Chapter 2: The Gathering of Sovereigns
The heavenly realm, once quiet after the chaos of war, was abuzz with preparations. In the grand Celestial Hall, an event of unparalleled magnitude was about to take place—a gathering hosted by the Every King, supreme among the celestial sovereigns. Gods, goddesses, fairies, and other divine beings from across the realms were invited to celebrate Yue Lian, the Guardian of the Celestial Lotus, and to offer their blessings for her recovery.
Yue Lian, though reluctant to attend, understood the significance of this event. The Every King's presence alone elevated the gathering to a level of importance she couldn't ignore. For her palace, it meant a rare occasion of bustling activity as servants and attendants worked tirelessly to prepare.
Chun Mei and Qiu Rong directed the servants with their usual contrasting approaches—Chun Mei's kind encouragement balancing Qiu Rong's sharp efficiency. Ling Xiu, the newest addition to the staff, moved quietly among them, observing the dynamics of the palace with his ever-calculating gaze.
---
The Celestial Hall was resplendent that evening, with golden chandeliers casting warm light over tables laden with the finest delicacies. Deities and celestial beings filled the room, their divine auras creating an overwhelming sense of power and grace.
Yue Lian entered with poise, dressed in elegant silver robes that shimmered like moonlight. Despite her weakened state, she radiated calm and authority. The Every King, seated at the head of the grand table, rose to greet her with a gracious smile.
"Yue Lian," he said, his voice resonating through the hall. "The realms owe you a debt of gratitude. May this gathering bring you strength and healing."
Yue Lian bowed gracefully, acknowledging his words. "Your Majesty, your kindness honors me. I am grateful for the support of the heavens."
As the guests settled into their seats, a minor commotion broke out near the center of the hall. Two deities, Goddess Jinghua of the Flowing Springs and God Tianshu of the Crimson Peaks, were locked in a heated argument over their seating arrangements.
"This is unacceptable!" Jinghua declared, her voice sharp. "I am of higher rank. I refuse to sit beside him."
"And I refuse to be treated as lesser," Tianshu retorted, his tone equally fierce. "Your arrogance knows no bounds, Jinghua."
The tension drew the attention of the room, murmurs spreading among the guests. Yue Lian watched from her seat, her calm eyes taking in the situation.
Ling Xiu, positioned discreetly among the servants, saw an opportunity. Stepping forward, he bowed deeply to the quarrelling deities.
"Pardon my intrusion," he said smoothly, his tone humble but confident. "Might I suggest a compromise? The arrangement was made to balance the elements—a goddess of water and a god of fire, seated together, symbolizes harmony after the war. Surely such symbolism is worthy of your divine stature."
Jinghua's eyes narrowed. "A mere servant dares to speak of balance to us? Your words border on insolence."
Tianshu scoffed. "Indeed. Who are you to dictate symbolism to gods?"
Ling Xiu bowed again, his expression unflinching. "My intention was only to honor the wisdom of the celestial realms. Forgive me if my words were misplaced."
The deities exchanged disdainful glances, their auras flaring in irritation. "Misplaced indeed," Jinghua said coldly. "Perhaps this servant needs a lesson in knowing his place."
Tianshu nodded in agreement, summoning a flicker of divine fire in his palm. "A small punishment will remind him of his station."
Before they could act, Yue Lian rose from her seat, her voice calm but commanding. "Enough."
The hall fell silent as all eyes turned to her. She descended the steps gracefully, her gaze steady as she approached the quarrelling deities.
"Ling Xiu is a servant of my palace," Yue Lian said, her tone firm. "If there is any fault in his words, it reflects upon me, for it is I who allow him to serve."
Jinghua's expression faltered. "Goddess Yue Lian, we meant no offense to you. But his words—"
"Were meant to resolve a matter unbefitting of this gathering," Yue Lian interrupted smoothly. "This is an event to celebrate unity and healing, not to magnify grievances." She turned to Ling Xiu, her gaze softening slightly. "As for him, his actions, though bold, were not without merit."
Tianshu extinguished the flame in his hand, muttering under his breath. "Very well. For your sake, we will let it pass."
Yue Lian inclined her head. "I appreciate your understanding."
She turned to Ling Xiu, her voice quiet but firm. "You are dismissed from the hall for now. Return to your duties elsewhere."
Ling Xiu bowed deeply, a faint smirk hidden as he lowered his head. "As you command, my lady."
As he left, Yuan'er intercepted him in a shadowed corridor. "You're playing a dangerous game," she murmured, her eyes gleaming.
"Dangerous games yield the greatest rewards," Ling Xiu replied, his voice laced with satisfaction. "Did you see her? She defended me in front of gods. I've planted the first seed."
Yuan'er tilted her head. "And what if she grows suspicious?"
Ling Xiu's smirk widened. "Suspicion only deepens curiosity. Let her wonder."
---
Back in the hall, Yue Lian returned to her seat, her composed expression betraying none of her thoughts. Yet, as the feast continued, she found herself reflecting on Ling Xiu's words and actions. His courage was unusual for a servant, and his reasoning, while bold, had carried a kernel of wisdom.
She dismissed the thought, focusing instead on the conversations around her. But deep within, a faint question lingered—who was this servant, truly?
Unbeknownst to her, Ling Xiu's calculated move had succeeded. Though she remained guarded, a small part of her had begun to take notice of him, even if only as an enigma waiting to be unraveled.