Kai's opulent room was a sight to behold, each nook and corner adorned with intricate designs that exuded an air of divine beauty and luxury. As he gradually calmed the raging turmoil within him, Kai's curiosity was sparked, compelling him to thoroughly explore the lavish space that surrounded him. With measured steps, he rose from the comfort of his bed, his eyes roving over the exquisite furnishings and delicate craftsmanship that adorned the room.
Among the luxuries that graced the room, Kai's attention was drawn to an oval, golden-framed mirror that hung elegantly on a wall adorned with intricate engravings of mythical creatures and celestial motifs. Approaching the mirror with a sense of trepidation, Kai was met with a surprising sight, the reflection of the infamous villain, Lord Xing Li. Standing tall and imposing, Lord Xing Li's remarkable features, from his piercing hazel eyes to his flawlessly chiseled visage, held Kai captive in a trance of mesmerization.
"By the heavens... the beauty of this man is truly transcendent!" Kai gasped in awe, his gaze unable to break free from the captivating reflection before him.
Unaware of Jie Yan's presence just outside the door, Kai was startled when she cautiously entered the room, her voice filled with genuine concern.
"My lord, is everything alright?"
Quick to compose himself, Kai reassured her, watching as her expression softened in relief at finding him unharmed. Following her was the doctor, who advised Kai to rest and refrain from exerting himself due to his still-healing condition.
As Kai settled back into the comfort of his bed, Jie Yan stood by his side, her gaze filled with worry and care. The doctor began a thorough health examination, and Kai, intrigued, felt a sudden wave of curiosity wash over him.
"Jie Yan, how old am I?" Kai inquired in a soft tone.
"You just turned 18 years old yesterday, my lord," Jie Yan responded.
Intrigued by thoughts of his family, Kai probed further about a potential visit from Lord and Lady Thor, only to be met with a hesitant and evasive response from Jie Yan, hinting at concealed truths lurking beneath the surface.
Drawing from his extensive knowledge of Lord Xing Li's tale, acquired through reading the novel, Kai discerned the true nature of Lord and Lady Thor. Understanding that they had neglected Lord Xing Li since young, Kai decided not to press further, choosing to change the topic instead.
"How did I sustain these injuries?" Kai queried, shifting the focus of the conversation.
Jie Yan hesitated momentarily, seemingly taken aback by the unexpected question. Nevertheless, driven by her unwavering loyalty to Kai, whom she had served since a young age, she answered honestly.
"It was Lord Ying. During a flower viewing session in the garden, Lord Ying and his servants pushed you into the water, causing you to hit your head."
Memories of that malicious encounter flooded Kai's mind, the image of the second son, Lord Ying's cruel smirk and disdainful demeanor etched painfully into his memory and Kai let out a groan as his head throbbed.
"It's all my fault! I left you there alone! I was incompetent!" Jie Yan cried, her voice choked with guilt.
"Are you experiencing a headache?" the doctor asked, concern etched on his face.
"It's nothing, Doc," Kai replied wearily. "I'm probably too tired. And Jie Yan, it's not your fault. It was mine for being too weak to stand up to them."
Jie Yan continued to weep, her guilt spilling over as she recalled the agonizing time when Lord Xing Li was unconscious.
After some time had passed, and once Jie Yan had calmed down, she and the doctor quietly left the room to allow Kai to rest for the night.
Kai's mind was consumed with thoughts of the future. The knowledge he had gained from the novel about Lord Xing Li's tragic fate weighed heavily on him. How could he avoid the same destiny? How could he navigate the treacherous waters of familial issues that threatened to consume him?
With renewed determination, Kai resolved to rewrite Xing Li's story. He understood that his path would be fraught with challenges and obstacles, but he refused to succumb to the same tragic fate as Lord Xing Li. Armed with knowledge, intelligence, and a loyal companion in Jie Yan, Kai felt a glimmer of hope in the darkness that surrounded him.