve. She knew that this ancient world was far more complex than she had imagined. While her modern knowledge was valuable, how would she survive here, and even reverse her fate? That was her top priority.
Suddenly, it occurred to her that she wasn't the only one who had time-traveled. After all, if she could cross over, could there not be others who had experienced the same fate? At that moment, a name flashed in her mind—Duang Xiaoting. It was a name that seemed to come from deep within her memories, but it stirred a deep curiosity in her.
As she pondered this, the maid gently entered, holding a tray with a delicate breakfast. "Princess, breakfast is ready. Please have your meal."
Li Chenxi nodded and thanked the maid quietly. She understood that if she wanted to navigate this world, she had to start by understanding the people around her, especially those within the Royal Palace.
She picked up her chopsticks and pushed aside the chaotic thoughts in her head. The food was unique in flavor, rich and savory, as if every bite was reminding her that this was all real, and there was no escape from it.
"Princess, would you like to go outside for a walk today?" the maid asked suddenly. "The Prince has instructed to take you outside to tour the Royal Palace."
"Go outside?" Li Chenxi's eyes flickered. This could be a good opportunity to learn more about this world. After a brief moment of contemplation, she looked up at the maid and said, "Yes, I'll go."
The maid seemed delighted, bowing slightly. "I'll prepare your attire, Princess. Please wait a moment."
Soon after, the maid had her ready in a light and graceful outfit, a robe that flowed elegantly and a classic hairpin adorning her head, giving her the appearance of an ancient noblewoman. Li Chenxi looked at herself in the mirror, her emotions complicated. This face, though familiar, felt distant.
Taking a deep breath, she realized that she could no longer avoid what had happened. Since she had crossed over, this new world was now her stage. Every step forward would be fraught with uncertainty and challenges, but it also held potential for great opportunity.
As she stepped out of her room, she noticed the Royal Palace in its full glory. The wide corridors, the intricately carved beams, and the garden outside, with its meticulously arranged flowers and the faint scent of perfume in the air, all spoke of a history much deeper than her modern knowledge could grasp.
Wandering through this peaceful courtyard, a name suddenly echoed in her mind—Duang Xiaoting. Her intuition told her that this person would be a key ally in her future. A strong woman who could help her navigate the royal palace's intrigues and aid her on the battlefield to change her destiny.
"Duang Xiaoting..." Li Chenxi murmured, a strange feeling rising in her chest. This person... she will be key to my journey.
Just then, the sound of hurried footsteps approached. Li Chenxi instinctively turned her head to see a tall woman in dark armor striding toward her. Her face was sharp and resolute, her eyes like blades, cold and piercing.
"Who is she?" Li Chenxi frowned slightly.
The maid seemed to recognize the newcomer and quickly bowed. "General, are you looking for the Princess?"
"Yes." The woman's voice was deep and powerful, carrying an undeniable weight. She looked at Li Chenxi with a calm, indifferent gaze, her attention not particularly drawn to the new Princess.
Li Chenxi's heart stirred, quickly analyzing the woman's identity. Her demeanor was unlike that of the usual noblewomen—there was a ruggedness to her, a calmness that hinted at someone who had faced battles and hardships.
"You are..." Li Chenxi couldn't help but ask.
The woman paused for a moment, as if slightly intrigued by her question. She replied coldly, "I am Duang Xiaoting, the General of the Royal Palace."
"General?" Li Chenxi's heart skipped a beat. She had heard of this name before—Duang Xiaoting was a legendary female general of the imperial court. Despite her youth, she had gained great renown for her military prowess and countless victories.
Duang Xiaoting's gaze remained calm as she scanned Li Chenxi, her indifference making it clear that she was not particularly interested in the new Princess. She turned and began walking toward a nearby carriage, leaving Li Chenxi standing in place, her mind racing with an odd sense of premonition. This woman... will she help me?
She watched Duang Xiaoting's retreating figure, feeling an increasing sense of mystery and intrigue. It seemed there was some unknown connection between them, one that would inevitably alter the course of her life.
"Princess, if you wish, I can accompany you outside the Royal Palace," Duang Xiaoting called back, her voice neutral.
Li Chenxi took a deep breath, a decision forming in her mind. "Yes, I'll go."
With Duang Xiaoting's appearance, Li Chenxi's fate began to shift subtly. The relationship between the two women would prove to be pivotal in her journey to reverse her fate in this ancient world.