An Unwelcome Discovery
Days passed, and Lian continued to weave her web of deception, carefully balancing the court's expectations. Yet she knew she couldn't avoid Wei's spies forever.
One evening, she returned to the forest, her movements as cautious as ever. Linghu awaited her, leaning against a tree in his human form.
"You've grown bolder," he remarked as she approached.
"Only because I must," she replied. "The court will not stop until they have something to use against me."
Linghu's expression darkened. "Then you must be prepared to act first."
Before Lian could respond, a rustle in the bushes caught their attention. Linghu's form shifted instantly, his fox ears and tail appearing as he crouched low, his eyes narrowing.
Lian turned, her heart pounding. A figure emerged from the shadows—it was one of Wei's spies, a knife glinting in his hand.
"You've been careless, Princess," the man sneered. "The minister will be pleased to know you've been consorting with a demon."
Linghu moved before Lian could react. In a blur of silver, he was upon the spy, pinning him to the ground. The man cried out, his knife clattering to the ground.
"Wait!" Lian called, stepping forward. "Don't kill him!"
Linghu hesitated, his claws inches from the man's throat.
"Why not?" he asked, his voice low and dangerous.
"Because it will only confirm their suspicions," she said. "Let him return with nothing to report."
Linghu released the man, who scrambled to his feet and fled into the night.
"You've shown mercy," Linghu said, his tone unreadable. "But mercy is not always wise."
---
A Hidden Ally
As they returned to the clearing, Lian's thoughts raced. "They know now," she said, her voice heavy. "It's only a matter of time before they use this against me."
Linghu regarded her quietly. "Then we must turn the tide in your favor."
"How?"
"I have lived many lifetimes, Princess," he said. "I have seen kingdoms rise and fall. Trust me to guide you."
Lian hesitated, then nodded. "I have no one else to trust."
---
The Court's Reaction
The next day, the palace was abuzz with rumors. Wei stood before the king and Jian, recounting the spy's tale.
"She was seen with a man in the forest," Wei said, his voice dripping with malice. "A strange man, with silver hair and an aura of power. I fear she may have been bewitched."
Jian frowned. "If this is true, it must be addressed immediately."
But the king raised a hand, silencing the room. "We will not act on rumors alone. Bring me proof, and only then will we decide her fate."
Wei's expression darkened, but he bowed. "As you wish, Your Majesty."
Lian listened from the shadows, her heart pounding. The court's eyes were on her now, and she knew she was running out of time.
---
Linghu's Confession
That night, Lian returned to the forest once more. Linghu was waiting, his silver eyes reflecting the moonlight.
"They suspect you," he said, his voice calm.
"I know," she replied. "And I don't know how much longer I can keep this up."
Linghu stepped closer, his expression uncharacteristically serious. "Then it's time you learned the truth about why I've helped you."
Lian stared at him, her breath catching. "What truth?"
Linghu hesitated, then spoke. "Your fate is tied to mine, Princess. Whether you succeed or fail will determine more than just your freedom—it will determine the balance between mortals and spirits."
"What are you saying?"
"I'm saying that your life is more important than you realize," he said softly. "And I will do whatever it takes to protect it."