After several days of travel, Dai Youheng finally reached the imperial capital of the Star Luo Empire under the escort of Shattered Star Douluo and Nebula Douluo.
With the magnificent city gates in sight, Shattered Star Douluo slowed down and asked, "Youheng, will you return to the White Tiger Duke's Mansion first, or come straight to the palace with us to seek an audience with Her Highness the Princess?"
Dai Youheng barely hesitated. To maintain his "devoted lover" persona, he immediately filled his face with an infatuation that seemed etched into his very bones, urgent and burning. His acting was flawless as he blurted out, "Naturally, I'll see Princess Jiujiu first! A single day apart feels like three autumns. Throughout these days away, I've missed her every waking moment."
Such an undisguised declaration of love made even the two worldly Titled Douluos glance at him.
Manyi could not help chuckling and shaking her head, her tone carrying a hint of an elder's teasing. "You really don't need to be in such a hurry. After all the dust and grime of the journey, you intend to see Her Highness looking like this? I'm afraid the palace guards will stop you as a fleeing refugee before you even get close."
Hearing this, Dai Youheng looked down at his slightly dusty robes, feigning sudden realization. An embarrassed, sheepish smile appeared on his face. "You're right, Your Eminence. I failed to think things through and nearly offended the princess. I'll return to the Duke's Mansion to wash and tidy myself up first, then pay my respects to her looking my best."
"Mm, go on." Shattered Star Douluo nodded.
Dai Youheng turned away, his sheepish expression fading into a faint, cold smile.
Watching Dai Youheng's retreating figure, Shattered Star Douluo and Manyi exchanged a glance,