Endless green Desert…
The sound of rushing water echoed through the dense forest as Kent led Firefly Lady Khoya through the narrow passage that opened up behind the waterfall. Mist filled the air, clinging to their clothes as they stepped inside the dimly lit cave.
Unlike before, Khoya was not bound by chains or magical threads. She had been tied only to extract information from her, but now that Kent had gotten what he wanted, he had no reason to restrain her.
She followed him cautiously, her sharp eyes scanning the cave’s interior. At the far end, illuminated by the flickering flames of a small fire, sat another woman. Her hands were tied, her elegant blue robe slightly disheveled, but her posture remained regal despite her captivity. The noble bearing of a princess was unmistakable.
Khoya smirked, her gaze flickering to Kent.
“So this is the princess you kidnapped?” she asked with a chuckle.
Kent didn’t respond, focused on the fish swimming near the waterfall. He crouched near the pool, carefully tossing small pieces of bait to attract the larger ones.
Khoya folded her arms, stepping closer. “She’s quite beautiful… I must say, I’m surprised you haven’t touched her. Do you fear her, or is there another reason you’ve kept your hands off this delicate flower?” she teased, tilting her head.
Kent’s golden eyes reflected the rippling water as he let out a low chuckle. “I have no desire for that woman. My wives are far more beautiful and charming than any royal princess.” He flicked his wrist, and a large fish leaped toward him, caught in his firm grip.
Khoya raised an eyebrow, intrigued. She had expected a more arrogant response, yet Kent spoke with a quiet certainty. He truly did not care for the princess in that way. The realization made her view him in a new light.
–
A day has passed and the lady was closely observing Kent.
The scent of freshly grilled fish filled the cave as the fire crackled softly. Kent handed a steaming plate to Khoya, who accepted it without hesitation. The golden-brown fish was cooked to perfection, its juices glistening under the firelight. The taste was rich, smoky, and satisfying.
Across the cave, Princess Chi Kai stared longingly at the meal, her stomach growling. Kent, however, merely tossed her a handful of dry rations. The sight of the delicious fish so close yet out of reach made her grit her teeth in frustration.
Khoya, watching the scene unfold, turned to Kent with a thoughtful expression. “I can see that you’re always deep in thought. Do you have a plan for what comes next? How long do you intend to keep this princess as your prisoner? Surely, there must be an end to this.”
A heavy silence followed. The only sound was the waterfall’s distant roar. Finally, Kent spoke, his voice calm yet weighed with an unspoken burden.
“There is only one solution to my problem. I must become stronger than the Emperor of the Kai family. Right now, I am merely at the Mud Stage of the Earth Immortal Wizard level. But that man… he is at the Advanced Earth Immortal Stage. I cannot protect my family unless I reach his level. Until then, I have no other choice.”
Khoya nearly choked on her fish. “What?! Are you serious? Do you even realize how long it takes to reach that level? You’ll take years—no, decades—if you stay in this forest! The Emperor will eventually find this place, one way or another. You need a better plan!”
Kent sighed heavily, rubbing his temple. “That’s what troubles me the most. My wives and family are in the city. I cannot simply abandon them to seek power elsewhere. But I also don’t know how long I can keep this princess as a hostage before the situation turns against me.”
Another silence settled between them, heavier than before. The weight of the future pressed upon Kent’s shoulders like a mountain.
A strong silence filled inside the cave as the lady fell into sleep. Princess Chi Kai was staring at Kent with bloodshot eyes.
As the evening sun cast long shadows inside the cave, Khoya suddenly stood up, her expression serious.
“There is a way,” she declared, her voice filled with conviction. “If you promise me one thing, I will tell you how to reach the Advanced Earth Immortal Stage in the shortest possible time. This may be the only chance for you to protect your family and fight against the Emperor.”
Kent narrowed his eyes. “What is it?”
Khoya took a deep breath, her gaze steady. “I have a sister in Kulu Capital City. Promise me that you will protect her from the atrocities happening there. If you give me your word, I will tell you the fastest way to cultivate your strength.”
Kent fell into deep thought. “First, tell me your method. If what you say is truly useful, I will protect your sister. That is my word.”
Khoya nodded. “Go to Kulu Capital City. I will provide you with a recommendation to Princess Ai Ping. She will help you gain entry into the Royal Academy. With the resources of the Royal Academy, you will be able to reach the Advanced Earth Immortal Stage far faster than if you remain hidden here.”
Kent’s expression darkened. “And what about my family? If I leave, who will protect them?”
Khoya met his gaze with unwavering confidence. “Leave that to me. I have my own means, my own resources. The techniques I have learned and the magical artifacts in my possession are enough to ensure your family remains safe. You have my word.”
Kent studied her for a long moment, his mind racing. This was an opportunity—a dangerous one, but perhaps the only viable path he had. Finally, he exhaled slowly, his decision made.
“Fine. I accept your proposal. I will protect your sister… and I will go to Kulu Capital City.”
A satisfied smile played on Khoya’s lips. “Then, my friend, your journey is about to truly begin.”